3. Strolling the Great Wall of China
The breathtaking Great Wall of China is on many a traveler’s wish list. It took millennia to build this barrier, and walking along on this iconic Asian landmark must feel like stepping back in time.
The truth is it’s more Disneyland than Ming Dynasty these days. The Badaling section closest to Beijing gets up to 70,000 visitors per day and is complete with cable cars, pulley rides, tchotchke shops, and snack bars. The less crowded Mutianyu section has cable cars and a slideway down, which may sound like fun to some visitors but it really takes away from the majesty of this historic site.
4. Soaking In an Idyllic Beach in Thailand
Stunning Maya Bay on Ko Phi Phi Lay, in particular, is the fantasy setting from The Beach that many travelers dream of escaping to.
The problem is hordes of travelers descend upon this bay, and its very popularity is what makes it less than idyllic. Are there other less touristy beaches in Thailand where you can escape the crowds? Sure, but we’re not going to spoil them by telling you where there are. Discovering hidden gems yourself is half the fun.
