Chasing the Unknown: Thrilling Travel Discoveries
As a travel writer, I have had the privilege of exploring some of the most beautiful and exotic destinations in the world. From pristine beaches to bustling cities, each place has its own unique charm and allure. However, there is something truly special about chasing the unknown and discovering hidden treasures off the beaten path. In this blog post, I want to share with you some of my most thrilling travel discoveries, and hopefully inspire you to do the same.
Off the Beaten Path in Bali
When most people think of Bali, they imagine white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, and Instagram-worthy sunsets. While all of those things are undeniably beautiful, my most memorable experience in Bali was actually off the beaten path. I stumbled upon a small village called Sidemen, nestled in the mountains of East Bali. With its lush green rice paddies, friendly locals, and traditional way of life, this village was a refreshing contrast to the bustling tourist areas. I spent my days hiking through the countryside, learning how to make traditional Balinese dishes, and interacting with the locals. It was a truly authentic and eye-opening experience that I will never forget.
Exploring the Unknown in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the most famous and visited sites in the world, and for good reason. The ancient Incan ruins are breathtaking and have a rich history that draws in tourists from all over the globe. However, what many people don’t know is that there is a lesser-known trek to Machu Picchu called the Salkantay Trek. This five-day journey takes you through remote villages, majestic mountains, and stunning landscapes. The final day of the trek is spent hiking to Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate, which offers a different perspective and entrance to the ruins. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allowed me to see a different side of this iconic destination.
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and delicious food. However, during my travels there, I discovered some hidden gems that I never would have known about if I had stuck to the typical tourist route. One of these hidden gems was the small island of Koh Lanta. Unlike its more popular and crowded neighboring islands, Koh Lanta is a peaceful paradise with pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. I also stumbled upon a hidden waterfall in the northern part of Thailand called Bua Tong or “Sticky Waterfall.” This unique waterfall is made of limestone and has a natural grip that allows you to climb up and down it like a rock wall. It was definitely a thrilling and unexpected experience.
Lost in the Wilderness of Iceland
Iceland is known for its dramatic landscapes and otherworldly beauty. While most tourists stick to the popular Golden Circle route, I decided to venture off on my own and discover the unknown. I rented a car and drove along the Ring Road, stopping at small towns and remote areas along the way. One of my most memorable experiences was getting lost in the wilderness of the Westfjords. With no cell service or GPS, I relied on a paper map and my instincts to navigate through the winding roads and majestic mountains. It was a bit nerve-wracking at times, but also incredibly liberating and exhilarating.
Uncovering the Beauty of Croatia
Croatia has become a popular destination in recent years, thanks to its stunning coastline and Game of Thrones filming locations. However, there is so much more to this country than meets the eye. I stumbled upon the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was blown away by its natural beauty. This park is a series of 16 terraced lakes connected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush forests. I spent the whole day exploring and couldn’t believe that such a magical place existed.
Final Thoughts
Chasing the unknown and discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations has been some of the most thrilling and rewarding experiences of my travels. It has allowed me to truly immerse myself in different cultures, interact with locals, and see places in a unique way. So next time you plan a trip, consider straying away from the typical tourist route and seek out your own adventure. Who knows, you might just uncover some hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories along the way.
