Hey, {{first_name | Fam}}!

Has your explore feed been full of people pulling up to the same 10 places, too? I honestly think people should go wherever they desire (it’s their money), but I also want everyone to know just how many options exist that can give a similar vibe to some of your faves while exposing you to a whole new culture.

So, I decided to put together a list of destination alternatives to some of the typical travel hot spots just for you:

(Quick caveat before we dive in: I'm not downplaying any cultures or saying they’re easily replaceable, and this isn't a "skip that trip" list. It's an "add to your list" list. Like I said, go where you want, spend how you want. I just think there's room for more than the same spots on repeat.)

Try: Salvador, Brazil 🇧🇷
Instead of: Cartagena, Colombia

Y’all know I don’t play about my country! But if you’re looking to experience Black culture in Latin America, Salvador is another great option that doesn’t get as much tourist love.

Try: Valparaíso, Chile 🇨🇱
Instead of: Cinque Terre, Italy

I’d tell you to replace any trip to Italy with a visit to the dentist ‘cause you already know how I feel. But it’s a beautiful country. I get it 🙄. And you know where else is just as beautiful as many of Italy’s coastal cities? Valparaíso.

Try: Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia 🇹🇳
Instead of: Santorini, Greece

This city is on my list! If your main motivation for going to Santorini was to take some pretty photos against the blue and white seaside homes, might I suggest considering a trip to the motherland instead.

Try: Tainan, Taiwan 🇹🇼
Instead of: Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto has a rich culture and offers an opportunity to learn more about Geisha history, but if what you are looking for is temples, traditional neighborhoods and incredible food, put Taiwan's former capital on your radar as well.

Try: Svaneti, Georgia 🇬🇪
Instead of: Swiss Alps, Switzerland

The mountains of this province are just as breathtaking as the Swiss Alps, and I’m willing to bet it’s far less crowded.

Try: São Miguel, Azores 🇵🇹
Instead of: Iceland

I remember back in 2017 when everyone was booking trips to Iceland, but I was broke and didn’t get to hop on the wave, so I convinced myself it was overrated like a hater. Anyway, it’s not overrated (now that I can afford it), so I’mma go. But now that I know about São Miguel, Azores, I have another option to take in some stunning scenes and thermal hot springs.

Again, this list isn’t to imply that cultures are interchangeable or that you shouldn’t visit certain cities because they’re popular. I just want to suggest some new options you may not have considered that deserve some love, too.

Are there any other places you’d add to this list? Feel free to reply and let me know. I do read all my emails.

Thoughtfully,

Nicole