Between overtourism and the world getting their bucket lists back on track, certain destinations are swarming with travellers.

For Aussies, Europe in summer is always high on the list. The continent experienced an influx of visitors from Australia last June to August.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Europe experienced peak travel in 2023, with a record of 2,583,660 returns from short-term trips by Australian residents across the northern hemisphere's summer.

Should we be visiting popular places?

“While many tourists are mindful of the potential impacts travel can have on local communities, others prioritise visiting hotspots solely to capture the perfect picture for social media,” said James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel.

“Tourists must acknowledge the potential consequences of over-tourism on local communities and how they can make the most of exploring less popular locations.”

Rather than elbow your way through to the front of the Trevi Fountain or queue for hours to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower, travel to one these destinations instead.

Corsica: under the radar paradise

A gem in the Mediterranean that’s not overcrowded like the Cinque Terre or the French Riviera. With serene landscapes, rich history and vibrant culture, Corsica has Positano charm without the crowds.

Unlike the tourist-heavy atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast flooded with loud Americans, Corsica offers a more tranquil vibe with its natural beauty and breathtaking coastlines.

From the white cliffs of Bonifacio to the sandy beaches of Calvi and quaint towns like Ajaccio and Porto-Vecchio, Corsica is one Europe’s best kept secrets. Though the island is part of France, it has a strong Italian influence with restaurants and cafes serving up the best of both worlds.  

More soul in Seoul

If you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination in East Asia, consider Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea. It has a lot of similarities to Tokyo; like being food-obsessed, culture-rich with urban charm. But Seoul stands on its own, offering distinctive experiences – a blend of traditional Korean heritage in a modern cityscape.

From the labyrinth of alleys of Insadong to the futuristic skyline of Gangnam, Seoul is less explored yet equally captivating. Of course, the cuisine is also to die for. Food enthusiasts can savour the flavours of Korean cuisine with sizzling barbecues to zesty kimchi and popular bibimbap rice bowl. 

Panama over Barcelona

Think Spanish vibes meets a tropical escape. While Barcelona boasts stunning architecture, vibrant culture and amazing tapas, Panama is the gateway to adventure. Known as the ‘Crossroads of the World’ thanks to the iconic Panama Canal which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the city is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural experiences.

Small but rich in geographical diversity, travellers can explore bustling cities one day, and pristine beaches or lush rainforests the next. Influenced by its indigenous heritage, Afro-Caribbean roots and Spanish culture, Panama's unique culture offers a distinct experience, setting it apart from the European-centric landscape of Barcelona.

Borneo instead of Bali

Time to skip the Bintangs, dodge the bonking ban and avoid bumping into Aussies. Unlike the busy beaches and crowds of Bali, Borneo beckons with its untamed beauty and rich traditions. As one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, the island is home to thousands of species including the iconic Bornean orangutan, pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys.

Its rainforests are also among the oldest on earth, offering incredible trekking and wildlife spotting. Bornean food is a melting pot of Malay, Indonesian and Indian cuisine with a local twist. If you’re looking for something more authentic and wild, it’s the place to be.