There’s something special about travelling the off beaten path and being among the first to experience a new destination. If you’re looking to break away from the norm and ready to (literally!) venture down the road less travelled, here are our five favourite spots that will help you achieve just that.
Atacama Desert, Chile
Known to be one of the driest place on the planet, the Atacama Desert is virtually lifeless. With its jagged, rust- coloured canyons, vast, rocky, white salt pan and volcano-topped horizons, the landscape is extremely barren and yet breathtakingly beautiful. There is very little in the way of human development, making it the perfect spot for travellers who are keen to get off the beaten track.
Marble Caves, Chile
Psychedelic Salt Mines, Russia
Near the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, more than 650 feet below the earth’s surface lies a strange psychedelic wonderland. The walls, ceilings and floors of this Russian salt mine are covered with colourful swirls of reds, yellows, golds and even blues formed by natural layers of minerals. The winding labyrinth of abandoned tunnels can leave you confused and in a state of trance, and once you go in we can’t promise what comes out will be a 100% you.
Albarracín, Spain
A sleepy little tourist village located in Aragon Spain, Albarracín is unspoilt by modernisation and has the ability to teleport you to the middle ages. The town’s medieval architecture and narrow streets radiate a rustic old world charm that will leave you captivated. It has been touted as one of the most beautiful villages of Spain.
Popeye Village, Malta
Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village was originally created as a film set for the 1980 Musical Production 'Popeye'. Abandoned after filming, it was turned into a theme park for children and has over the years become a major tourist attraction for all ages with a number of colourful fun activities, an open air museum and a family entertainment complex.
By Fatema Salim