5 Vacation Locations You Have Never Heard Of
Vacation is a time to relax and enjoy some well-deserved time off. However, one of the first steps, before you can kick back and relax, is to decide where to go. This list of least recognized but gorgeous vacation spots will help you plan a unique and exciting trip you won’t soon forget.
1. The Golden Circle, Iceland
The Golden Circle in Iceland is the most popular tourist spot for people keen enough to plan a trip to the island nation. Getting more popular every year, this gorgeous location is becoming more renowned around the world, and for good reasons.
Comprised of Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, the Geyser Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss these attractions not only include a world heritage site and hot spring areas, but they are all within driving distance of each other. You can visit all these sites on the same day. So, take time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the wonders that nature has to offer in this small but stunning getaway location.
2. Samoa
Not to be confused with American Samoa, Samoa is an independent state made up of two main islands and four smaller ones. It is a small but beautiful tropical island nation, and one of the birthplaces of Polynesian culture. Popular activities in Samoa include diving and hiking. Samoa has a diverse marine life, including giant clams and sea turtles.
Many locations in Samoa also offer diving lessons, so don’t be afraid to take a course. It will be well worth it when you are swimming in the open ocean surrounded by the many colorful fish and coral that call the tropical waters their home. Surrounded by deep blue waters and home to several striking waterfalls and lakes, you will have a full itinerary during this vacation.
3. Namibia, South Africa
Home to both the oldest desert in the world and the largest remaining Cheetah population, Namibia offers a plethora of experiences for the wildlife lover and is a great place for your first visit to Africa. Hike up the tallest sand dune in the Namib Desert, Dune 45; or visit one of the many Cheetah rescue centers where you can observe and even interact with these majestic wild cats.
Other fun activities include sandboarding down some of the world’s largest sand dunes, where you can hop on a board and shred down the sandy mountains. After a full day of activities, end the day with a night under the desert sky. Take time to stretch out and stargaze into the beautiful cloudless skies.
4. Laos
A true nature preserve, Laos offers beautiful scenic tours where tourists can visit the many waterfalls, rainforests, and temples. Stop by Xieng Khuan, the Buddha park with over 200 statues, or the ancient Wat Dane Soung Jungle Temple which was carved into the Dane Soung Plateau.
Feel like experiencing local wildlife? Laos has elephant reserves and a bear rescue center. Take the opportunity to be closer to these beautiful creatures than you ever thought possible and watch them as they interact in their own environment.
5. Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
The largest archipelago in Sweden, the Stockholm archipelago offers a nice relaxing vacation filled with fun activities in an area rich with Scandinavian history. Enjoy a day hiking one of the many trails or take a daylong kayaking tour to see the islands from a different perspective.
If you feel like being immersed in the long history of the nation, then pay a visit to the island of Vaxholm, which was once home to Vikings over 1000 years ago. Today it is a popular spot for visiting a traditional Swedish city and to get a firsthand experience of their culture.
