Think Outside the Box for Your Next Destination

If we all thought alike, the world would be a pretty boring place, wouldn’t it? Well, the same goes for the world of travel.

Unfortunately, it seems like many of our wanderlust lists are strikingly similar, with cities like London, New York, Paris and Tokyo being a must-see for seemingly everyone.

With the issues of environmental impact and overcrowding in the headlines lately, it’s more important than ever to diversify your destinations.

I can hear you asking now, though: How can I experience England if I don’t go to London? How am I supposed to say I’ve been to Australia without setting foot in Sydney?

Well, luckily for us, for every big name bucket list city you want to see in a country, there’s usually a second city that can be just as rewarding. And with United Vacations offering so many destinations around the world, you’re sure to find a “second city” that suits you.

Here are few examples of where thinking outside the box can take you on your next trip.

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You Think You Want - Paris

Where You Really Want to Go - Lyon

Lyon can compete with Paris’ when it comes to French cosmopolitan flair, but it does so with fewer crowds, cheaper prices and (maybe) even better food.

You won’t believe how far your dollar stretches in the city’s famous bouchons—casual, no-frills restaurants serving delicious delicacies. Afterwards, head over to Lyon’s enchanting Notre Dame Cathedral, which might just be more impressive than Paris’.

You Think You Want - Tokyo

Where You Really Want to Go - Kyoto

Tokyo is where travelers come to meet the future, but if it is traditional Japan you seek, then skip the current capital and head to the charming former capital of Kyoto.

In Kyoto, you will find the Japan of your dreams as the city is packed with bewitching shrines, peaceful gardens and even a district dedicated to the fascinating world of geishas. To say nothing of the cherry blossom bloom—Japan’s most famous—which takes over the town each Spring.

READ MORE: Japan Tourism Continues to Soar

You Think You Want - Florence

Where You Really Want to Go - Bologna

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and an ideal base for exploring the bucolic region of Tuscany. As a result, folks flock there in droves. The crowds can be maddening, but down the road in Bologna, you might just have the main piazza all to yourself.

Bologna’s nickname is “La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa” which translates to “The learned, The Fat, The Red”.

What does that mean to the traveler? Well, it means that you are going to have great meals all while being surrounded by highly educated citizens and buildings colored a bewitching shade of red.

You Think You Want - Los Angeles

Where You Really Want to Go - San Diego

While San Diego’s football team may have moved north to Los Angeles; America’s Finest City got to keep its beaches, laid-back vibe and delicious take on Mexican food and craft beer.

San Diego moves at a slightly slower pace than LA, but you’ll still be impressed by standout sights like Coronado Beach, the San Diego Zoo and the town’s myriad of fish taco joints.

READ MORE: What to Eat and Drink in San Diego

You Think You Want - London

Where You Really Want to Go - Bristol

London will never be dethroned as the home of the Royal Family or capital of the United Kingdom, but it might just come second in the “cool” category.

While still managing to fly under the radar internationally, Bristol is arguably Britain’s hottest city. Come for the amazing independent bars and restaurants and stay for the street art (Banksy is from Bristol) and the gorgeous harbor.