Also known as the the Turkish Riviera, the Turquoise Coast covers the area of southwest Turkey that borders the Mediterranean Sea. During my 9 months abroad in 2019, this was by far the destination that took me most by surprise.

I had no idea what to expect, no set plans and was traveling by the suggestions of others, whether they were locals or fellow travelers. It was the first time I truly had nothing planned, but ended up being some of the best few weeks of my life. I mean just take a look at these views!

Another unplanned site I only ventured to through the suggestions of others were the ancient Roman ruins of Baalbek. About a 2 hour drive from Lebanon’s capital of Beriut, Baalbek houses some of the most impressive ruins I’ve ever seen, rivaling only those found in Athens.

One of the best highlights of my 9 month backpacking trip in 2019 was going Bedouin style and camping in the Wadi Rum desert. It was my first desert visit and the spectacular views of orange sandstone cliffs that turned red as the sun set absolutely blew me away. I loved it so much that I went back for a second time while I was in Jordan!

Although Greece is a huge summertime tourist hotspot, Paros is one of the few main islands that doesn’t receive hoards of cruise boat tourists. Paros offers visitors a more laid back Greek island vibe, perfect for the backpacker or traveler looking to relax.

Save for the daytrippers to Mostar from tourist hotspot cities like Dubrovnik and Kotor, Bosnia & Herzegovina is a largely untapped market for travelers. Besides the incredible natural beauty of the country, its capital of Sarajevo is starting to catch on as a fantastic hub for digital nomads. Although it’s recent tumultuous past of the 90’s kept it clear of tourism until only recently, the beautiful Ottoman meets European architecture and cheap eats made it one of my new favorite cities in Europe.

When I told friends I was heading to Estonia, I was either met with confusion or curiousity. Where even is Estonia? Why would you go there? Who the heck goes to Estonia???

But let me tell you! I went to the capital city of Tallinn expecting nothing, because well, I KNEW nothing, but came out pleasantly surprised. The city has the perfect combo of modern amenities and a cool, hip scene but with a medieval Old Town that’ll make you feel like you’re walking through time. Warning: your wallet will hurt after visiting here. Plan accordingly. 

Although some of the most iconic water landscapes of Portugal lie within the southernmost region of Portugal, not everyone heads south when visiting the more popular northern cities of Lisbon or Porto. If you travel the Algarve during off or shoulder season, you’ll find cheaper accommodations and sprawling beaches all to yourself.

Palestine encompasses some of the most contested land in the world. And upon entering Palestine from Jerusalem, it  shows. Although the Gaza Strip is absolutely out of question for tourists (and for good reason), the West Bank of Palestine is a great introduction for travelers wanting to learn all sides to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Cyprus is a hotspot for tourists all year round, but large crowds gather in the summer months when the notorious beach clubs open up for the season. If you come during the off season you’ll find a far quieter and calmer Mediterranean island. Although the coastal towns offer magnificent views, no town surpised me more than landlocked Nicosia.

As the last divided capital in the world, the divide is prevalent saparating the UN recognized Greek side in the south and the Turkish side to the North (also known as Lefkosia). A UN peacekeeping border lays in the heart of the city where passports must be shown to cross. Don’t let that deter you from exploring both sides though. Each side has immense charm uniquely their own and is very safe for visitors. After chats with locals on both sides, most want to see a peaceful reunification in the near future.

As my first non-western country, Morocco was a bit of a culture shock. Unlike most first-time visitors who dote on their Morocco vacays, we didn’t stay in the 5-star riads or resorts you see on social media. Instead we rented Airbnb’s in local areas, presenting an entirely different, more authentic Morocco experience.

Often termed at the ‘Forgotten Son’ of Israeli tourism, Nazareth should not be left out of your tour through Israel. As the only predominately Arab town left in Israel, you’ll get a unique flare of culture and architecture as evident in the winding alleyways of Old Town. Check out my one day in Nazareth city guide here!

With the larger cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam harnessing visitors attentions, Utrecht is a lovely underatted tourist destination for those heading to the Netherlands on holiday. Similar to Amsterdam with picturesque canals and lovely brick architecture, Utrecht is a much quieter alternative without the massive crowds of tourists.