Destinations You Should Avoid In February And Where To Go Instead

There is one thing the following five destinations have in common: mass tourism. Whether it’s Paris, Miami, Iceland, Costa Rica or Venice, these destinations have been transformed by tourists completely. Thankfully, Culture Trip is on hand to share some alternative destinations to visit that capture the feel of these popular spots without the crowds.

1. Forget Paris, go to Lyon

If you have not been to Paris before then, of course, this bucket-list city is worth a visit (or two); but if looking for a Paris-esque destination that isn’t Paris, head to Lyon. Lyon is the third most populous city in France, and its culinary scene, sweeping architecture, and metropolitan vibe are easily on a par with the French capital—all without the crowds and lofty price tags.

2. Forget Iceland, go to Greenland

Greenland is similar to Iceland in price and offers just as much natural beauty without the tourist congestion. In fact, many travel bloggers predict that 2018 will be the year Greenland becomes the next big destination to visit, so we recommend going before the secret gets out. If your heart is still set on visiting Iceland, then consider a road trip to the lesser visited Westfjords instead of the Golden Circle.

3. Forget Costa Rica, go to Nicaragua

While Costa Rica is a popular Central American haven for ex-pats to flock and overworked Americans to vacation, the country has become overrun by tourism. Rather than heading to the now Westernized beachside communities of Costa Rica, consider exploring Nicaragua instead.

Nicaragua is Costa Rica’s northern neighbor and a relatively off-the-beaten-path destination that is starting to gain traction as a country to visit. Compared to Costa Rica, Nicaragua proves a more budget-friendly alternative and, like its neighbor, remains an enclave for surfing enthusiasts. For nature buffs, Nicaragua’s 19 volcanoes (active and extinct) are a main draw where travelers can try out such memorable activities as “volcano surfing.” Of course, the biggest reason to visit Nicaragua over Costa Rica is the same as any other alternative destination listed here: less tourists.

4. Forget Miami, go to Cartagena

For East Coasters in the United States, Miami is a destination that beckons during the colder winter months. This year, rather than flock to Miami’s popular South Beach—where overpriced hotels and pretentious nightclubs reign supreme—consider flying to Cartagena instead.

With JetBlue running direct flights between New York and Colombia’s seaside gem of Cartagena, it has never been easier to visit this vibrant city. Cartagena offers a thriving culinary scene, beachfront colonial city and affordable prices for travelers. Not only can you get more “bang for your buck” in Cartagena compared to Miami, but you can also add an extra stamp to your passport.

5. Forget Venice, go to Burano

While you’re unlikely to stay overnight on the small island of Burano—just a short boat trip from Venice—we do recommend this colorful island over the “Floating City” any day. Venice is now so overrun by tourism that locals have protested their presence, while travelers themselves complain of a “Disney World vibe” when visiting the popular city. It seems local culture has all but been obliterated in lieu of some cultivated tourist experience that lacks in Venetian culture and boasts overpriced, subpar cuisine.

The sleepy fisherman’s island of Burano, in contrast, is brimming with life and seems to offer more in a one-day trip than Venice can in a full stay. Take a trip to the island, stopping at Murano along the way (an island known for its traditional glassmaking), before perusing the rainbow streets of Burano.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.