Through the internet, popular culture, and just basic osmosis, we are often a bit overexposed to the “have-to-see” sights around the world. As travel becomes more common, people have gotten better at recognizing the tell-tale signs of a “tourist trap.”
But one netizen wanted to know if some of these locations were actually worth the hype, so they asked the internet and got a whole lot of advice. We also reached out to veteran traveler and blogger Will Hatton, from the Broke Backpacker to get his insight on approaching travel. So get comfy as you scroll through and be sure to upvote your favorites and comment your thoughts below.
More info: The Broke Backpacker | Instagram
#21
The Spice Market in Istanbul.
It is very touristy but there is so much history there and by US standards it is still incredibly cheap.
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86points
#22
Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Paris. There were tourists everywhere but it didn't take away from its aura. You can pay a few Euros to climb the 300ish stairs to the observation area at the top. The views were incredible!
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84points
#23
Trevi Fountain sucks to be at but it’s seriously amazing…totally worth the crowds just to see it
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83points
#24
the blue lagoon in iceland. yes there are cheaper places. yes there are more low key places. i've been to a bunch but i'd still go back 100x.
82points
#25
Las Vegas - but you have to go in the right mindset. It’s supposed to be kitschy, excessive, even crass. That’s the whole point. If you can embrace it, it’s a blast. When people go and hate it, I never can quite figure out what they were expecting.
Biggest tip is that as a tourist it’s not about the gambling at all - go to a bunch of weird shows, walk the strip and downtown Fremont street, drink from ridiculously tall plastic cups, and experience the crowds instead of judging them. Hot tips are to stay in the nicer hotels (to have a peaceful place to retreat from the chaos), do some research on best buffets and secret food deals around town, and visit at least one cool non-casino attraction, maybe the Pinball Hall of Fame or the Neon Museum.
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82points
#26
The Maldives. The resorts are (obviously) touristy but it’s truly breathtakingly beautiful.
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81points
#27
Vatican is very touristy but a must visit (don’t get me started on Vatican Museums). Pretty much most of major Rome attractions are the same but you got to see them.
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77points
#28
a Safari in Africa. sure it's touristy and probably cost a fortune these days (I was at the serengeti ages ago) but it's still magnificent and even more so if you catch the migration
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73points
#29
Santorini, the whole place gets overwhelmed with tourists but it actually surpasses all the hype as it is so beautiful and stunning and worth it! Go on the shoulder season and it will be much more pleasant
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73points
#30
The giant Buddha on Lantau Island in Hong Kong. I’ll never forget that whole day. I became unexpectedly scared shitless when we were in the glass-bottomed gondola high above the water, and the buses full of Russian tourists were annoying but also hilarious and therefore memorable. It was gorgeous, even on a cloudy day.
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60points