I've been compiling a list of hidden vacation gems - places that are absolutely incredible but somehow manage to fly under the radar. These are the destinations that make you wonder why they're not more popular.
One that comes to mind is this island in Southeast Asia that has everything: crystal clear water, amazing diving, friendly locals, and delicious food. Yet it's completely overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. I spent a week there and saw maybe a dozen other tourists the entire time.
What hidden vacation gems have you found that you think deserve more attention? I'm always looking to add to my collection of special places.
I have to mention the Azores again because they're such a perfect example of a hidden vacation gem. Nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic with incredible hiking, thermal springs, whale watching, and amazing food. São Miguel has these incredible crater lakes with different colored water, and Pico has Portugal's highest mountain. The best part is that they're still relatively unknown compared to other island destinations. Every time I recommend them to people, they've never heard of them, but everyone who goes falls in love.
My hidden vacation gem is the Dolomites in Italy. Everyone goes to the Alps in Switzerland or France, but the Italian Dolomites are absolutely stunning and somehow less crowded. The mountains have this unique pink color at sunrise and sunset, the hiking is incredible, and the food is, well, Italian - so obviously amazing. You can stay in these charming mountain huts called rifugios and hike from one to another. It's a hidden vacation gem that deserves way more attention than it gets.
I'll add Colombia to the list of hidden vacation gems. I know it has a reputation from the past, but it's changed so much and is now one of the most exciting destinations in South America. Cartagena has incredible colonial architecture, Medellín has transformed into a vibrant modern city, and the coffee region is beautiful. The people are incredibly friendly, the food is delicious, and it's much more affordable than many other destinations. It's a hidden vacation gem that's starting to get more attention but still feels authentic.
For a truly hidden vacation gem, I recommend the island of Madeira. It's Portuguese but off the coast of Africa, and it's this incredible mix of European and tropical influences. The levada walks (hikes along irrigation channels) are unique and beautiful, the food is amazing (try the black scabbard fish with banana), and the capital Funchal is charming. It's not as famous as the Canary Islands or other Atlantic islands, but it's just as beautiful and has its own distinct character.
I'm going to suggest something different - the American Great Lakes region. Everyone goes to the oceans or the mountains, but the Great Lakes are like inland seas with beautiful beaches, dunes, and islands. Places like Sleeping Bear Dunes in Michigan or the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin are absolutely stunning and feel like hidden vacation gems because most people don't think of the Midwest for beach vacations. The sunsets over the water are incredible, and in the summer, the water is warm enough for swimming.