When planning a vacation, we always have an ideal image in our minds. Whether we’re dreaming of relaxing on a gorgeous beach in Thailand or of taking a quiet gondola ride in Venice, it’s fairly easy to let our imaginations run away with us. However, reality can often be a cruel mistress! Click on each of the photos below to switch from the unrealistic pictures that travel agents show you to actual photos captured by tourists during high season.
These Tourist Locations Do NOT Live Up to the Expectations
Some tourist destinations can be quite disappointing, be it due to huge crowds or just because they look nothing like you would expect...
12 Takeout Orders That Are So Bad They’re Funny
From crispy salmon served on Pringles chips to a salad that is just one vegetable, these disappointing takeout orders are so bad they’re funny!
QUIZ: Where Should You Go for Inspiration?
If your hometown no longer seems to be supplying you with the inspiration you need, then it might be time to take a trip to somewhere completely different...
Who Knew the US Has So Many Hidden Romantic Spots
These 10 lesser known holiday destinations are both original and romantic. If you live in the US they may even be closer than you thought!
February Is a Gloomy Month, So Why Not Take a Vacation?
February isn't generally the most pleasant of months, so why not hop on a plane and go somewhere fun? These are the 10 best places to be in February.
Is This Finnish Town The Most Pessimistic Place on Earth?
The Finnish town of Puolanka has become famous for its particular brand of pessimism. What makes the residents of this town see the future as so bleak?
The Terracotta Army: 7,000 Warriors Strong
A Chinese emperor left a standing army behind him upon his death, both to protect him and for the world to admire. Welcome to the terracotta army.
Arabian Nights: The Magic of Saudi Arabia
Come with us to fly above and within the magic of Saudi Arabia.
What 16 Different Countries Consider the BEST Comfort Food
Here is a list of the most indulgent dish from 16 different countries around the world, all of which are widely considered to be comfort foods
The Spectacular Story Behind the Creation of Lady Liberty
One of the most iconic creation in all of history, the Statue of Liberty has an interesting story behind it.
7 Amazing Wonders of the World Nobody Told You About
It's not all about the Great Wall of China and the pyramids of Giza, here are 7 amazing, ancient buildings that most of us have no idea about.
These Are 7 of the Most Beautiful Gardens in the World
These must-see gardens from all over are among the most beautiful in the world.
The Uncompromising Beauty of the Southern Pole...
In this video you can see the storm of color that is the Aurora Australis, streaking across the skies of the most southern point on our globe.
These Photos Could Only Be Taken in India...
India is an enormous, diverse and complex place. Some of the sites you'll see in this fascinating country are unlike those you'll see anywhere else. Take a look
WATCH: Visit the Stunning Old Chinese Town of Lijiang
The beautiful Old Town of Lijiang in China's Yunnan province is a truly spectacular place that allows you to step into the past. View it in full high definition
Las Vegas Isn't Just About Gambling as These Places Prove
Planning a visit to Las Vegas? If so, you must really visit these stunning places.
The Incredible Sights and Sites of Salamanca, Spain!
Looking at the most interesting and beautiful parts of Salamanca, Spain
Winter Hikers, Gather Round for the Best Tip of the Season
Here's how advanced snow hikers layer clothing in the winter.
Welcome to the Coldest Town in the Whole World...
You think you know cold? For the people of Oymyakon in Russia, your idea of cold is laughable. When Amos Chappel, a photographer from New Zealand, traveled to this frozen location, he brought back incredible pictures depicting the daily lives of the
14 Incredible Experiences in the City of Rio de Janeiro
If you're still on the fence about visiting Rio de Janeiro, here are 14 must-see sites and attractions that will surely convince you.
Escape From the World to These Beautiful US Hideaways
Did you know that you can escape from the world right here in the United States? Here are 10 beautiful US hideaways to escape to.
In the Lap of Nature: 8 Historic National Park Hotels
From lovely cabins to sprawling ranch resorts, these national park hotels and lodges are the perfect way to enjoy nature.
The Gorgeous City of Turin, Italy Awaits You...
Turin is one of the most beautiful places to visit, and you're about to see it all...
How I'd Love to Visit the Remarkable Mount Fuji...
Get to know the fantastic visuals and the rich history of this astounding mountain.
9 Ancient Cities Your History Teacher Never Told You About
The world's history is filled with many civilizations that rose and fell, leaving behind ancient cities and a final monument to their legacy. You may have heard of some, but these cities are less-known, yet still as amazing.
Experience the Thrill of Riding the World's Fastest Train
Japan's upcoming maglev trains are supposed to be the world’s fastest. But are they really worth the hype?
Why Do Passports Have Different Colors?
Most people don't suspect that the color of their passport actually has quite a lot of intention behind it. Here's what common flag colors really mean...
Shocking Facts About New York’s Flatiron Building
New York City's Flatiron building is one of the world’s most iconic structures. However, it faces an uncertain future.
20 Unusual and Intriguing Maps to Trigger Your Curiosity
You won’t view the world the same way after seeing these unusual maps.
Hidden Pearls of Japan: 12 Gorgeous, Little-Known Sights
If you plan to visit Japan, consider visiting 12 of the most charming and peaceful Japanese villages and towns.
9 Small American Towns that Are Prettier than a Postcard
The beauty of rural America is often overlooked, but there are some absolutely breathtaking small towns in the US.
Tour 20 of the World's Finest Wine Regions Right Now
Where does the most delicious and refined wine in the world come from? From these 20 sensational wine regions all over the world. Take this fine wine tour.
Go on an Interactive Tour of Windsor Castle!
This video is no regular video, but an interactive tour of one of the most famous castles in the world - The Windsor Castle
Vintage Photos Show What Life in Holland Was Like in 1890
These postcards of Holland in the late 1890s shed some light into what life was like back then.
Belize Is An Unspoiled Caribbean Paradise Waiting For You
It's quite often that Belize isn't thought of by people when they think of the Caribbean, but it actually should be. Here are the country's top 10 destinations.
You Better Move Your Shop, the Train is Coming.
This is pretty unbelievable, yet has become routine to these folks..
Take a Trip to China's Tianmen Mountain in Stunning 4K!
China is full of a natural beauty, but nothing comes remotely close to the stunning Tianmen Mountain. check it out in stunning 4K!
15 Photos That Show Why Japan is an Amazing Place to Live
Take a look at these pictures which show why Japan is light-years ahead of the rest of the world.
The 7 Oldest Cities on Earth that Still Stand
Many cities have been erected through history, and many have fallen to natural disaster or war. These cities have stood the test of time.
Batumi, the Most Charming City On the Black Sea Coast
Read everything you need to know about Batumi and its alluring tourist destinations.
Perhaps the Most Scenic Train Rides in the World...
Although there are much quicker ways of traveling, using a train is arguably much more picturesque than the others. Here are the 7 most scenic train rides.
What Architectural Wonders Looked Like During Construction
Have you ever wondered how some of the greatest architectural wonders of the past few centuries were created? Wonder no more...
15 Unbelievable Sights to See in Fairy Tale Germany!
In my humble opinion the Germans have far more stunning locations than any of their European neighbors. Look at these fabulous photos of the great wonderland.
25 Reasons I Can't Wait to Visit South Africa!
This is why you'll pick South Africa for your next vacation!
15 Must-Visit Places In the Incredible Continent of Africa
Africa is an incredible continent for a variety of reasons, and there's something here for you whatever you like. Here are 15 must-visit places in Africa.
Take a Stunning 4K Aerial Tour of Ancient Transylvania
Take an aerial tour of Transylvania, one of Eastern Europe's most captivating regions. You won't regret it!
19 Unique & Traditional Ways of Life Around the World
19 unique cultures that managed to preserve their traditions in the 21st century. English photographer Jimmy Nelson travels the globe to meet these unique tribes and brings back incredible photos.