Under the Radar: Discovering the World’s Least Visited Countries

Popular travel destinations are popular for a reason. They might have amazing weather, culture, or attractions to see. But this kind of status comes at a cost. 

If you always go to the tourist hotspots, your vacation time will suffer. You’ll face higher prices on accommodation and flights. Worse still, there will be more crowds, and you risk having the same experience as virtually everyone else! Sometimes, it’s better to go off the beaten path and visit the hidden gems scattered worldwide. 

But wait—doesn’t a quiet vacation spot have some catch? Is there something wrong with it? And if it’s so good, why aren’t more people visiting?

Often, it’s simply that the destination isn’t truly appreciated yet. Travelers can use this to their advantage and have a fantastic time abroad.

Let’s look at some of the most overlooked travel destinations well and truly worth a visit. You’ll learn why each destination is considered a hidden gem. You’ll also discover essential travel trips to ensure smooth travel abroad.

The  Republic of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean

If you want a tropical vacation with guaranteed peace, you must visit Kiribati. With just 21 inhabited islands, it is one of the least populated countries in the Pacific Ocean. As such, it offers travelers an amazing opportunity to enjoy everything from scuba diving to swimming and fishing—in total peace.

Kiribati has a plethora of atolls, which are ring-shaped coral reefs or islets. These are home to beautiful wildlife like whale sharks, manta rays, and coral. And with little crowds to worry about, you can concentrate on taking in the atmosphere.

So what’s the catch? How is a beautiful location like this still under the radar? Well, one of the core reasons why Kiribati remains a hidden gem is its economy. It is considered one of the least developed countries in the world and still relies on international aid. 

Limited flight connections can also be a deterrent. That said, travelers can use this to their advantage. By researching travel options, you can enjoy the peace Kiribati is becoming famous for.

Liechtenstein in Europe

Measuring just 24 km in length and with a population of just over 40,000, Liechtenstein is one of the smallest countries in the world. Nestled in mainland Europe, it is easy to overlook when planning a European city break. But for travelers looking for a unique city break, it is simply unmissable.

The capital of Vaduz, located on the Rhine, has picturesque hillsides and castles, cathedrals, museums, and galleries. Outside the cities and towns, travelers can enjoy beautiful, unspoiled nature. There is an endless supply of hikes and cycle trails against the backdrop of Alpine landscapes.

Liechtenstein may not seem like a bustling tourist hotspot because few people know how to get there. One reason for this may be that there is no dedicated airport in the area. Many travelers don’t realize that all they need to do is hop on a bus or train from nearby Switzerland or Germany to visit the region.

São Tomé & Príncipe in Africa

With a population of just 201,800, São Tomé & Príncipe is one of the least populated countries in Africa. Rich volcanic soil has made this country an essential producer of cash crops, including cocoa and coffee. It is a promising tourist destination, with direct flights from Lisbon and neighboring countries.

The country comprises two archipelagos around two main islands, Príncipe and São Tomé. Expect beautiful beaches, jungles, and endless palm trees scattered throughout unspoiled landscapes. You’ll find waterfalls, grand peaks, and national parks at every corner. 

Best of all, the country is considered one of Africa’s most stable and democratic countries. Recent, large-scale tourism investment has also seen several beach resorts appear. As such, now is the time to visit this picturesque paradise—before the crowds catch on!

Montserrat in the Caribbean Sea

If you fancy enjoying a bit of European life in the Caribbean, why not take a trip to Montserrat? This small island, which forms part of the West Indies, has a population of just under 5,000 people. You can reach it via a 20-minute flight from Antigua or seasonal ferries.

The island is known as ‘the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean Sea,’ as it looks like coastal Ireland and has a large Irish population. As an overseas territory of the United Kingdom, it has enormous British influences.

Moreover, as an isolated island, Montserrat is home to rare, endemic plants and animals. You can also explore many unspoiled coral reefs and caves—perfect for nature lovers!

RELATED: Island Hopping The Caribbean—How To + Itinerary Ideas

Solomon Islands in the Pacific Ocean

The Solomon Islands are the hidden gem of Oceania. They promise untouched beaches and luscious jungles, all wrapped in wartime history. With nearly 1000 islands to explore, the course is just a 3-hour flight from nearby Australia. As such, it could be a great way to enjoy the Pacific Ocean without all the crowds.

The islands are home to volcanic activity, meaning they are a paradise for flora and fauna. There are over 4,500 different plants and 173 birds found here. Some of these are endemic, meaning your trip here could be truly unique.

The Solomons are also home to world-class diving and surf spots, a plethora of local villages, and markets to soak up local culture. The islands can also be an excellent trip for history lovers. They are covered with World War 2 wreckages, offering the best of the modern and natural world.

Travel tips for you to use in quiet vacation spots

Researching quieter tourist spots is only half the battle. You need to get other things in check to ensure your vacation pays off. Consider the following:

1. Stay connected with an eSIM card

Connectivity is a travel essential. No matter where you find yourself, you’ll want to use your smartphone to go online. However, you might find it difficult to get a stable connection when going to isolated places. The country might lack the proper infrastructure or network options to help you stay connected.

An eSIM is a simple but reliable way to enjoy reliable connectivity worldwide. This digital version of a traditional SIM card is already embedded within modern smartphones. The benefit of an eSIM is that it allows you to easily swap to the best local networks.

All you have to do is download an eSIM app and check availability in your destination. Simply take out a small data plan and activate it just before your trip. Once you land, your eSIM will strive to keep you connected to the best available networks for your entire trip.

RELATED: Best International SIM Cards & How to Keep in Touch When Traveling

2. Consider safety first

Some remote countries may have lower tourist numbers due to social factors such as war, civil unrest, disease, or a spike in crime. Similarly, the country might be experiencing severe weather, so planning a visit would be ill-advised.

Before booking a trip to remote places, research potential hazards you might face. For example, the U.S. State Department has travel advisories for any country you want to visit. It can offer advice on whether you should reconsider your trip or not.

3. Consider organized tours

Found the perfect vacation spot but can’t find an easy travel route? Then you might consider booking with a tour group. Companies often arrange everything for you, including flights, transfers, and accommodation. 

Even though you might be part of a small group, this won’t diminish the quiet of a remote location. Best of all, you’ll be able to meet new people and enjoy peace of mind with people watching your back.

Enjoy a big adventure in a quiet place

Whether sailing across the Caribbean or jet-setting through Europe, quiet spots can make for a great vacation. These counties may not be the most popular (yet!), but they can still provide you with unique experiences. And with no crowds, you’re free to enjoy everything they offer.

However, it’s a good idea to remember some classic travel tips before heading out to these locations. An eSIM, for example, ensures you enjoy reliable connectivity regardless of location. To find the best option, you can use an eSIM comparison table to evaluate different plans and providers. You should also consider connecting with tour groups, which can simplify all the planning needed to enjoy yourself!

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