Headline: Visiting underrated cities has long been a trend for people who can play
In this era of rapid development, tourism is no longer a simple activity, but an expression of life attitude. Outside of the many popular cities, there are some lesser-known cities that are considered hidden treasures of travel, attracting a group of "playful" people who love to explore and pursue different cultures. These cities are not often known to the general public, but they have a unique charm that attracts travelers who are curious about the unknown.
I've had the pleasure of visiting some of these lesser-known cities and discovering their unique charm that I can't help but fall into. First, I came to Xi'an, China, a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient architecture. Here, I not only tasted the authentic Shaanxi food, but also experienced the unique charm of the ancient Silk Road. Xi'an's city walls, Big Wild Goose Pagoda and other monuments made me feel as if I had traveled back to history and experienced the precipitation of a thousand-year-old civilization.
Next, I embarked on a journey to the Balkans, visiting Tirana, the capital of Albania. Known as the "Sunshine City", the city not only has a rich history, but also a pleasant climate and abundant natural beauty. In the streets of Tirana, I felt the strong atmosphere of Southern European Mediterranean culture and tasted authentic Mediterranean cuisine. The people here are warm and welcoming, making me feel very welcome.
Then, I came to Penang, Indonesia, a small island city in the north of Malaysia. Penang is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and delicious street food. Here, I wandered through the ancient buildings and felt the blend of Malay, Indian, Chinese and other diverse cultures. Try the local betel nut syrup and curry noodles, and every bite is a taste of the city's unique taste buds.
Next, I traveled to Chefchaouen, Morocco, a small city nestled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. Chefchaouen fascinated me with its rich history, ancient architecture and rich handicrafts. Here, I walked through the narrow laneways, discovered the old market hidden in the corner, and tasted authentic Moroccan tea and delicious tagine soup. At night, the city is lit up brightly, making the whole city as beautiful as a dream.
Next, I traveled to Uruguay in South America and visited the small riverside town of Colonia. The city has a strong colonial feel, and the stone-paved streets and colorful houses make me feel like I have stepped into a peaceful picture. Here, I participated in the local traditional dance performance and felt the warm and unrestrained attitude of the Uruguayan people. Walking along the seaside, I enjoyed the magnificent sunset, as if time had slowed down here.
Finally, I came to Freshet, South Africa, a small city on the border with Botswana. Freschet may not be as bustling as Cape Town or Johannesburg, but it has unique natural beauty and wildlife. Here, I participated in a desert surfing adventure and felt the mystery and tranquility of the desert. At night, the starry sky is intoxicating.
These niche cities may not be visible on the popular tourist map, but they have endless charm and unique experiences. The concept of reverse tourism is not only about finding new tourist destinations, but also about an in-depth exploration of different cultures, histories, and customs. In these cities, I not only saw beautiful scenery, but also felt the collision and integration of different cultures, which made my travel more rich and meaningful.
Therefore, I would like to tell those who love to travel to try some of the underrated and niche cities to discover the hidden gems that are hidden from the public eye. These cities may not be as prosperous as the popular ones, but they have unique cultural and natural landscapes waiting to be explored by travelers. Instead of looking around, you can go deep into these niche cities and feel their charm, and you will find that everything there is worth discovering and cherishing.