9 Underrated Alternatives To Popular Travel Destinations For 2024

Known for its five-star resorts, replete with white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, the Maldives is one of the world's most coveted destinations, and rightly so. But if you are on a budget or simply cannot deal with how overcrowded it gets, the archipelago of Zanzibar is a pretty close alternative. This culturally rich tropical paradise is one of Africa's best beach destinations known for its striking turquoise-blue waters, golden-yellow sand beaches, and lovely resorts designed in a rustic style.

Best Time To Visit: June to October

Best Places To Visit: Stone Town, Cheetah's Rock, Kendwa Beach, Changu Island, Nungwi Beach

Thanks to Yash Chopra, Switzerland tops the list of every Bollywood fanatic. But what if we told you there's a similar gorgeous alpine country offering magnificent scenery at a third of the price just a few hundred kilometres away? Slovenia is a tiny, often overlooked, country in Europe that's half the size of Switzerland but just as enchanting and romantic. The country is a cultural treasure, combining Germanic, Austrian, and Hungarian roots that promise a fusion of cultures and architecture that you will struggle to find elsewhere.

Best Time To Visit: May to October

Best Places To Visit: Lake Bled, Ljubljana Old Town, Predjama Castle, Lake Bohinj, Triglav National Park

When one thinks of a hill station, one of the first names to pop up is Nainital. Nestled high up in the Kumaon Himalayas, Nainital is a charming lake town that entertains a bunch of travellers all year round. But if you'd like to avoid the crowds and also experience the same peace and quiet, we suggest you head to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Complete with snow-capped peaks, beautiful monasteries, delightful lakes to unwind, and pleasant weather throughout the year, Tawang lets you experience the best of nature, culture, and traditions in your own unique way.

Best Time To Visit: March to October

Best Places To Visit: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Nuranang Waterfall, Urgelling Monastery

Raja Ampat Islands has been making waves solely as an alternative to Bali but has not made the cut as a popular travel destination yet. Still known as Indoneasia's secret paradise, Raja Ampat is an archipelago that consists of over 1,500 small islands located off the coast of West Papua, northeast of Java and Bali. With its breathtaking landscape, incredible snorkelling, diving, and kayaking opportunities, hidden coral reefs, and crimson sunsets, the islands offer the best bits (and more) of Bali.

Best Time To Visit: October to April

Best Places To Visit: Kabui Bay, Friwen Beach, Piaynemo, Sawinggrai, Pulau Wayag

While neighbouring Croatia is a crowd favourite, Montenegro is every bit as gorgeous, sans the cruise ship crowds. Known as the pearl of the Mediterranean, Montenegro is home to pristine lakes, pine-scented mountains, and the beautiful Adriatic Sea coast. From beaches on its lush coastline and a happening nightlife to Romanesque churches and 15th-century fortifications, Montenegro is as peaceful as it is lively and won't let you regret skipping Croatia.

Best Time To Visit: May to September

Best Places To Visit: Ulcinj, Kotor Old City, Budva, Castle Of San Giovanni

Like Greece, Albania comes with golden beaches, mountainous landscapes, and Balkan temperature but without the swarm of tourists and queues in every direction. Small but lively, there is always something happening in Albania, particularly in its capital city, Tirana. Known for its olive groves and crystal waters that are reminiscent of the Greek islands, the magnificent Albanian Alps, and quaint architecture, Albania should definitely be on your radar.

Best Time To Visit: April to June; September to October

Best Places To Visit: Dhermi, Durres, Sarande, Shkodra, Berat, Himare

For a couple of years now, everything Korean is trending, resulting in Seoul being flooded with tourists all year round. But if you would like to experience the best of Korea on a budget or without crowds, plan a trip to Busan, the second-largest city in South Korea. With its colourful beaches, bustling markets, and a host of cultural attractions, it's a city that never sleeps. While it is not as cosmopolitan or accessible as Seoul, there is nothing in Seoul that you wouldn't find in Busan. 

Best Time To Visit: May to September

Best Places To Visit: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gamcheon Culture Village, Beomeosa, Haeundae Beach, Oryukdo Skywalk

Located in the chilly waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a real retreat. This group of 18 volcanic islands is fast becoming a favourite Nordic destination due to its dramatic landscapes, rocky coastlines that are home to natural wonders, and gorgeous waterfalls. Best of all, the Faroe Islands are limiting tourism, so you get to witness this beauty without hordes of tourists.

Best Time To Visit: May to August

Best Places To Visit: Múlafossur Waterfall, Saksun, Gjógv, Vestmanna Sea Cliffs, Trælanípa

Thailand, or Bangkok to be specific, is the ultimate destination when looking to relax on a vacation. But if you are looking for the same vibe with fewer people around, Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be. While it is still a hidden gem, the city pulsates with the same energy as Bangkok. A thriving metropolis rooted in history and culture, the city offers the best of both worlds and has something for every kind of traveller.

Best Time To Visit: December to March

Best Places To Visit: Cu Chi Tunnel, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral Of Saigon, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Suoi Tien Theme Park, History Museum Of Ho Chi Minh City