Are you wanting to avoid the glittery and commercialized tourist traps in favor of experiencing the genuine life of the local cultures?

If you crave adventure and authenticity, then deviate from the beaten path and prepare to explore the true heart and soul of a society’s history and heritage. You can make an ordinary vacation extraordinary by backpacking through the countryside, fishing in pristine water, biking in uncharted areas, or experiencing creative modes of transportation. Witness breathtaking scenery, catch a glimpse of unique wildlife in its natural habitat, and connect with the true lifestyle of the native people.

If you want to see real history, experience real life, and observe real culture, then it is time to plan a unique overseas adventure travel vacation. A few examples are listed below:

Ethiopia represents one of the oldest civilizations on earth and is a wonderful myriad of exotic wildlife, archaeological wonders, ancient architecture, and untouched scenery. The Omo River Valley of Southern Ethiopia is home to a cultural mosaic of African tribes that have been unaffected by modernization; and although getting there is difficult, the trip is definitely worth the effort. It is a land rich in tradition and overflowing with beauty. Whether you want to catch a glimpse of the famous rockhewn churches of Lalibela, study the unique agriculture, admire the fascinating beehive shaped huts, or pump up the excitement crossing rivers with an overland truck, the Omo Valley will offer a remarkable experience that will thrill and captivate the most ardent adventurer.

Although it is not on the list of most popular vacation destinations, a motorbike tour of Battambang, Cambodia will not disappoint the adventure seeker. It is a destination abundant in traditional architecture, ancient temples, and fascinating wats and pagodas. Its friendly people, coupled with the beautiful scenery provided by rice fields and plantations makes Battambang one of the most stunning places in the world. And of course, no trip to the area would be complete without a ride on the creative, yet ingenious, bamboo train.

A trip to rural Russia will allow you to take a step back in time and experience adventure in its most basic form. With no running water, wood-burning heat, and only the simplest of facilities, the rural Russian communities will allow you to experience this country’s incomparable history and interact with the people that help build its amazing heritage. You can enjoy the relaxed lifestyle, become involved in the daily activities of local farms, or spend some time admiring the forests and lakes that comprise the beautiful scenery.  

Take a back to nature, eco-friendly vacation by planning a visit to the hinterlands of Surinam. Only reachable by boat or plane, this area can boast one of the most culturally diverse populations in the world. Formerly a Dutch colony, Surinam was once known for its prosperous plantations governed by cruel masters. Escaping slaves often disappeared into the lush rainforests, forming small villages or tribes similar to those of their African Heritage.  Today, a visit to the hinterlands will provide you with one of the most amazing traditional and multicultural experiences. This remote area is abounding in breathtaking waterfalls and unique wildlife and birds. Enjoy nature walks, boat trips, or simply savor the natural, untouched surroundings.

Most Greece bound tourists flock to Athens, leaving Nafplio, the former Greek capital, the perfect destination for those seeking a truly unique travel adventure. The small seaside town offers beaches, beautiful scenery, and ancient sites. Whether you want to relax or explore, Nafplio has something for everyone. Known for its mountain and island fortresses and its rich cultural history, this town will allow you to avoid all the tourist traps and experience the true essence of Greece.

Unique overseas adventure travel destinations will spice up your vacation and allow you to experience the genuine and authentic lifestyle of a country’s people. If you want to avoid the tourist focused destinations, then plan a trip that will lead you to the true beauty and culture buried within the heart of a land.

Millions of tourists from all over the world visit Amsterdam each year and many people just keep on coming back as they can’t seem to get enough of the Dutch capital. This article provides visitors with a great overview of some of the most popular tourist attractions of Amsterdam.

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank was a Jewish girl who wrote a diary whilst hiding in the attic of a building in Amsterdam during the 2nd World War. She was captured and sent to a concentration camp together with her sister and father. Her father, Otto Frank, was the only one to have survived the camps. The diary was found and later published by her father and it became one of the most sold books in history. The Anne Frank House museum is located in the actual building in which Anne Frank hid during the war. If you are visiting Amsterdam with your children then be sure to take them to the Anne Frank house as it is an important part of world history. The opening hours vary depending on the time of year so please check in advance. Tickets for adults cost 8.50 Euro and tickets for children cost 4 Euro.

Van Gogh Museum

Vincent van Gogh is one of the most famous Dutch painters of all times. The Vincent van Gogh museum houses the largest collection of paintings and drawings by this Dutch master. There are over two hundred paintings at the Van Gogh Museum as well as nearly six hundred drawings and a large selection of personal artifacts.  The Van Gogh Museum is located in the Amsterdam Museum Quarter and is located only a few minutes’ walk from the Rijksmuseum. This popular Amsterdam tourist attraction is open daily for visitors from 10:00 until 18:00.

Red Light District

The Netherlands is known as one of the most liberal countries in the world which is why it should come as no surprise that Amsterdam has a giant red light district which is filled with many coffee shops, erotic stores and ladies of ill repute. Nearly every tourist that visits Amsterdam will at some time go for a walk through this famous Amsterdam landmark. It is rather safe to walk there so please do not fear as it is just as any other part of Amsterdam.

Another trick is to buy the “1.000 Places you must see before you die” book or something similar and open at a random page. These books have the most beautiful and attractive places on earth, so your satisfaction will be guaranteed. You can get a copy from almost every library or just borrow one. This one of the most beautiful books in the world in my opinion, so you can start adding up new places every holiday.

Something else you can try is to search online for the most unusual events or festivals around the world. Find one that happens when you can travel and choose to go there. Meeting new traditions and cultures can be the most rewarding activity. From grooving on the most unusual African rhythms, to watching the Indians bathe in the Ganges, unique experiences are always available, you just have to search.

A totally unique way to travel and see new places is to go in a voluntary camp. People all over the world need your help for many things. This is a way to combine two things: helping others and helping yourself to see and experiment new feelings. From helping endangered species of animals in the jungles to supporting some kind of events, you can both travel and cut from your expenses.

Something you can try if you really do not want to make any efforts is to go to a travel agent and ask him to pick a destination that is most unusual and arrange for your trip. This is usually not as original and unique as the other methods, but it can give you some nice destinations you have never seen before. The advantage is that you do not put so much work and it works well if you do not have so much time available.

So these were just some easy and crazy ideas about how you could get a special travel destination that will give you some unique experiences and exciting journeys. The road is endless!