I was wandering around a very popular international destination recently. I had been there before so didn’t exactly feel like a tourist which opened my eyes to how ‘vanilla’ this place had actually become. The things you would expect to struggle with when you travel halfway around the world, seemed to have magically disappeared. Every restaurant menu had an English translation, every hotel breakfast buffet had classic options (e.g. omelettes) and I couldn’t walk two blocks without running into another American. I could have been anywhere in the world. What was a hidden gem just 15 years ago, had suddenly become “Anywhere USA”. While I appreciate convenience, I also want to feel like I am actually in a different part of the world. I want to experience the culture and I want to learn. So how do you find the true hidden gems today? And sometimes, it’s all about timing.
Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with the classics. But every time you look up travel inspo, all you see are the same destinations: Paris, Rome, Bali, Tulum. With a 195 countries and countless cities there are definitely places you can visit that are less crowded, more affordable and way more authentic.
What if your next international trip could be somewhere breathtaking… but without the crowds or high prices? I found seven destinations that deliver everything you want: culture, food, nature, safety, relaxation and experiences you’ll be talking about for years.
7 Hidden Gem Destinations Worth Exploring
Okay…I get around and have explored a lot of places. Some more touristy than others and many I would never recommend if it’s your first time out of the country. Below are seven hidden gems that balance beauty, safety, affordability and culture. Three I’ve personally visited and four I’m actively researching for future trips. If you want a mix of real experience + exciting new possibilities, this list gives you the best of both worlds.
🌍 Destinations I’ve Been To (My Real Experience)
Malta
This tiny little country south of Sicily is easy to miss. On a big map, it appears only as a little speck in the ocean but it was one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited. At 17 miles long and 9 miles wide, you could technically drive around the entire thing in the time it takes me to get from my house to LAX in rush hour traffic.
Malta looks like a movie set. The golden stone buildings, dramatic cliffs, sparkling blue waters and a mix of Italian, Arabic, and British influences make it incredibly interesting. It’s tiny, easy to explore and packed with history.
I traveled to Malta alone a number of years ago and found it incredibly welcoming. And it has a bit of a vibe at night if you find yourself exploring places like Valletta. I felt safe wandering alone and had no problems finding things to do or good food to eat.
You’ll find English widely spoken across this tiny nation and public transportation a breeze. It’s much cheaper than its neighbors of Italy and Greece but just as beautiful. In one short visit, you can explore Mdina (“the Silent City”), Valletta, Blue Lagoon and St. Peter’s Pool.
Since this island was a strategic position for military troops during war times, you’ll still find the walls and cannons around the cities. Check out my blog Discover Malta: Europe’s Most Underrated Island in the Mediterranean for more details about visiting this stunning destination.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Some might not consider Zanzibar a hidden gem but the truth is it still has so much authenticity that it deserves a spot on the list.
Zanzibar is one of the most magical places on earth with turquoise water, rich Swahili culture, and a blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences. It’s far less crowded and more affordable than places like the Maldives, but just as stunning.
If you love quiet beaches, then stay in Nungwi or Kendwa. The hospitality is gracious and makes you feel like you are visiting a good family friend. There was nothing that we asked for that was too much. I also enjoyed exploring the sandbars during low tide. It felt as if you could walk right out into the middle of the Indian Ocean. Just make sure you time it right or you could be in for a very long swim back to shore.
But if you are interested in history and exploring the culture, head over to Stone Town a UNESCO world heritage site. From there you can do spice farm tours, take a dhow boat out to watch the sunset, snorkel with dolphins or even visit a Slave museum. Stone town is a bit more compact and walkable but navigating the city by foot will take some time and a good map. I shared a few tips for visiting Stone Town in a recent YouTube video.
I’ve shared a few of my favorite places to take in the sunset in my blog Chasing the Best Rooftops for Sunsets in Stone Town.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
I visited Belize a few years back when a family friend had a massive house warming party in Ambergris Caye. I flew into Belize City and took a puddle jumper over to Ambergris Caye where we were whisked away in a golf cart to our accommodations. Oh the stories I can tell from that trip.
Belize is a short flight from the U.S., it’s English-speaking and incredibly diverse. The country is tropical, relaxing, and perfect for someone looking for beaches, wildlife, and adventure.
From the mainland you can visit waterfalls, Mayan ruins and a few caves. I did a horseback ride in the jungle that I would not recommend. It felt as if I was being eaten alive by mosquitoes and horseflies (it is a tropical island). Instead, stick with the beautiful beaches and take advantage of snorkeling adventures to the Barrier Reef. You won’t be disappointed. Belize is great for travelers who want something international but don’t want to spend 10 hours in flight.
🌍 Destinations on My List (Perfect Hidden Gems)
Madeira, Portugal
If you have the opportunity to sneak away from the mainland of Portugal, I hear Madeira is an amazing escape. It’s been dubbed Portugal’s “floating garden”. Think Hawaii meets the Mediterranean but cheaper and with less crowds.
I sat next to a traveler on my last flight from Lisbon who had just come from Madeira. The photos she showed me automatically boosted this destination to a top spot on my wish list. The island is full of breathtaking cliffs, volcanic beaches and tropical vibes.
I love nature and this place is filled with amazingly scenic walks. They are mostly flat and clearly marked making it easy for beginners. As with most of Portugal the island is safe, spotless and English friendly. Make Funchal your home base to spend your days exploring markets, riding cable cars and simply enjoying the great food.
Abel Tasman, New Zealand
New Zealand isn’t hidden, it’s just far which places it far down the list for many travelers including me. The country is know for adventure and wine (two of my favorite reasons for traveling).
While I know I will definitely do Auckland or Queenstown, I like the idea of having a place that is perfect for exploring nature and deep relaxation. Abel Tasman seems to fit that narrative.
New Zealand is considered safe and beginner friendly. And locations like Abel Tasman are peaceful, nature filled and perfect for travelers who want stunning scenery without the tourist overwhelm. Think Golden beaches and coastal walks and you’ve got Abel Tasman.
Salento, Colombia
I’ve heard so much about Colombia in the past few years. A place that had such a negative image 15 years ago has suddenly become a trending destination. It seems everyone is going there. But everyone is going to Cartagena or Medellín while I’ve just discovered Salento.
Salento is considered Colombia’s most gorgeous countryside town. There you will find brightly painted buildings, lush green mountains and the tallest palm trees in the world.
Salento is about 5 hours south of Medellin so you’ll need to fly into Pereira or Armenia to get a bit closer. And you’ll be rewarded with wax palm trees that look like something from Avatar in the Cocora Valley. And when you are not out exploring nature, check out one of the Coffee farms. You’ll find a few outfits offering educational tours. Because it is away from the bigger cities, accommodations and food are said to be very affordable.
Belém, Brazil
I had never heard of Belém, Brazil until my visit to Rio. A friend mentioned this destination as a great option for my next trip to Brazil. And because there are direct flight from the US it’s an easy destination to add to the list.
Belém, Brazil is considered the gateway to the Amazon as it sits right at the mouth of the Amazon River. It gives you access to true Amazonian culture without requiring deep jungle travel. You get river life, Amazonian markets, and nature experiences while still having museums, nightlife, and great hotels.
In addition to have amazing access to the Amazon, Belém is often considered the Culinary Capital of the Amazon. You can find Amazonian fruits and ingredients you’ve never tasted: cupuaçu, taperebá, bacuri. I’ve heard that even the famed Açaí will surprise you. Here it is savory, not sweet.
If you’re looking to dive deep into the culture of Brazil, this is a great place to do it. The area is filled with indigenous Amazonian people and Afro Brazilian communities. And if that wasn’t enough, compared to Rio/São Paulo/Salvador, Belém is much easier on the wallet.
My Perspective
If you’ve ever been somewhere and encountered so many tourists that you couldn’t discern the true vibe of the destination? The authenticity of everything seemed lost and you questioned why you traveled there in the first place. Then hidden gem destinations might be for you. Authenticity is higher in underrated spots. This means better food, richer culture, and more meaningful experiences. They also provide you with more beauty, more culture, more value and fewer crowds.
If you are dead set on visiting some of the more popular destinations, then consider visiting during the off seasons. I wrote a blog about Shoulder Season Travel in Europe that can provide some insight into why this timing is best.
So which destination will you hit up first?
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FAQs About Hidden Gem Destinations
1. What makes a place a “hidden gem” for new international travelers?
A hidden gem destination is a place that offers incredible scenery, culture, safety, and affordability but hasn’t been overtaken by mass tourism. These locations give first-time travelers a smoother, more authentic experience where it’s easier to relax and navigate.
2. Are hidden gem destinations safe for solo or first-time travelers?
Yes — hidden gems are often better for new travelers because they’re calmer and easier to get around. With basic precautions and good planning, these destinations can be some of the safest and most rewarding places for beginners.
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