I love to hate travel—especially in its modern, messy state. I’m suspicious of major attractions, and doubly suspicious of cities with larger-than-life reputations.
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Some hubs, like Venice and Rome, felt so overrun with tourists that I felt panicky at times. Other major destinations, like Berlin and Los Angeles, didn’t really make me feel anything. Then there’s Barcelona—my home of seven years, but a place I probably wouldn’t like much after a short visit. (I ended up here because of a boy, and I love it now, but it’s taken me a while.)
Despite the fact that I’m sometimes pessimistic about travel, my favorite thing about loving to hate travel is being surprised by destinations.
Small cities that aren’t overblown tourist destinations have often been my sweet spot. They aren’t so far off the beaten path that there’s zero tourist infrastructure, but they’re usually small enough that you’ll see many domestic tourists alongside foreign visitors.
Want to see which places hit the mark for me? So far, I’ve only visited each once—but I’m dying to go back. (Just a warning: I like the cold.)
5 places I can’t wait to visit again
Krakow, Poland
A few years ago, I was craving a traditional wintery and Christmas-y experience. My partner speaks Polish, so he very easily convinced me to visit Krakow and Warsaw. We split our time between the city, including a day trip to Zakopane from Krakow. (If you like skiing or spas, don’t miss out!)
Krakow stole my heart. The city center was spared from most of WWII’s heavy bombing, which decimated most of Warsaw. You’ll get to see a glimpse of Eastern Europe’s glory days—which includes architectural feats and styles that you probably haven’t seen before.
Wawel Castle, which dates back to the 1300s and was the seat of Polish rulers until 1596, almost looks like a Studio Ghibli take on European castles. The same applies to other parts of Old Town Krakow, which is home to sites that were built in the 1200s. I’m talking about buildings that were rebuilt on the ashes of those burned by Tartar invaders.
Hamburg, Germany
It’s like an industrial Venice with canals that freeze over in winter and buildings made from brick. That probably doesn’t sound very appealing, but it’s a fantastic balance of grit and charm, an oddball list of shops and experiences, and a surprisingly cozy feel. While many parts of Germany can feel uptight and traditional, Hamburg didn’t feel that way.
I’ll be honest: I hated the Miniatur Wunderland museum, which is Hamburg’s main tourist attraction. It’s very impressive, but I started to feel a little freaked out and overwhelmed by the sheer number of tiny, mini-worlds that looked real.
As in, so real that I sent a picture of a Rio de Janeiro beach scene to a friend and she replied with, “Oh my god, where are you!?” (She had a two-month-old at the time.) Also, I think I’m the only person to get weirded out by the mini museum, so don’t let me hold you back.
As someone who likes to walk around and explore neighborhoods on foot with the goal of eating, shopping, drinking, and learning, I felt comfortable in Hamburg. And I was continually intrigued by the next thing around the corner.
Bergen, Norway
Oslo is amazing—don’t skip Oslo. But, on the flipside, don’t skip Bergen either. Bergen is your gateway to Norway’s northern coast, home to its most dramatic fjords. Sognefjord, considered the biggest and the baddest of the bunch, is easily one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen. It’s up there with the Swiss Alps, the Himalayas, and the Grand Canyon.
Bergen is a sleepy little city that’s perfect to explore on foot. There’s a scenic outlook on Mount Floyen that’s accessible via funicular, along with a cute little port district. I enjoyed stopping into the little art galleries dotting the city, then sampling local delicacies at the many eateries and lounges. There are also some cool arcades, in case you want to feel like a kid again. (Highly recommended.)
Montreal, Canada
Montreal set up shop in a little corner of my heart for three reasons: there are delicious bagels, neighborhoods that reminded me of my hometown, and a well-rounded list of distinct neighborhoods to explore. Let me add a fourth: Most people I met were effortlessly kind and happy. (At least, that’s how they presented to me—I can’t vouch for what they’re really like.)
From the historic, colonial center to Mont Royal to Mile End, there was something to do. The city’s outdoor and green spaces were a treat to explore, while the outdoor festivals around the Old Port were equally unexpected and cool.
Mile End sealed the deal for me, though—it was home to shops, boutiques, cafes, wine bars, and other establishments where you can easily spend an afternoon. Possibly a lifetime.
Kolkata, India
I’m not exclusively interested in cold-weather destinations like those listed above. In terms of places I’m dying to visit, Kolkata is up there; this city averages temperatures in the 60s in January.
I’m called to Kolkata because I visited almost twenty years ago—and it had a huge impact on my life’s direction. Kolkata is dramatic in almost every way imaginable for the average American.
It’s got a population of around 6.7 million as of 2026, and has long been considered India’s hub of culture—both ancient and contemporary. Its hustle doesn’t stop, while even its widest, cleanest streets are sure to overload your senses.
Personally, I’d go back to visit the Kalighat temple again. Aside from that, I’d also spend time in the city’s many famous bazaars, explore its colonial sites, eat my way through its foodie scene, and go on cultural tours galore. I might even leave the city to go on a tiger safari. Many of India’s jungle tiger tourism conservation efforts are accessible from Kolkata.
