Read the post to choose a different summer destination: away from the masses of people and the long lines.
Tired of the usual summer tourist destinations? I propose to you 4 countries to spend a summer trip (be it a weekend, a week or more) without having to make your way through hundreds of tourists to see something. Panoramic roads, tropical beaches, lots of nature and hidden villages are the main ingredients of these summer destinations away from the crowds.
1. Bulgaria
The number of tourists visiting Bulgaria is growing every year, but still lags behind other European countries. You want for attractions that are definitely not comparable with the Colosseum or the Sagrada Familia, or because not everyone takes it into consideration for a trip.
The 11 million people who chose Bulgaria as their summer destination in 2017 are nothing compared to almost 90 million in France. And then it is the ideal destination for the summer if you want to get away from selfie sticks and kilometric lines.
Spend a few days in Sofia, then rent a car and visit i Seven Rila Lakes between green valleys and crystal clear water.
If you have more than 3-4 days, take a trip to Romania to drive on Transfăgărășan, one of the most beautiful roads in Europe.
I forgot: the cost of living is very low and Sofia can be reached by low cost flights with Wizzair and Ryanair.
2. Sri Lanka
I visited Sri Lanka recently taking all kinds of means available including buses, trains, tuk tuk and taxis. Very little is spent on eating and sleeping, and the country offers a myriad of things to see and do.
From the famous Sigiriya rock tea plantations in the Ella and Nuwara Eliya area, two cities connected by one of the most beautiful train routes in the world, you will find wonderful places and locals always available.
Tourists in Sri Lanka in 2017 were just 2 million and this should be enough to convince you to go if you love Asia but don't get along very well with Thailand's typical tourist chaos.
But take a look at these things to know before a trip to Sri Lanka and don't be alarmed; just be prepared to walk barefoot.
3. Dominica
(la) Dominica is a Caribbean country belonging to the Lesser Antilles. An islet covered with greenery, thermal springs and dal Morne Trois Pitons National Park (UNESCO heritage), it is no coincidence that it is nicknamed "The Nature Island".
It is the perfect destination for those who love hiking and diving. In fact, one does not come here for the beaches but for the variety of activities available, including walks in the forest, diving in Ti Tou Gorge, diving and a visit to the second largest thermal lake in the world, the Boiling lake.
Pair it with Martinique and Guadalupa, two islands that can be reached by direct flights from Paris and from which ferries depart for Dominica.
4. Liechtenstein
Ever heard of it? Yet it is in Europe! Squeezed between Switzerland and Austria, it is home to around 38.000 inhabitants, many of whom come from neighboring countries. Breathe the air of the Alps, visit the incredible Vaduz Castle (the capital), the village of Balzers with the Gutenberg Castle and discover other small towns such as Nenden and Eschen.
If you love traveling by car, this is the destination for you because starting from Italy you will be able to reach it via Switzerland and consequently add some interesting stops.