More people than ever are traveling as it becomes more accessible, affordable through discount airlines and a priority for people to invest in experiences over things. There’s nothing like travel to connect people across cultures, see beautiful places and open your mind to new perspectives. Popular destinations like the Eiffel tower in Paris, Waikiki Beach in Hawaii and the Taj Mahal in India are great spots but they are visited by millions of people every year. Traveling off the beaten path can be a breath of fresh air to escape the crowds and experience a more authentic experience. Thinking about traveling off the beaten path? Here are 6 destinations for some inspiration.

1 KANCHANABURI, THAILAND

Thailand is not all about paradise island getaways and city nightlife, there’s a whole country to discover off the beaten path. Once you’ve had your fill of the fast-paced and lively energy of Bangkok, you can opt for some peace and nature in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. This town is about a 2.5 hour drive away from Bangkok but you’ll feel worlds away. History buffs can spend some time learning about the tragic WWII history in Thailand. Nature lovers can enjoy 2 beautiful national parks, Erawan National Park and Srinakarin National Park. You can also volunteer at Elephant’s World which is a sanctuary for old, injured and abused elephants. 

2 TBILISI, GEORGIA

You probably don’t know much about the country of Georgia because it’s not the first place most people put on their European itinerary. However, the city of Tbilisi is full of art, architecture, history and great food. You’ll get to enjoy a lot of cosmopolitan activities that you would in many of your favorite European cities: going to museums, dining out, walking in the park, enjoying the nightlife and shopping. One atypical activity you can do is spend the afternoon at the thermal bath. The people of Georgia are very proud of where they are from and very welcoming of tourists. 

3 OSA PENINSULA, COSTA RICA

There’s so much wonderful nature all around Costa Rica with the endless beaches, rainforest, volcano, mountains and wildlife. It’s a nature lover’s paradise! The Osa Peninsula is one of the most remote places of Costa Rica so you’ll get to experience undisturbed nature. There’s a large rainforest, beautiful coastline and expansive mangroves. There’s even an opportunity to get up close to endangered sea turtles and help with their conservation at the nonprofit, Latin American Sea Turtles.

4 KOTOR, MONTENEGRO

The recent Game of Thrones craze has sent fans to Croatia to experience the fairy tale towns and charming castles but its lesser known neighbor has just as much to offer. Montenegro borders Croatia to the south and the town of Kotor has a stunning bay with its own fairy tale Old Town. Visitors can spend the day wandering the alleyways of the Old Town and climbing the fort. You can also enjoy the blue water of the bay on a boat ride to nearby Perast to explore another charming coastal town. Because Kotor hasn’t reached mainstream popularity like Croatia has, it’s also a lot more affordable for accommodation, food and activities.

5 MARGARET RIVER, AUSTRALIA

Australia is a big country with a lot to discover. With the recent tragic fires, tourism is a way you can help boost the local economy. Most people head over to the biggest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, but if you’re willing to get off the beaten path you’ll be in for a real treat in Margaret River. Margaret River is in Western Australia and is known for its wineries, boutique shops and amazing coastline. The blue of the water can compete with the finest waters in the Caribbean. The Cape to Cape track is a hiking trail along the coast where you’ll get to witness 123 km of cliffs, beaches and wildlife. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do the entire 123km to experience it! 

6 LUANG PRABANG, LAOS

A lot of travelers usually opt for Thailand when visiting South East Asia but Laos has a lot to offer. The former Royal capital, Luang Prabang, has both great natural and cultural attractions. The Kwang Si falls are beautiful and definitely worth a visit. There’s also plenty of wonderful temples to visit and experience the local culture. You can volunteer to practice English with students at Big Brother Mouse which is a nonprofit that advocates for Laotian literacy. That experience may become just as memorable as any visit to a touristic site.

Hopefully that gave you some inspiration to think beyond the bucket list travel destinations and travel off the beaten path. If you’re interested in more destinations and volunteer ideas, click the learn more button below. Bon Voyage!