Rosie Panter, travel expert at dealchecker, dispels European destination myths and shares top tips for summer 2024.
You may be dreaming of an Aperol by the Colosseum in Rome, or ouzo by the Acropolis in Athens – hot spots for a reason – however, you’ll need a combination of patience and deep wallets to deal with the swathes of tourists and extortionate prices. Whilst certain European locations may be ‘firm favourites’ they may not leave you feeling as relaxed as you’d hoped. Instead, opting for an unknown or quiet destination could solve touristic saturation that plagues much of the continent.
Rosie Panter, travel expert at the UK’s trusted travel price comparison site, dealchecker, says: “I speak for many here when I say that am bored of the 6am rush to the pool to reserve a sunbed, jostling for space whilst trying to nail ‘that’ picture and queueing for two hours to try the must-visit dinner spot in town. What is the point of a holiday if you end up sacrificing precious sleep, trawling through thick crowds, and breaking the bank just to be in a ‘trending’ destination?
“Instead, Brits should look at ‘emptier’ European destinations. Whilst there are many ideas around why certain destinations are or aren’t popular, many of these are outdated myths leading to today’s travellers missing out on rich experiences in beautiful locations. Some emptier spots may even be in plain sight – you’d never think a Greek island could be quiet?
“For example, many might think that Eastern Europe is unsuitable for vegetarians (seriously!), or Kosovo’s past renders it unsafe for today’s tourists, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s time to stop listening to travel myths and start exploring – you’ll be surprised how quickly some of these places turn into your new favourite holiday destination.”
In the below guide Rosie dispels common misconceptions on European destinations and shares why they should be top of your travel list for summer 2024…
Kythira, Greece
Grecian Myth: All Greek Islands are overpriced and heaving with tourists.
Grecian Fact: Greece is home to some-120 islands, allowing plenty of space for tourists to enjoy the white sands, blue skies and gentle waves. As such, try Kythira – one of the main Ionian islands – which boasts all of the same perks as more well-known islands like Santorini and Mykonos but with less crowds and easier on the wallet.
With ferries from Athens starting from 20 EUR, it’s an easy and affordable spot to get to – a true under the radar gem.
Gdansk, Poland
Polish Myth: Poland is a country that is still reflective of its past, with an unfriendly population.
Polish Fact: If you’re looking for a quaint European escape, then Gdansk promises colourful architecture comparable to Amsterdam, a rich history, meandering river and affordable pints. Mostly destroyed by air raids during WWII, Gdansk was rebuilt-to reflect Flemish and Duch architectural styles and is now widely regarded as Poland’s prettiest city. Whilst in Poland, you will meet some of Europe’s most friendly and hard-working people, excited to share their local culture and delicacies with you. Pop into any bar and grab a drink with a local, they will open your eyes to how special the country is.
Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnian & Herzegovinian Myth: It is an underdeveloped country that hasn’t moved past the events of the 1990’s.
Bosnian & Herzegovinian Fact: Bosnia and Herzegovina has an extraordinary past, and boasts plenty of cultural and historical sites as well as beautiful countryside, picture brooding, dramatic mountains, rolling hills and meandering rivers.
In Sarajevo, pay a visit to the yellow fortress, the underground tunnels, and Bascarsija Bazaar (an Ottoman-era marketplace) – all surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, which provide a picturesque backdrop. A beautiful and very affordable destination, split your time in the country with a few days in the southern Herzegovina region, where you can experience stunning natural landscapes and even sample local wines. Whilst in-destination, you will feel safe and welcomed whether in urban or rural areas as the country has flourished in recent decades.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenian Myth: There is a language barrier, and restaurants don’t cater to vegetarians.
Slovenian Fact: Situated at the crossroads of central Europe, the Mediterranean and the Balkans, this small country has buckets of potential. Quieter than other European cultural hubs, English is widely spoken in major cities such as Ljubljana and even the biggest food lovers will be pleasantly surprised by the destination’s buzzing food scene. From ski slopes, expansive lakes, national parks and to its historic cities, it is wise to visit before the tourists start to flock.
Prizren, Kosovo
Kosovan Myth: Kosovo isn’t suitable for tourists.
Kosovan Fact: Whist neighbouring Albania and Montenegro have seen a tourism boom over the last few years, Europe’s newest country, Kosovo has largely flown under the radar due to its troubled past. However, this shouldn’t be the case.
Visitors to this Balkan gem can expect a unique getaway, filled with warm hospitality, charming mountain towns and interesting archaeological sites. Younger travellers will have a particularly standout time in Kosovo’s second biggest city, Prizren. By day learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage, and after the sun sets indulge in it’s vibrant nightlife scene, all without breaking the bank.
Fancy a trip to one of these lesser-visited European gems? To book your next break, visit www.dealchecker.co.uk
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Notes to editors:
- dealchecker is always lower case.
- When visiting unfamiliar destinations, always check the FCDO government guidelines ahead of travel. These guidelines will indicate which areas are generally safe for tourism travel.
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Elsa Findlay | Sarah Geppert | Peter Gregory
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About dealchecker
Founded in 2005, dealchecker is a UK-based travel comparison website, which enables customers to compare flight, holiday, hotel, cruise and car hire prices, alongside reliable and unbiased money-saving deals.
For more information, visit www.dealchecker.co.uk
