10 Overtouristed Places and 10 Cool Alternatives

If global tourism seems to have increased in recent years, that’s because it has. The World Tourism Organization (UNTWO) cites varying reasons for more travelers: more affordable travel options; a growing middle class in economically developing countries; and a strong global economy. The problem is that more people are going to the same places. For example, Venice, Bali and Machu Picchu remain perennial favorites, but the sheer tourist numbers threaten what made these places so special in the first place. One way to preserve these destinations is to visit similar, less-crowded equivalents that aren’t as heavily promoted. And you just may find that you like the alternatives even better.