Many can relate to the buzz of stumbling upon a hidden gem. This year, more people are seeking out 'authentic' holiday experiences abroad rather than all-inclusive tourist traps, according to ABTA, the association for British travel agents. ABTA also says two in five Britons are planning to holiday in a country they've never been to this year. It comes as war in the Middle East is causing some to switch to European destinations, while warnings of potential jet fuel shortages and the high cost of living are putting others off holidays completely. So if you're looking for a cost-effective and slightly quirky destination this summer, read on for what's proving popular.
**Montenegro**
Montenegro is popping up more and more on social media as a hidden travel gem. The Balkan state is now served by several UK airline routes and is popular among people who want to visit Greece, Italy, and Croatia without spending a full holiday there. Because Montenegro is small, tourists can combine a beach holiday, city break, and outdoor pursuits, explains Jennifer Lynch, managing director of travel agency Arrange My Escape. With opportunities for mountain day trips and rail tours, it offers a rich travel experience at a fraction of the price found in its more well-known neighbors.
**The Baltic Coast**
Estonia, Finland, and Lithuania are becoming popular tourist destinations for families, couples, and solo travelers. The convenience of travel between these countries, particularly with ferries connecting Helsinki and Tallinn, makes it an attractive option. The Baltic Sea invites beach seekers, with relatively mild temperatures during the summer. For history enthusiasts, Lithuania boasts five UNESCO World Heritage sites.
**Albania**
Albania is becoming known for its beautiful beaches and good beach clubs, providing a similar ambiance to Greece but at lower prices. With easy access via a short ferry ride from Corfu to Saranda, visitors can enjoy the so-called 'Albanian Riviera,' characterized by turquoise waters and scenic landscapes.
**Northern Spain**
Beyond the well-trodden tourist paths of Barcelona and the Costa del Sol, Northern Spain—particularly Asturias and La Rioja—is seeing a rise in tourists likely due to government efforts to promote regional tourism. The area combines lush greenery, mountains, and local beaches with unique cultural experiences.
**Montenegro**
Montenegro is popping up more and more on social media as a hidden travel gem. The Balkan state is now served by several UK airline routes and is popular among people who want to visit Greece, Italy, and Croatia without spending a full holiday there. Because Montenegro is small, tourists can combine a beach holiday, city break, and outdoor pursuits, explains Jennifer Lynch, managing director of travel agency Arrange My Escape. With opportunities for mountain day trips and rail tours, it offers a rich travel experience at a fraction of the price found in its more well-known neighbors.
**The Baltic Coast**
Estonia, Finland, and Lithuania are becoming popular tourist destinations for families, couples, and solo travelers. The convenience of travel between these countries, particularly with ferries connecting Helsinki and Tallinn, makes it an attractive option. The Baltic Sea invites beach seekers, with relatively mild temperatures during the summer. For history enthusiasts, Lithuania boasts five UNESCO World Heritage sites.
**Albania**
Albania is becoming known for its beautiful beaches and good beach clubs, providing a similar ambiance to Greece but at lower prices. With easy access via a short ferry ride from Corfu to Saranda, visitors can enjoy the so-called 'Albanian Riviera,' characterized by turquoise waters and scenic landscapes.
**Northern Spain**
Beyond the well-trodden tourist paths of Barcelona and the Costa del Sol, Northern Spain—particularly Asturias and La Rioja—is seeing a rise in tourists likely due to government efforts to promote regional tourism. The area combines lush greenery, mountains, and local beaches with unique cultural experiences.
