Travel hidden gems: Off-the-beaten path destinations
(Director’s note: Getting off the beaten is one of the seasoned traveler’s main goals. Travel writer Karen Anthony takes you to some of those hidden gems in New York, Paris, London, Canada and India.)
While the world’s iconic landmarks—from the Eiffel Tower to the Taj Mahal—draw millions
of tourists every year, there’s something uniquely thrilling about discovering a lesser-known
spot. Hidden gems offer travelers a more intimate experience, often rich in culture, history
and charm without the crowds. This article takes you off the beaten path across several
famous regions—including New York, Paris, India, London and even a glimpse into the
lesser-known side of Canada.
New York
When most people think of New York, images of Times Square, Central Park and the Statue
of Liberty flood their minds. But New York is far more than Manhattan’s glittering facade.
City Island, The Bronx
This quaint seaside village tucked in the Bronx feels more like a New England fishing town
than part of the five boroughs. City Island offers fresh seafood restaurants, art galleries and
marinas. Strolling along City Island Avenue is a relaxing contrast to the hustle and bustle of
Manhattan.
The Cloisters
Part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park is dedicated to the
art and architecture of medieval Europe. Surrounded by gardens modeled after medieval
monastery herb gardens, it feels like stepping into a different century.
Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn
A National Historic Landmark, Green-Wood is both peaceful and architecturally stunning. It
offers beautiful Gothic arches, historic graves, and panoramic views of Manhattan from
Battle Hill.
Paris
Paris, the City of Lights, is celebrated for its classic landmarks. But venture further and you’ll
discover pockets of the city with local charm and fewer tourists.
Butte-aux-Cailles
Located in the 13th arrondissement, Butte-aux-Cailles is a charming hilltop neighborhood
with cobbled streets and street art. Its laid-back bistros and Art Nouveau houses make it a
favorite among locals.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Unlike the more famous Jardin du Luxembourg, Buttes-Chaumont is rugged and dramatic.
With steep cliffs, waterfalls and a suspension bridge, it’s a picturesque spot where Parisians
relax on sunny afternoons.
Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
This museum of hunting and nature in the Marais district is surprisingly delightful. It mixes
taxidermy with fine art and modern installations in a way that is both quirky and
sophisticated.
India
India’s cultural richness and historical significance make it a top destination. Yet beyond the
Golden Triangle lies a host of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Majuli, Assam
The world’s largest river island, Majuli is nestled in the Brahmaputra River. It’s a hub of
Assamese culture and spirituality, home to unique satras (Vaishnavite monasteries). This
island offers lush landscapes, tribal communities and a peaceful atmosphere untouched by
mainstream tourism.
Tarkarli, Maharashtra
Often overshadowed by Goa, Tarkarli boasts white-sand beaches, clear waters and serene
backwaters. This coastal village is ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling and houseboat
stays—minus the crowds.
Chopta, Uttarakhand2
Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta is a lush, green valley surrounded by the
Himalayan ranges. It’s the base for the trek to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple,
offering mesmerizing sunrise views.
London
London is famous for Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. But scratch beneath
the surface, and you’ll find the city brimming with secret spots and historic oddities.
Little Venice
Nestled near Paddington, Little Venice is a tranquil canal area with waterside cafes,
narrowboats and picturesque walks. It feels more like Amsterdam than central London.
God’s Own Junkyard
This neon wonderland in Walthamstow is a vibrant gallery of glowing signs and art
installations. It’s photographer’s dream and a fascinating escape from London’s more
traditional art venues.
Eel Pie Island
A private island on the Thames in Twickenham, Eel Pie Island has a rich musical history.
Once a hub for jazz and rock music in the 1960s, today it’s an artists’s commune with
occasional open days where visitors can explore its eccentric charm.
Canada
Canada is known for its vast wilderness and famous spots like Niagara Falls and Banff. But
this immense country also holds several off-the-radar treasures worth discovering.
Tofino, British Columbia
This remote surf town on Vancouver Island is surrounded by rainforest and wild beaches.
It’s ideal for whale watching, storm watching and indulging in slow, coastal living.
Fogo Island, Newfoundland
One of Canada’s best-kept secrets, Fogo Island offers rugged cliffs, traditional fishing
communities and a luxury inn that reinvests profits back into the local economy. It’s where
culture, sustainability, and raw natural beauty meet.
Local Comforts, Calgary
While exploring Alberta’s iconic mountains, don’t overlook the comfort of returning to a
polished vehicle after an outdoor adventure. For those seeking professional services, car
detailing in Calgary offers travelers and locals alike a great way to keep their vehicles clean
and well-maintained in all seasons—especially after a road trip through the Rockies.
Why seek hidden gems?
There are compelling reasons to go off the beaten path:
* Authentic experiences: Interact with locals in environments untouched by mass
tourism.
* Less crowded: Enjoy tranquility and personal space in beautiful places.
* Support local economies: Many of these destinations thrive on small-scale tourism.
* Unique stories: You’ll return home with fresh perspectives and unforgettable
memories.
Tips for discovering hidden gems
* Talk to locals: They often have the best recommendations.
* Travel in the off-season: You’ll discover more when places are quieter.
* Use local blogs and travel forums: Online communities often highlight overlooked
locations.
* Be open-minded: Sometimes the best experiences come from spontaneous detours.
Final thoughts
Exploring hidden gems across the globe adds depth to your travels. Whether you’re
wandering the artistic alleys of Butte-aux-Cailles in Paris, trekking through Chopta’s
Himalayan trails in India or relaxing in the seaside quiet of City Island in New York, these
off-the-beaten-path destinations invite you to look beyond the guidebook.
They remind us that the world is full of surprises—sometimes, the most rewarding journeys
are found where the tourist map ends.