5 Tourist Attractions You Should Skip & Their Much Better Alternatives

Tourism Blues

Ever gone on vacation, decided to visit a popular tourist destination, and then been completely disappointed and underwhelmed by the whole experience?

Maybe the area was so packed with other tourists you couldn’t take a step without bumping into someone. Maybe some successful pickpockets swiped your wallet and phone. Maybe the attraction itself just couldn't live up to the expectations that were built up in your head and even worse, it ended up being almost prohibitively expensive to get into.

No matter the situation, we understand your pain and have some suggestions for 5 tourists spots to ditch completely and the places you should visit instead.

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1. Cardiff Castle — Cardiff, Wales

Although there’s nothing particularly wrong with Cardiff Castle, there’s also nothing particularly interesting about it either. Locals suggest that Harry Potter fans should catch a glimpse of the Welsh Diagon Alley, which is conveniently located right across the street.

For those of you looking for a bit of idyllic green scenery, then taking a stroll through the neighboring Bute Park is what you’re looking for. Lastly, for those of you looking for some history and culture, then there’s the National Museum of Wales, which is located just outside of Cardiff, but still easily reachable by a quick bus trip. Don't confuse it with the National Museum of Cardiff though!

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2. Bourbon Street — New Orleans, LA

Bourbon Street is synonymous with party time, but most locals would recommend you avoid this street at all costs. The drinks are expensive and pickpockets frequent the area, so it would be safer to get your tourist photos done during the day and then hit Frenchman Street in the evening for some live music and decently-priced cocktails.

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3. Original Starbucks at Pike Place Market — Seattle, WA

Locals suggest skipping this particular tourist attraction, but if you're still in need of a Starbucks fix then head over to the shop at the corner of 2nd and Pike. This location is much calmer and you can grab a tasty pastry from the neighboring Le Panier bakery. However, don’t let this deter you from going to the Pike Place Market at all! This is still a worthwhile experience, just ditch the original Starbucks.

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4. London Bridge — London, England

When tourists travel to London, many want to visit the London Bridge, which was made infamous by the age-old nursery rhyme. Although London Bridge has a very long and interesting history, it is, unfortunately, a very boring bridge to look at and most tourists tend to confuse it with the far more recognizable Tower Bridge.

Another side note: While trying to search for a picture of the London Bridge, all the images that came up ended up being of the Tower Bridge... Honestly, just go visit that one instead, you won’t be disappointed by the photo op.

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5. Kuta Beach — Bali, Indonesia

If you’re looking to embark on your perfectly relaxing beach paradise vacation in Bali, then locals suggest avoiding this area at all costs. The beach tends to be overcrowded, dirty, and filled with drunken tourists, making it not ideal for relaxation—but a good place to party, if that’s your scene.

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However, if you're looking for a more relaxed and serene experience, then locals suggest heading to the beaches up north to beat the crowds and mess. Although it’s a bit of a trek, islands such as Gili Meno will have the pristinely beautiful and uncrowded paradisiacal views you’re looking for.

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Feeling Inspired?

Then why not check out some of our suggestions for fun city trips.

Need to get away for a bit? Then check out our awesome weekend getaways!