Embarking on a trip to a new destination is often seen as an opportunity for adventure. Still, not all travel experiences turn out as expected. While many destinations worldwide are lauded for their beauty, culture, hospitality, and amenities, others have left travelers with a bitter taste and a solemn pledge never to return.
Here are 12 places some deemed so terrible that they’ve vowed never to set foot there again.
Times Square, New York
Often touted as ‘The Crossroads of the World,’ Times Square in New York City is overwhelmingly crowded and touristy. With more than 50 million visitors annually, the over-commercialization presents a stark contrast to the authentic charm that many travelers seek. One visitor aptly said, “It’s just billboards and chain stores. I felt like I was inside a commercial.”
Venezia, Italy
While Venice’s canals and architecture are undeniably picturesque, the city suffers from extreme overtourism, leading to high prices and innumerable crowds. According to UNESCO, the city has been losing residents at 1,000 per year. In 2016, locals protested against tourism under the slogan “My future is Venice.”
Los Angeles, USA
While the City of Angels is renowned for its glitz and glam, travelers often find the city disappointing due to heavy traffic, high costs, and a perceived lack of cultural depth. One tourist said, “The traffic was worse than I’ve ever seen, and the smog was unbearable.”
Dubai, UAE
Although Dubai is famous for its luxurious lifestyle and towering skyscrapers, many visitors are put off by the city’s artificial atmosphere, lack of historical attractions, and oppressive heat. A visitor review stated, “Everything feels fake, like it’s all just for show.”
Paris, France
Known as ‘The City of Love,’ Paris has a romantic allure to it. However, many tourists have reported that the city did not live up to its hype due to unfriendly locals, widespread pickpocketing, and dirty streets. The 2016 Tourist Victimization Survey reported approximately 1.2 million theft cases in Paris.
Cairo, Egypt
Despite being home to the iconic pyramids, Cairo often leaves travelers with a bad taste due to its intense pollution, chaotic traffic, and frequent tourist scams. A traveler quoted, “The smog made it hard to breathe, and the constant honking was deafening.”
Bali, Indonesia
Once a serene tropical paradise, Bali has become a victim of overtourism. Its pristine beaches are now littered with trash, marine life is suffering, and water scarcity has become a serious issue. As per the Bali Environment Agency, the island produced 3,800 tons of waste daily in 2019.
Manila, Philippines
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is often criticized for its heavy traffic, pollution, and poverty. According to the TomTom Traffic Index, Manila has been consistently ranked as one of the world’s worst cities for traffic congestion.
Phuket, Thailand
This once-peaceful Thai island has been transformed by mass tourism. Visitors often find the beaches overcrowded, the nightlife excessively raucous, and the prices inflated. One visitor said, “It’s just not the tranquil paradise it used to be.”
Miami, USA
While Miami is famous for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, many tourists find it overrated due to its high crime rate, expensive prices, and unfriendly locals. According to the FBI’s 2018 Crime Report, Miami had the sixth-highest crime rate in the U.S.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Despite its stunning natural beauty, Reykjavik is often criticized for its high cost of living. The Economist’s 2020 Worldwide Cost of Living survey ranked Reykjavik as the 4th most expensive city in the world.
Beijing, China
While rich in cultural heritage, the historic city of Beijing often disappoints tourists due to its heavy pollution, overcrowded attractions, and language barrier issues. A traveler said, “The Great Wall was so crowded, it was more like a human conveyor belt.”
Source: Quora
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This piece aims to inform travelers about 15 countries deemed potentially unsafe for American citizens due to political instability, high crime rates, or health risks. Always remember, the intent is not to generalize or stigmatize but to encourage informed and careful travel planning.
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20 Things to Never Do in France
Here’s a friendly tip to avoid getting raised eyebrows in France: don’t be overly familiar. Keep the “tu” at bay unless explicitly invited. Sure, in the age of social media, boundaries can seem as outdated as a dial-up modem, but in France, jumping to a first-name basis or using the informal “tu” to address someone you’ve just met is as welcome as a skunk at a garden party.
Stick to “vous” and formal titles until they roll out the red carpet and usher you into their inner circle. It’s just good manners, Parisian style.
20 Things to Never Do in France
