Annie Spratt
Summer is upon us, which means it’s time to pull out our passports and jet off to paradise! But, instead of planning a trip to a tourist destination, why not switch things up a bit and make a trip over to a place that’s off the radar?
From hidden gems in Uzbekistan to unbelievable sights in Australia, these lesser known travel spots are worth checking out. #yourewelcome
1. Tashkent, Uzbekistan
If you’ve never heard of this darling little country, it’s wedged between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Although the landlocked country is not a common travel destination on most tourists’ bucket lists, the country is a land of rich history, which is evident in its mix of modern and Soviet-era mosques and museums. Tashkent is the charming capital of this Central Asia destination, offering visitors ample opportunity to explore. While there, check out Old Town’s ancient mosques, The Chorsu Bazaar’s Farmer’s Market, and Moyie Mubarek Library Museum (home of the world’s oldest Quran!). We also hear the locales are some of the most kind, hospitable people you’ll ever meet!
2. Castelluccio di Norcia, Italy
This hilltop village is in the middle of Umbria and Marche regions in Central Italy. The town’s history goes back as far as the Bronze Age under the Roman Empire. Today, with a population of less than 200 permanent residents, the village sits 4,764 feet above sea level and is a great destination for anyone looking for a breath of clean and fresh mountain air and breathtaking panoramic views. The hills of Castelluccio come alive with vibrant colors between May and June as flowers including poppies and rapeseed are in full bloom for the annual Festa della Fioritura (The Flowering Festival).
3. Pink Lake, Australia
This natural phenomenon is one you have to see to believe. The beautiful lake is still up for debate by scientists whether the pink color is due to bacteria or microalgae. Located in western Australia, it’s a short distance from the town of Esperance and is a haven if you’re the outdoorsy type of traveler. You’ll have ample options to explore this gem’s natural beauty including riding, walking, cycling, fishing, scuba diving, whale-watching (from May to October), windsurfing, abseiling, kayaking, and 4WD tours. If you’re worried about getting all the equipments for all of these sports, fret not, for you’ll get all the information you need on www.globosurfer.com.
4. Cambria, California
You don’t have to travel overseas for a quaint vacation spot. This Pacific coast village provides all the seaside vibes you could ever desire, plus a little adventure. Rooted in the history of the American West and its cowboys, this village offers breathtaking beach views, bustling art galleries, farmer’s markets, local wine vineyards, and farm-to-table restaurants.
5. Estes Park, Colorado
This mountain town has got a lot of charm. Located in the forests of Colorado’s Estes Valley and at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park has hiking, beautiful mountain scenery, and wildlife galore. The town offers 415 square miles of diverse landscape and Victorian style buildings — including the Stanley Hotel, which was the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining!
xx, The FabFitFun Team
