12 amazing alternatives to over-done destinations

With the help of beautiful Instagram photos and Pinterest boards on which to create dream trips, it seems some destinations go viral to the point of being over-done. Exciting at first, some hot spots can eventually become overrun by excess tourism, losing their inherent charm and a bit of authenticity. As you start planning your 2017 trips, we’ve got awesome alternatives to some of those highly trafficked destinations:

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Sanford Winery | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Santa Barbara Wine Country, California
SKIP: Napa, California

Napa Valley remains one of best known wine-producing regions in the world, and their vino is nothing short of stellar. However, any fan of the movie Sideways will know that Southern California should be equally appreciated. About an hour north of Los Angeles, the beautiful, palm tree-lined city of Santa Barbara sits right on the Pacific coast and is responsible for some of the world’s best chardonnay and pinot noir. In downtown SB’s Funk Zone, you’ll find plenty of tasting shops where you can sip your way through wine flights in a fun, cosmopolitan setting. If you’re craving a more in-depth wine experience, drive 40 minutes north and stop in Los Olivos, Solvang, Buelton or Santa Ynez. As far as the eye can see, vineyards stretch across the rolling hills. The unique coastal terroir and interesting climate (moisture rolls into the valley from the Pacific Ocean overnight and mild temperatures make the vines happy) create complex wines that certainly stand up the to names you know up north in Napa.

Emerald Coast, Nicaragua | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Nicaragua
SKIP: Costa Rica

Costa Rica boasts lush rain-forests, picturesque beaches and an infectious lust for life—or as they say—pura vida! In recent years, though, the once charming eco-hotel scene has become slightly over-commercialized, and solicitations for tours can be found at every turn. Enter, Nicaragua. We hate to say it, but it’s true; Nicaragua really is what Costa Rica was like 15 years ago. Unencumbered tropical forests collide into the Pacific Ocean, without a slew of hotels standing in the way. Fresh fruit, wild terrain, friendly people and world-class rum sit eagerly awaiting the inevitable influx of adventure-driven travelers to this next great Latin American destination.

Shelter Island, New York | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Shelter Island
SKIP: The Hamptons

Ohhhh, the Hamptons. The backdrop for countless movies and television shows, and a favorite weekend getaway for rich and famous, this tiny slice of Long Island can prove to be more of a headache to visitors than anything else. Unless you’re staying at the private home of Jennifer Lopez or Matt Lauer, getting access to quiet beaches can be darn near impossible, and scoring a table at a decent eatery on a summer’s eve can prove equally frustrating. However, just across the bay on Shelter Island, you’ll find peace and relaxation, rather than a crowded scene. A five-minute ferry from Sag Harbor or Greenport and you’re actually on island time. Lovely, tranquil beaches surround Shelter Island, and plenty of great eateries serve fresh oysters and lobster rolls all summer long.

Dye pots in Fez, Morocco | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Fez, Morocco
SKIP: Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech has had a moment this year; from bloggers to backpackers, it seems everyone has snapped a photo in the spice market of this enchanting Moroccan city. However, one of the real gems of the country lies a few hours north. Fez is often called the country’s cultural capital. Filled with medieval architecture, ancient ruins, and colorful souks, Fez runs deep with character. In the walled medina, you’ll find colorful, eclectic market goods and see the colorful dye pots used to tint their vibrant fabrics.

Bermuda | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Bermuda
SKIP: The Bahamas

Pink sand beaches and crystal clear waters make Bermuda an ideal island destination and great alternative to the Bahamas. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and equal in latitude to South Carolina, the island has just as many stunning golf courses as beaches. East Coasters will be jazzed about how easy Bermuda is to get to (90 minutes, wheels up to touchdown from JFK). The whole island exudes a barefoot luxury charm, and you won’t find the same high-rise resort chains that can be found in the Bahamas. The pace is slower on the British island and the rum swizzle is the drink of choice. 2017 looks to be a particularly special year for island, as they are set to host the 35th American’s Cup sailing race this June.

Jain Temple in Ranakpur India | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: The Jain Temple
SKIP: The Taj Mahal

Okay, truth be told, this one is not a true “go here, not there” analogy, but more of a proclamation to go to both destinations. The Taj Mahal is stunning, incredible and well worth any hype. Romance built the legendary mausoleum, which has left travelers enamored by its grandiose design and ethereal beauty for centuries. However, a few hundred miles away, in the remote hills of western Rajasthan, the Jain Temple at Ranakpur proves equally enchanting. While the Taj Mahal amazes from the outside, the Jain Temple most certainly wins in comparison on the inside. Constructed in the 15^th century, the pure marble interior hosts a sea of columns and intricate details so impressive they leave visitors quiet in humble silence. Currently in contention to be named one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” the Jain Temple at Ranakpur is nothing short of a masterpiece.

Musandam Peninsula of Northern Oman | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Oman
SKIP: Dubai

Admittedly, the newness of Dubai can be quite intriguing. However, beyond the glitzy skyline, tall buildings and jaw-dropping mega-malls, the town can leave some folks feeling a bit empty. In many cases, travelers experience Dubai as a two-day stopover destination when traveling west to east or vise versa. Instead, venture two hours beyond the city and experience a place so different from Dubai it might as well be the moon. The Musandam Peninsula of Northern Oman rivals any natural terrain on earth. Few inhabitants occupy this rugged, lunar-like landscape, save for the occasional Bedouin goat-header. For a true luxury experience, the Six Senses Zighy Bay has set up a killer property on the coastline where the jagged mountains meet the turquoise water of the Gulf of Oman. With an accessible location close to Dubai International Airport and particularly stable government, the sheer natural beauty of Oman makes it worthy of any bucket list.

Big Bend National Park | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Big Bend National Park, West Texas
SKIP: Joshua Tree National Park, Southern California

If we see another Joshua Tree photo with an ironic caption about finding oneself, we might roll off our chairs and onto the floor. Even if you’re not looking to be found, head to West Texas instead, for a more remote National Park experience. Big Bend National Park is simply breathtaking, and the variations of different terrain and species are remarkable. Standing in the middle of incredible rock formations, you’ll be in awe of the sheer scope and size of wide open land. Soaking it all in, you’re reminded of how small and inferior we really are compared to great Mother Nature. From hikes to hot springs, you could spend days exploring the enormous park…without ever stumbling upon a single Instagrammer.

Oyster Shack along the beachfront in Cap Ferret | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Cap Ferret, France
SKIP: The French Riviera

Let us start off by saying, we’re huge Beyoncé fans. That’s not to say, though, that our ideal vacations include the same glitzy, clubby, yacht-laden hotspots. In some respects, the south of France has been a little over-done with “scene” taking precedence over “substance.” For a French beach escape that’s a little more relaxing and charming, head to Cap Ferret in Bordeaux on the country’s western coast. Oysters and champagne flow just as often here, but they’re enjoyed at casual seaside cafés rather than swanky, celebrity-run restaurants. In Cap Ferret, local character steals the show, the beaches exude barefoot luxury and the sunsets are among the best in Europe.

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Houston at dusk. | Photo by Flickr CC: Katie Haugland Bowen

VISIT: Houston
SKIP: Austin

Don’t get us wrong, Austin is awesome. It’s a cool town in the heart of Texas Hill Country with great live music, beautiful lakes and lots of trendy features. But the real heart of Texas lies in Houston. The sprawling city runs deep with character, culture and an exploding food scene that rivals New York. From true, slow-roasted Texas brisket to savory, authentic Vietnamese pho, flavors collide on one of the best culinary stages in world. Start your perfect day with a stroll along the lovely pathways of Allen Park, where you’ll get one of the best views of the city’s iconic skyline. For lunch, grab a quick bit at tried-and-true Greek spot Niko Niko’s in Montrose followed by an afternoon exploring the up-and-coming Heights neighborhood. Late afternoon, swing by the Saint Arnold Brewing Company to taste of some of the best craft brew in the state. With dinner mind, try and score a table at Chef Chris Shepard’s new American eatery, Underbelly. The acclaimed restaurant uses local ingredients and creative combinations in their pork-focused menu.

A brightly colored street in Cartagena | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Cartagena, Columbia
SKIP: Cancun, Mexico

Cancun screams “Spring Break!” and the tourist crowds run deep all year round. Cartagena, however, still remains relatively under the radar. The Colombian city is filled to the brim with history and culture. Colorful buildings line nearly every street in colonial Old Town, and gorgeous bougainvillea vines spill off window ledges, creating a floral umbrella above the sidewalks. The smell of local food permeates the city squares, streaming from street vendors hawking empanadas and fresh, hot arepas dripping with cheesy goodness. While the walled city sits waterfront, the best beaches are a quick boat ride away. Hop aboard a water taxi and head to one of the islands just off the coast for a dose of that tell-tale Caribbean turquoise water.

Sidewalk seating at a café in downtown Manhattan | Photo by Compass + Twine

VISIT: Downtown Manhattan
SKIP: Midtown

These days, Downtown Manhattan is the place to be. In the years following the tragedy of 9/11, Lower Manhattan has undergone a complete revitalization. Now, new amazing restaurants open just about every week and the shopping beats Fifth Avenue. The streets of SoHo and Tribeca are lined with charming boutiques, shops and chill cafés, while Battery Park is now home to Saks Fifth Avenue and an impressive array of high-end stores in Brookfield Place. The new transportation hub for the World Financial Center, called Oculus, is an insanely cool, futuristic-like structure offering restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Along the waterfront on the Westside Highway, you’ll find beautiful parks, concert spaces, activity areas, trendy eateries and wine bars. With so many cool things going on, you’ll be completely impressed by the Downtown Manhattan of today.

Tagged: California, Caribbean, Europe, New York