# How to Steer Clear of Travel Crowds in the Era of Overtourism
In recent times, the term “overtourism” has gained traction in the travel sector. From Barcelona locals using squirt guns on vacationers to Amsterdam promoting ads that discourage rowdy tourists, the indicators are evident: some of the planet’s most cherished locales are feeling the pressure. Concurrently, cities such as Venice, Bali, and Athens have implemented additional visitor taxes to manage the surge. Nonetheless, even with record tourism figures, it’s still entirely feasible to travel without being engulfed by crowds — if you know how to plan your approach.
As someone who has journeyed extensively since the early 1990s, I can confirm: escaping the throngs isn’t as challenging as it may appear. It’s merely about adjusting the “where” and the “when.”
## The Fallacy of “No Place Left to Explore”
It’s tempting to think that every nook and cranny of the world has been overly shared on social media. Iconic locations like Angkor Wat, the Taj Mahal, and Machu Picchu are frequently highlighted as evidence of how tourism can overpower significant sites. Social media, particularly Instagram, enhances this narrative, creating the impression that everyone is flocking to the same select few destinations.
However, the reality is that while a considerable number of travelers adhere to popular routes, innumerable lesser-known treasures remain delightfully undisturbed. Independent travelers who are ready to stray from the traditional path can still uncover spots where locals are hospitable and the views are breathtaking — free from the crowd of selfie-stick enthusiasts.
## Timing is Crucial: Travel During the Off-Peak Season
One of the easiest methods to evade crowds is to plan your trip during the off-peak season. High tourist seasons typically align with school vacations and ideal weather, but scheduling your visit either just before or right after these times can significantly enhance your journey.
For instance, I’ll be heading to Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, and Budapest later this year — beginning in late October and continuing through December. By steering clear of the summer influx, I’ll be able to explore these cities with fewer visitors, reduced costs, and a more laid-back vibe.
Likewise, a trip to Greece in April and May enabled me to enjoy the sights without wrestling with large crowds. By avoiding hotspots such as Santorini and Mykonos, I had a relaxing two months in a country that typically experiences overwhelming crowds in the summer.
## Identify the Tourist Hot Spots — and Then Steer Clear of Them
Certain cities are perennial draws for tourists. Based on international leisure arrivals, the following destinations consistently rank among the most frequented:
– Istanbul
– Bangkok
– Paris
– London
– Dubai
– New York City
– Hong Kong
– Cancun
– Orlando
– Antalya
– Tokyo
– Singapore
– Macau
– Kuala Lumpur
– Delhi
– Prague
– Miami
– Amsterdam
– Seoul
– Los Angeles
– Las Vegas
In instances like Las Vegas or Orlando, these cities are designed for tourism and can cater to the crowds. In contrast — consider Venice, Florence, or Dubrovnik — where the historical centers are compact and the effects of overtourism are significantly more noticeable.
## Explore Beyond the Obvious
The optimal way to evade the crowds is to seek out less-frequented alternatives. Often, these locales are merely a stone’s throw away from popular tourist spots:
– Instead of Dubrovnik, explore Split or Šibenik in Croatia.
– Substitute Amsterdam for Utrecht in the Netherlands.
– Opt for Brno or Pilsen over Prague in the Czech Republic.
– Discover Eger in Hungary rather than Budapest.
– In Morocco, think about Essaouira or Chefchaouen instead of Marrakech.
Even in popular nations such as France, Italy, and Spain, traveling a few hours away from major urban areas can lead you to quaint towns and villages where tourism remains minimal.
In Mexico, for instance, while Cancun and Playa del Carmen are bustling, cities like Zacatecas, Cuetzalan, and Aguascalientes provide genuine experiences with few international tourists. Similarly, in Argentina’s Salta Province, towns like Cafayate stay peaceful despite their stunning backdrops.
## Search for the “Other” Attractions
Even in countries known for particular landmarks, there are frequently equally magnificent alternatives:
– In Peru, Machu Picchu may be crowded, yet Choquequirao provides a comparable Incan experience with far fewer visitors.
– In Bolivia, numerous tourists flock to Uyuni, yet exploring further across the salt flats uncovers untouched villages.
– In northern Peru, Kuelap and Gocta Waterfall boast breathtaking views without the throngs.
## The Timeless Challenge: Crowds Are Not a Modern Issue
Complaints about crowds from travelers aren’t a contemporary issue. Even as far back as the 1800s, visitors expressed discontent over the “riff-raff” at popular destinations like Luxor and Athens. The truth is that some spots will always attract attention — but new destinations continually rise to prominence.
Today’s hidden treasures such as Kalamata in Greece, Kosice in Slovakia, or Karakol in Kyrgyzstan may evolve into tomorrow’s overt tourist attractions.