after tourist place

The Best Destinations in the World: The Gold List 2022

By CNT Editors

There are three great lists annually in  Condé Nast Traveler,  all of which have changed due to the events of the last two years: the Readers’ Choice Awards , which you, our beloved audience, select; the Hot List , which compiles the new and notable of the previous year; and this one, which is ultimately about the places and experiences our editors carry in their hearts. This year, when we say  our editors,  we mean  CNT ’s entire global crew, working in locations from California to Beijing ; we’ve also expanded the parameters of the list to include not just the hotels and cruises you’ve seen in years past, but also the destinations we treasure. The Gold List is, more than ever, made by humans for other humans—something we need more than ever in this day and age. Here, our favorite destinations in the world.

Read the complete set of Gold List winners   here .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Puebla, Mexico

I love when I can feel familiar with a new place in 48 hours. In Puebla , Mexico’s historic, fourth-largest city, all the spots you want to hit are walking distance within its center, itself a tidy sprawl of bright pink and yellow villas and small plazas. That includes food markets for a crispy cemita (a schnitzel-­style sandwich with all the fixings); the gilded Capilla del Rosario and the city’s famed talavera, or ceramic houses; I stayed for close to an hour watching the row of artisans hand-paint and hand-fire their mugs, plates, and vases at Uriarte Talavera. Before the pandemic, tourism was just starting to happen here, and the city was in that sweet spot of supporting a new breed of traveler, like with the artisanal-inspired Cartesiano hotel, but without muting any of its essence for international business. I liked that I had to use my shoddy Spanish with barkeeps and store owners. And that sitting in those plazas meant a front-row seat to daily Poblano life: vendors selling sliced cucumber spices with cayenne, old-timers playing dominos. Puebla felt like a special somewhere on the verge of discovery in a country with pockets already turned over to the masses. My guess with all that’s happened this past year is that it still does. —Erin Florio

Rio de Janeiro

If you were to hook the city of Rio de Janeiro up to a cardiogram, the needle would swing off the page. The city thrums with live samba and bossa nova at all hours of the day; the bustling streets, bookended by the dramatic rise of granite monoliths on one end and the pounding waves of the Atlantic on the other, have a pulse all their own. It's easy to feel this when you're amid throngs of colorfully clad cariocas —I feel it most swaying to the live music at Pedra do Sal on Monday nights, or when, perched in the leafy hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa, I hear people in neighborhoods below lean out their windows to cheer when Flamengo scores a goal. It's a complicated city, with plenty of issues—insecurity, corruption, inequity, to name just a few—but there's a premium on joy and celebration that isn't reserved for Carnaval . There are few places in the world where you know you couldn't possibly be anywhere else, and whenever I hear the whole of Arpoador beach break into applause as the sun sets in summer, I'm reminded that Rio is one of them. —Megan Spurrell

Alentejo, Portugal

I call the road to the sea through Portugal’s Alentejo region the place where the beatniks read Pessoa; you can imagine Kerouac breezing through its small hotels, surf camps, and villages scattered with craft shops, markets, and bohemian bars. For me it’s a place of happiness. There are boutique hotels like São Lourenço do Barrocal and Dá Licença and olive groves, cork oaks, and infinite horizons. The road ends at Vicentine Coast National Park, a wild, protected coastline in southern Europe. A paradise for surfers , it has electrifying sunsets, but the icy waters stop it from ever getting too crowded. —David Moralejo

Svalbard, Norway

Arctic Svalbard —whose capital, Longyearbyen, is the world’s northernmost town—is like nowhere else I’ve been. On the one hand, it’s a deep-nature Scandi fantasy of snowmobiles, Northern Lights, ski-touring along glacial valleys, and surprisingly smart boutiques with stacked wine cellars. But there’s also a compelling strangeness to this international settlement, where no one is born and no one dies. There are the Soviet mining towns with their Lenin busts, whether abandoned or (even weirder) still working; the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, which preempts a coming apocalypse; it’s advisable to leave Longyearbyen with a shotgun, in case of polar-bear attack. As much as a destination, it’s a journey into the heart of the climate crisis, with academics from across the world doing game-changing research here. I’m itching to go again—to escape but also to think and connect, which is what happens in all the best places. —Toby Skinner

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

My first trip to Goa as a college student was wrapped in dreams of homemade chorizo and reliving moments from the cult Bollywood coming-of-age film Dil Chahta Hai . Many trips and feni cocktails later, Goa remained a respite for my city-weary bones. The state straddles its multicultural past and present, trading up ’60s hippie markets for hipster boutiques while keeping its old-world Indian and Portuguese traditions intact. Simple fish-curry plates, aunties doing an impromptu jig to fado, old-timers squabbling over their favorite Goan soccer club, and the right freshness of bread coexist with edgy global menus, alt-music gigs, and all that is artisanal and arty. The ocean changes color from one season to the next, the multi-color sunsets never repeat, and like many travelers, I continue to return and find my salve in sunshine, sea, and susegad —the quintessential Goan idea of the slow, easy, and good life. —Diya Kohl

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Plettenberg Bay is South Africa's summer playground, and I, a Capetonian, would drive the 186-mile coastal path along the scenic Garden Route each year to join the fun. The bohemian seaside town sits atop a sheltered bay, where a jumble of hipster coffee shops, seafood restaurants, and kitsch boutiques tumble down onto fynbos-covered cliffs—where a slew of new hotels like The Robberg Beach Lodge sit beside grandes dames like The Plettenberg Hotel . Pretty young things like to celebrate the end of matric student exams, where hedonism sweeps across the bay, while dolphin and whale watches come during the languid, warm winter months. Venture just outside Plett to find the luxury Tsala Treetop Lodge , a manicured Gary Player golf course, indigenous Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, the Plett Polo Club on the Kurland Estate, and a host of animal sanctuaries to meet cheetahs, elephants, and monkeys. But above all, come for the glorious golden beaches. Central Beach—dotted with bars—surfy Lookout Beach, and the eerie, mist-covered sands of Robberg Nature Reserve. Search hard enough and you might stumble on a sand dollar—the symbol of Plettenberg Bay, thought to bring eternal luck. —Isabella Sullivan

When I can’t take another minute of winter, I head to Scottsdale. As, historically, do the day-drinking spring breakers and the far less rowdy snowbirds. Recently, though, the Valley of the Sun has come into its own, claiming its stunning desert setting and Southwest culture in new ways. If I’m bringing the kids, the 1929 Frank Lloyd Wright–designed grande dame The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (on the border of Scottsdale and Phoenix), is my place. It has sprawling grounds and seven pools, one with a legitimate waterslide, and just underwent a much-needed facelift. Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort , terraced into the side of its namesake adobe-hued mountain, has my favorite spa in town. Its adults-only pool on weekends and easy access to sunrise hiking give me plenty of excuses to leave the kids at home. Solo or with family, I can always bank on sunshine, a great exhibit at Phoenix’s nearby Desert Botanical Garden, and excellent Sonoran-style Mexican food. —Rebecca Misner

Val Graziosa, Italy

I am a frequent traveler to Val Graziosa, a valley near the Pisan mountains and a part of Tuscany relatively unknown and terribly beautiful. Here there is Monte Pisano—“ che i Pisan veder Lucca non ponno, ” the poet Dante said, a small group of mountains that hides Lucca from Pisa and makes it impossible for the Pisan locals to see the city of Lucca. There are olive trees everywhere, producing the best olive oil on Earth in a splendid countryside. I love to walk around the surroundings of Montemagno—please read the book Maledetti Toscani, by Curzio Malaparte, and you will understand a lot about Italians from this region. I love to go to the grocery store in Patrizia for a glass of wine (the one and only épicerie of the village) and then to Certosa di Calci, a 14th-century monastery, and one of the many secret beauties in my crazy country of Italy. —Maddalena Fosati

Chiang Mai, Thailand

When I first went to Chiang Mai, I intended to stay a couple of nights and ended up staying more than a week; for me, that trip is a reminder of travel at its most impulsive and impetuous: the freedom to move on when you feel like it. There’s no beach pressure here, and inland Thailand always feels more interesting than the obvious hits of the beachfront. And, away from the beaches, there's the sense of a modern Thai city where young creatives are carving out a contemporary aesthetic, with the energy that a large student population gives a city. —Rick Jordan

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Best in Travel 2024

50 destinations for 50 years of travel.

This year, do more than just dream about the Best in Travel. Get inspired and discover new destintions from 50 years of travel expertise.

Let an expert plan your trip

Press Play. Then Plan.

The Best in Travel for your bookshelf

The top 10 countries, cities, regions, value destinations and sustainable spots around the world right now.

Let a local expert craft your dream trip

Elsewhere's local experts can handle the planning to create your perfect itinerary.

All of Best in Travel 2024

clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

The top travel destinations for 2023, according to experts

Italy will be hot again next year, along with a re-opened Asia, sunny beaches and the Mountain West

At the beginning of 2022, the outlook for travel felt uncertain. A new coronavirus variant had tripped up society again, and it was still a roll of the dice to plan a vacation — let alone take one. But once the omicron wave waned, travel roared back with a vengeance: Testing requirements fell, borders opened and it seemed as if every other person you knew went to Europe.

As we begin 2023, all signs show the collective appetite for travel remains huge, despite inflation and recession concerns. Industry experts are forecasting certain 2022 trends will carry over in the new year, such as people taking longer trips, going on more of them and spending more to take them.

Julia Carter, founder of Craft Travel , says her typical client would usually book one big trip a year. Now, two or even three are the norm, with one person already locked in for four major trips: Morocco, Switzerland, Botswana and a tiger safari in India. For Brittany Campbell, owner of Bucket List Holidays , most clients are booking trips for at least 10 days, and some as long as 32.

Our 10 best City Guides, according to readers

A notable change in the new year is a willingness to book long in advance again, even as far out as 2024 for clients of Susan Blume at Personal Escape Travel . That may be because more people are interested in taking bucket-list trips, which require more planning. Or it could be because many people couldn’t get what they wanted in 2022 thanks to high demand for travel, says Liz Einbinder, spokesperson for the biking and hiking tour company Backroads .

So where are people going in 2023? We asked dozens of travel advisers, tour operators and booking platforms to find out. Some of our findings won’t surprise you — “Europe is still very hot,” says Alisa Cohen, founder of Luxe Traveler Club — while other breakout destinations might. Zambia, anyone?

The absolute, undisputed most popular destination for 2023 is Italy. And if you thought everyone went in 2022, buckle up.

Fulvio De Bonis, president and co-founder of Imago Artis Travel , says they’re bracing for “way more” business in 2023.

De Bonis puts Italy travel trends into three categories: people, nature and sports. Travelers want to meet interesting locals, such as chefs or fishermen. They want to see beautiful places by going foraging in the mountains near Lake Como, for example, or hitting the beach. And they want to have exciting sports experiences , maybe by catching a soccer game or touring a team’s training facilities.

Shayna Mizrahi, founder and CEO of Vive Voyage , says her clients are also highly interested in connecting with Italian culture through cooking classes, boat excursions and artisan workshops.

For private tour operator Access Italy , the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, Tuscany, Puglia and Sicily are clients’ most requested destinations. These classics are also the most popular for Imago Artis, but De Bonis notes that travelers want off-the-beaten-path experiences within these well-known places. They don’t just want to see Tuscany’s highlights; “there is a world outside of Florence,” De Bonis says, and travelers want to explore it.

Other European destinations trailing behind Italy next year (but still in hot pursuit) are Greece, Portugal and the United Kingdom.

Our best Italy travel advice:

• Everything to know about traveling to Italy
• 7 Italy vacations that check every travel style
• A local’s guide to Rome

As the last region in the world to reopen during the pandemic, East Asia is expected to have a banner year for tourism, with Japan poised to be the fan favorite.

Although people want to go to the “Golden Triangle” — Tokyo , Kyoto, Osaka — Mike Salvadore, a travel agent with Travel Leaders, recommends adding a stop to see Japan beyond its best-known cities, such as mountainous Sapporo in the north or beachy Okinawa in the south.

If you’d like to go during cherry blossom season, you may be out of luck. Jeff Krevitt, vice president of marketing for the Americas for Inside Travel Group, which owns InsideJapan Tours , notes that this will be the first spring since 2019 that the country will be open to international travelers, so big crowds can be expected.

For a cheaper alternative with more availability, Rani Cheema, chief executive and travel curator at Cheema’s Travel , recommends traveling to South Korea to see the flowering cherry blossoms this spring instead.

Our best Japan travel advice:

• We visited Studio Ghibli’s long-awaited theme park. It’s a sensory delight.
• Everything you need to know about traveling to Japan
• Staying in a historical Japanese temple is an extraordinary experience. Here’s how to do it .

Southeast Asia

Behind Japan, Southeast Asia is also high on travelers’ wish lists, with Thailand, Bali and Vietnam at the top.

The travel subscription service VIP Traveler has seen a 200 percent increase in interest in Bali, perhaps following Indonesia’s newly launched digital-nomad visa .

It could also be that Bali appeals to the growing number of travelers interested in trips focused on wellness. Salvadore says most of his clients want to go to Ubud, Bali’s lush jungle town near the center of the island. But some have been open to suggestions to try the lesser-visited eastern coast or northwestern Bali, “which is a little bit more secluded but also really beautiful,” Salvadore said.

Our best Asia travel advice:

• Asia is slowly reopening to travelers. Here’s where you can go.
• Traveling to a newly reopened Asia allowed me to be myself again
• Marijuana is now legal in Thailand. What does that mean for tourists?

The Caribbean

A perennial sunshine-filled favorite that tends to be easy for Americans to reach, the Caribbean will remain sought-after in 2023.

“A lot of people will go to the typical places like the Dominican Republic or Jamaica or the Bahamas,” Salvadore said, but eastern Caribbean countries are some of his favorites, such as Barbados, Saint Lucia, Anguilla, Antigua and Grenada.

Our best Caribbean travel advice:

• 6 Caribbean vacations that check every travel style
• Caribbean trips are expensive, so I went to the Caribbean of Maryland
• In Grenada, a.k.a. the Spice Isle, a foodie paradise blossoms

Jonathan Alder, owner of the luxury travel company Jonathan’s Travels , has booked more Egypt trips for clients in the past two years than he has over the entire decade, and requests are picking up speed in 2023. “We’ve had one after another after another after another,” he said.

Some of the renewed interest may be attributed to the anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, says Jasmine Padda, Egypt destination expert for Kensington Tours . She also pointed to the increase in major cruise lines adding sailings in the region.

Carolyn Addison, head of product for the luxury travel company Black Tomato , credits Egypt’s trending status to people who want to check classic trips off their bucket lists.

“We have lots of people who are like: ‘I’ve always wanted to see the pyramids. I’ve always wanted to cruise the Nile,’” she said.

The American West

Jen Moyse, VP of product for the travel app TripIt , says that although international travel is having a moment, Americans will continue to return to iconic cities at home that are still rebounding from the pandemic.

Of the Top 5 most booked domestic destinations on the travel booking platform Hopper , four are out west: Las Vegas, Denver, Los Angeles and Phoenix.

For Skyscanner bookings, Las Vegas and Los Angeles took the top spots for most booked flights in the new year, with San Francisco, Honolulu and Denver also making the Top 10.

The vacation rental platform Vrbo says demand for homes in western U.S. destinations is on the rise, as customers look for trips in the great outdoors.

Our best travel advice on the American West:

• How to do Montana like a local, beyond Glacier and Yellowstone
• A hater’s guide to Las Vegas
• UNESCO at 50: 24 World Heritage sites to see across America

Mexico has been breaking tourism records throughout the pandemic and will return as a powerhouse destination in 2023. Its most popular and easy-to-get-to beach destinations are major contributors to that success.

“People are welcoming that beach vacation,” Cohen said. “They want to go to Mexico and just relax.”

Cancún, on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is the most booked international destination next year for Hopper, Skyscanner and the airfare search engine Skiplagged . However, demand for cultural capitals will also continue to rise.

Oaxaca is the second-most popular destination for the travel company Modern Adventure, and Mexico City ranks high as well.

Our best Mexico travel advice:

• 6 Mexico vacations that check every travel style
• Where to drink natural wine in the heart of Mexico
• A local’s guide to Mexico City

Another carry-over from 2022, Costa Rica is attracting travelers — including families, honeymooners and retirees — with its abundance of affordable flights, outdoor adventures, wildlife and coastline.

For customers of travel planning company Zicasso , the most sought-after places to visit are Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Tortuguero and the Osa Peninsula, which lines up with our expert recommendations .

The most booked 2023 itinerary for Road Scholar, a group tour company for senior travelers, is a Costa Rica vacation that hits many of those places, as well as Punta Leona, on the central Pacific coast, and Sarapiqui, a renowned birdwatching region in Costa Rica’s Caribbean lowlands.

The Galápagos Islands

Another dream trip becoming a reality for travelers in 2023 is the Galápagos Islands. The biggest seller for Astonishing Travel owner Heidi Bocianowski, the Pacific Ocean archipelago appeals to people who want to see something new every day, including black lava rock, red sand and rare wildlife.

Brian Tan of Zicasso says customers are keen on combining a trip to the Galápagos with other South American highlights.

That may be Patagonia, which has been “by far one of the most popular destinations” for Craft Travel founder Carter. It helps that travelers can once again cross between Chile and Argentina by road. Carter has been planning combination trips for clients to Torres del Paine National Park on the Chilean side, with the charming villages of El Calafate and El Chaltén on the Argentinean side.

7 travel mistakes to avoid in 2023

African safaris

Keeping with the once-in-a-lifetime theme, Brian Pentek, owner of LuxeLife Travel , says “Africa is huge” for his clients.

Most are going in multigenerational groups who use the trip as graduation presents or family reunions. They may be going to Cape Town, South Africa, as well as Botswana (for game reserves) or Rwanda for gorilla trekking.

In addition to safaris, Salvadore incorporates ways for his clients in Africa to experience local culture, check out the food and drink scenes, and enjoy bush camping instead of staying in luxury lodges. In 2023, he’s sending travelers to Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia, a country listed as one of the top up-and-coming travel spots in a summary compiled by Scott Dunn luxury travel planners.

The most booked destinations for Niarra Travel also include South Africa, Victoria Falls (which sits on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe) and Kenya, while trips to the Serengeti in Tanzania dominate reservations for Deeper Africa . One of the company’s owners, Karen Zulauf, said she has noticed upcoming travelers are more interested in adding active excursions, such as “walking safaris, mountain biking, horseback riding, you name it.”

For those who have already done a traditional safari vacation, Carter recommends Namibia, a country seeing a resurgence in interest, where travelers can go on self-driving road trips (vs. ones with a guide) between eco-lodges or take small planes to some of the world’s most remote places, such as the Skeleton Coast and Hoanib Valley.

Gorillas are Rwanda’s main attraction. Dian Fossey would hate that.

Even before the North African country drew international attention in the World Cup, Morocco was emerging as a major travel hot spot. It’s the most booked country for Intrepid Travel , and “we expect Morocco to continue to be incredibly popular in 2023, given the increase in flights into the destination and the ability to get out and have great experiences in one-week, 10-day or two-week itineraries,” said the company’s CEO, James Thornton.

That’s also true for Modern Adventure. Liz Boudreau, vice president of experiences for the company, says it has had a 53 percent increase in bookings compared with 2022.

If you’re worried about your travel budget, consider visiting as a work exchange volunteer, like Washington Post reporter Andrea Sachs tried in Fez.

Small cruises

Cruises are making a strong comeback, even for travelers who might not consider themselves cruise people. But instead of taking megaships, they’re looking for smaller options operating expedition trips (think Antarctica and Alaska) or luxury voyages, mainly river cruising in Europe and Egypt.

For destinations with the highest interest, such as Portugal, Emma Cakmak, owner of the cruise-focused company A Passport to Travel , is warning clients that May through September is practically sold out across all the top cruise lines, although there’s some availability in low-end stateroom categories.

If you’re striking out, keep shopping around. As they notice demand climb, some cruise lines seem to be “bringing on significant capacity as they move into” 2023, said Priceline CEO Brett Keller.

Our best cruise advice:

• One side effect of cruise covid rules: Norovirus has plummeted
• CDC stops reporting coronavirus cases on cruise ships
• Virgin Voyages gets its sea legs

An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified Susan Blume as Stephanie Blume. The error was updated.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in japan.

Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan's civilization dates as far back as 30,000 years. Today, the archipelago seamlessly blends its rich history with its ultra-modern present. And while its capital, Tokyo, is a must-visit for first timers, Japan has so much more to offer travelers of all types, from cherry blossoms to white sand beaches to soothing onsen (hot spring spas). U.S. News took into account cultural attractions, culinary options and accessibility (among other factors) to bring you the best places to visit in Japan. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's ranking.

Izu Peninsula

This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara buzz with flashing lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo Imperial Palace give you a look into Japan's storied past. There are also a number of green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which acts as a place to escape from the chaotic, concrete jungle. What's more, Tokyo is regularly regarded as a top foodie city thanks in part to its abundant Michelin-starred restaurants (the most you'll find in any city in the world), so come hungry.

Travelers most interested in Japan's history and traditions should head to Kyoto. Centrally located on the archipelago, Kyoto has long been considered the cultural capital of Japan. Here, you'll find more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and 400-plus Shinto shrines (you can't miss the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha), including a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also stroll through geisha districts like Gion and Miyagawacho, admire classic wooden architecture and visit traditional teahouses before checking out more modern attractions, such as the Kyoto Aquarium.

Nikko is the place to go to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of Japan's oldest national parks, to enjoy an up-close look at traditional structures situated alongside mountains, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in fall when its trees display vivid shades of yellow, red and orange. The 103 Edo-era (1603–1868) temples and shrines in Nikko include world-renowned sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.

Situated about 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, this port city is worth a visit for its food alone. One of the city's most famous dishes, the tasty pancake-like okonomiyaki (which means "grilled as you like it" in Japanese), is made with batter, cabbage and your choice of meat and other toppings. After you've gotten your fill of the delectable local cuisine, explore the flashy Dotonbori neighborhood, check out the reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or head to contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

As Japan's second most populous city, Yokohama is often touted as a more approachable and more affordable alternative to Tokyo (located 22 miles northeast). As one of the country's first ports to open to international trade, Yokohama features unique culture fusions, including a sizable expat population, Western-style buildings in the Yamate area and the largest Chinatown in Japan (it has more businesses than residents). While here, visitors can explore Minato Mirai 21, the city's modern central district teeming with skyscrapers and shopping malls, and visit museums ranging from the Cup Noodles Museum to the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum.

More than 160 islands comprise Okinawa, a top destination for snorkeling and diving. The Japanese prefecture boasts proximity to multiple coral reefs teeming with fish, manta rays and hammerhead sharks that you can access from beautiful beaches like those found on Okinawa's Kerama Islands. These 20-plus islands are also ideal places to see migrating whales between January and March. Back on the main island, visitors will find one of the world's largest aquariums, several castle ruins and a museum that focuses on Okinawa's unique history and culture. And on the less developed Iriomote Island, adventurous travelers can hike to awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Spared from World War II air raids and the major natural disasters that have affected other Japanese cities, Kanazawa on the western coast is home to some of the country's best-preserved architecture from the Edo period. Sites like Kanazawa Castle, Seisonkaku Villa and Myoryuji temple are popular among visitors, as are the Higashi Chaya geisha district and Nagamachi Samurai District. Plus, no trip to Kanazawa would be complete without a visit to the resplendent Kenrokuen Garden. With its water features, bridges and a variety of flowering trees that add beauty to any season, Kenrokuen is often described as the perfect garden.

Nestled in the mountains of the Gifu prefecture, Takayama is ideal for visitors looking for a rural retreat with a dose of history. Start your visit with a rickshaw ride through the well-preserved old town, which features sake breweries, traditional residences and shops that date back to the feudal ages. Then, head to the Hida Folk Village, a former farming village with 30 gassho-style houses. When you've worked up an appetite, indulge in must-try local specialties including Hida beef and Takayama ramen. To further immerse yourself in Takayama culture, visit during the Takayama Festival, held for two days every spring and fall.

The country's tallest mountain and one of its most iconic landmarks is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. For centuries, Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by Mount Fuji's almost perfectly round form. The Fuji Five Lakes region at the foot of this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a great base for the thousands of climbers who visit each year. Enjoy the area's museums and amusement park during the warmer months. Or, arrive in winter to soak in the onsen and ski Mount Fuji's slopes.

Located on Kyushu (Japan's third-largest island), Fukuoka offers travelers a mix of urban sprawl, sandy coastlines and ancient temples and shrines. Can't-miss sights include Tochoji Temple – home of the largest sitting wooden Buddha in Japan – and Nokonoshima Island, which features colorful flower fields and beautiful views of the surrounding bay. Fukuoka is also known for its incredible Hakata ramen, so be sure to try this tasty dish at one of the city's many food stalls. Plan your visit around one of Fukuoka's lively festivals, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, which takes place throughout the first half of July.

Head to the smallest of Japan's four main islands if you're looking to get off the beaten path. Shikoku is best known for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a nearly 750-mile loop that covers sacred sites around the island. Whether you're trekking this path or creating your own, you'll encounter Shikoku's natural beauty (think: forest-covered mountains and an unspoiled coastline). Meanwhile, the city of Kochi features cheap eats and a well-preserved castle. If you're visiting in mid-August, add Shikoku's cultural pinnacle, Awa Odori, to your itinerary. One of the most famous festivals in Japan, this dance celebration in the city of Takushima is a must-do.

Mountainous Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town features 17 different hot springs, plus a hot spring theme park with unique baths like one with coffee and another with mulled wine. After you've dried off, visit one of Hakone's art museums, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Okada Museum of Art or the Hakone Museum of Art. No Hakone vacation would be complete without enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.

After an earthquake caused significant damage to the city in 1995, Kobe rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan city. You'll want to remember to bring your appetite when you visit. Kobe is famous for its namesake beef, as well as its sake. It's also considered one of Japan's most attractive cities, with sleek architecture and beautiful green spaces like Sorakuen Garden. For some of the city's best views – especially at sunset – go to the top of Mount Rokko or ride the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway. End your evening exploring Nankinmachi (Kobe's compact Chinatown) or dining at one of Kobe Harborland's waterfront restaurants.

For many, Hiroshima brings up memories of war, as the city is where the world's first atomic bomb attack occurred in 1945. But today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with the vast Peace Memorial Park as the center for monuments and memorials like the  the Children's Peace Monument and the UNESCO-certified Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome). It is also a city of great beauty. Travelers can take a scenic stroll through Shukkeien Garden, peruse the exhibits at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art or visit Sandankyo Gorge to hike or boat past its beautiful waterfalls, caves and coves.

Tourists flock to the island of Miyajima (formally named Itsukushima) for its prime attraction: Itsukushima Shrine and its postcard-worthy torii gate. To see the shrine at its most picturesque, try to visit during high tide, when the gate appears to float on the water. Since the island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Hiroshima, it makes for a great day trip. However, visitors may want to stay the night at a charming ryokan (Japanese-style inn) to experience Miyajima at its most serene and walk by the illuminated shrine at night.

An outdoor-lover's delight, Matsumoto is just 22 miles east of Kamikochi, an awe-inspiring valley in the Hotaka mountain range. But though it serves as a gateway to the Japanese Alps, this city in central Japan should not be skipped over. As the birthplace of contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, known for polka dots and pumpkins, Matsumoto pays her tribute at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Meanwhile, those who prefer more ancient masterpieces can visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest and grandest castles in the country.  

Japan's first permanent capital is famous for housing the Great Buddha, a nearly 50-foot-tall bronze statue of Buddha. You'll find this jaw-dropping national treasure in Nara's Todaiji temple, which is the one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. While on the temple grounds, explore the deer-filled Nara Park and the ornate Kasuga Taisha shrine. Also save time for visiting Yakushiji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples that dates back to A.D. 730.

This peninsula situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo makes a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular among locals and tourists alike thanks to its relaxing hot springs and stunning beaches. These, along with various museums and ryokans, can be found in cities like Atami and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula's eastern coast. During spring visits, travelers will also want to check out Kawazu's vibrant pink blooms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Meanwhile, on the southern and western coasts, vacationers will find more rugged yet equally scenic coastlines, such as Cape Irozaki and Dogashima.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Chubu Sangaku National Park

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Asia

Best Places to Visit in Thailand

World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024

Africa & The Middle East

Best Places to Visit in Africa in 2023

Best Places to Visit in October 2024

Australia & The Pacific

Best Places to Visit in Australia and The Pacific in 2023

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlotte, NC

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Charlotte's modern city center, known as Uptown, is where you'll find several of the city's major museums, as well as many great shopping and dining experiences. Along with celebrating the "New South" in its lively streets and vibrant cultural scene, Charlotte reflects on its history at tourist attractions such as the Charlotte Museum of History and Rosedale Plantation.

History buffs can also take the self-guided Liberty Walk to find a series of bronze plaques and monuments that detail the city's role in the American Revolution.

This bike- and scooter-friendly city is a delight to explore without having to use a car, with wide sidewalks and minimal vehicular traffic where people tend to congregate.

Charlotte offers auto racing fans plenty of things to do, too. Racing enthusiasts will find everything from speedways, racing schools, and motor sports museums, including the NASCAR Hall of Fame, to keep them busy.

Whether you're here for a romantic weekend or traveling with the whole family, you'll find interesting places to visit with this list of the top tourist attractions in Charlotte, NC.

1. NASCAR Hall of Fame

2. billy graham library, 3. discovery place science museum, 4. carowinds, 5. levine museum of the new south, 6. hendrick motorsports museum and team shop, 7. uptown charlotte, 8. u.s. national whitewater center, 9. sullenberger aviation museum, 10. the mint museum, 11. freedom park, 12. the charlotte museum of history, 13. bechtler museum of modern art, 14. historic rosedale plantation, 15. belk theater at blumenthal performing arts center, 16. daniel stowe botanical garden, 17. visit the city's fourth ward, 18. imaginon: the joe & joan martin center, 19. bojangles coliseum, 20. latta arcade, 21. visit charlotte's sports stadiums, where to stay in charlotte for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in charlotte, nc, charlotte, nc - climate chart.

Charlotte's NASCAR Hall of Fame is definitely the stop of choice for racing enthusiasts. Here, you can see Glory Road's banked ramp, which simulates a racetrack, with historic race cars like a 1952 Hudson Hornet, a 1967 Chevelle, and even Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s 2008 Chevy Impala SS. Hands-on exhibits include racing simulators that replicate the on-track experience.

The High Octane Theater features a 64-foot-wide projection screen with surround sound. Other exhibits give fans a behind-the-scenes look at how NASCAR and individual teams prepare for race day, while the Hall of Honor pays tribute to all NASCAR Hall of Fame inductees.

Address: 400 E. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Charlotte, North Carolina

Inside the Billy Graham Library , you can learn about the television pastor's life through displays and multimedia presentations. The 1.5-hour tour includes memorabilia exhibits and a tour of the Graham family home, where he lived from age nine. Now carefully restored, it houses some of the original furnishings and Graham family memorabilia.

Also in the complex are Billy Graham's personal library and a mural by Thomas Kinkade. The building, shaped like a barn, is set on 20 acres of landscaped grounds, where visitors can stroll in the Memorial Prayer Garden.

Address: 4330 Westmont Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina

This ever-changing museum allows you to learn about science and the world around us through the senses. Each exhibit at the family-friendly Discovery Place Science Museum involves hands-on participation that guests of any age will enjoy.

The Explore More Life Lab looks at biodiversity, with the opportunity to participate in experiments, while Project Build looks at the properties of physics using everyday objects. Think it Up encourages creativity and originality with various projects, including the opportunity to create your own stop-motion animation video.

In addition to several other fun interactive exhibits, children under the age of seven have their own special area called KidScience, designed just for younger visitors. All ages will love the immersive experience of the IMAX theater, where you can shrink small enough to travel inside the human body, explore the natural world, or even explore space.

Address: 301 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Looking for some thrills and chills? Head to the sprawling all-ages Carowinds amusement park. Known as the "Thrill Capital of the Southeast," this 407-acre theme park provides plenty of fun things to do, with family diversions, roller coasters, water rides, and stage shows. A dinosaur exhibit allows you to walk through a Mesozoic setting brought to life with detailed animatronics.

You can also ride the world's tallest and fastest giga coaster , the 325-foot-tall Fury 325. They also have a water park called Boomerang Bay, so be sure to bring your bathing suit. A pet kennel is available to those traveling with their four-legged friends.

Address: 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, North Carolina

The exhibits at the Levine Museum of the New South are focused on post-Civil War Southern history and the people who have shaped it. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to run their hand through a pile of cottonseed, play old-fashioned checkers, or step inside a one-room farmhouse.

Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers portrays the evolution of the South through stories from Reconstruction, the economic transformation from agriculture to industrialization, the Civil Rights Era, and the rapid growth of the urban center and changing populations in Charlotte.

Temporary exhibits often focus on social and political change and the influence of diversity on Southern culture.

Address: 200 E. 7 Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Conveniently located one mile from the Charlotte Motor Speedway, this museum treats race fans to a history of Hendrick Motorsports and Team Shop . Exhibits include an in-depth look at the inner workings of racecars and the elements that make them so unique, as well as the state-of-the-art facilities and technology the NASCAR Cup Series teams use in preparing for race day.

Fans can see Hendrick's most famous stock cars, the company's championship trophies, and significant automobiles such as Jeff Gordon's winning Daytona 500 car. Other vehicles on display here include the Days of Thunder Chevy Lumina and Terry Labonte's Iron Man machine. A store selling team-branded merchandise is also located on the premises.

Address: 4400 Papa Joe Hendrick Blvd, Charlotte, North Carolina

Centered around the city's bustling Trade and Tryon Streets in the downtown core, Uptown Charlotte covers an area of approximately 3.5 square miles and offers no end of fun things to do. Not only is Uptown Charlotte home to the city's financial and business districts, it's also where you'll find many of North Carolina's most important attractions, too.

Nestled between tall skyscrapers housing some of the country's leading Fortune 500 companies are important cultural landmarks such as the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and the Mint Museum. All of them are just steps from Uptown's more than 240 restaurants and countless superb shopping experiences. Also here are world-class sporting facilities, such as the Bank of America Stadium, home to the NFL's Carolina Panthers.

A surprising number of parks are located here, too. One of the most interesting is The Green . Just 1.5 acres in size, its location off South Tryon Street, as well as its great cafés and restaurant patios, makes it a great place to sit and watch the world go by.

Charlotte has also done an excellent job of making its Uptown district people-friendly. Car parks are discretely tucked away from view, often disguised by clever architectural flourishes, and walking routes, including the popular Liberty Walk , are clearly marked and easy to follow.

Author's Tip: Cars here share roads with wide, clearly marked bicycle paths, making it a safe destination to explore on two wheels. This is why Charlotte has established a great nonprofit bike rental program , offering convenient pick-up and drop-off locations dotted across the city. This convenient and eco-friendly means of getting around has proven a huge success with visitors and residents alike, with easy credit-card payment, meaning you can hop aboard and explore whenever the urge strikes.

The innovative man-made rapids in the Whitewater Center allow beginners and experienced whitewater enthusiasts to learn or test their rafting skills in a variety of rapids with the help of experienced guides. Flatwater sports of paddle-boarding, canoeing, and kayaking are offered as well, with instruction and equipment rentals.

Other facilities include climbing walls and multiple ziplines and ropes courses. Set in more than 1,300 acres of woodlands, this outdoor sports center includes over 40 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running.

Address: 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte, North Carolina

History buffs and techno-geeks alike can get their fill at the Sullenberger Aviation Museum . Formerly known as the Carolinas Aviation Museum, the museum is closed to the public until 2024 when it re-opens in a new custom-built, state-of-the-art facility.

Refurbished exhibits will cover the history, technology, and evolution of air travel, with many historic aircraft on display, including a replica of the Wright Flyer. In addition to private aircraft, several military aircraft will also be displayed, ranging from the modern Grumman F-14D Super Tomcat and Douglas A-4A Skyhawk to the Sopwith Camel biplane, one of the most important British fighter planes used in World War I. Also on display will be the QH-50 Drone Anti-Submarine Helicopter (DASH) and a Vietnam-era CH-46D Sea Knight copter.

Weather permitting, visitors will also be able to tour the planes outside on the tarmac, including the 1999 Airbus A320-214 that earned fame when US Airways Flight 1549 was brought to a miraculous landing after both engines had been disabled by a flock of Canada Geese.

Address: 4672 First Flight Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina

Since its 1936 opening as the first art museum in North Carolina, the Mint Museum of Art has grown into an internationally renowned institution that regularly features new exhibits. Examples of art throughout history are on display in the permanent collections, which include a wide variety of works.

The American art collection is especially strong in Federal portraiture, 19th-century landscape painting, and early-20th-century Realism. The museum has more than 2,500 works of art from the civilizations of the ancient Americas, one of the largest collections in the country, and represents more than 40 of the major societies.

Other collections include textiles and fashion, decorative arts, modern art, Native American art, European paintings, crafts, and design. The museum's collections are displayed in two separate locations: Mint Museum Uptown at 500 South Tryon St., and Mint Museum Randolph at 2730 Randolph Rd.

Address: 500 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Freedom Park covers nearly a hundred acres and has plenty of activities for everyone, making it a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing or playing. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts, while ball players can practice their swing in the batting cages or catch a game at one of the four ball fields. There are also plenty of walking trails for a more leisurely visit.

For the kids, there are two playgrounds and the NFL Play360 KidZone, as well as a concession stand for refreshments and lunch. If you prefer to bring a picnic, you can use one of the outdoor shelters that are complete with grills.

This is also a popular place for both formal and informal concerts and performances. It is also the home of the Freedom Park Master Gardener Demonstration Garden, where you can see some of the finest horticulture in the state.

Author's Tip: If you're able to squeeze in another charming green space into your Charlotte itinerary, you may want to make it Little Sugar Creek Greenway . This unique linear park will, when complete, stretch for 20 miles along the creek after which it's named, and consists of level paved pathways that are easy to traverse. An excellent example of "regreening," you can start the trail in Thompson Park near Uptown Charlotte and walk to Freedom Park, a pleasant stroll of 2.5 miles.

Address: 1900 East Boulevard, Charlotte, North Carolina

Inside The Charlotte Museum of History, you'll find a wealth of information on the city and surrounding areas. The museum has three permanent exhibits, including one that explores the neighborhoods of Charlotte and frequently hosts traveling exhibits.

Docents lead entertaining and informative tours of each of the beautifully restored buildings, including the Hezekiah Alexander House , the Kitchen, and the Springhouse. You are free to tour the galleries at your leisure, as well as the paths through the historic garden and past the seven-ton American Freedom Bell, a 1769 Spanish cannon, and a stone Chilean mill that dates to the nation's first gold rush.

Address: 3500 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art 's collections include works by some of the most influential artists of the mid-20th century, with pieces by Miró, Giacometti, Picasso, Calder, Hepworth, Nicholson, Warhol, Tinguely, Ernst, Le Corbusier, and Chillida.

The museum also hosts several music events throughout the year, including a monthly jazz night. The Bechtler Museum of Art is the second museum in the country to be designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta.

You'll find more contemporary art and design, as well as traditional folk arts, at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture , which spotlights works by African-American artists.

Address: 420 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Only a few minutes' drive from busy Uptown Charlotte is the Historic Rosedale Plantation and its nine-acre landscaped grounds. The site offers a glimpse at life in the pre-Civil War period, including a look at the lives of the owners and the property's enslaved population.

Built in 1815, Rosedale was known as "Frew's Folly" because its owner, merchant Archibald Frew, lavished money on constructing the 4,600-square-foot plantation home.

You can tour the house, a blacksmith shop, and the extensive historic gardens , which include formal beds bordered in boxwood, an outstanding rose collection, and five Treasure Trees, designated for their age, historical significance, size, or rarity in the region. The plantation is known for its majestic flowering trees.

Guided tours are available.

Address: 3427 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Centrally located in Uptown Charlotte, the Belk Theater is the biggest of the six theaters under the umbrella of the North Carolina Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. Since it opened in 1992, this state-of-the-art venue has hosted everything from rock and pop concerts to classical concerts and Broadway shows.

Capable of holding crowds of over 2,100 spectators, it has earned a reputation not only for the quality of its acoustics, but other design features, including its intimate horseshoe-shaped auditorium, ensuring there's not a bad seat in the house. It also houses an impressive fiber-optic light display that adds another unique dimension to the audience experience.

Other notable venues close by include the Booth Playhouse, used for dance and smaller orchestras; the 1,193-seat Knight Theater adjacent to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art; and the McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, housed in the historic First Baptist Church building a few blocks away.

Address: 130 N Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

The 110-acre grounds of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden are set on the banks of Lake Wylie and are spectacular in all seasons. Highlights include a conservatory dedicated to tropical plants and orchids. This 8,000-square-foot, five-story glass house includes a waterfall and an orchid wall draped in showy and fragrant blossoms.

Outdoors, the Four Seasons Garden provides colors, shapes, and textures that are pleasing at any time of the year. The Cottage Garden , filled with plants and flowers that were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is its most beautiful and fragrant in the spring. Stretching for 100 yards and bordered by changing seasonal blooms, the Ragan Canal Garden includes fountains and water shows.

The garden is constantly growing, with the latest addition a children's garden area, Lost Hollow, with a sunken pond, play spaces, and plants especially appealing to young visitors. The gardens glow throughout December with the Mile of a Million Lights , when the lights on the topiary trees dance in time to music, and glittering cherry trees reflect in the canal; fairy villages and seasonal model railway scenes enliven the conservatory.

Other special events are Independence Day activities and fireworks and a Chinese Lantern Festival.

Address: 6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont, North Carolina

One of the quietest neighborhoods to explore from Uptown Charlotte, leafy Fourth Ward features pleasant pedestrian-friendly streets that almost make this dynamic city feel more like a small town. Just a short stroll away from the downtown core, Fourth Ward is home to a mix of both fine dining and casual restaurants, fun music venues, as well as great shopping opportunities.

A great place to spend some time, the three-acre Fourth Ward Park is surrounded by old Victorian-era homes, and features an array of attractive flowerbeds, water fountains, and pleasant park benches from which to view them.

The Old Settler's Cemetery is another Fourth Ward landmark worth visiting. As its name suggests, it has been the final resting place of many of the city's first settlers, some buried here as long ago as 1776.

Address: 301 N Poplar Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Paying a visit to ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center is one of the top things to do in Charlotte for families. A unique mix of educational programming, library services, and a children's theater have been offered here since the facility opened in 2005.

Ranked as the number one kids' library in the US, ImaginOn features sections dedicated to the 11-and-under age group, as well as one for teens, the Teen Loft. It also houses two theater spaces, which host a variety of kid-friendly programming year-round. Regular interactive exhibits geared to younger audiences are also frequently provided.

Address: 300 E 7th Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Since its establishment in 1955, the Bojangles Coliseum has been one of Charlotte's best-known concert and sporting venues. Modernized and expanded throughout its nearly 70-year history, this iconic venue has seen everything from rock and pop performers to orchestras and Broadway shows grace its stage.

Notable at one time for having the world's biggest unsupported steel dome, the facility now also hosts professional hockey tournaments. It's also now connected to the neighboring Ovens Auditorium , expanding its use for conferences and exhibitions. On-site facilities include dining and ample parking.

Address: 2700 E Independence Blvd, Charlotte, North Carolina

Entering the quaint Latta Arcade is a little like stepping back in time. Looking not unlike the old historic shopping arcades found on the main streets of European cities like Paris and London, Charlotte's Latta Arcade does indeed have some history.

Located in the Uptown district off Tyron Street, the arcade was built in 1914 and is deemed significant enough to have been placed on the USA's National Register of Historic Places . Boasting a pleasant two-floor atrium that lets in plenty of light, the arcade today houses a number of shops and dining experiences and is well worth a visit.

Further dining options can be enjoyed at the rear of the building, which is accessible directly from the arcade itself or off South Church Street.

Address: 320 S Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte is certainly one of the best places to visit in North Carolina if you're a sports fan. In addition to its attractions related to motorsports, the city's downtown core is home to no less than three major stadiums.

The largest of these, the Bank of America Stadium , was built in 1996 and is home to the Carolina Panthers football team, as well as the Charlotte FC soccer team. It's currently best to visit the stadium on game days or during one of its regular concert programs as public tours are somewhat limited and are only bookable in advance… if you're lucky.

Baseball fans will want to include Truist Field on their Charlotte itinerary. Almost literally a ball throw away from the Bank of America Stadium, this storied ballpark is home to the Charlotte Knights . Tickets are usually readily available, so be sure to check the stadium's website for game schedules. The park is also dog-friendly, with pets allowed in on gamedays.

Located just a few minutes' walk to the south of downtown Charlotte, the Spectrum Center is the city's second-largest stadium and serves as home to the Charlotte Hornets basketball team . Opened in 2005, also serves as the home base for a number of college-level basketball teams and also hosts mixed-martial arts tournaments. It's also a regular stop for rock, rap, pop, and country stars, as well as a popular monster truck event.

Charlotte is a large city and quite spread out. However, a majority of the tourist attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options are in the downtown core, making this a good place for first-time visitors to stay. If you are in Charlotte to see a NASCAR race, you may want to consider a location northeast of downtown near the racetrack, and families with young children may want to stay in the south, close to the Paramount's Carowinds amusement park. If you are traveling with pets, you'll find a number of pet-friendly hotels in Charlotte.

Below are some highly-rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte is one of the city's premier hotels, with first-class service, top-notch amenities, a rooftop pool, and luxurious rooms.
• The sleek and modern Westin Charlotte is in the heart of downtown, adjacent to the Convention Center and steps to the city's entertainment hot spot, Epicenter.
• A great choice for a boutique luxury stay, The Dunhill Hotel is located right downtown in a building dating from 1929, and is a short stroll from Discovery Place and the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.
• If you prefer to be outside the hustle and bustle of downtown, the sprawling and manicured grounds of The Ballantyne Hotel and Lodge , 18 miles from downtown, provide a resort-like experience.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A good choice for families, the Homewood Suites , eight miles from downtown and near Paramount's Carowinds amusement park, features a pool and suites with kitchens.
• Located in the trendy Uptown district, the Hilton Garden Inn has large rooms and provides a free shuttle service to local attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• About 10 miles to the south and an easy drive along Highway 74 to downtown, the Fairfield Inn & Suites offers excellent value and comes with breakfast.
• The new Holiday Inn Express and Suites Charlotte North , 10 miles to the north, is surrounded by a good assortment of chain restaurants.
• Six miles from the Charlotte Motor Speedway, the Sleep Inn University Place has basic, comfortable rooms at an affordable price. All of these hotels have pools.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit in North Carolina: After seeing Charlotte, you may want to visit more of the top tourist attractions in North Carolina . The state has many places to go for romantic getaways , or you can find plenty of things to do in Asheville , a great base for exploring the Smoky Mountains .

Places to Visit for Outdoor Sports : You'll find many top-rated rivers for trout fishing , as well as prime shoreline for deep sea fishing . In the winter, you'll want to know about the best ski resorts in North Carolina .

More on North Carolina

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Before and after: how the world's most famous attractions have changed

loveEXPLORING staff

28 January 2020

Destinations

Share the love

Be the first to comment

Do you want to comment on this article? You need to be signed in for this feature

Copyright © loveexploring.com All rights reserved.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Romantic Getaways

8 Romantic Places to Travel After You Get Engaged, According to T+L's A-List Advisors

Why wait until the honeymoon to go on a big trip? Celebrate the next phase of your life in one of these romantic destinations.

After becoming engaged , you're (understandably) eager to celebrate—but the stress of wedding planning can quickly snowball. So why wait until the honeymoon to take a few days to toast to your future together? Planning a post-engagement trip allows you to spend time with your future spouse and kick off a lifetime of adventure, before you get bogged down in wedding details. Here are some of the best places to celebrate a recent engagement, suggested by T+L 's trusted A-List travel advisors.

Colombia's Coffee Region

The coffee region in Colombia has so many offerings to stimulate all of the senses. Here, Blue Parallel has access to a private villa deep in the jungle, which you can use as a base to discover the different coffee and fruit plantations in the region. From horseback riding, mountain biking, coffee tasting, and visits to quaint colonial towns, the coffee region is romantic and great for the young at heart. The real highlight is the Valle de Cocora National Park , home to the tallest palm trees in the world. — Emmanuel Burgio, Blue Parallel

Saint Lucia

For couples looking to celebrate a recent engagement, I always recommend choosing a hotel that is so enchanting it can become the highlight of your trip. A few properties in our Fine Hotels + Resorts portfolio are particular stand-outs for their offerings. One of my favorites is Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort at Soufriere, Saint Lucia. Couples can enjoy starting the day with morning yoga or take a dip in the pool at their private villa while gazing out at the Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage site . Set on a former sugar plantation, this property is surrounded by lush rainforest and the white-sands of Sugar Beach. Platinum Card Members who book their stay through American Express Travel can utilize their $100 property credit on a relaxing spa treatment at the Rainforest Spa. — Marcus Barlow, American Express Travel & Lifestyle Services

Escape to Mexico with luxury stays at Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort , and One&Only Mandarina in Riviera Nayarit. I love suggesting a romantic itinerary that combines Puerto Vallarta ( Hacienda San Angel ), the Costa Careyes ( Las Alamandas ), the Hacienda de San Antonio, and Punta de Mita ( Imanta ) by private charter flight. We also love setting up surprise romantic experiences like an off-hours visit to an archeological site with a surprise champagne toast in the jungle! — Zachary Rabinor, Journey Mexico

Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia

I would send guests to Nimmo Bay Resort , on the coast of British Columbia , deep in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. It only has 9 cabins, so it is very exclusive and the focus is on wellness and a spectacular culinary experience. The region provides unlimited access to whale watching, grizzly and black bear viewing, kayaking and other adventures. Nimmo Bay has a number of private spots in spectacular settings where guests can be dropped off with a picnic lunch (even on a glacier), with a fishing rod, a few kayaks, a crackling fire and everything they need. There is also a floating sauna dock, located a 20-minute kayak from the resort (or 2 minutes by boat). It sits alone, in a bay, with occasional black bears showing up on the shoreline. It's just you, music, wine, lunch, a wood-burning private sauna, bathrobes and total seclusion. This was how my wife and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. — Marc Telio, Entree Canada

The Greeno, Montana

Stay among the trees at the newest luxury mountain resort in Greenough Montana: The Greeno . Seclusion and sophistication is the spirit of this adults-only ultra modern resort that just opened. For those seeking romance and tranquility or adventure in nature , this secret treasure is the perfect backdrop under the cover of looming pine trees. The Greeno boasts 12 secluded haus accommodations including an ultra modern Tree Haus, Green Haus, Round Haus and Light Haus. Gaze among spectacular trees in an outdoor environment that is sure to take your breath away. — Linda Scroggins, Affluent Luxury Travel

For someone who cannot take a long honeymoon or post-engagement trip, a shorter celebration at Eden Rock in St. Barths is perfect. The hotel knows how to take care of lovebirds, and what better place to kick off your lives together than in tropical Caribbean paradise? — Paul Tumpowsky, Skylark

Istria, Croatia

I can think of nothing more romantic than the gentle hills of Istria , a most enchanting region which is, fittingly, on a heart-shaped peninsula. For young lovers, the rustic elegance of the Meneghetti Wine Hotel and Winery seems the perfect place from which to explore. I will always remember my first visit there. We arrived at the gate, passing by rows of cyprus trees, and proceeded to a stone house surrounded by an idyllic expanse of olive groves. One of my most magical and rapturous memories of the day occurred in the garden. We sat down to enjoy a glass of wine, the sun sat low, illuminating the garden with an opalescent glow, and long afternoon shadows. The scent of lavender sweetened the air, as an amazing moment occurred. Butterflies filled the garden, all around us, a kaleidoscope of many-hued wings fluttered in every direction. The moment was pure joy. — Wanda S. Radetti, Visit Croatia

Blackberry Farm, Tennessee

Celebrating one's engagement should be romantic and cozy with amazing food and spa time to help you relax. How about a few days at Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee? You can do as many, or few, activities as you wish. Just sitting and staring out at the Great Smoky Mountains is a visual feast. — Kimberly Wilson Wetty, Valerie Wilson Travel

Related Articles

Places To Visit In Ayodhya

Top hotel collections.

Cheap Hotels

• Filter (16)
• Tombs & Mausoleums (1)
• Historical Site (1)

1. Ram Janmabhoomi

0 km from city center 1 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Translating to Ram's Birthplace, the Ram Janmabhoomi is believed to have been the birthplace of the Hindu deity, Lord Ram. According to the Indian epic Ramayan, Ram, Lord Vishnu's seventh manifestation, is said to have grown up along Ayodhya's river Sarayu. Located in the ancient city of Ayodhya, he Ram Janmabhoomi is a highly revered site for Hindu devotees.

2. Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya

0 km from city center 2 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Located in Sai Nagar, Hanuman Garhi is a 10th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu God, Hanuman. It is one of the most important temples in Ayodhya as it is customary to visit Hanuman Garhi before visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. It is believed that Lord Hanuman lived at the temple site guarding Ayodhya.

3. Kanak Bhawan

0 km from city center 3 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

The Kanak Bhawan is established towards the northeastern corner of the Ram Janmabhoomi in Tulsi Nagar. Constructed in 1891, this temple is also known as Sone-ka-Ghar. It is a holy site dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Rama and his wife, Goddess Sita.

4. Nageshwarnath Temple

2 km from city center 4 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Established in the name of the local deity, Lord Nageshwarnath, the Nageshwarnath Temple is located adjacent to the Theri Bazaar in Ayodhya. It is believed to have been set up by Kush or Kusha, Lord Rama's son.

Ayodhya Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Spiritual Journey Through Uttar Pradesh: Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Varanasi

Religious tour package for varanasi and ayodhya, ayodhya tour package with varanasi, prayagraj and lucknow, ayodhya spiritual retreat: embracing divine serenity, varanasi and ayodhya tour package, trip to ayodhya, prayagraj and varanasi - 5 nights 6 days, 5. gulab bari.

4 km from city center 5 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Also known as the Garden of Roses, the Gulab Bari is situated in Vaidehi Nagar. It is the tomb of the third Nawab of Faizabad (Oudh or Awadh), Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula and his parents. Listed under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, Gulab Bari is currently preserved as a part of national heritage.

6. Treta Ke Thakur

2 km from city center 6 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Situated along the Naya Ghat of Ayodhya, the Treta Ke Thakur Temple houses numerous idols including that of Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, Bharat and Sugreev. These statues are said to have been sculpted out of a single black sandstone.

Top Hotels In Ayodhya

8.9 (42 reviews)

₽ 1,896 onwards

9.7 (29 reviews)

₽ 1,603 onwards

8.3 (148 reviews)

₽ 10,044 onwards

8.3 (74 reviews)

₽ 2,013 onwards

8.3 (32 reviews)

₽ 3,107 onwards

7.9 (80 reviews)

₽ 6,941 onwards

7. Choti Chawni

1 km from city center 7 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Also known as Valmiki Bhawan or Maniramdas Chawni, Choti Chawni is a magnificent structure completely crafted out of white marble. A sigh of sheer beauty, this place is definitely worth a visit.

8. Sita Ki Rasoi

2 km from city center 8 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Situated on the north-western side of the Ram Janmanhoomi in Ayodhya's Rajkot, Sita ki Rasoi is believed to be an ancient kitchen used by goddess Sita herself. Built quite close to the Ram Janmabhoomi, this sacred site is now a temple housing some exhibit vessels. One among the two kitchens revered in Sita's name, this Sita Ki Rasoi is a basement kitchen.

9. Tulsi Smarak Bhawan

1 km from city center 9 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Established in the memory of 16th-century saint-poet Goswami Tulsidas, the Tulsi Smarak Bhawan is believed to have been the place where Tulsidas composed the Ramcharita. In addition to the massive library which is a storehouse of rich literature, the Smarak also houses a research centre called the ‘Ayodhya Research Sansthan’. 

10. Bahu Begum Ka Maqbara

1 km from city center 10 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Located on the Maqbara Road in the town of Faizabad, Bahu Begum ka Maqbara is a popularly known as the “Taj Mahal of the East”. The unique mausoleum is the tallest monument in all of Faizabad and is famous for its non-Mughal architectural brilliance.

11. Raja Mandir

0 km from city center 11 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Located on the banks of river Ghaggar (Sarayu) in Guptar Ghar, Raja Mandir in Faizabad has been associated with numerous mythological stories time and again. The temple houses stunningly carved idols of many Hindu Gods and Goddess, which are ornamentally clad in silken fabrics and rich jewellery.

12. Ram Katha Park

2 km from city center 12 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Ram Katha Park is a beautiful park in Ayodhya, housing open-air theatres and well-kept lawns. Spread over a vast area of land, it is a popular venue for the devotional programmes, cultural performances, religious events, dance, poetry and katha recital sessions.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Ayodhya

Beautiful Temples in Ayodhya

251m Tall Lord Ram Statue To Be Built In Ayodhya - Breaking The World Record

13. Moti Mahal

1 km from city center 13 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Popularly known as the ‘Pearl Palace’, Moti Mahal is located a few kilometres away from the town of Ayodhya in Faizabad. Built in 1743 AD, the palace was a residence of the Queen Begum Unmatuzzohra Banu, wife of the then Nawab Shuja- ud- Daulah.

14. Dashrath Bhavan

0 km from city center 14 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Located in the heart of the city, in Ramkot Ayodhya, in Faizabad; Dashrath Bhavan is the original residence of King Dashrath- the ruler of Ayodhya and father to Lord Sri Ram. Popularly known as Bada Asthan or Badi Jagah, Dashrath Mahal houses magnificent shrines of King Ram.

15. Guptar Ghat

8 km from city center 15 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Situated on the banks of river Sarayu, also known as Ghaggar, Guptar Ghat is a revered site in Faizabad near Ayodhya. With a flight of steps leading to the holy river, this ghat was once the neighbour of the colonial Company Gardens, which is now known as the Gupta Ghat Van.

16. Mani Parbat

2 km from city center 16 out of 16 Places To Visit in Ayodhya

Situated about 65 feet above sea level, Mani Parbat is a tiny hillock situated in Kami Ganj, Ayodhya. Besides being a great city viewpoint, the Parbat also houses a stupa built by Emperor Ashoka and a Buddhist monastery.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Ayodhya

What are the top sightseeing places in ayodhya, how can i commute within ayodhya, browse package collections, nearby destinations for packages, similar places.

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

• Group Enquiry? NEW

Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Azerbaijan

Here is the list of best places to visit in azerbaijan:.

Ganja is the third largest city in western Azerbaijan after Baku and Sumqayit. It has been the centre of history and culture of Azerbaijan. The city is dotted with age old heritage sites that are fashioned with top class intricate works and blue tiles. Heading over to one of the best tourist places in Azerbaijan, you will be able to enjoy zillions of archaeological sites that are not only large but also ornamental.  Ganja is home to some of the best tourist attractions including theatres, museums, adventurous treks, stunning nature and historic monuments. Heading out to the most sought after Tourist places in Azerbaijan, you can visit Ganja City Hall which stands as a testimony to the masterpiece of the Stalinist Empire architecture and The Juma Mosque (Shah Abbas Mosque) which boasts a red brick exterior with majestic white dooms.  You can visit the Gates of Ganja and the State Art Gallery established in the year 1984. There are many museums in the city namely Ganja State History-Ethnography Museum, the oldest museum in the city, and the famous Nizami Ganjavi Museum built in the year 2014. This museum has a library, a conference room, a research section, and a corner for the guests to relax. You can also explore Shah Abbas Square, Javed Khan Street, and take a picnic or just relax near Lake Goygol and Lake Maralgol.  During your trip to Ganja, you think of visiting the Mausoleum and a Turkish Bath at Shah Abbas Square, admire the European-Style Architecture of Ganja State Philharmonic Hall, Walk by the Javad Khan Pedestrian Street, visit Heydar Aliyev Square and the City Hall at Sunset, and admire the Beauty of Imamzadeh Complex.  Ganja has got a warm climate with very little rainfall all over the year. The summer season is pleasant because of its leeward situation and great influence of Kapaz Mountain Ranges. The winters in Ganja are however cold but subzero temperatures and snowfall is not common.

Sheki happens to be a city that is located in northwestern Azerbaijan which is surrounded by the district Shaki. The city nestles on the southern part of the Greater Caucasus mountain ranges which is about 240 km from Baku. With a total population of about 68400, this place can be considered as one of the top famous places in Azerbaijan to visit during your holiday vacation.   Sheki is one of the most beautiful places to see in Azerbaijan as it is dotted with beautiful houses with brightly painted gates, lively cafes, plane trees, stone buildings, and cobbled streets.  While in Sheki, you can visit the incredible Summer Palace of Sheki Khan and also take photographs of his Winter Palace. The Winter Palace has been under reconstruction since 2010. The stone caravanserai is the original sleeping chambers of the Silk Road traders and is a historic and architectural gem of the Sheki city. You can spend a night in one of the rooms of the caravanserai. The Three Saints Church is located in the complex of the Summer Palace. On a trip to Sheki, tourists can stopover at the The Sheki Khan Winter Palace to capture the beautiful mosaic works, Sheki Caravanserai which is loaded with antiquity dating back to the silk trade, and Summer Palace / Sheki Xan Sarayi which is popular for its paintings and decorations.  While heading out on a trip to Sheki, tourists have a wide range of activities to indulge in. One can visit the incredible Sheki Khans’ Summer Palace, capture the lesser-known Winter Palace in his lenses, sleep in a Silk Road caravanserai, visit the Three Saints Church, and explore the Sheki Museum of Folk and Applied Arts.  Shaki is considered to be one of the coldest regions in Azerbaijan with an average high temperature of 19 degree celsius. The best time to visit this city would be from the month of June to the month of September. The climatic condition remains moderate making it pleasurable for tourists.

Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan. It is also the largest city of the country. Nestled on the Caucasus region and the Caspian Sea, the city lies about 28 meters below the sea level as a result of which, it is also the lowest lying National Capital in the world.

Situated on the southern shore of the Absheron Peninsula alongside the Bay of Baku, nearly one forth of the inhabitants of the country reside in the metropolitan region of the city. 

The city is cultural, scientific and industrial center of Azerbaijan. A number of sizeable Azerbaijan institutions also have their headquarters located there. Given all this, the trade and commerce position and the economic role of Baku is very evident. However, this does not mean that Baku is any less from the other cities of Azerbaijan when it comes to tourism. There are a number of tourist attractions which are fascinating and attractive. Monuments, museums, tombs and galleries, just about everything can be found in the city. Moreover, the transport network of the city is very well connected making the attractions and the places to see easily accessible. Besides, the attractions, there are also a number of things to do to keep you engaged all through your stay in the city.  

Shamakhi is the capital city of Shamakhi District of Azerbaijan. This place is very much popular for its traditional dancers and Soumak Rugs. The city has been destroyed a number of times by eleven major earthquakes but it has strengthened itself. At the present time it is the economic as well as the administrative capital of Shirvan, which is one of the key townships on the silk road.  The Juma Mosque of Shamakhi was built in the 8th century and it has survived eight out of eleven earthquakes. A 15th-century mausoleum and graveyard, known as Shirvan Domes, is located at the Gulistan Fortresses’ foot. You can also explore the Yedid Gumbaz Mausoleum which has a cemetery, a group of mausoleums, and the burial vaults of the Shivran Khan's ruling during the 18th and 19th centuries. You can only see three of the four mausoleums as the fourth one lies in need of restoration.  During your visit to Shamakhi, you can think of taking a fascinating excursion tour to capture the magnificence of ancient mosque and medieval baths, visiting workshops of highly skilled craftsmen, walking on the famous iron suspension bridge over Girdmanchay River and witnessing some of the brilliant views of the southern foothills of the Great Caucasus Ridge.  The summer season in Shamakhi happens to be warm, dry, and clear whereas the winter seasons are long, cold, snowy, and cloudy as well. The average range of temperature varies from 23 - 88 degree Fahrenheit. The best time to head out to the most sought after tourist places in Azerbaijan would be from the month of July to the month of August.

Best of Turkey

Situated 450 kilometers west of Baku is the capital of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic - Nakhchivan City. It embodies the settlement of Aliabad and the villages of Tumbul, Qara?al?q, Ba?ba??, Bulkan, Haciniyy?t, Qaraçuq, Qaraxanb?yli, and Da?duz. The most convenient way to reach Nakhchivan is by flying from Baku to Nakhchivan Airport. One of the most distinct features of Nakhchivan is cleanliness. Tourists visiting Nakhchivan are almost stunned by how clean the city is. Affixed to the spotless surroundings are historically significant buildings, fetching mountains, iconic castles and mausoleums. The uncluttered aura helps the already exquisite architectural wonders look even more remarkable. To truly get a taste of the city of Nakhchivan, one must not forget to devour the beauty of marvels like the Yezidabad Castle, Momine Khatun Mausoleum and especially Noah's Mausoleum from where the city is believed to have received its name. Exploring Nakhchivan's architecture might be the most popular activity known to visitors but it definitely isn't the only option. Tourists can visit one of the local bazaars and engage in conversations with the locals who are always curious about foreigners. One can climb to the top of Alinja Mountain and visit the Alinja Castle, popularly referred to as the Machu Picchu of Azerbaijan.  In Nakhchivan, the summers are inconveniently hot and the winters are freezing. The weather is dry throughout the year. The temperature ordinarily changes from 21°F to 96°F and is seldom beneath 10°F or above 102°F.

Best of Israel

Other Attractions

Absheron national park.

Maiden Tower

Heydar Aliyev Centre

Azerbaijan Carpet Museum

The Caspian Sea

Shirvan National Park

Agh Gol National Park

Goyazan Mountain

Lake Goygol

Icheri Sheher

Garasu Volcano

Baku Seaside Park

Ismailiyya Palace

Mud Volcano

Azerbaijan has got the highest number of mud volcanoes in the whole world. There are a total of 350 mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan from a total of 700 in the world. The Mud Volcanoes are called Yanardag or Bozdag or Gaynacha or Pilpila by the locals.

In order to reach the mud volcano you would need to take a short drive from the Gobustan Reserve. 

Location: Dashgil, Azerbaijan

Highlights: Highest number of Mud Volcanoes in the world

Nizami Ganjavi Mausoleum

Imamzadeh İbrahim

Nohur Lake, nestled in the picturesque region of Gabala, Azerbaijan, is a serene haven offering respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, the lake's tranquil waters mirror the beauty of its surroundings, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates visitors.

Tufandag Ski Resort

Tufandag Ski Resort in Azerbaijan is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering a thrilling experience amidst the stunning Caucasus Mountains. Spread over an area of approximately 4.5 square kilometers, this resort boasts a range of exciting activities for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Azerbaijan lies the mesmerizing natural wonder known as Yanar Dagh, or the "Burning Mountain." This remarkable site, located on the Absheron Peninsula near Baku, captivates visitors with its otherworldly beauty and mysterious flames that have been burning continuously for centuries.

Yanar Dagh is a testament to the geological forces that shape our planet, with natural gas seeping to the surface and igniting upon contact with the air. As visitors approach this enchanting site, they are greeted by a surreal spectacle: flames dancing atop the rocky slopes, casting an ethereal glow against the backdrop of the Caspian Sea.

Legend has it that Yanar Dagh has been burning since ancient times, with local tales and folklore attributing the phenomenon to the breath of a mythical fire-breathing dragon that once roamed the land. While the origins of the burning mountain may be shrouded in myth and mystery, the natural beauty and awe-inspiring spectacle it offers are undeniably real.

Chukhur Gabala

Chukhur Gabala, located in the Gabala District of Azerbaijan, is a picturesque region known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational activities. Situated in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, Chukhur Gabala offers visitors a serene and scenic escape.

The Palace of Shaki Khans

The Palace of Shaki Khans stands as a testament to Azerbaijan's rich history and architectural brilliance. Built in the 18th century, its intricate design and lavish interiors showcase the opulence of the Khanate era. Today, it remains a symbol of cultural heritage and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Azerbaijan.

Gabala City New Mosque

Gabala City New Mosque stands as a beacon of spiritual and architectural magnificence in the heart of Gabala, Azerbaijan. With its elegant minarets piercing the sky and its intricate geometric patterns adorning its facade, the mosque is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Gobustan National Park Museum

Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Azerbaijan lies the Gobustan National Park Museum, a treasure trove of ancient history and cultural heritage. Situated on the Absheron Peninsula, this remarkable museum stands as a gateway to the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Azerbaijan's prehistoric past.

At the heart of the museum lies the sprawling Gobustan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable rock art, ancient petroglyphs, and archaeological significance. Dating back thousands of years, these enigmatic carvings and inscriptions offer invaluable insights into the lives, beliefs, and artistic expressions of the people who once inhabited this land.

Gabala Archaeological Centre

The Gabala Archaeological Centre is a treasure trove of ancient history nestled in the heart of Azerbaijan. With artifacts spanning millennia, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. Through exhibits, interactive displays, and guided tours, visitors embark on a captivating journey through Azerbaijan's rich archaeological heritage.

World War II Memorial Park

The World War II Memorial Park in Gabala commemorates the sacrifices and contributions of soldiers during the war. This serene park features monuments, sculptures, and a reflective atmosphere, inviting visitors to honor the past and reflect on the significance of peace. Gabala's World War II Memorial Park stands as a testament to remembrance and gratitude.

Shaki Museum Of History And Local Lore

Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape

Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape in Azerbaijan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and historical significance. The site is located approximately 64 kilometers southwest of Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan.

Gobustan National Park

Sure! Gobustan National Park in Azerbaijan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock carvings, mud volcanoes, and unique geological formations. It offers insights into prehistoric human life and culture, with thousands of petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age. The park's diverse landscapes attract visitors worldwide.

Mardakan Castle

Mardakan Castle, an architectural marvel nestled within the captivating landscapes of Azerbaijan, stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Perched majestically atop a hill in the picturesque village of Mardakan, this medieval fortress exudes an aura of grandeur and mystique, inviting visitors to step back in time and unravel the secrets of centuries past.

Dating back to the 14th century, Mardakan Castle holds a storied past steeped in legend and intrigue. Built during the reign of Shirvanshah Akhsitan I, the castle served as a strategic stronghold, guarding the approaches to the Absheron Peninsula and providing protection against invasions from neighboring lands. Its sturdy walls, towering bastions, and intricate architectural details reflect the military prowess and engineering ingenuity of its builders.

People Also Ask About Azerbaijan

Which are the best places to visit in azerbaijan, which are the famous historical places to visit in azerbaijan, which are the famous beaches to visit in azerbaijan, what is the best time to visit azerbaijan, what is azerbaijan famous for.

Popular Related Destinations

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

Where Should I Go After Barcelona Spain?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a trip to Barcelona, Spain and wondering where to go next? Look no further!

In this article, we will explore some incredible destinations that you can visit after exploring the vibrant city of Barcelona. Whether you are looking for picturesque beaches, rich cultural heritage, or breathtaking landscapes, we have got you covered.

1. Valencia

If you want to continue soaking up the sun and enjoying beautiful beaches, Valencia is the perfect destination for you.

Located on the southeastern coast of Spain, this city offers a blend of modern architecture and historic charm. Don’t miss visiting the City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural masterpiece that houses an opera house, a planetarium, and an interactive science museum.

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is a must-visit destination after Barcelona.

Immerse yourself in Spanish culture by exploring world-class museums like Museo del Prado and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. Take a stroll through the famous Retiro Park or indulge in some retail therapy at Gran Via, Madrid’s main shopping street.

If partying and nightlife are what you seek, head straight to Ibiza!

This Balearic Island is renowned for its vibrant club scene and stunning beaches. Spend your days lounging on Playa d’en Bossa or dancing to world-famous DJs at clubs like Pacha and Amnesia. Don’t forget to catch the mesmerizing sunset at Café del Mar.

Discover the essence of Andalusia by visiting Seville.

This captivating city is famous for its flamenco dancing, historic landmarks such as Alcazar Palace and Seville Cathedral – one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Santa Cruz neighborhood and enjoy delicious tapas at local bars.

5. Mallorca

If you are a nature lover, Mallorca is the perfect destination for you.

This Balearic Island offers stunning landscapes with rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Explore the picturesque village of Valldemossa, hike through the Tramuntana Mountains, or relax on the beautiful Cala Mesquida beach.

For art enthusiasts, Bilbao is a must-visit city.

The Guggenheim Museum is an architectural marvel and houses contemporary artworks from renowned artists like Jeff Koons and Andy Warhol. Take a stroll along the riverfront and explore the charming Old Town with its narrow streets filled with pintxos bars.

In Conclusion

After experiencing Barcelona’s unique charm, there are numerous destinations to continue your Spanish adventure. Whether you prefer beaches, culture, nightlife, or natural beauty, these destinations offer something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore!

7 Related Question Answers Found

Where should i go in barcelona spain, where can i go from barcelona, where can you travel from barcelona, what is the best way to get around barcelona, where should i move in barcelona, how do you get to barcelona spain, where can i walk around barcelona, backpacking - budget travel - business travel - cruise ship - vacation - tourism - resort - cruise - road trip - destination wedding - tourist destination - best places, london - madrid - paris - prague - dubai - barcelona - rome.

© 2024 LuxuryTraveldiva

• Middle East

© 2024 - All rights reserved. Designed and developed by Fork Media Group

Before And After Pictures Of Top Tourist Destinations

Popular tourist destinations: before and after.

Image Courtesy: Guardian/Deccan Herald

1. The Colosseum, Rome

2. Merlion Park, Singapore

The iconic statue in Merlion Park, which is a famous tourist destination in Singapore, stood empty in the wake of the pandemic. With travel restrictions now easing in the country, borders are gradually re-opening to welcome tourists. As safeguards against the virus have been put in place, Singapore has now Made Paid COVID-19 Tests Compulsory For Incoming Travellers.

3. Louvre Museum, Paris

The Louvre Museum, which is the world’s largest art museum, is also the most visited gallery in the world, and is home to the famous painting of the Mona Lisa. However, the museum shut operations from March 1 to combat the spread of the Coronavirus in France.

Also Read:  How Travel To The US Will Be Affected After H1-B Visa Revisions

4. Royal Opera House, Sydney

The multi-venue performing arts at Sydney Harbour, which is regarded as one of the world’s most distinctive buildings, was closed to the public amid coronavirus fears.

5. Gateway Of India, Mumbai

This iconic landmark, popular with both tourists and locals alike, is always buzzing with activity at any given point of the day. But, due to the lockdown, the place bore a beautiful yet deserted look. ( Footage sourced from Mumbai Live )

6. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological site in Cambodia, South East Asia, attracts thousands of tourists. However, the coronavirus outbreak caused visitors to vanish. As the country slowly plans to reopen to tourists, it is now Asking Travelers To Add Funeral Costs To Their Trip!

Also Read:   I Travelled By Flight From Mumbai To Karnataka Amidst The COVID-19 Outbreak

7. St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City

This major tourist destination attracts up to 3,00,000 people for religious gatherings and events. But in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, this iconic spot was uninhabited.

Also Read:  Ireland Opens For Tourism, Here’s A 6-Day Itinerary Perfect For Social Distancing

8. Times Square, New York:

Times Square in New York City is a major tourist attraction, with hundreds and thousands of people enjoying its bright lights, broadway shows, street performers, restaurants and shops. With Trump advising social distancing, it bore a deserted look.

9. The Grand Canal, Venice

One of the busiest places and major tourist site, the Grand Canal was deserted after Italy announced a nationwide lockdown to combat coronavirus. It is also said that during the course of the lockdown Women Delivered Groceries To Elderly Via Gondolas. Heartwarming, isn’t it?

10. Eiffel Tower, Paris:

Trocadero Square near the Eiffel Tower is usually one of the busiest places in the city of love. But due to the enforced COVID-19 lockdown, it stood unnaturally empty. The iconic tourist spot is now set To Reopen On 25 June.

11. Westminster Bridge, London

London’s Westminster Bridge bore an unusually quiet look during the lockdown period. The UK government had announced social distancing measures on 16 March and advised people to work from home wherever possible.

12. The Great Mosque, Saudi Arabia

The Kabba is Islam’s most holiest shrine for 1.8 mn Muslims around the world. However, the holy centre banned the entry of pilgrims due to the pandemic.

As things are starting to get better day-by-day, these tourist places are starting to see some crowds. In fact, countries across the globe are offering discounted holiday packages to attract tourists and reboost their economies. Do watch this video which shows how countries are looking at ingenious ways to attract tourists.

Also Read:  Get Paid To Holiday At These 5 Countries Post Lockdown

Join The # CT Squad!

Sign up for our daily email and get the best delivered straight to your inbox. We pinky promise to make it awesome!

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

23 Mar 2023

If you’ve finally decided on “shuddh desi romance” and stuck to India for your honeymoon- let me tell you this: you haven’t settled for anything less! So, stop fretting because you’re open to a multitude of choices and each tops the other. We’re presenting you with this one-hell-of-a list of the best honeymoon destinations in India , that’ll kick your wanderlust into full throttle. Get down to narrowing your choices and even if you can’t, why worry. After all honeymoon trips are meant to be a lengthy affair.

Looking for a h oneymoon destination in India? You would be surely surprised to see the variety of options. So, get ready to create the first amazing memory of your married life that you will cherish forever. Explore this list of top 60 honeymoon destinations in India . Select the one that allures you the most:

Image Source

Andaman is amongst the most trending honeymoon places in India for newlywed couples. This is a destination that reeks of serenity and tranquility from every corner. The ever so stunning places to see and exciting experiences to embrace, Andaman is definitely one of its kind! With so many wonderful activities to keep you busy, secluded islands, and some of the best beaches in India for honeymoon, you’ll wish your holiday to never end. It is one of the safest honeymoon destinations to visit in Covid.

Best Experiences: Quiet and secluded beaches, Luxury Resorts, Scuba Diving , Snorkelling and Water Sports, Historic Places, Museums How To Reach: Port Blair is Andaman’s gateway, connected both by air and sea. Get direct flights from New Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 16,999 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 6 to 15 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to May Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Sinclairs Bayview, Wild Orchid, Hotel Driftwood, Barefoot at Havelock, Silver Sand Havelock, Fortune Resort Bay Island Famous Restaurants In Andaman : Anju Coco Resto, Bonova Cafe and Pub, Fat Martin Famous Markets : Aberdeen Bazaar, Andaman Handicraft Emporium Tips: Select some of the off-beat places like Long Island Barren Island. You should plan the trip ahead, much before the travel date, you need to research thoroughly about the destinations you have chosen.

Must Read: Honeymoon Planning Tips: Your Checklist For An Unforgettable Experience

Goa, is one of the best honeymoon destination in India along with its hippy culture and exotic beaches! Party your brains out or spend quiet romantic time with your lover on some of best beaches in India for honeymoon. One of the popular choices amidst the younger crowds, Goa is a destination that makes one experience the morning sunrise, the chirpy brunches, and the vibrant nightlife at its best and makes this destination one of the best places to visit in India for a honeymoon.

Best Experiences: Beaches, Nightlife, Shopping, Water sports

How To Reach: Dabolim Airport lies 29 km from state’s capital Panjim, making Goa one of the most easily accessible honeymoon places in India. Two major railheads in Goa are Madgaon and Thivim. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 15,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 10 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: The Park Calangute, Resort Rio Baga, Hard Rock Hotel Calangute, Novotel Resort & Spa Candolim, The O Hotel Candolim, Goa Marriot Panjim, Grand Hyatt Goa Candolim, Bogmallo Beach Resort, Leela Goa, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort, Kenilworth Beach Resort Majorda, The Zuri White Sand Beach Resort, Alila Diwa Goa, Double Tree By Hilton Panjim, Hyatt Regency Candolim, The Crown Goa Panjim, Holiday Inn Beach Resort, Caravela Beach Resort, Royal Orchid Beach Resort, Azaya Beach Resort, ITC Grand Goa – A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Le Meridien Goa Calangute, Radisson Blu Goa Cavellossim, Park Regis Goa Famous Restaurants in Goa : The Black Sheep Bistro, Greenyard Restaurant & Bar, Desbue Famous Markets : Anjuna Flea Market, Mackie’s Night Bazaar Tips: You don’t need to plan a stay in Goa much before your travelling date and you can easily find one on the day of your visit there.

Looking To Book Your Honeymoon Package?

Kerala Honeymoon Package (6D/5N) @ Rs 16,000/-

Experience the backwaters of Kerala on a houseboat!

Sikkim honeymoon package (5D/4N) @ INR 14,000/-

Witness the beauty of Tsomgo lake

Goa Honeymoon package (5D/4N) @ INR 11,500/-

Spend some quality time on the beaches of Goa

Andaman Honeymoon package (5D/4N) @ INR 23,000/-

Scuba Dive into the depths of Andaman

Himachal honeymoon package (4D/3N) @ INR 8,500

Romantic getaway amidst the hills

Rajasthan Honeymoon package (4D/3N) @ INR 8,000/-

Explore glorious places, colourful towns, sand dunes and lakes

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

3. Srinagar

Kashmir, the ‘heaven on earth’ is surely one of the best places for honeymoon in India. Srinagar, without doubt, has to be one of the most romantic and beautiful honeymoon destinations in India. The beauty of Srinagar is absolutely timeless. Lying back on a Shikara with your better half on the Dal Lake seems like a scene right out of a 70’s classic movie.

Best Experiences: Houseboats, The Mughal Gardens, Lakes, Shikara, Food (Kashmiri Wazwan), Shopping How To Reach: The Srinagar International Airport is well connected from all major cities in India. Direct flights are available from Delhi and Mumbai to Srinagar, one of the most romantic places in India . Nearest train station is at Udhampur, Jammu Land Package For Honeymoon: Kashmir honeymoon packages starting from INR 15,500 Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 4 to 8 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: April to September Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Vivanta Dal View Srinagar by Taj, Jamal Resorts, Mirani Resorts, The Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar, Heevan Resort, Hotel Dar-Es-Salam Famous Restaurants in Srinagar : Niramish, Shamyana Lodge & Restaurant, Ahdoos Hotel Famous Markets : Sunday Market Srinagar, Aftab Market, Sonwar Main Market Tips: The annual Tulip Festival is scheduled during the first few weeks of April and this is the highlight of the entire year in Srinagar. So, travelling in this time period would be an exciting experience for you.

Suggested Read: 16 Winter Honeymoon Destinations In India

What better way to immortalize your love for each other than by admiring the embodiment of eternal love, Taj Mahal? Add to that the Mughal grandeur and say hello to a ‘shahi’ honeymoon. It is undeniably one of the most romantic getaways in India from Delhi and the cities of Uttar Pradesh. What better way to enjoy the honeymoon than sitting witnessing the most extravagant token of love up close!

Best Experiences: Taj Mahal and other ancient forts and palaces, Luxury resorts, Mughal History How To Reach: Kheria Airport of Agra is a seasonal airport and is connected only by Air India flights from New Delhi. The Agra railhead lies on the Delhi- Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai routes. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 5 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Taj Resorts, the Oberoi Amarvilas, Trident Agra, ITC Mughal Agra Famous Restaurants : Pinch Of Spice, Famous Restaurant, Bob Marley Cafe Famous Markets : Sadar Bazaar, Subhash Bazaar, Raja Ki Mandi, Kinari Bazaar Tips: Plan to visit Agra during the cooler months. You need to try to reach as early as possible to avoid the huge crowd. Always try to use the South entry gate to avoid the long queues.

back to list

5. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is the best place for honeymoon in India to get the feel of Arabian nights. In the heart of the great Thar Desert, a honeymoon at Jaisalmer is but a hearty affair! The best of honeymoon destinations in India, the vibrant culture and tradition of the ‘Golden City’ is capable of warming a cold heart. Jaisalmer happens to be one of the unique honeymoon destinations in India with the deserts that are spread as far as the eye can see, the colorful attires, and the locals as humble as a lamb!

Best Experiences: Sand dunes, Desert Safari , Forts and palaces, Palace on Wheels, Festivals, Local Music and Dance, Arts and Craft How To Reach: Jodhpur is the closest domestic airport. However, you can reach the city by train. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 7,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 6 to 7 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: The Desert Resort, Khuri Desert Resort, Hotel Pleasant Haveli, Suryagarh, Hotel Victoria, Hotel Fifu Famous Restaurants in Jaisalmer : Desert Cow Restaurant, Gaji’s Restaurant, Cafe The Kaku Famous Markets : Manak chowk, Pansari Bazaar Tips: Don’t miss the camel safari and a visit to Jaisalmer Fort.

Suggested Read: 26 Best Honeymoon Places In India In February For All Kinds Of Travelers

Experience the breathtaking sunrise over the horizon of Khangchendzonga while snuggling with your significant other. It is one of the most romantic getaways in India for honeymoon from the states of Northeast. You just can’t miss out on Sikkim when listing all the romantic places. The peace and calm that encircles the atmosphere of this destination are exactly what makes it one of the unique honeymoon destinations in India .

Best Experiences: View of the Himalayan Range, Lakes, Landscapes, Trekking, River Rafting, Tallest Statue, Buddhist Monasteries, People and culture, Shopping, Organic farming How To Reach: The nearest airport is at Bagdogra and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Land Package For Honeymoon: Sikkim honeymoon packages starting from INR 25,000 Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All year round Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon:

• Gangtok : Udaan Woodberry, Summit Denzong Hotel & Spa, Lindsay Cheu Den
• Darjeeling : Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel and Spa, Udaan Hotel Zambala Retreat, Sinclairs Darjeeling

Famous Restaurants in Sikkim : Osm Restro & Lounge, Chopstick, The Coffee Shop Famous Markets : M.G Market, Big Bazaar, Lal Bazar Market Tips: Always carry your passport sized photo and some of your photo ID proof while travelling to Sikkim, in some of the places in Sikkim there are fewer ATM’s or some other places, ATM is there but cash is not acceptable, so carry your ATM card as well as some liquid cash with you.

One of the best places for a honeymoon in India and Number 7 on our list of honeymoon places in India is Udaipur – the ‘City of Lakes’. Udaipur is a wonderful place to spend a royal exotic break together. Let the allure of this captivating city make your honeymoon a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The palaces, the roads that inspire awe, the cafes with a view, and the beautiful artwork in every nook make Udaipur a destination that one will always cherish, making it one of the more unique places to visit in India for couples. 

Best Experiences: Palaces and Havelis, City tours, Trekking and Hiking, Lake Pichola, Shilpgram How To Reach: The Maharana Pratap Airport of Udaipur is located 20 km away from the city centre. The Udaipur railway station lies on a vast network connecting it to all major cities in the country. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting INR 7,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 7 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Taj Lake Palace, Jaiwana Haveli, Radisson Blu Udaipur, The Oberoi Udaivilas, Trident Udaipur, Boheda Palace Famous Restaurants in Udaipur : Ambrai, Shamiana Rooftop Restaurant, Khamma Ghani Famous Markets : HathiPole Market, Bada Bazaar Tips: Don’t say anything offensive about Fatehnagar while you are travelling to Udaipur. This place is loved by the locals for its amazing scenic beauty and romantic history.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Goa Near Calangute Beach For A Laid-back Beach Vacation

8. Alleppey

Wane into the watery world of Alleppey dotted in villages, toddy shops, canoes, and hundreds of houseboats. One of the must-go-to places in Kerala with your soulmate, it is among the best honeymoon places that offer an alluring romantic experience. This Venice of the East is the best honeymoon destination in India to witness the real beauty of backwaters.

Best Experiences: Houseboats, Backwaters, Lagoons, Beaches, Lakesides, Palm fringed canals How To Reach: The Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport and the Alleppey railway station is located inside city limits. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort, Punnamada Resort, Alleppey Beach Resorts Famous Restaurants : Halais Restaurant, Cassia Restaurant, Thaff Hotel Famous Markets : St. Thomas’ Fine Arts, Canal Bazaar, Floating Triveni, Mullakkal Street Tips: You can watch the sunset from the boat jetty bridge while you are travelling to Alleppey.

You will remember the time spent on the crescent beaches of Kovalam, one of the best romantic places , long after your honeymoon has ended. The remarkable splendour of this little town in Kerala is better experienced than told and it is one of the best destinations for couples in India. 

Best Experiences: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Samudra Beach, Ayurveda and wellness, Surfing, Wooden Boat ride, Shopping, Seafood How To Reach: Trivandrum International Airport and The Trivandrum Central railway station is located at a distance of 15 km away Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Bethsaida Hermitage, Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort, Swagath Holiday Resorts, Blue Mango Resort Famous Restaurants : Sanjeevni Restaurant, Curry Leaf Restaurant, The Tides Famous Markets : Varkarla Beach market Tips: Kovalam is well-known as it is a pilgrimage destination and a lot of churches, temples and mosques are there. So you can consider these places while planning a trip to Kovalam.

Suggested Read: The Ultimate Kerala Honeymoon Bucket List

Munnar, the picturesque hill station in Kerala , is one of the most exotic honeymoon places in India. Engulfed in ’50 shades of Green’, Munnar is carpeted in verdant tea plantations, contoured, clipped and sculpted like ornamental hedges. Let the captivating scenery redefine your love for you. It is definitely one of the best adventure honeymoon destinations in India that is equally refreshing.

Best Experiences: Tea Gardens, Western Ghats, Wildlife, Hills, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi, Devikulam How To Reach: Cochin is the nearest airport and the closest railway station is Aluva located at a distance of 110 km from Munnar. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Windermere Estate, Blackberry Hills Retreat and Spa, KTDC Tea County, Tea Valley Resort, Deshadan Mountain Resort, Wild Elephant Resort Famous Restaurants : Rapsy Restaurant Munnar, Hotel Sri Nivas, Hotel Gurubhavan Famous Markets : Green Land Spices Super Market, Aranya Naturals, Johnson’s Wood Craft Tips: Don’t miss the chance to visit to the Tea Museum at Nallathanni Estate

11. Kumarakom

For those who are looking to escape the crowd to enjoy the seclusion with your love, Kumarakom is among the most beautiful places in India for honeymoon. If you want to experience the real beauty of backwaters and lagoons in Kerala , you must visit Kumarakom. As you sail in a relaxed and exquisite houseboat, your honeymoon will be filled with moments of love and tenderness.

Best Experiences: Backwaters, Houseboats, Vembanad Lake, Bird Sanctuary How To Reach: Cochin International Airport is the closest to Kumarakom and the nearest railway station to Kumarakom is the Kottayam railway station Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 7,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 4 to 5 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: The Zuri Kumarakom, Kumarakom Lake resort, Coconut Lagoon, Leisure Vacations Goldfield Lake Resort, Illikkalam Lake Resort are ideal for a stay at one of the best honeymoon places Famous Restaurants in Kumarakom : Kilikkoodu Toddy Shop, Tharavadu Family Restaurant Famous Markets : Familys Mart Super Market, Kumarakom Fish Market Tips: Kumarakom is a must visited place for quite a number of activities include a tour in the backwater cruise on Vembanad Lake, a trip inside the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

Suggested Read: Top 17 Honeymoon Destinations In Kerala For A Bewitching Escape

12. Wayanad

Image Source Wayanad is a nature’s abode where one can enjoy the topmost views of majestic hills covered with dense greenery. This quixotic destination has lured not a few but several honeymooners every year to get a whiff of everything Wayanad has to offer. Imagine walking hand-in-hand amid the spice plantations and traversing the less-trodden paths of the caves. Don’t you feel like going there right now? Well, the tourist attractions are not limited just to caves, there are wildlife reserves as well as serene lakes to explore for honeymooners. Moreover, the district offers some of the most romantic resorts and cottages for newly-weds which makes it one of the best honeymoon destinations in India.

Best Experiences: Wildlife reserves, tea & coffee plantations, lakes, waterfalls, luxury cottages, and thrilling activities. How To Reach: Both the nearest airport and railway station are located around 100 kilometers away from Wayanad in Kozhikode. One will ultimately have to hire a taxi to reach the destination. Apart from this, you will find a good land network with super-fast KSRTC buses running to some of the major cities like Kochi, Mangalore, Bangalore, and Trivandrum. Land Package For Honeymoon: Wayanad honeymoon packages start from INR 9,900 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Banasura Hill Resort, Vythiri Resort, Wayanad Silverwoods Resort, Vistara Resort, LakeRose Wayanad Resort, Arayal Resorts, Wayanad Resort, and Wildflower Resorts & Spa. Famous Restaurants: Jubilee Restaurant, Wilton Hotel & Restaurant, The Coffee Groove, Spice Bowl Restaurant, and Taste Tree Restaurant Famous Markets: Santhi Pappadam, Dubai Shopping Centre, and Trident Arcade Tips: You must enjoy famed waters in Wayanad by planning a serene and calm evening in Pookode Lake enclosed by the greenery or have a boat ride in largest dam in Wayanad.

A haven for backpackers, adventure tourists, and honeymooners, Manali is a magnet for travelers all year round. The superb views of lofty mountains and the tiny hippy villages offer a perfect setting for a romantic time out. For those couples who seek paths less taken and moments that are thrilling, Manali is the best shot as it is surely one of the adventure honeymoon destinations in India .

Best Experiences: Snow, Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal Ranges, Beas River, River rafting, Trekking, Hiking, Paragliding, café culture, temples, shopping How To Reach: About 50 km away the nearest airport at Bhuntar is located, other than that you can reach Manali by road from nearby cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All throughout the year Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Span Resort and Spa, Manu Allaya Resort, Quality Inn River Country Resort, The Orchard Greens Famous Restaurants in Manali : Cafe Live, Chopsticks Restaurant, The Johnson’s Cafe and Hotel Famous Markets : Old Manali Market, Tibetan Market, Manu Market, The Mall Road Tips: One of the most vital things to keep in mind is that you must carry woollen clothes with you while travelling for Manali as it would be freezing and cold in the hills.

Suggested Read: 37 Most Romantic International Honeymoon Destinations On Your Budget

14. Dalhousie

The pine clad valley of Dalhousie is a cool hill retreat ideal for a summer-time honeymoon. Enjoy the picturesque views of the distant mountains and streets lined with colonial building. When traveling to Dalhousie during the peak winters, one gets to experience the best winter wonderland one has ever witnessed. And that is why Dalhousie is among the most beautiful snowy honeymoon destinations in India .

Best Experiences: Snow clad hills, Mountains, Colonial Architecture, Churches, Trekking, Hiking How To Reach: Pathankot has the nearest airport and the railhead located 76 km away from Dalhousie Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: March to October Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Sagrika Resorts, Grand View Hotel, Snow Valley Resort Dalhousie, Aamod at Dalhousie Famous Restaurants : Moti Mahal Restaurant, Kwality Restaurant Famous Markets : Gandhi Chowk Tips: For adventurous people out there, Dalhousie can be thrilling as you can indulge yourself in exciting activities like zorbing, paragliding and river rafting.

Kindle up the romance in your marriage with the stimulating lore of the Scandal Point. Grab the chance and enjoy the perfect honeymoon destinations in India in December with your beloved partner. Also, they say you get what you pray for at the famous Christ church of Shimla. All the more reason to be there for your honeymoon in India!

Best Experiences: Snow, Mountains, Hills, Ice Skating, Temples, Trekking, Shopping How To Reach: Jubarhati, which is about 23 km away is the nearest airport and Kalka is the nearest railway station Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,500 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All year round Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Shilon Resort, The Oberoi Cecil, East Bourne Resort & Spa, Radisson Hotel Shimla, Woodville Palace Famous Restaurants : Cafe Sol, Devicos Restaurant & D Lounge Bar, Cafe Simla Times Famous Markets : Tibetan Refugee Market Tips: In summers, Shimla is quite hot so you must carry cotton clothes or may be a light jacket for the evening and in winters you must accompany yourself with woollens.

Suggested Read: Camping In Shimla: How About Some Adventure Instilled Romance?

16. Khajjiar

They don’t simply call Khajjiar the ‘Switzerland of India’, this is one of the best places to visit in India for a honeymoon. The vast expanse of green meadows and dense forests besides vistas of majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks closely resembles the most romantic holiday destination in the world.

Best Experiences: Vast Green Landscapes, views of Himalayan peaks, Luxury resorts How To Reach: The closest railhead is at Pathankot, 120 km. The airport at Gaggal in Kangra is at a distance of 180 km Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to June Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: The Devdar, Royal Residency, Shining Star Resort, Deodar Manor, Hotel Mini Swiss Famous Restaurants : Parul Restaurant Famous Markets : Dogra Bazaar, Baniket Bazaar Tips: The easiest way to reach Khajjiar if you are travelling from Delhi is via a bus or preferably a car. You can even travel by flight or buses which start from Shimla as well.

17. Kasauli

This little Himachali hill town is perched up at an altitude of 6,322ft, so no wonder; it has the most stunning views of the lofty Himalayan peaks. And unlike other Indian hill stations it’s less frequented by a plethora of tourists, so you can spend quiet and tranquil moments with your loved one here.

Best Experiences: Monkey Point, Kasauli Brewery, Hawa Ghar, Sunset Point, Temples How To Reach: Chandigarh is the nearest airport and Kalka is the closest railway station Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 4,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All year round Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Winnies Holiday Inn, Kasauli Castle, Birds View Kasauli, Baikunth Resort, UNA Comfort Kasauli Exotica Famous Restaurants : Hangout, Kasauli Cafe, Mantra Famous Markets : Heritage Market Tips: As Kasauli is a hilly region, you must carry pair of walking shoes which are comfortable and will relieve you from the back pain after coming back from Kasauli.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Dalhousie In December For A Perfect Vacation

18. McLeod Ganj

The café town, McLeod Ganj is lovely, laid back and cool. This quaint little settlement in lower Dharamshala calls for a romantic escapade into hills with your partner. The best time to visit this beautiful destination is between March to June and pre-winter time between September to November. Get mesmerized by the gorgeous mountains, lakes, waterfall, and Tibetian settlements at one of the luxury honeymoon destinations in India in December.

Best Experiences: Hills, Mountains, Cafés, Tibetan Refugee Center, Buddhist Culture How To Reach: Pathankot has the nearest railway station and Gaggal Airport is 15 km from Dharamshala Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to June Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Sapphire & Restaurant, Hotel Triund, Grand Hill, High Land Bhagsu Hotel, Hotel Gandhi’s Paradise Famous Restaurants : Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant, Tibet Kitchen, Nick’s Italian Kitchen Famous Markets : Tibetan Mini Market, McLeodganj Market Tips: You must take into consideration that you must have a hotel booking during peak season as you might face difficulty in booking on the spot due to heavy rush.

Cozily nestled in the Parvati valley, Kasol is defined by its scenic beauty and its pleasant environment. There are a number of tourist places in Kasol ranging from hilltops to places of worship, this village has a lot to offer. Whether you are looking for adventure or a calm place with amazing views, you’ll surely be pleased with the tourist attractions in Kasol.

Best Experiences: Chalal, Malana, Manikaran, Tosh, and Kheerganga are the top places to visit in Kasol. How To Reach: To reach Kasol by railways you have to get off at the nearest railway station to Kasol which is Joginder Nagar railway station, about 144 km from the village of Kasol. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,325 person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 Days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to June Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Blue Diamond Kasol and Valley View Hotel Famous Restaurants : Moon Dance cafe, Little Italy, The Evergreen Famous Markets : Kasol Market Tips: If you want to enjoy the beauty of Kasol then you must not plan your trip during the monsoons as you may face difficulty while exploring the place.

Suggested Read: Kasol In Winter: Let’s Set Off On A Winter Journey

Amidst the jade green hills and scintillating milieu of Coorg make promises for a lifetime of togetherness. A trip to ‘the Scotland of India’ with your beloved can be a rejuvenating experience. It is, indeed, one of the most romantic getaways in India from Bangalore.

Best Experiences: Coffee Plantations, Historic Places, Waterfalls, Landscapes, Wildlife, Trekking, Hiking, Bird watching, Culture and People How To Reach: Nearest domestic airport is in Mangalore about 160 km away and the nearest railway station is in Mysore 95 km away. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March and January to May Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Club Mahindra Madikeri, The Windflower Resort and Spa, Magnolia Estates, Machaan Nagarhole Famous Restaurants : Coorg Cuisine, Tiger Tiger, Raintree Famous Markets : Flea Market, Friday Market, Kushal Nagar Market Tips: If you are driving through Coorg then you must be careful enough to drive safely as the roads are quite risky and curvy. It is also recommended that you must not drive during the evenings.

21. Pondicherry

The ‘little Paris’ of India, Pondy is a faded colonial villa with a hint of bohemian-chic. You’re in for a romantic sojourn in this François, artsy, and spiritual city. A gorgeous and one of the best winter honeymoon destinations in India that offers rolling hills, palm trees, and a romantic environment for adorable couples.

Best Experiences: Age old French Colony, Rocky Beaches, Yoga and Wellness, Sri Aurobindo Ashram How To Reach: Nearest airport is in Chennai and nearest railhead is in Villupuram around 35 km away Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 7 to 10 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Le Pondy, The Dune Eco Beach Hotel, The Windflower Resort and Spa, Palais De Mahe, Bonjour Bonheur Ocean Spray, Anahata Heritage Hotel, Villa Shanti Famous Restaurants in Pondicherry : Crepe In Touch, Villa Shanti Famous Markets : Goubert Market, Sunday Market Tips: Pondicherry is a place where you need to carry your sunglasses, hats which is highly recommended as the heat of the place will burn your skin.

Planning your honeymoon but confused about where to go? These honeymoon stories help you find your best honeymoon trip ever!

Vishu Tells How Kerala Turned Out To Be A Perfect Honeymoon Destination

Tea plantations, Backwaters, Houseboats, & More!

Rishabh Lists The Best Things To Do On A Honeymoon In Andaman

Beyond Watersports: Sightseeing & Beach hopping

Pawan Chose Sikkim Over Kashmir For Honeymoon & It Was totally Worth It

Yak rides. Tsomgo Lake. Walk through clouds. Amazing, isn't it?

Anuj Went Against All Conventions & Took A Romantic Trip To Rajasthan

For a taste of Rajputana splendor - Jaipur, Udiapur, & Mt Abu

Manan Talks Of Ice Skating & Rafting On His Honeymoon In Himachal

Snow activities in Solang & Kufri. Rafting in Kullu. And beauty all around!

Romance, Beaches, & Churches! Rahul Talks Of A Sizzling Honeymoon In Goa

No wonder Goa is the Beach Capital of India!

22. Darjeeling

From the most breathtaking view of the sunrise over the horizon of Tiger Hills to a laid back toy train ride, Darjeeling is, in fact, the most archetypal hill station of India. A honeymoon spent here at one among the best romantic places can only be defined as a magical experience.

Best Experiences: Mountains, Tea Gardens, Shopping, Trekking, Hiking, Toy Train, views of Khangchendzonga How To Reach: Bagdogra Airport is located 96 km away from Darjeeling and the nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri, 62 km away. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 7 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: September to April Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Mayfair Darjeeling, Elgin Darjeeling, Glenburn Tea Estate, Dekeling Hotel, Windmere Hotel, Cedar Inn, Sinclairs Darjeeling Famous Restaurants in Darjeeling : Kunga Restaurant, Sonam’s Kitchen Famous Markets : Mall Market, Mahakal Market Tips: When you are planning your travel for places like Darjeeling then you must make sure that you carry with yourself a medical kit which is handy as it can be required anytime in emergency.

23. Jodhpur

One of the other unique honeymoon destinations in India is Jodhpur. This city, daubed in different hues of blue is the most magical city in Rajasthan. A romantic journey awaits in the tangles of winding, medieval streets and the narrow corners of the mighty forts.

Best Experiences: Forts and Palaces, Blue City, Mehrangarh Fort , Shopping, Cultural Activities How To Reach: Jodhpur International airport is only a few kilometres away from the city center and the railway station is well connected to all major railheads of the country. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 7,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Ratan Vilas, Mandore Guest House, Haveli Inn Pal, Chandelao Garh, Umaid Bhawan Palace , Devi Bhawan, Ajit Bhawan, Pal Haveli Famous Restaurants : Indique, Kim Mohan’s, Omelette Shop Famous Markets : Sardar Market, Mochi Market, clothing market Tips: One of the top tips for food lovers is that if you are having your meal in one of the restaurants in Jodhpur then it is suggested to have your sweet before digging in your meal.

Suggested Read: Come, Be A Part Of Marwar Festival In Jodhpur – A Celebration Of Rajputana Valor

Jaipur has an enthralling cultural extravaganza to offer. The Pink City is one of the best honeymoon destinations in India for all types of couples . Take a romantic stroll down the memory lane and soak in the vibrancy of this historic city.

Best Experiences: Forts and Palaces, Rajasthani Folk Culture, Historic Places, Rajasthani Cuisine, Shopping How To Reach: Jaipur Airport is situated 7 km away from city center in Sanganer. The city is accessible through trains. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 5 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Chokhi Dhani Resort, Desert Trails, Sunrise Health Resort, The Byke Grassfield resort, Angel resort, Kanchan Kesri village Famous Restaurants : Peacock Rooftop Restaurant, Suvarna Mahal, Jaipur Adda Famous Markets : Tibbati Market, Cloth Market, Market Jaipur Tips: For the pink city of Jaipur you must plan your trip and bookings well before in advance and pack your bags according to the weather.

25. Ranthambore

If you and your better half are wildlife buffs then the largest wildlife sanctuary in northern India can offer the best experience. The fascinating wildlife safaris, tracing the beasts and time spent in the luxury camps will sum up into a rather amazing honeymoon trip at these surreal honeymoon places.

Best Experiences: Wildlife, Tiger sighting, Trekking, Jeep Safari, Elephant rides How To Reach: Jaipur is the nearest airport and Sawai Madhopur Railway Station is the closest railhead to Ranthambhore Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 6,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: November to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Welcome Heritage Ranthambore, Vanya Vilas, Aman-Khas, Sher Bagh, Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge, Tree House Anuraga, Dev Vilas, Khem Vilas Famous Restaurants : The Food Court Restaurant Tips: As Ranthambore is quite a warm place you must ensure that you carry your hat, sunscreen lotion and other essentials which will prevent you from getting tanned. Famous Markets : Rajiv Gandhi, School of Art, Dastkar Handicrafts

Suggested Read: Water Parks In Jaipur: 9 Awesome And Amusing Places To Stay Cool This Summer

26. Shillong

You’ll know why this city is called ‘Scotland of the East’ once you’re here. The colonial-era charm, the hilly roads and the gorgeous scenery in the outskirts makes this city a perfect romantic hideout.

Best Experiences: Hills, Pine trees, Waterfalls, Trekking, Shopping, Food, Nightlife, Local culture and traditions How To Reach: Nearest airport and railway station is in Guwahati Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 4 to 5 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All throughout the year Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Elgin Shillong, Ri Kynjai, Lakkhotta Lodge, Pinewood Hotel, the Boulevard Hotel Famous Restaurants : City Hut, Bamboo Hut, Qzine Restaurant Famous Markets : Laitumkhrah Market, Laban Market, OB Shopping Mall Tips: For winters and monsoon season in Shillong it is advisable to carry warm clothes with you while in summer season you can exempt woollens.

Tawang is amongst the less frequented honeymoon places in India. Express your love for your significant other underneath a sweet cherry blossom and make promises to last a lifetime. An idyllic destination for a magical autumn honeymoon when waterfalls are in their full glory and cosmos shrubs lining the tarmac come alive in a riotous blossom of red and pink at one of the best romantic places.

Best Experiences: Snow clad hills, Mountains, Buddhist Monasteries, War Memorial, Indo-China Border, Trekking, Local Culture, and People How To Reach: Nearest airport and railway station are in Tezpur, Assam Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,000 per person Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: March to November Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 5 days Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Gakyi Khang Zhang, Tawang Tourist Lodge, Tawang Lodge Famous Restaurants : Woodland Restaurant, Dragon Restaurant Famous Markets : Old Market, Nehru Market, New Market Tips: If you are traveling from Tezpur to Tawang then it is suggested to plan your travel for 2 days as 1 day will be very hectic for the one who is driving.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Tawang For An Adventurous And An Offbeat Vacation

28. Gulmarg

The ‘Meadow of Flowers’, Gulmarg will bring in all romantic emotions to your life. The charming snow-clad hills and the blossoming wildflower laden landscapes is sure to invoke saccharine feelings between you and your spouse. Falling in the list of enchanting snowy honeymoon destinations in India , Gulmarg is a land that is magical in winters!

Best Experiences: Ski resort, Snow, Hills and Mountains, Gondola rides, Trekking, Hiking How To Reach: Nearest airport is in Srinagar and closest railway station is in Udhampur, Jammu Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: March to November Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Alpine Ridge, The Khyber Resort and Spa, The Grand Mumtaz Resort, Hotel Khaleel Palace, Poshwan Hotel, Hilltop Hotel Famous Restaurants : Bakshi Restaurant, Hotel Highlands Park Famous Markets : Gulmarg Market Tips: During winters if you visit Kashmir then you must directly go to Gulmarg and enjoy playing with snow or making snowman which everyone loves to.

29. Pahalgam

Pahalgam is undoubtedly a paradise for lovers. With gurgling rivers, lofty mountains and verdant meadows this picturesque little resort might just be the place from where you’d want to begin your long journey of togetherness.

Best Experiences: Snow clad Mountains, Lidder River, Sheshnag Lake, Landscapes, valleys covered with pine trees and conifers How To Reach: The nearest airport is in Srinagar and the nearest railway station is in Udhampur, Jammu Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: March to November Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Forest Hill Resorts, Hotel Highland Resorts Famous Restaurants : Dana Pani, Tulyan and Nathu, Punjabi Rasoi Famous Markets : Main market Tips: For visiting Pahalgam you must before hand plan your travel according to the season as winters are very chilling here along with bringing all the essential documents.

Suggested Read: 14 Best Places To Visit In Pahalgam That Will Enchant You With Their Vivid Imagery

30. Haflong

Haflong is your answer to a secluded and romantic eastern delight. The hill station is a scenic vista of azure blue hills, emerald green rivers, unique orchids and rare species of birds.

Best Experiences: Hills, Flora, and Fauna, Rivers, Local Cuisine, Local Culture and People How To Reach: The nearest airport is in Silchar, Kumbhirgram Airport and New Haflong junction is the nearest railway station. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All year round Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Assam Tourism Tourist Lodge Famous Restaurants : We 2 Restaurant, Priya, Hangover Cafe Tips: Haflong is the only hill station in Assam where you can enjoy beautiful valleys, forest cover with diverse wildlife which are the highlights of the place.

Tiny cottages lined across vast landscapes, fascinating beauty of the Nilgiri Hills and the pleasant climate all year through. Cuddle into each other’s arms as you enjoy this mesmerising experience at Ooty, a famous tourist place in India for honeymoon.

Best Experiences: Nilagiri hills, Botanical Garden, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake How To Reach: Coimbatore is the nearest domestic airport from Ooty and the nearest railhead is Mettupalayam Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 5 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All year round Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Club Mahindra Derby Green, Woodberry Residency, Fairstay Holiday Resort, Elk Hill- A Sterling Holidays Resort, La Flora Amberley Resort Famous Restaurants : Ascot Multi Cuisine Restaurant, Earl’s Secret, Cliff Top International Cuisine Famous Markets : Tibetan Market, Upper Bazaar Road Tips: It is advisable for people who are planning to come Ooty via road trip must drive safely thorough the tuff and curvy roads of Ooty.

Suggested Read: 32 Best Places To Visit In Nainital For An Incredible Vacation

32. Nainital

Kumaon’s pride, Nainital is one of India’s favorite hill stations since ages which has also emerged as the most budget honeymoon destinations in India. During the peak season, the town is packed with honeymooners and families. Its nine-cornered lake, surrounded by hills make it one among the most romantic places in India .

Best Experiences: The Nainital Lake, Naini Peak, Snow View, Landscapes How To Reach: The nearest railway station is located at a distance of 34 km at Kathgodam and the closest airport is in Pantnagar. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 6,000 per person Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to April Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Shervani Hilltop, The Naini Retreat, The Corbett View Resort, Hill Skirt Resort, Balrampur House Famous Restaurants : Simz Cafe, Machaan Restaurant, Chandni Chowk Restaurant Famous Markets : Mall Road Tips: You must wake up early and start your day by visiting Naini lake and boating there. People must also enjoy the momos which are a speciality in Nainital.

33. Kodaikanal

The weather of Kodai is a reminiscent of deep spring almost all year round. Fondly called the ‘Princess of hills’, this little hill town is a laid back, relaxed and the perfect place for a newly married couple to create some wonderful memories.

Best Experiences: Lakes, Waterfalls, Hills, Landscapes, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory How To Reach: The airport nearest to Kodaikanal is Madurai, about 120 km away Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: The Fern Creek, Lily’s Valley Resort, The Carlton, The Hill Country resort, Hotel Villa Retreat Famous Restaurants : The Royal Tibet, Cloud Street, Muncheez Famous Markets : Kaleeswari Supermarket, Vegetable Market, Danish Display Tips: Palani hills must be on your hit list when visiting Kodaikanal and you must be carrying your woollens as it is pretty cold out here.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Resorts In Ranikhet That Are Perfect For Experiencing Luxury Amidst Nature

34. Ranikhet

‘Queen’s Meadows’, is what Ranikhet means literally. Not much further from the Mall road in the city center, you can take peaceful and romantic walks hand in hand with your soulmate, along the winding roads to be immersed amidst a forest of tall English trees.

Best Experiences: Majestic Himalayan View, Meadows, Rani Jheel, Bhalu Dam, Religious Places, Shopping How To Reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport and Kathgodam is the nearest railhead Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 6,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to July Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Chevron Rosemount, Queen’s Meadow Hotel, West View Ranikhet, Annabella resort, Cosmos Himalayan Villas Famous Restaurants : Mayur, Prem, Ranikhet Club Famous Markets : Sadar Bazar Tips: Ranikhet is known for its lush green cover, serenity and the temples where number of devotees some to worship and you can also explore trekking as well hiking activities.

The captivating appeal of the Bay of Bengal with hidden hippie settlements and pilgrim centers makes Puri so much more than it’s usual reputation of being just a world-famous Hindu religious destination. A stroll with your newlywed in the Puri beach while watching the sunset is but a remarkable experience.

Best Experiences: Sea, Beaches, Religious Places, Jagannath Temple, Festivals and Fairs, Shopping How To Reach: Bhubaneswar has the nearest airport and railway station Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Hans-Coco Palms, Hotel Holiday Resort, Hotel Mayfair Beach Resort, Hotel New Victoria Club, Hotel Sun-n-Sand, Hotel Toshali Sands Famous Restaurants : Chung Wah Chinese Restaurant, Peace, Wildgrass Famous Markets : Swargadwar Market Tips: It is highly recommended that you must not eat seafood from the stalls on the beach if you are visiting beaches in puri.

Suggested Read: 13 Best Places To Visit In India With Family For A Unforgettable Vacation

36. Lakshadweep

The cluster of one lakh islands, Lakshadweep is all about love and romance. If you haven’t realized that yet, then try looking at the constant love affair between the emerald beaches and the turquoise sea waters.

Best Experiences: Islands, Beaches, Ocean, Coral reefs, Water sports, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling How To Reach: The only airport in Lakshadweep is at Agatti Island Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 15,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 7 to 10 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Coral Beach Resort, Seashells Beach Resort, Island Holiday Home Famous Restaurants : Heavens Treat Beach Restaurant, Ukka’s Beach Famous Markets : Agatti island market, Kavaratti Tips: For Lakshadweep Islands, you must carry loads of swim wear as the island is fully loaded with water activities and beaches.

37. Daman And Diu

Ethereal shorelines, ancient churches and the majestic Arabian Sea comprise the beauty of Daman and Diu. Unlike other sunny beach destinations, there’s something hauntingly enchanting about these islands that’ll bring you both closer to each other.

Best Experiences: Islands, Beaches, Caves, Churches, Diu Cycling Track, Diu Fort, Portuguese Culture and People How To Reach: Diu Airport is 5 km away from the town and the nearest railhead is Vapi, which is 10 km away Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 15,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 10 to 15 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: The Gold Beach Resort, Radhika Resort, Hotel Kohinoor, Kostamar Beach Resort, The Deltin Hotel & Casino, Sugati Beach Resort Famous Restaurants : Mirasol Lake Resort, O Coqueiro, Daman Delite Famous Markets : Maharaja Market, China Market, Municipal Market Tips: It is advisable that if you are planning to visit Daman and Diu then you must book flights well in advance otherwise the rates will be high.

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Lakshadweep: A Guide To The Archway To Marital Bliss

38. Leh and Ladakh

Yes, getting there could be a treacherous task but that’s the fun part if you and your partner are adventure junkies. After all it’s the home to one of the highest motorable roads of Leh-Ladakh in the world. This is among the most surreal, yet most romantic places to visit in India.

Best Experiences: Rustic Mountains, Lakes, Buddhist Culture, Monasteries and Gompas, Trekking How To Reach: Leh airport is the nearest air link. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 10 to 15 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: February to June and October to December Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Grand Dragon, Hotel Shangri-la, Hotel Druk Ladakh, Hotel Ladakh Residency, Hotel Ladakh Sarai Famous Restaurants : The Tibetan Kitchen, Chopsticks Noodle Bar, Bon Appetit Famous Markets : Leh Market, Vogue Zone, Leh Palace Tips: The temperature, passport and permit along with altitude sickness are some of the aspects that people must keep in mind while planning to visit Leh and Ladakh.

Number 35 on our list of honeymoon places in India is yet another adventure destination for all the hot blooded married couples out there! Auli isn’t just another snow filled hill station; it’s the Holy Grail of skiing in India.

Best Experiences: Snow clad mountains, Skiing, Cable Car, Hiking How To Reach: The nearest airport from Auli is in Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun and nearest railhead is at Haridwar Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to July Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Clifftop Club Resort, GMVN Auli Tourist Bungalow, Himalayan Abode, Joshimath Char Dham Camp, The Auli Resort Famous Restaurants : Auli ‘D’ Food Plaza Famous Markets : Joshimath Lower Market Tips: If you are planning trip for Auli on a bike ride then there are various aspects and essentials that one must keep in mind while visiting the place.

Suggested Read: 10 Auli Resorts For A Luxurious Stay In This Ski Destination

40. Mahabaleshwar

Be it a lovey-dovey boat ride at the Venna Lake or few candid moments spent at the various hill points of the Western Ghats, every moment at Mahabaleshwar is memorable when spent with that special someone.

Best Experiences: Western Ghats, Waterfalls, Venna Lake, Mapro Garden, Adventure activities How To Reach: The nearest airport is in Pune and the nearest railhead is in While Wathar Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 6,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All year round Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Brightland Resort & Spa, Savoy Village, Misty Woods Resort, Evershine – A Keys Resort, Citrus Chambers Mahabaleshwar Famous Restaurants : The Grapevine Restaurant, Farmhouse Bistro, Saayali Restaurant Famous Markets : Mahabaleshwar Market, Main Market, Mango Hotels Tips: There are various Do’s that is recommendable such as boating, horse riding, trekking and other fun filled activities which are a must in Mahabaleshwar.

The ancient forlorn ruins of Hampi are eerie and bewitching. Lose yourself as you walk arm in arm among the boulders perch precariously over miles of undulating terrains. Hampi is one of the best honeymoon destinations in India for all history enthusiasts. Best Experiences: Historic Ruins, Religious Places, Shopping, People and Culture How To Reach: Nearest airport is Hubli Airport and you can a get a train to Kariganur, 10 km away from Hampi Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 5 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Kishkinda Heritage Resort, Hampi’s Boulders, White Elephant Restaurant and Guesthouse, Thilak Home Stay Famous Restaurants : Suresh Restaurant, Mango Tree, Chillout Bamboo Famous Markets : Hampi Bazaar Tips: There is no deadline to visit a particular place at a particular time as most of the places are open from sunrise till sunset in Hampi.

Suggested Read: 17 Honeymoon Destinations In India In Monsoon For Making It Last Forever

42. Khajuraho

Come to Khajuraho to admire the World Heritage listed temples carved in some of the world’s finest and most erotic temple arts. If you and your spouse truly enjoy history and culture, there can’t be a better place to be at for your honeymoon.

Best Experiences: Ancient Monuments, Sculptures, Art, Temples, Culture How To Reach: Khajuraho has its own domestic airport; however, Khajuraho railway station is connected to a few towns only including New Delhi Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 7,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Isabel Palace, Hotel Clarks Khajuraho, The Lalit Temple View Khajuraho, Radisson Jass Hotel Khajuraho, Ramada Khajuraho, Hotel Harmony Famous Restaurants : Safari Canteen, Raja Cafe, Indiana Restaurant Famous Markets : Gol Market Khajuraho Tips: You must surely visit Khajuraho Temples which will take you back to the 10 th century and are a UNESCO world heritage as well.

43. Dhanaulti

Are you looking for a romantic escapade off the beaten tracks of Indian hill stations? Dhanaulti will fulfil your desire with untouched, alluring landscapes, away from all the hustle and bustle. Dhanaulti is one of the best honeymoon destinations in India as it offers couples a blissful vacay in the hills!

Best Experiences: Hills, snow-capped Mountains, untouched landscapes How To Reach: Dehradun has the nearest airport as well as the railway station Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 6,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to July Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Classic Hill Top Resort, Club Mahindra Kanatal Spa Resort, Apple Orchard Resort, Burans Breeze, Camp Carnival, Camp Little Jaguar, Camp O Royale Famous Restaurants : Momos Tibetan Kitchen, Fortune Resort Grace, Urban Turban Bistro Famous Markets : Sisters Bazaar, Tibetan Market Tips: You are advised to carry enough cash along with enough fuel in your vehicle as there is a scarcity of petrol pumps and ATM’s in Dhanaulti.

Suggested Read: Khajuraho Temples: Make Sure To Visit These 15 Sensuous Sculptures

44. Lonavla and Khandala

These romantic places maybe a regular weekend getaway for the Mumbaikars, however, if you haven’t been here before, a honeymoon can be a splendid experience. And experiencing the Western Ghats up, close and personal is awesome any day!

Best Experiences: Western Ghats, Waterfalls, Caves, Forts How To Reach: Nearest airport is at Pune and the Lonavla has a railhead that is 3 km away from Khandala Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 7,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 4 to 5 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: August to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Fariyas Resort Lonavala, The Lagoona Resort, Kumar Resort, Lake View Resort, Orchard Resort Famous Restaurants : Cafe 24, Pnf Restaurant & Bar Famous Markets : Lonavla Bazaar, The Bombay Store, Maganlal & Sons Tips: You must plan some adventurous activities in Khandala and Lonavala like camping, hiking and trekking which will make your trip thrilling and exciting.

45. Mount Abu

The one and only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is a beautiful oasis in midst of the Thar Desert. The alluring climate and the gorgeous views of the majestic Aravalli make it one of the most awesome honeymoon destinations in India for honeymooners.

Best Experiences: Aravalli Range, Temples, Wildlife Sanctuary, Rocky Mountains How To Reach: The nearest airport to Mount Abu is Maharana Pratap Udaipur Airport and the closest railway station is Abu Road Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Ratan Villas, Hotel Hillock, Hotel Vinayak, Hotel Silver Oak, Hotel Hilltown, Cama Rajputana Club Resort Famous Restaurants : Mulberry Tree, Tandoori Bites Famous Markets : Nakki Lake Market, Tibetan Market, Kashmir Cottage Tips: You must visit Dilwara temple when planning for Mount Abu. You must carry a light jacket with you in case you feel cold in the evenings.

Suggested Read: A Complete Guide To Mount Abu Summer Festival For First Time Visitors

46. Mussoorie

Apart from being a lovely hill town in Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is also home to India’s one of the most loved authors, Ruskin Bond. Enjoy leisurely strolls, sit long hours at the coffee shops and go to the bookstore down the lane with your soulmate and unwind your love for each other. Mussoorie is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India and many couples visit it for a romantic getaway!

Best Experiences: Hills, Mountains, Waterfalls, Lakes, Cable Car How To Reach: The nearest airport and railway station are in Dehradun, 54 km away Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to June Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Padmini Nivas, The Amber – Vermont Estate, Jaypee Residency Manor, Fortune The Savoy, Carltons Plaisance Famous Restaurants : Funjabi Tandoorzz, Kalsang Famous Markets : Classic Emporium, Lal Tibba Tips: To enjoy the real beauty of Mussoorie you must travel Mall road by foot and must visit Kempty Fall which is the main highlight of Mussoorie.

47. Sundarbans

Sundarban National Park is amongst the offbeat, exotic honeymoon destinations in India . If the splendor of wildlife entices you and your better half, then you can choose to spend your honeymoon here. The beauty of this Tiger Reserve is unique and raw being the natural habitat of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger.

Best Experiences: Rare Flora and Fauna, Birds, Wildlife Safari, Eco Tourism, Historic Places How To Reach: The nearest airport is in Kolkata, 112 km away and the closest train station is in Sealdah Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 6,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: September to April Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Sundarban Riverside Holiday Resort, Sundarban Tiger View Point Resort, Sajnekhali Tourist Lodge, Suranjana Holiday Resort Tips: For Sundarbans, you must plan a trip on your own only then can you take the complete advantage of visiting these beautiful deltas.

48. Matheran

Matheran may be the tiniest hill town in India but none can measure up to the beauty of this gem of the most romantic places. Perched atop the Sahyadri summit, it is gifted with dappled forests crisscrossed with foot trails and breathtaking views making it one of the most idyllic honeymoon destinations in India for newly married couples.

Best Experiences: Toy Train, Hills, Western Ghats, Flora and Fauna, Eco Tourism How To Reach: Pune has the nearest railway station as well as the airport Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 7,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: September to June Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Rivera, Hotel Horseland, Hotel and Mountain Spa, The Verandah in the forest, Fleetwood House, Usha Ascot, Brightlands Resorts Famous Restaurants : Kokan Katta, Amantran Famous Markets : Ratanbai Peston jee Kapadia Memorial Market, Khandala Point, Louisa Point Tips: You must carry enough stuff with you in terms of clothes and a comfortable pair of walking shoes as you are required to enjoy the place on foot.

49. Coonoor

One of the best honeymoon places in India is the delight of the Nilgiri Range – Coonoor. Much smaller and quieter than Ooty it is a perfect place for newlyweds to enjoy some peaceful moments amid the tranquility.

Best Experiences: Hills, Colonial quarters, Tea gardens, Waterfalls How To Reach: Coonoor has it’s own railhead and the nearest airport is Peelamedu Airport. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2 to 3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: All year round Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Sunvalley Homestay, Kurumba Village Resort, MGM Hill Worth Resorts, Tea Nest, Neemrana’s – Wallwood Garden Famous Restaurants : Khana Khazana, Jharokha Restaurant, Ced’s Cafe Tips: As the temperature and weather in Coonoor is pleasant you can visit it anytime of the season. However, October till May is regarded as the best time.

Suggested Read: 38 Romantic Honeymoon Places In South India That Cast Utter Magic

50. Rann of Kutch

On a moonlit night, it’s a divine experience to watch the vast expanse of salt marsh desert glittering ethereally. A multitude of varied hues, cornucopia of design, a superfluity of culture, and an extravaganza of music and dance, all together in the arid lands of Kutch is nothing less than an enchanting experience. It is undoubtedly one of the best honeymoon spots in India. 

Best Experiences: Rann Utsav , Salt Marsh desert, Culture and People How To Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuj and the closest railway station is in Bhuj Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 8,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: JP Resort, Hotel Mandvi Beach Resort, Spacious Heritage Homestay Famous Restaurants : Kiaayo Resort, Rann Village Famous Markets : Bhuj Main Market Tips: You must be ready to walk as only then will you be able to capture the beautiful pictures of the White desert in your camera thereby creating everlasting memories.

51. Rishikesh

Rishikesh is touted as the Yoga capital of the world! However, if you’re not into their world-class holistic wellness experience, treat yourself to the adrenaline pumping adventure sports here. With impressive stay options, Rishikesh is one of the top honeymoon destinations in India.

Best Experiences: Spa and Wellness, Yoga, White water Rafting, Camping, Religious places, Ganges, Luxury Resorts How To Reach: The nearest airport is at Dehradun, Jolly Grant Airport. Railway service is available till the nearby city Haridwar. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 2-3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: Jan-June Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: VNA Resorts, Second Life Resort, Explore Himalayas Resort, Phoolchatti Resort, Atali, EllBee Ganga View Famous Restaurants : The Sitting Elephant, Ayurpak, The Ganga View Famous Markets : Gole Market, Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula Tips: You must visit Laxman jhula and ram jhula when visiting Rishikesh and plan your river rafting which is a fun filled activity that you are surely going to enjoy.

Suggested Read: 95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World For A Romantic Escape

52. Tarkarli

If you are the kind of couple who are looking for a beach destination that isn’t flocked with tourists, then Tarkarli is one of the best places for honeymoon in India . This Malvan paradise if famed for its stunning coast, delicious local cuisine, dolphin spotting, and the Sindhudurg Fort that dates back to the 17th century.

Best experience: Dolphin spotting, scuba diving, food trails, sightseeing and water sports How To Reach: Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport to Tarkarli. The nearest railway station is Kudal. Ideal honeymoon duration: 2-3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best hotels or resort for honeymoon: Kinara Resort, Fantasea Beach Resort, and Blue Sea Beach Homes Famous Restaurants : Tamhankar’s Konkan Cultural Treat, Swami, Atithi Bamboo Famous Markets : Amba Wadi Tips: Plan your beach activities like parasailing which is indeed full of fun and thrill and must not forget the amazing views of the Karli backwaters.

53. Gokarna

Gokarna was once a pilgrims’ spot, but with the growing time, it was discovered by the foreign travelers and was picked as a better alternative compared to Goa. If the crowded streets and parties of Goa aren’t what you’re looking for on your honeymoon, then you must pick Gokarna. It is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India and will rejuvenate you from within, through its peaceful beaches and wellness resorts.

Best experience: Beach hopping, Yoga, temple hopping, shopping, and water activities How To Reach: Dabolim Airport in Goa is the nearest airport to Gokarna. Ankola is the nearest railway station to Gokarna. Ideal honeymoon duration: 2-3 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to March Best hotels or resort for honeymoon: SwaSwara, Sanskruti Resort, and Kudle Beach View Resort & Spa Famous Restaurants : Mantra, Cafe Surya, Ocean Pearl Famous Markets : Flea market Tips: For all the adventurous people out there, trek in Gokarna will surely dare your spirit. Plan your visit accordingly.

Suggested Read: 35 Things To Do In Gokarna To Escape The Monotony Of Life

54. Cherrapunji

Despite receiving rainfall throughout the year, Cherrapunji is one of the most picturesque and best honeymoon places in India. Adorned with the nature’s tranquil sceneries and enchanting waterfalls, this exotic serves as a great place to enjoy a relaxing vacation.

Best Experiences: Luxury resorts, Motorcycle expedition, Witnessing the enchanting waterfalls How To Reach: The nearest airport from Cherrapunji is Shillong Airport Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 12,500 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 6 to 7 Days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to May Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Kutmadan Resort, Polo Orchid Resort Cherrapunjee, Saimika Resort Famous Restaurants : Halari, Orange Roots, Jiva Grill Famous Markets : Big Market, Sohra Tips: For Cherrapunji, one of the months that you must surely avoid visiting to this place is the month of May in which this place receives highest rainfall.

55. Chikmangalur

Just like the other places in South India, Chikmagalur is blessed with breathtaking views of scenic hills and forests. The isolation from the hustle-bustle and the splendid view of the lush-green forests makes it one of the best honeymoon destinations in India for couples to enjoy their first vacation together.

Best Experiences: Coffee plantations, Wildlife sanctuary, Trekking, Camping. Chikmangalur is considered as one of the most visited honeymoon destinations for indian couples who love adventure! How To Reach: There are no railway station and airport in Chikmagalur, hence one has to take a taxi or bus from Mangalore airport which is the nearest. Whereas the kadur rail head is the nearest for people traveling by train. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 7,500 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 3 to 4 Days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: September to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Java Rain Resorts, The Serai Resorts, Trivik Hotels and Resorts Famous Restaurants : Town Canteen, Cafe Agape, Maharaja Restaurant Famous Markets : More Supermarket, Orange supermarket Tips: As there is no facility of Airport in Chikmagalur and the nearest airport is in Mangalore so you must plan and book a cab or taxi well in advance.

Suggested Read: 7 Wondrous Cherrapunji Waterfalls: Sheer Beauty Cascading Down From Great Heights

56. Kanyakumari

For the couples looking for a relaxing beach vacation along with a religious tour, Kanyakumari is one of the best honeymoon places in India. Along with the pristine beaches and the ancient temples, this place is the meeting point of three oceans – the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.

Best Experiences: Witnessing the sunset and sunrise at the beautiful beaches, ancient temples, historic forts How To Reach: The nearest airport from Kanyakumari is the Trivandrum airport whereas the nearest rail head is Thiruvananthapuram. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 5,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 5 to 6 Days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: VLS Holiday Home, Anantya Resorts and Hotels, Sparsa Famous Restaurants : The Ocean Heritage Restaurant, the Curry, Hotel Saravana Famous Markets : Daily Market Kanyakumari Tips: Most of the Indians prefer to travel for Kanyakumari via train to enjoy the beautiful sights and views on their ride.

The honeymooners would not only get to enjoy the natural beauty of the hill station, but also get to engage in adventure activities, traveling around the valley, shopping for souvenirs, and staying in the best accommodations at very pocket-friendly prices. A visit to Chandratal Lake and a few monasteries in Spiti Valley are the most famous attraction of this place. Make your trip memorable by including these places in your itinerary. You can plan a trip to Spiti as it one of the best honeymoon destinations in India.

Best Experiences: Take a tour of Chandratal Lake and the monasteries in Spiti Valley. How To Reach: There are two routes, which you can take to reach the valley, one is via Manali that crosses Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass, and the other route is via Shimla. Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 10,750 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 6 to 7 Days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: April to August Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Hotel Royal View and Green Valley Resort Famous Restaurants : Dragon, Kunzum, Sachin Kunga, Dupchen Tips: For family trips to Spiti, you must plan for all things of consideration like food, clothes, first aid kit and other essentials.

Suggested Read: Bike Trip from Kanyakumari To Kashmir: A Ride Of Glory

Lying in the Konkan region in Maharashtra, Alibag is one of the best honeymoon destinations in India. where you can spend your weekend. This small town is usually referred to as ‘mini Goa’ in view of the number of tourists it receives round the year. From Mumbai, this dainty town is at a distance of 110 kilometers.

Best Experiences: Scuba diving, kayaking, kiteboarding, jet skiing How To Reach: You can either take the ferry through which you’ll arrive at Revas Jetty – from here, it’ll take you 1 hour 30 minutes to reach Alibag. You can take the Mumbai-Goa Highway when driving to the town – this will take 3 to 4 hours Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 3,000 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 1 to 2 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: November to July Famous Restaurants : Sanman, Fulora Famous Markets : Fish market, Chetana, Gopi market Tips: Snorkelling and scuba diving are some of the highlights of Alibag which you must not miss out on.

Popularly renowned as The City of Palaces, Mysore is loved for its history and culture. The city’s rich heritage, architectural masterpieces, and landscapes are worth witnessing. It is the most peopled city in the Indian state of Karnataka. Lying in the foothills of Chamundi range, this city attracts people from all over the world who are looking for honeymoon destinations in India..

Best Experiences: visit Mysore Palace and behold its architectural brilliance; visit Brindavan Gardens, Karanji Lake, St. Philomena Church, and Chamundi Hills Bull Statue. Planning a trip to Mysore can be your best couple honeymoon destinations in india. How To Reach: Nearest airport from Mysore is Bangalore International Airport. You can reach Mysore via bus, taxi, or train. By road, it’ll take you around 3 hours to reach Mysore Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 16,799 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 1 to 2 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: July to February Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Royal Orchid Metropole, Silent Shores Resort & Spa, The Windflower Resort & Spa Famous Restaurants : Gufha, Poojari’s Fish Land Famous Markets : Devaraja Market Tips: The best thing about visiting Mysore is that the city of Palaces is meant for all age groups along with carrying your first aid kit.

Suggested Read: 40 Things To Do In Mysore Perfect For Experiencing The City

60. Mukteshwar

One of the picturesque hill stations of Uttarakhand , Mukteshwar is admired for its coniferous forests, fruit orchards, and rolling meadows. You’ll find quaint cottages here with colonial architecture. Mukteshwar is one of the most visited honeymoon destinations in India. You can even behold the awe-striking Nanda Devi Peak from this town.

Best Experiences: Try rock climbing, rappelling, and other similar adventurous sports here How To Reach: Dehradun Airport is easily accessible from the town and so is Kathgodam Railway Station Land Package For Honeymoon: Starting from INR 6,500 per person Ideal Honeymoon Duration: 1 to 2 days Best Time To Visit For Honeymoon: October to June Best Hotels Or Resorts For Honeymoon: Panchachuli House, StayApart Maa Gauri Resort, Nakshatra Cottages, Parvada Bungalows Famous Restaurants : The Birdcage, Nirvana Organic Kitchen, Alankar Famous Markets : Mukteshwar market Tips: If you are planning your visit to Mukhteshwar, then you must not miss out the beautiful sunrise of the Bhimtal lake which is pleasing to the eyes.

19 Places To Visit In Kashmir For Honeymoon In Paradise

So, which of these best honeymoon destinations in India have you picked for your romantic holiday? Well, whatever be your decision, don’t forget to call up the experts at TravelTriangle that can craft for you both a smashing tour in the destination of your choice. And if you know of any more desi destinations where you can take a honeymoon trip to pamper your better half, share them in the comments below.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Honeymoon Destinations In India

Which are the safest yet romantic destinations in India for a honeymoon?

Goa, Andaman & Nicobar, Kerala, Jammu & Kashmir, Kodaikanal are some of the most happening places which are good for couples celebrating their honeymoon.

Which are the best honeymoon places in India currently that allow travellers in their state?

Sonmarg in Jammu & Kashmir, Manali in Himachal Pradesh, Mussoorie in Uttarakhand, Nainital in Uttarakhand are some of the best honeymoon places in India currently that allow travellers in their state.

Which are the best destinations in India for a beach honeymoon?

Havelock Island, Neil Island, Diu Island, Divar Island, Goa, St. Mary’s Island in Karnataka are the best beach destinations in India for honeymoon vacations.

What things are to be kept in mind before traveling given the coronavirus situation?

Do keep in check the below mentioned points before planning a trip: Carry hand sanitizers, masks, tissues and disinfectant wipes, book your trip well in advance, avoid contact with surface, and maintain social distancing.

Where should we go for a honeymoon in Kerala?

Some of the places that you should definitely consider visiting when you’ve come to Kerala for your honeymoon are: Kochi, Munnar, Wayanad, Alleppey, Thekkady, Bekal, and Kumarakom.

Which is the best place in India for Honeymoon?

Out of all the best honeymoon places in India, these are some of the handpicked destinations which are a favorite for every couple planning a relaxing holiday. Kerala, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Goa, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan.

Which place is the best for a honeymoon in India in October?

Some of the best places to visit for a honeymoon in India in October are Gangtok, Andaman & Nicobar, Wayanad, Shimla, Lakshadweep which have pleasant weather and picturesque views to enjoy a relaxing vacation.

Is Kerala a good place for a honeymoon?

Kerala is considered as one of the best places for a honeymoon as there lush-green tea plantations at Munnar, picturesque backwaters at Alleppey and Kovalam and Marari beaches which gives a perfect view to enjoy a romantic vacation.

Which is the best place for a honeymoon in November?

As the winter arrives in India in November, there are many places that are considered perfect for a honeymoon. Some of the best places to go are Khandala, Agumbe, and Cochi which are known for the lush-greenery and finest surroundings.

Is Ladakh a good place for a honeymoon?

While people prefer places that are surrounded by lush greenery and serenity for a honeymoon, Ladakh is also a good place for people who are adventurous and want to witness the magnificent peaks of the mountains.

Which place is the best for a honeymoon in summer in India?

Some of the best places for honeymoon in summer in India are Nainital, Gangtok, Andaman & Nicobar, Coorg, and Kerala.

Which country is the best for a honeymoon?

Some of the best countries for honeymoon are Singapore, Maldives, Mauritius, Paris, Sri Lanka, and Koh Lanta.

Which part of Goa is best for a honeymoon?

Here are some of the places in Goa that will help the two of you have a great travel experience during your honeymoon: Sinquerim Beach, Palolem Beach, Agonda Beach, Colva Beach, Butterfly Beach, Mobor Beach, and Ashwem Beach.

People Also Read

Honeymoon Places In Texas Honeymoon Places In New Jersey Honeymoon Places In Switzerland

Recent Posts

Offbeat Places Near Rishikesh – 7 Offbeat Travel Destinations Near Rishikesh

Trekking Near Tumkur: Stunning Natural Landscapes That Await Exploration

Visit Kukke Subramanya Temple For Spiritual Solace Amidst Nature’s Charm

Guruvayurappan Temple: A Spiritual Odyssey Through Kerala’s Divine Abode of Tranquility

Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple And Its Enchanting Legacy

Explore The Magnificence Of Mangalnath Temple: The Birthplace Of Mars

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Before and after tourism(s). The trajectories of tourist destinations and the role of actors involved in "off-the-beaten-track" tourism: a literature review

Notes de la rédaction.

Report compiled within the framework of a collaborative research project entitled "The transformation of ordinary places into tourist locations and the abandonment of tourism enclaves: what is civil society's role?" (Alain Chenevez, Francesca Cominelli, Aurélie Condevaux, Géraldine Djament-Tran, Edith Fagnoni, Maria Gravari-Barbas, Sandra Guinand, Anne Hertzog, Sébastien Jacquot and Cécile Renard-Delautre), PUCA ( Plan Urbanisme Construction Architecture [Town Planning, Construction, Architecture]), France.

Texte intégral

Introduction.

1 The evolution in tourism practices is challenging the oppositions that exist between tourist and non-tourist destinations as well as between the actors from both camps. Tourist destinations are becoming ordinary places whilst ordinary places are becoming tourist destinations. Holiday resorts are turning into towns (Stock, Lucas, 2012) and working-class suburbs are becoming established as emergent tourist spots (Gravari-Barbas, Fagnoni, 2013).

2 This to-ing and fro-ing between the ordinary and the extraordinary are sometimes called upon in support of the idea that the 21 st century appears to mark the advent of the "post-tourism" era. This is thought to be characterised by the end of tourism as a field offering specific social, spatial and temporal horizons and a de-differentiation between tourist and non-tourist destinations and practices. The boundaries are becoming blurred between the here and the elsewhere and between the exotic and the everyday. A tourist can no longer simply be defined as " someone who made the periodic, temporary transition from the ordinary space–time of industrial work to the extraordinary space–time of going on holiday " (Girard, 2013: 45).

3 This dilution of tourism into everyday practices is thought to translate, furthermore, into a weakening of the distinction between civil society and tourism as a commercial sector. Whilst "experiential" has become a buzz word in tourism marketing, tourism professionals are stressing the need to meet tourists' expectations with a provision that is based on a total and sincere commitment that goes beyond the classic boundaries of business and pleasure (Blondeau, 2015). Conversely, tourists are becoming actors in the creation of tourism products. Toffler (1980) refers to this as " prosumption ", a contraction of production and consumption (in Gombault, 2011) . With the help of new technologies, tourism practices now often rely on do-it-yourself arrangements, which use social, transport and accommodation networks in ways that are outside the control of professional tourism operators, on the one hand, and tourism policies, on the other. According to Schéou (2013), if the "end of tourism" is nigh, it could be defined as the challenge that these new practices present to the commercial dimensions of tourism.

4 The aim of this literature review is to examine the current hybridisation processes at work between ordinary and tourist destinations by focusing on the emergence of tourism in some places and the end of tourism in others. These issues are analysed within the larger context of the notion of post-tourism, which has been a particularly important element in tourism studies since the 1990s. This review will be guided by two main questions: (i) How can a large group of actors who are not necessarily involved either in the policy (institutionalised) field or in the tourism market participate in the contemporary dynamics of tourism? and (ii) How should these changes be defined? Do they mark the beginning of a new era in tourism (whether this is defined as post- or hyper-tourism)?

5 Following a summary of post-tourism approaches, this literature review presents and analyses the ways in which research has resulted in accounts of tourism development in ordinary urban or rural locations. It then examines the role of the actors who are not involved in ( or who do not consider themselves to be involved in ) either the industry or the tourism policies in these intersected dynamics.

Post-tourism and the “end of tourism”

6 The notion of post-tourism was introduced in 1985 by Feifer, who defined post-tourists as those who were less dependent on the tourism industry and who had different types of tourism experiences. This expression has since been used by many authors and has taken on varied meanings. According to Girard (2013), post-tourism can be understood in two ways These can both be related to the points of view developed independently in the 1990s by two sociologists, Jean Viard and John Urry (Girard, 2013: 43), but both are based on the observation that the lines are blurred between tourism and non-tourism, and this is linked to the de-differentiation between the here and the elsewhere.

7 The first perspective, developed by Urry (1995), situates this phenomenon in a post-modern, globality. This point of view presupposes a rupture between modernity and post-modernity, not only in the blurring of the distinctions but also in the renewal of the values on which tourism practices are based. It aims to provide a theoretical account of the far-reaching changes within society and of the new ways of doing tourism. This perspective thus allows us to give an account of the general criticism surrounding tourism. For some, this seems to be doomed to disappear in a world where mobility – both for ecological and economic reasons – has to be reconsidered. It also allows us to give an account of new trends in tourism practices, such as the quest for authentic experiences or new ways of exploiting this authenticity.

8 The second perspective, which corresponds to Viard’s position (2000; 2006), describes the process of extending cultural tourism values to different social horizons. It aims, more concretely, to give an account of what happens after tourism has been developed in certain highly tourist areas when these areas attract not only tourists but also new residents, who can therefore be considered as post-tourists. This perspective documents the "after", in other words the extended tourism developments, or the post-tourism spirals as Girard called them.

9 We therefore seem, on the one hand, to have an approach that highlights the reinvention of tourism through practices that exploit the boundaries between the ordinary and the extraordinary and which offer alternative practices or destinations " that emphasise the diversity of new destinations made touristic " (Bourdeau, 2012: 43). On the other, post-tourism takes on a more literal meaning. It refers to a process of transition and of residential reconversion in holiday resorts and tourist regions (Viard, 2000 and 2006; Violier, 2002; Rieucau, 2000).

10 Whichever perspective is considered (in the literal or more general sense), the contemporary trends in tourism are thought to lead to a break with " tourism in the strict sense of the word, which emerged with the arrival of modernity " (Bourdeau, 2012: 43), which is based on a " highly polarised and polarising ad hoc planning and development of spaces where the main heritage attraction (monument, famous site) and the resort are seen as symbolic " ( ibid .: 44). It is worth remembering just how much the idea of spatial as well as temporal rupture was thought to be a constituent of tourism in the 20 th century. Graburn (1989) thus saw in tourism a way of marking the difference between the sacred and the profane in modern secularised societies. In other words, he saw in it a practice equivalent to that of the rituals that effected an inversion of the normal course of social life in more traditional societies. This tourism in the strict sense of the word is, moreover, marked by strong political and socio-economic intervention (Bourdeau, 2012).

11 The de-differentiation of practices is one of the elements that is thought to most clearly mark the break with this tourism model and our entry into post-tourism. This hypothesis, put forward in particular by Urry (1995), is a necessary response to new mobility practices that are difficult to classify in tourism and leisure terms, which include short stays, single overnight stays (or no overnight stays) and the lack of a strong otherness differential questioning the practice’s (non-)tourism character (Équipe MIT, 2011: 201). The rupture between the space–time of everyday life and that of holidays is questioned here. The de-differentiation observation is also essential for practices that pass from the routine to the non-routine, such as hobbies or leisure activities, which can become the main reason for a holiday – for example, a golf or tango training course – or conversely, recreational practices associated with tourist destinations can become part of the everyday space (a climbing wall in a person's own home) (Équipe MIT, 2011). This de-differentiation or dissolution of tourism in ordinary practices and vice versa is also thought, as mentioned in the introduction, to translate into a weakening of the distinction between the hosts and the visitors (Cohen and Cohen, 2012: 2182). Finally, it concerns the destinations themselves, with former tourist resorts become multiple-use spaces where tourism is only one use of many (cf. part III). To summarise, we seem to be facing an infusion of tourism in the everyday space, which is becoming " a normal method of spatially organising social realities, which not only express themselves in specific areas and practices but also, and especially, become present in situations that are not ostensibly tourism-related " (Lussault, 2007: 199).

12 The post-tourism perspective also focuses on changes in the behaviour of the tourists themselves. Poon (1993 and 1994) uses the term "new tourists", whom he describes as more experienced and educated. These new tourists are differentiable by their appetite for " amusement and ludic transgressions based on artifice, inauthenticity, pastiche, provocation and even a ‘devil-may-care’ cynicism… . In this secondary tourism, the main attraction is no longer thought to be a place’s geography, landscape or monuments. Rather, it is seen as centring on the sensation and the experience created by events, shows and festivals or by unrestricted, hybrid recreational experiences in which the marketing of new products and the organisation of the activities seem to play a key role " (Bourdeau, 2012: 44). This central role accorded to amusement goes hand-in-hand with the acceptance that tourism products are artificial. Hence, "' post-tourists', rather than being interested in the origins of supposedly authentic attractions, prefer ironically and playfully to surf attractions that are clearly inauthentic " [translated from French] (Cohen, 2008 in Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015).

13 At the same time, and this runs partly counter to these observations, some authors highlight the fact that the new tourists seem to be increasingly in search of an authentic experience as well as a personalised, tailor-made provision (Équipe MIT, 2011). They are looking for an "off-the-beaten-track" experience and are drawn to the mundane, the routine and the familiar (Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015). Rather than just a simple one-directional evolution, we seem to be dealing with a plurality of behaviours, which some authors account for through more detailed typologies. Hughes thus talks of "post-industrial tourists" when discussing those tourists who wish to control the impact of their practices and to behave in an ethical manner towards local populations (which, moreover, corresponds to trans-tourism, as defined by Bourdeau [2012: 44]) and "postmodern tourists" to refer to those tourists who can enjoy an "overrated" show whilst being perfectly aware of its inauthenticity (Hughes, 1995 in Moscardo and Pearce, 1999).

14 Finally, rather than dismiss these tourist categories because they are defined by different attitudes and values, some authors make the increased expectations and desires of contemporary tourists a property of these tourists (Gombault 2011: 19). This hypothesis is called hyper-tourism. It is taken up by a number of authors making the observation that the new tourism practices (alternative tourism, off-the-beaten-track tourism, etc.) are not replacing visits to famous tourist spots (Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015) and that tourists interested in alternative forms of tourism can also continue to enjoy seaside resort tourism at the same time, which still has much to offer (Berriane and Nakhli, 2011). The hyper-tourism thesis allows us, therefore, to give an account not only of this accumulation and diversification of practices, where tourists move indifferently from seaside tourism to alternative or heritage tourism, but also of the spread and transversality of contemporary tourism phenomena (Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015).

15 Despite the criticism of post-tourism theory (Girard, 2013), these approaches have the merit of drawing attention to the renewal of values that form the basis of tourism practices. Questioning certain aspects of tourism leads to a rediscovery of the "nearby" and/or a search for other ways in which to do tourism. It is, for example, partly in the criticism of mass tourism that the question of rural tourism as a more sustainable tourism makes a reappearance. However, the hypothesis of the end of tourism leads us to examine the reconversion of tourism destinations (what happens after tourism?). Developing tourism in ordinary areas, just like the abandonment of tourist destinations, can therefore be analysed as the effects – local or globalised – of a challenge to tourism practices. These approaches allow us to shed light on the mechanisms of developing tourism around the ordinary, around the end of tourism and around hybridisation but, above all, they enable us to think about the processes as a whole.

Developing tourism in "ordinary places"

16 The question of the ordinary in tourism needs to be repositioned within the recent awareness within the human and social sciences of the thematic of the ordinary (Marie, Dujardin, Balme, 2002) and/or the routine. From the late 1980s onwards, Sansot's poetical socio-anthropology has been calling "for an aesthetics of ordinary landscapes" (Sansot, 1989). Since the late 1990s, geographers (especially social geographers) have examined the "territories of everyday life" (di Meo, 1996) and "ordinary spaces" (Berger, Pousin, 2008) in the tradition of the work of Lefebvre (1947) and/or de Certeau (1990) or of Perec's (1989) infra-ordinary study. At around the same time, urban studies have also been undergoing a similar evolution, marked by a militancy in favour of studying "routine city life" (Farge, 1994), from the ordinary urban factory against the historiographical focus on extraordinary projects (Clémençon, 1999; Montel, Backouche, 2007). The metropolis is studied not as an exceptional city but in terms of its normal mode of operation (Halbert, 2010), and ordinary towns are studied by breaking away from the global towns/other towns and Northern towns/Southern towns dichotomies (Robinson, 2006). In the field of heritage studies, where a "class rating" (Aguilar, 1982) has been criticised in the promotion of the extraordinary, the notions of small-scale heritage, local heritage and mundane heritage in Geppert and Lorenzi (2013) and of ordinary heritage and the mundane heritage industry in Isnart (2012) and Letissier (2014) have diffused through the influence of ethnology (Bromberger, 1999; Dassié, 2012) and new museology (Rivière, 1989), whilst the focus has been on ordinary practices of monumental heritage (Watremez, 2008). A similar line of questioning has spread to tourism studies.

17 The questioning of tourism practices translates most notably into a refocus on local spaces (or sometimes even forms of renouncing tourism), at least for some forms (air travel, long-haul destinations). Is developing tourism in ordinary areas the future for tourism? How do these transformations fit into the reconfiguration of the tourism system and in what ways do they respond to a greater involvement of civil society? First and foremost, however, what place could these ordinary areas have in tourism?

18 In contrast to prestigious and religious tourism areas, ordinary places are envisaged as "small or medium-sized towns and peri-urban spaces with no hosting tradition, [which] seek in tourism a new way of developing or of economic and territorial relabelling" (Bourdeau, 2012: 39). These ordinary spaces correspond, for example, to rural areas that have no mountains, coasts or insular tourist attractions. Vitte describes them as "non-tourism territories, as they have not been identified or recognised as such and they escape the structural and operational standards of so-called tourist areas" (1988: 69). The term "ordinary place" is becoming synonymous with "non-tourist place" in the sense that there is nothing remarkable about it that makes it attractive. The ordinary is therefore defined in negative terms or as the opposite of "hyper-specialised tourism spaces, that is to say spaces where the level of tourism activities dominates other activities" (Fagnoni, 2004: 51).

19 In this sense, any area will be ordinary until it is discovered by tourists. This mechanism of inventing tourism areas is highlighted by Knafou (most notably in 1991), who defines it as " a new use of an existing area that both subverts and develops it " ( ibid .: 11), that is, the mechanism separates it from its normal use and incorporates the area in question to new territories that were not previously connected by former usages (for example, linking beaches to coastal villages or mountains to alpine villages). The term "inventing" is preferred to that of "discovery" here since the latter suggests the exploration of an unknown place whilst the former emphasises a change of gaze ( ibid .).

• 1 Source: Les Promenades Urbaines: http://www.promenades-urbaines.com/modules/content/index.php?id=22 (...)

20 The rarely used expression "ordinary tourism" was coined by the association Promenades Urbaines (Aguas, Gouyette, 2011). This association was created in 2007 and has been providing tried-and-tested urban hikes since 2001, which are open to everyone from "discerning hikers" to "informed residents" to "enlightened tourists" 1 . Beyond the notion of inventing tourism, the expression “ordinary tourism” also refers to innovative forms of tourism. These are categorised in the literature as off-the-beaten-track tourism (Maitland, Newmann, 2004), alternative tourism (Breton, 2009; Butler, 1990, 1992; Cohen, 1987; Stephen, 2004), experimental tourism (Urbain, 2002), interstitial tourism ( ibid. ) (which adds a transgressive dimension to the innovative character of experimental tourism), slow tourism (Fullagar and Markwell, 2012), collaborative and participatory tourism (Coquin, 2008; Ferrary, 2015), creative tourism (Gombault, 2011), and so on.

21 The development of tourism in ordinary areas may arise from at least three main loics: a logic of diffusion from extraordinary areas towards local, ordinary areas; a logic of inventing a tourism area based on an ordinary area actually consuming its own ordinary character; and a logic of stigma reversal.

Diffusion and its limitations

22 The diffusion of tourism development in places central to peripheral areas is most apparent in suburban tourism. One example of this is the case of the Paris suburbs, a historically non-tourist area in relation to the Central Tourist District (Duhamel, Knafou, 2007). Some neighbourhoods, especially the former working-class and/or peri-central immigrant neighbourhoods currently undergoing gentrification, are gradually becoming new tourism destinations. Certain tourist metropolises are paradigmatic of these evolutions, including in particular Paris, London, New York and Berlin. In Berlin, Novy and Huning (2008) have identified the appearance of new tourism zones in the former working-class districts of Kreutzberg (former immigration district to the south of the historical centre) and Prenzlauer Berg, which became bohemian, gentrified neighbourhoods in the 1990s. In his thesis, Novy (2011) compared the Berlin neighbourhood of Kreutzberg and the New York neighbourhood of Harlem to illustrate how tourism contributes to increasing the value of historically marginal urban areas.

23 Maitland discusses the emergence of off-the-beaten-track tourism in London, using in particular the case studies of Islington, Bankside and Spitalfields, which are now peri-central, post-industrial, gentrified areas with a concentration of arty activities. Maitland highlights the emergence of a quest for the creative experience of everyday life as well as the synergies that exist between the tourists and the residents, who all come from the cosmopolitan consumer class (Maitland, 2010a). Maitland considers tourism to be a stakeholder in a continuum of mobilities and an integral part of everyday life ( ibid. ). He shows that the tourist gaze re-enchants the town and that, for the discerning visitor, the routine is not simply ordinary but also includes the extraordinary (Maitland, 2013).

24 The literature also identifies attempts in Paris to extend tourism beyond the city boundaries in response to increased global competition. These attempts were formalised in 2015 with the Paris ville augmentée project (which is developing tourism in Paris by using the transport network). The tourism stakeholders in the city’s periphery are already pleading “ For collaborative tourism in the Île-de-France. Bridging the gap between visitors and the Ile de France inhabitants ”, to use the title of a study carried out by Sallet-Lavorel in 2003 for the Paris Regional Planning and Development Agency (IAU Île-de-France).

25 The French example presents a specificity, in terms of combined efforts in the development of off-the-beaten-track tourism since the 1990s (particularly in 2000), of promoting tourism and suburban heritage (Jacquot, Fagnoni, Gravari-Barbas, 2013). Whilst the trajectory from tourism space to suburb (maintaining tourism features), as illustrated by Enghien, has been documented (Équipe MIT 2005), it is also now possible to identify the opposite trajectory, namely from suburb to tourism space (or suburb).

26 The invention of tourism in the ordinary areas of cities is also linked to the promotion of immigration tourism. Hence, the European Migrantour project, implemented in Italy to promote the cultural diversity of nine cities (Turin, Rome, Florence, Milan, Genoa, Lisbon, Marseille and Paris) from December 2013 to July 2015, has provided urban walks in multicultural districts, led by intercultural guides called culture couriers.

27 The same diffusion theory can be observed in the case of spaces that have retreated from the rural environment, such as that of Essaouira and surrounding areas in Morocco (Berriane and Nakhli, 2011). These marginal areas " benefit from the proximity of tourist resorts and their redistributed flow ". These areas are therefore defined more by their marginal or peripheral character in relation to the centres of attraction than by their ordinary character. It is worth noting, moreover, that not all peripheral areas seem devoted to benefitting from a diffusion of tourism practices.

28 The overspill, or diffusions of tourism from extraordinary places to nearby ordinary places, is by no means automatic. Bernier (2013) noted in his study of what he called the "marginal heritages" and "tourist peripheries" of the “Tourist Routes and Cultural Itineraries” (conference name) that a number of configurations are possible in the relationship between these routes and their peripheries. Whilst some routes tend to be veritable tunnels, other cases illustrate lateral overspill or linear accumulations. It appears that the overly ordinary or mundane aspect of peripheral areas is not enough to explain any lack of diffusion. The “shadow effect” can exist even when the marginal areas present a potential interest to tourism.

Turning an ordinary area into a tourism area

29 Developing tourism in rural areas often depends on different mechanisms because of their disconnect from the main tourist attractions in cities. An analysis of the literature on rural tourism reveals that it concerns areas that fall fairly systematically into the "ordinary" category. The definition of rural tourism, furthermore, encounters the same problem as that of ordinary areas in that it tends to appear "hollow" in contrast to positive references. According to some definitions, therefore, rural tourism is not connected to either mountain tourism or coastal tourism (Sceau and Plancoulaine, 1988). These spaces are described in literature as fragile or weakened (especially by rural exodus).

30 Developing tourism in ordinary rural areas is often perceived as a way to boost the local economy. However, an analysis of tourism development policies in these areas shows that the desired goal is often far from being attained, and this leads to pessimistic observations on " the current system’s tourism failure in rural areas, which appears to be less of a dominated periphery than a forgotten margin " (Vitte, 1998: 71). These destinations struggle, in particular, to highlight their specific identity, and they suffer from a vague and even negative image linked to the idea of poverty in remote rural areas ( ibid .). Policy rollout methods reinforce the difficulties of promoting this image. Countries position themselves on the scale of tourism development whilst their sense of tourism and identity is often very unclear. Despite conducting often costly studies in an attempt to develop a common denominator and a promotable image for the tourism market, tourists are rarely attracted to these territories and the originality and attractions they offer (Vitte, 1998).

31 Some studies show that for the development of ordinary rural areas to work, network development is a basic necessity. This is proven both in European and non-European case studies. Vitte (1988, 1998), for example, highlighted that fact that the use of accommodation in rural areas very often depends on branding, as in, for example, Relais et Châteaux (mostly in rural areas), Logis de France , Relais du silence and even Hôtels de Charme .

32 The same conclusion is drawn for non-Western countries. As Briedenhann and Wickens (2004) point out in their study of the development of tourism in rural areas in South Africa, rural tourism businesses are characterised by their small size and, as such, they have limited marketing and promotion investment capacities. Networking is therefore a must for those who wish to "stay ahead of the game" ( ibid:. 76). The authors comment on the capacity of tourist routes, which are organised around a theme (for example, rhinoceros conservation) and which connect several rural zones (sometimes spread over several countries), to create jobs and provide real tourism visibility. One of the main tools for successful tourism businesses in rural areas is therefore, as one interviewee states, " to (…) form part of a nodal development with a main attraction as the tourist drawcard " (Briedenhann and Wickens, 2004: 78). Finally, therefore, we come back to the question of diffusion. In order to promote ordinary or marginal regions, it is necessary to create a link with attractive zones.

33 Other methods can be used to make these areas attractive, such as Montaigne’s artialisation , which can be mobilised in both rural (for example, Lake Vassivière in the Limousin department and its contemporary art centre) and urban contexts. This process is often based on initially alternative artistic forms that can be institutionalised. Hence, street-art walks are being developed in the cities of Berlin, New York and Paris (especially in the 13 th arrondissement under the aegis of the local council, which has created street art walks, as well as in Vitry sur Seine under the aegis of the Vitry’n Urbaine association). Those involved in the invention of this city tourism are public bodies, associations and businesses. The Parisian startup Architrip offers Île de France inhabitants, professionals and also tourists original guided trips to "discover two centuries of outstanding architecture in Paris and the Île-de-France and the specific features of Parisian urban development".

Reversing stigmas

34 Creating tourism will only be a success if the stigmas associated with these areas – whether urban or rural – are counteracted, overturned and replaced by positive values. Tourist visits to socially and morally devalued areas finds its ambiguous origins in slumming: " a tourism practice that emerged at the end of the 19 th century, where rich London or New York inhabitants visited the neighbourhoods in their cities inhabited by the poor and the ethnic and sexual minorities to be outraged at and derive pleasure from their Otherness and their deviance and to reassure themselves of their own identity and the value of their own standards (Heap 2009, Koven 2004) " (Staszak, 2015).

• 2 http://www.lemonde.fr/europe/article/2009/12/31/les-cites-mal-aimees-se-rebiffent_1286303_3214.html (...)

35 Nowadays, tourist visits to run-down areas take more of a militant approach to reversing stigmas. Many towns have changed their status from unattractive and even highly negative ports and/or industrial towns – linked to an image of insecurity, dirtiness and ugliness (Marseille, Lodz or Belfast) – to that of trendy new tourist destinations. " Their touristic emergence is not only the result of moving beyond their difficult and painful heritages but also of highlighting and even promoting their problems " (Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015). One of the most illustrative examples of this type of dynamic is the Cities on the Edge twinned-cities project, organised in Liverpool in 2008. This is a support network for " the towns most disliked by their own country " 2 . These " awful, dirty and nasty " cities of (Thomazeau, 2009 in Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015), namely Marseille, Liverpool, Bremen, Naples and Gdansk, " have used their 'bad reputation' to mobilise and assert their identities and make themselves visible (Gravari-Barbas, 2013)" (Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015) . A typical example of developing tourism by inverting a negative regional opinion is also found in the post-industrial Belgian town of Charleroi, " the ugliest city in the world ", according to a Dutch daily newspaper (2008). A local artist has created the Urban Safari tour in response. It is supported by the Charleroi Adventure association, which plays on the city's clichés.

36 The development of tourism in ordinary urban areas in France, especially in the suburbs, relies on the same kind of stigma reversal and is sought through political action. The aforementioned efforts to promote tourism and suburban heritage (Jacquot, Fagnoni, Gravari-Barbas, 2013) have to fight against a negative regional image to create a new gaze on the suburb (de Clapiers, 2004). Hence, Saint-Denis has, in a post-industrial context, had an active tourism policy since the beginning of the 1990s. This has been developed with the Plaine Commune inter-municipality tourism scheme since 2003 (Kouloumbri, 2004), which promotes a type of alternative town (Cousin, Djament-Tran, Gravari-Barbas, Jacquot, 2016), as well as with Seine-Saint-Denis since the end of the 1990s. The CDT 93 (Comité Départemental de Tourisme, or Local Tourism Committee), in particular, organises successful tours called Douce banlieue (Peaceful Suburbs). Visitors are taken on tours of a "surprising, often unusual and misunderstood" heritage and to "meet the people who live and work in Seine-Saint-Denis".

37 Applying the same logic of working on territorial opinion and of stigma-reversal in run-down working-class neighbourhoods, the northern districts of Marseille (albeit, in administrative terms, they are located in the centre of Marseille) are being improved through an experimental heritage and tourism project, led by the Hôtel du Nord cooperative (Jolé, 2012; Breton, 2015; Hascoët, thesis in progress), which is building an international network entitled "H2H, from human to human, host to host, history to history ". The origins of this improvement project lie in an experimental integrated European heritage mission, created in 1995. This experience, whose stakeholders are part of the heritage sector but who are not in charge of tourist actions, is identified by Jolé (art. cit.) as being part of alternative (i.e., the alternative to mass tourism) and participative tourism.

38 Reversing stigmas does not necessarily stem from a political or associative commitment. The promotion of rural spaces, for example, is the result of a long process of inverting values and their associated opinions: " rural space, the land, now represents a place that is dreamt of, imagined, chosen, having been pushed aside, rejected and denigrated for so long " (Bessière, 2012: 27). This is particularly mirrored in the rise of ecological concerns and in the dissatisfactions generated by urban living. In contrast to cities, the countryside is perceived as a purifying source of revitalisation, where authentic convivial relationships can be created ( ibid .).

The end of tourism: becoming an ordinary place (again)?

39 The question of a potential after-tourism status can be studied more concretely than that of post-tourism. We can, for example, examine former tourist areas, whose infrastructures are increasingly being used by non-tourists while the tourists themselves are tending to become residents. In this sense, it is more a question of a boost in tourism rather than of a new era of tourism. This approach does not assume the transition from modernity to post modernity, but it allows us to understand the long-term phenomena generated by tourism on a territory. It is what Girard calls the post-tourism spiral.

40 The question of end of tourism burnout (Équipe MIT, 2011: 233) is little documented. The observation made two decades ago that " the study of previously tourist areas still remains to be carried out " (Knafou, 1996) is still partly relevant. It is actually the permanence of tourism areas and their ability to renew themselves in spite of major social changes that is a priori most striking. Despite the succession of what could be considered as four tourism systems over the past 200 years, many areas have continued to do well in the ways in which they have been used for tourism. This capacity for renewal can be explained by several factors. The first is the reproduction of spatial values associated with tourist visits, in other words what was considered beautiful between 1700 and 1800 remains so (Équipe MIT, 2011: 215). The Équipe MIT (Mobilities, Itineraries and Tourisms research group) talks of a “constant countryside value" ( ibid .: 216) in this respect. However, even though tourism practices undergo quite intense changes, a single site can attract different practices over time (cold sea water is replaced by heated water in the summer) ( ibid .: 214). Another factor in the persistence of tourism areas is linked to the social reproduction of the conditions in which tourism is practised. Tourism involves the mechanisms of learning and education and the transmission of a space’s tourism values not only from one generation to the next ( ibid .: 212) but also from one class to another and even from one society to another. For example, the image of Paris as the city of romance first attracted mainly European, English and German visitors, and these were then followed by American and now Chinese visitors. Finally, reproduction is driven by a complexification process through which destinations become diversified. Tourism areas are no longer dedicated to welcoming just tourists but an ever-growing population ( ibid .: 221).

41 How then, in conditions where everything seems in favour of reproducing the tourism use of an area, can tourism burnout be explained? Burnout is the process by which, against all the odds, some destinations appear to reach their maximum hosting capacities and then begin to fail. In the French literature, research provides a typology of tourism trajectories that follow three patterns (Clivaz, Nahrath, Stock, 2011; Darbellay, Clivaz, Nahrath, Stock, 2011): the relay, or permanent tourism renewal; the metamorphosis, or diversification of functions; and the decay, characterised by the decline or even the disappearance of the tourism function with no alternative, generating tourism wastelands, which although rare are documented (Rostock, Zadnicek, 1992; Löfgren, 1999; Bachimon, 2013).

Permanent renewal

42 In order to survive, a tourist destination must be able to transform itself, especially if it is to meet new tourism requirements. This was highlighted most notably by economist Butler's TALC (Tourism Area Life Cycle) model in 1980 (Butler, 1980; 2011). This model was initially developed in the 1970s/80s to analyse tourist resort life cycles. It is based on the assumption that tourist resorts are an economic product just like any other. They meet a need in the tourism market and adapt to the changes within this need. Resorts must transform themselves in order to adapt. While the model, which therefore anticipated a standard evolution pattern for resorts (Butler, 2011), has generated many extensions and applications, it has also been the subject of discussions and criticisms. In particular, these criticisms assert that the model was not empirically verifiable and even that it was useless, and they point out, moreover, that as the products were living things, it was difficult to define a model that was applicable to all (Butler, 2011: 11). Some researchers have also suggested adding supplementary steps to the model. These criticisms aside, case studies confirm the hypothesis formulated in the Butler model that “hanging on in there” in tourism terms involves having to make major investments.

43 This renewal of destinations may go through periods of crisis, such as that experienced by Majorca at the end of the 1980s. In response to a major drop in the number of holidaymakers, the authorities immediately created a regulation in response to the growing demand from tourists for sustainable tourism. The original quantitative policy was therefore replaced by a more qualitative development policy, which takes the promotion and preservation of the natural environment into consideration. Even though it was probably more the political European context that brought the tourists back rather than Majorca’s rapid reaction to the crisis, the initiatives for local tourism policy renewal have nevertheless received international recognition (Équipe MIT, 201: 227-228).

Examples of the diversification of uses and functions

44 Prospective approaches to the effects of climate change on tourism, which sometimes announce the imminent demise of winter sports and question the future of mountain resorts "after tourism", is a recurring question (Bourdeau, 2009; Savelli, 2012). For the moment, the charted developments do not, however, suggest the end of tourism. Rather, we are facing processes of use-diversification, linked in particular to urbanisation phenomena and the development of primary residences. The terms “diversification” (Violier, 2002), “complexification” and “complex society” (Rieucau, 2000; Équipe Mit, 2011) are used more frequently than hybridisation to define the process by which tourism resorts – often created ex-nihilo – are open to new usages. Even though these changes are frequently observed, they do not all follow a typical pattern and respond to particular allogeneic and endogenous influences.

45 Some examples of coastal resort diversification are also documented. Using a historical approach to La Baule's spatial transformations, Violier (2002) illustrates, for example, how a tourism area – built ex-nihilo – becomes a multiple-use area (tourism, residential and leisure). This evolution is marked by a decline in commercial accommodation and a rise in the residential population and concerns mainly elderly people. This renewal of an area’s uses does not erase previous tourism uses, which have a direct influence on the settlement of these new populations. The new residents do not challenge the spatial structure produced by tourism, but rather they settle in secondary residence zones. It is, furthermore, often through tourism that the new residents have discovered the area. The same transformation to a dual-purpose – permanent and seasonal – town was documented in the case of Grande Motte, which has become a town-resort with permanent activities (Rieucau, art. cit.). However, the development of this permanent town has been accompanied by a "destruction of the initial spatial model" ( ibid .: 644). Nevertheless, once again, the inherited former structure of the tourist resort is maintained.

46 In contrast to landlocked tourism areas, which are more controlled, these areas can be defined as heterogeneous, as suggested most notably by Maitland. A heterogeneous tourism area is “‘ weakly classified’, with blurred boundaries, and is a multi-purpose space in which a wide range of activities and people co-exist. Tourist facilities coincide with businesses, public and private institutions and domestic housing, and tourists mingle with locals, including touts. Generally, tourism has often emerged in an unplanned and contingent process and an unplanned bricolage of structures and designs provides a contrasting aesthetic context. In some ways, heterogeneous tourist spaces provide stages where transitional identities may be performed alongside the everyday enactions of residents, passers-by and workers” (Edensor, 2001: 64).

The end of tourism

47 The end of the tourist function in an area can be based on effects that are exogenous to the tourism system, such as geopolitical conflicts, border closures and accessibility problems. On a more global level, Cohen and Cohen (2012) present terrorism and natural environmental disasters as being part of the main constraints that currently influence destination choice and even directly threaten the survival of certain destinations. Hence, the tsunamis in the Indian Ocean in 2004 and in Japan in 2011 as well as hurricane Katrina had long-term effects on popular tourist destinations. The case of the 2004 tsunami has been highly documented (Coate, Handmer and Choong, 2006; Calgaro and Llyod, 2008; Robinson and Jarvie, 2008; Smith and Henderson, 2008; Ghaderi and Henderson, 2013).

48 In certain cases, the reconstruction costs are so high that they outweigh the areas’ interest for promotors, and the areas are left completely to abandon, as was the case for the West Indies after cyclones Luis (1995) and Lenny (1999) (Magnan, 2008, in MIT, 2011). In most cases, a significant drop in the number of visitors is recorded – this leads to a rise in pressure on tourism operators to lower prices (Henderson, 2005) – plus a simultaneous reduction in tourism provision as a result of the mass destruction.

49 In other cases, however, reconstruction is rapid, and sometimes an increase in visitor numbers is recorded. This was the case for Katherine Gorge in Australia's Northern Territories. Following an unprecedented and massively destructive flood at the beginning of 1998, visitor numbers to the gorge and village increased by 15% over the course of the year (Faulkner and Vikulov, 2001). This can be partly explained by the area’s heightened media exposure surrounding the disaster ( ibid. : 335). Terrorist attacks are also renowned for having a major influence on the number of tourist visits. This was the case following the attacks in Bali (Ghaderi, Som and Henderson, 2012) and Egypt, where the number of visitors are said to have dropped by about 43% after the 1992–1995 events (Robinson and Jarvie, 2008).

50 This decrease in the number of visitors is linked to fears that the destination is unsafe and unable to cater for tourists (Ghaderi and Henderson, 2013). Negative images can have a long-term impact, and they need substantial marketing campaigns to thwart them. This is unanimously agreed upon in the literature (Faulkner and Vikulov, 2001; Henderson, 2005; Rittichainuwat, 2011; Robinson and Jarvie, 2008). Studies reveal, furthermore, that the effects of a natural disaster do not only concern the destination that was directly affected but that they may have repercussions on other destinations (Ghaderi and Henderson, 2013). Some authors point out that, over and above their traumatic effect, post-disaster tourism crises – in the cases of rapid reconstruction – can have positive effects on tourism, as has been the case for Katherine Gorge, which saw the disaster as an opportunity to rebuild the park and therefore improve its ageing infrastructures. In addition, it allowed local people to become aware of the important role of tourism (Faulkner and Vikulov, 2001).

51 Other aspects of crises should be highlighted, particularly epidemics (SARS, H1N1, etc.) and major political changes (Ghaderi, Som and Henderson, 2012), which can also lead to setbacks for tourist destinations. Quite often, the end of tourist visits is temporary (and contextual). In Vietnam, for example, tourism practices and destinations that had developed during the colonial period were abandoned at the end of the French occupation and then rediscovered by the Vietnamese. Today, 300,000 couples choose to honeymoon in Dalat, near Saigon (Équipe MIT, 2011: 233-234). Violent or radical political changes in a destination can, as with natural disasters, affect neighbouring destinations in that many tourists may choose a neighbouring country over a destination that is suddenly presented as unsafe (Ghaderi, Som and Henderson, 2012). For example, the coups d'état in Thailand have tended to benefit neighbouring destinations, such as Penang and Kuala Lumpur ( ibid. : 81).

52 In other examples, the end of tourism seems to be more durable, even though, as the Équipe MIT (Mobilities, Itineraries and Tourisms research group) points out, tourism wastelands are much less frequent than industrial or agricultural wastelands. These cases concern small, infra-local hotels and tourism installations rather than whole areas, as in the case of the Catskills in the United States from 1824 onwards (Brown, 1998). The expression "resort ruins" (Rostock and Franz Zadnicek, 1992; Löfgren, 1999) has become popular in accounts of tourism burnout. The case of Waulsort in the Haute Meuse (Belgium) did not simply concern a few facilities; the entire river town was gradually abandoned by tourists (Équipe Mit, 2011: 238). These abandonments generally arise from – aside from the disasters previously mentioned – major changes within tourism habits and practices. Frequented by the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie, Waulsort was one of the most popular destinations in the region up until the First World War, alongside Spa, Namur and Dinant ( ibid. ). However, the emerging fashion for holidays in the sun and by warm seas put Waulsort out of the running as a destination – as was the case for many other North Sea and English Channel seaside resorts ( ibid. : 239) – despite attempts in the 1970s to boost it by creating a camping and caravanning holiday village. In a matter of only a few years, Waulsort became " the archetype – practically unique on a resort scale – of archaeological tourism ". Drops in visitor numbers and hotel wastelands can also arise from international competition and local economic and regulatory constraints, as has been the case for French overseas departments (Gay, 2009).

Beginnings and ends of tourism: actors and processes

• 3 As Pirotte concludes (2007): " Civil society is often broken down into characterisations that vary i (...)

53 A number of different actors are involved in the development of tourism in ordinary areas. A political influence is present, but the mechanisms cannot just be reduced to political intervention. Partially sidestepping planning, the dynamics are often created by actors who do not perceive themselves to be part of the tourism sector. We therefore need to ask what role civil society actors play 3 in developing ordinary tourism or in the return of tourism areas to ordinary areas. If we think that civil society is forced to play a larger role in tourism activities, we come back to the way in which these dynamics challenge, or do not challenge, the oppositions on which tourism practices are based. Do the interpretative framework, provided by post-tourism theories, and the hypothesis of the de-differentiation of practices enable us to give an account of civil society's involvement?

Non-tourism actors' roles in developing tourism in ordinary areas

54 The role of local societies in tourism development has been documented for many years. Knafou (1991) pointed out that, alongside the contribution of celebrities to the general population’s discovery of tourism areas (for example, Brigitte Bardot in Saint-Tropez and the Duke of Monry in Deauville), local actors have also known how to showcase the interest shown in their villages and valleys by trailblazers in order to attract more visitors. For example, the people of Chamonix helped to forge their valley's reputation by engraving in stone the names of the two men who discovered the Mer de Glace, Windham and Pococke, ( ibid .: 14).

55 There are some examples to show that a "tourism invention" can function in the absence of any policy decision. In these contexts, the external gaze plays an important role in the promotion of a region. An area considered by some to be boring and to have few attractions may also be perceived in the same way by potential foreign visitors, who are able to contribute to reinforcing the attractiveness of a place purely through their interest in it (Knafou, 1991). This is the case for rural areas in Poitou-Charentes, which were promoted through the British visitors' interest in them. Many British also bought houses far inland from the coasts and from the associated flow of tourists. Some of these new residents open tourist accommodation (gites, bed and breakfasts, etc.) and contribute to strengthening tourism in the countryside: " Far from leading to the end of tourism, British tourists' residential use creates a change in gaze, a ‘yearning’ (Viard, 1998) for these areas that are of little interest to the French " (Sacareau, Vacher, Vye, 2013: 186).

56 Moreover, the case of second homes – often rented out during holiday periods – illustrates all the complexities of the connection between the formal and informal tourism sectors (Sacareau et al., 2013). Whether in France or abroad, second-home owners are gradually becoming involved in tourism development, operated on a bottom-up basis by actors who are external to the tourism sphere and who position themselves as such. The studies of Berriane and Nakhlis' (2011) in Morocco thus show the gradual change in accommodation, which starts out as simple second homes and, first through the owners registration on home exchange websites and then by welcoming passing visitors, gradually transforms into commercial holiday accommodation. Civil society's investment in the tourism sphere accompanies or is accompanied by a renewal of the values that guide tourism practices. The fact that they bypass the commercial tourism system by being in direct contact with private individuals appears to meet consumers' expectations of authenticity and even of ethnics (Priskin and Sprakel, 2008): " by refusing to be a simple ‘consumer’, he or she [the tourist] will feel ‘invited’, as in the case of Couchsurfing, which presents itself as a vector of renewal in terms of travel – ‘real’ contact with people (in a non-virtual sense) that is focused on exchanges and reinvented hospitality " (Bourdeau, 2012).

57 In the case of urban tourism, it is also difficult to create a clear demarcation between civil society actors and tourism professionals, political decision-makers and economic actors. Sallet-Lavorel underlines the importance of participative tourism for developing tourism in "regions on the fringe of the main tourism flows" (Sallet-Lavorel, 2014). Participative tourism initiatives often come from associations. In Berlin, for example, there are 35 to 40 residents' associations who are happy to talk about their city with tourists ( ibid. ). Startreisen Berlin was set up in 1983 by architects and historians who were collaborating on an East/West reconciliation. In the Paris region, the Accueil Banlieue association, which provides 31 bed and breakfast facilities, has also adopted a voluntary and active approach. However, these are not simply bottom-up initiatives, and the idea of taking part does not fully cover a clearly bottom-up logic. For example, setting up a greeters network in Mulhouse has come from a top-down decision. In 2011, the Business and Holiday Tourism Bureau set up a local branch network in an aim to involve the entire region in the tourism project. Even though initiators do not wish to be perceived as "rehashing alternative trends", the fact remains that, if they are not to be perceived in this way, the "controlled" aspect of the operation had to be invisible (Colombo, 2014: 26). In the same way, setting up a greeters network in Paris and Seine-Saint-Denis through a joint CDT 93 (Comité Départemental de Tourisme, or Local Tourism Committee) and Parisian association called Parisien d’un Jour , actions " would never have happened without the help of public bodies and the CDT 93 initiative " (Duarte, 2014: 33). The desire to fulfil tourists’ expectations of meeting the real residents can, moreover, lead to intersected projects. The CAUE de Val-de Marne project (Council for Architecture, Town Planning and the Environment) trains young people from council estates to work as guides, helping people learn about their environment (Sallet-Lavorel, 2014). The project meets the double objective of developing regional tourism and enhancing the employability of young people.

Is the involvement of civil-society tourism on the increase?

58 Whilst the role played by local societies in the development of tourism areas has, therefore, been long documented, what is new is the fact that modern means of communication now make it easier for different actors to invest in the tourism sector. According to analyses from the field of the economics of culture, we are entering a new phase of tourism, which is characterised in particular by an increased consumer involvement in the creation of their own experiences. As Gombault pointed out, this new approach is thought to be " possible due to interactive web 2.0 technologies on social platforms and blogs, which result in (...) major democratisation of creation to the extent that the boundaries are blurred between the creators and the consumers, and traditional creators are forced to find new business models that trivialise creation and its diffusion " (2011: 22).

59 The internet, for example, provides direct links between holiday accommodation owners in tourism destinations and those who wish to holiday in the destinations (Fang, Ye and Law, 2016: 1). These exchanges may be of a commercial (Airbnb, for example) or non-commercial nature (Couchsurfing for example). In the latter case, the investment of individual actors (particularly in terms of their time) is substantial. This practice means sharing one's private space and daily life (Schéou, 2013). The host has to organise their home to ensure it is suitable for welcoming guests, and they have to provide a guest area while still protecting their own personal space ( ibid .: 101). They also have to be available to talk to, dine with and show their visitors the sights. They frequently become rather skilled guides of their own towns, although often their skills go unrecognised. In other cases, however, the involvement of private actors in tourist accommodation operates in a less direct manner.

60 Cassidy and Guilding (2009) used Australia as an example to point out that furnished apartments represent a growing proportion of holiday accommodation because of the internet. This sector accounted for 20% of tourist accommodation in 2005 and is expected to rise to closer to 60% in the near future ( ibid .: 422). This accommodation is often owned by individual actors who are not involved in any other aspect of the tourist economy but who recognise a potentially viable investment in such a purchase. In general, furnished apartments are part of joint ownership residences and are managed by resident managers, who are not trained in tourism or recruited for their tourism skills. They do not define themselves as tourism actors in the sector even though they play an important role in hosting and providing information. Estate agents only refer to the potential tourism usage of this type of accommodation when prospecting to private investors ( ibid .: 426).

61 Studies on social hospitality networks confirm that the use of furnished apartments is part of an approach that focuses on promoting authenticity and personal development, as previously mentioned (Duarte, 2014; Schéou, 2013). They also illustrate that these users wish, ultimately, to stand out from "simple tourists" (Schéou, 2014: 41). This importance of values is used by collaborative and participative accommodation and transport business promoters (carpooling, hospitality social networks) to promote their actions. Hence, the BlaBlaCar founder, Frédéric Mazzella (2015), states that beyond the ecological and financial gains of carpooling, his company is " proud to add another brick to the bastion of collaborative tourism, which creates human bonds that are strong” and “more authentic” . The network currently includes over 20 million people in 19 countries, and three new users out of four live outside of France. In response to this global development, Mazzella invites BlaBlaCar users to " carpool abroad " because " you can meet local people and add a splash of authenticity to your trip through exchanges that would otherwise have been difficult to spark up " ( ibid .: 56). Furthermore, the company works with travel websites like Kayak and Liligo, and its founder is of the opinion that the main development opportunities of the future lie in tourism ( ibid .: 57).

62 At the same time, these values are not new. The desire to see how the Other lives, which plays an important role in the motivation of couchsurfers, for example, is not new. As Schéou (2013) pointed out, the desire to take a look "backstage" had already been recognised by MacCannell in the 1970s as being one of the foundations of tourism practices.

63 Furthermore, a study of the economic models used by these collaborative businesses shows that they cannot be placed in opposition to the market. As highlighted by Hégron (2014), hospitality networks are generally organised around voluntary work. The Hospitality Club accommodation network was created not through fundraising but through Google advertising revenues. Its founder, Viet Kühne, refused to communicate on his advertising revenues, and some of his volunteers therefore left the network to create an alternative site BeWelcome. Couchsurfing also began as a non-profit organisation but became a commercial company in 2011, primarily financed by paid membership ( ibid. ). This commercialisation has also caused some heated reaction as well as the departure of many members in favour of Bewelcome, which remains, for the moment at least, an association under Law 1901.

Elements of a conclusion: a return to post-tourism and to the de-differentiation hypothesis

64 The development of tourism in ordinary areas and the diversification of tourism enclaves are thought to participate in a de-differentiation of tourism and non-tourism spheres relating to both the routine and the non-routine, which are characteristic of the new post-tourism era. The invention of tourism – especially when it applies to areas considered unattractive – very often goes through an enchantment process, which involves turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Have the oppositions that create the tourism experience – ordinary/extraordinary, nearby/faraway, exotic/familiar – been effectively challenged in the evolutions outlined above?

65 Spotting someone working at a computer through a window is "really cool" and going to the local supermarket has become an "incredible" experience (Maitland, 2013: 17). To give an account of this process, Maitland borrows Wynn's expression of urban alchemy, which is defined as a process that " transforms the material of everyday experience into something else – that re-enchants the city and creates mutual attachment between the city and the tourists " (Wynn, 2010: 150, in Maitland, 2013: 17). In this case, the exercise of enchantment requires a geographical displacement inasmuch as the people interviewed are international tourists and temporary residents. The residents are probably not ready to see someone working in their office as being "extraordinary".

66 The importance of the enchantment process and the change of gaze is also perceptible in the alternative visit to San Francisco that was proposed by Lubell, MacCannell and MacCannell (1998). This time, the formula was aimed at residents. Those who took the tour were invited to change their gaze on their city. One of the aims of the enterprise, as the organisers pointed out, was to " slow people down and bring them to consider mystery and surprise, as though they were hunters: the tunnel as though it were a cave, the exposure of the savannah-like polo fields, the enclosure and loss of direction in the woods and the discovery of possibility in the clearing " ( ibid. : 147). As with more traditional tourism practices, these experiences are therefore based on the quest for the extraordinary, for the non-routine, whether this means that the tourist finds/creates the extraordinary in a familiar environment (like the San Francisco anti-tour) or turns the ordinary of the Other into the extraordinary for themselves (situations studied by Maitland).

67 Furthermore, in contrast to these experiences that promote the "mundane", the development of tourism in nearby areas, especially in cities, can depend on making them exotic and developing a cultural Otherness, which is presented as being as great as that discovered on the other side of the world.

68 The new forms of accommodation are also challenging the boundaries between the routine and the non-routine. As previously mentioned, a daily living space needs to be provided in the case of Couchsurfing. However, the idea that these practices are participating in the end of tourism, marked by the erasure of boundaries between the ordinary and the extraordinary and the routine and the non-routine, needs to be clarified on several levels. First, Schéou (2013) reminds us that non-commercial accommodation is by no means new and has always been a major part of French tourists' choice of accommodation. What is new here seems to be the idea that this accommodation is no longer offered by family or friends but by people previously unknown to the tourists. Furthermore, the approach does not participate in the elimination of the boundary between the ordinary and the non-ordinary. However, when tourists travel, they find themselves in a situation that represents a break from their daily routines and so the host's ordinary becomes the tourist's extraordinary. ( ibid .: 108). If there is any confusion, it will perhaps be on the part of the host because their daily routine takes on an extraordinary aspect during their hosting periods ( ibid .).

69 These experiences certainly question the relationship between the nearby and the faraway. However, at the same time, the exotic/familiar and ordinary/extraordinary oppositions continue to structure the experiences as well as the system of motivations of those who take part in them. Can these practices, which no longer necessitate geographical rupture or distance, be categorised as tourism? Or do we have to conclude instead that tourism measures have penetrated, or "infiltrated", practices that are actually more leisure and recreational activities?

• 4 Travel guides inviting Parisian inhabitants to become tourists " in their own homes " and to adopt an (...)

70 This question has received different replies from different authors. Vergopoulos, for example, rather than conclude that the guides 4 she had studied were non-touristic in nature, claimed that they contributed to redefining the socio-cultural world of tourism representations (Vergopoulos, 2013: 58): " When the geographical displacement imperative is removed, it [tourism] becomes a single (?) process of reconfiguring the times and spaces of everyday life, realised through a transformation of gaze exercise. It is, to coin Michel Foucault's expression, some sort of ‘technologies of the self’, which enables the region to be reclaimed and inhabited in a positive manner " ( ibid : 59). Hence, tourism is no longer thought to be just an " enchantment exercise " ( ibid .) that is independent of geographical displacement. Conversely, rather than include these practices in the tourism sphere, the Équipe MIT suggests that they arise from a "non-tourism" situation albeit " certain aspects, behaviours and gestures have come from tourism practices. This is how ‘tourism’ referents spill over into ordinary situations " (Équipe MIT, 2011: 200). It should, moreover, be pointed out that the actors in these businesses situate themselves outside the tourism sphere. In the case of the Hôtel du Nord cooperative in Marseille, for example, the tourism labelling was discussed among the cooperative members (Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015). This repression, or denial, of the term ‘tourism’ by businesses who like to think they are off-the-beaten-track may be strategic. Not presenting oneself as a tourism entrepreneur is one way of affirming one’s authenticity. Similarly, the involvement of local societies, which is presented as a gauge of authenticity, often happens in spite of the local societies, and this can create resentment and even active resistance (Gravari-Barbas and Delaplace, 2015). Inviting ideas of civil society and participation in alternative tourism businesses can therefore be envisaged as an instrument of legitimation.

71 Likewise, the collaborative and participative dimensions of accommodation networks are used as sales pitches without questioning the existence of a tourism system based on commercial exchange. Whilst carpooling websites and hospitality networks, for example, have often started up through initiatives that have no association with the financial sector and while they are based on an exchange of services between private individuals, it should be noted that these initiatives are always adopted by the market economy. The originality of BlaBlaCar today, a startup which became a global scaleup, grouping together over 300 "collaborators" (Mazzella, 2015), comes not from a non-commercial model but from the modern business culture on which it is constructed, based most notably on a horizontal rather than vertical management system.

72 Furthermore, new technologies and the ways in which they are used to connect private individuals within the tourism framework do not necessarily pose a threat to the traditional hotel industry (Blondeau, 2015). Studies on the emergence of Airbnb provision reveal that the global hotel sector as a whole is not under threat (Fang, Ye, Law, 2016). Only the lowest cost provisions are in direct competition ( ibid .). Furthermore, the Airbnb provision is, in reality, seen as an engine for the tourism sector insofar as it implies a carry-over of spending to areas other than accommodation, especially to the restaurant sector.

73 Hence, the idea that new ways of doing tourism (using the greeters network and the non-commercial) participate in blurring the boundaries or in de-differentiating practices must be qualified. As claimed by Girard (2013), the idea of blurred boundaries could partly come from a vision effect linked to the fact that, in the construction of tourism as a subject in the social sciences and in order to legitimise a nascent field of study, we have been led to exaggerate the distinctions between tourism and non-tourism even though tourism practices have always been transverse. Describing these dynamics as being founded on a form of de-differentiation of the tourism and non-tourism spheres, marked by an increasing societal involvement (understood as all actors except for those from commercial or political institutions), is not enough to give an account of the new forms of economic organisations being put in place. This is, in part, reigniting a discourse that tends to promote these new forms of organisation for political and financial ends (on the grounds that these businesses are more authentic because they are self-organised).

Bibliographie

Aguas J.-C., Gouyette B., 2011, « L’invention d’un tourisme de l’ordinaire. L’exemple des Promenades urbaines », Espaces, n° 292.

Aguilard Y., 1982, « La Chartreuse de Mirande. Le monument historique, produit d’un classement de classe », Actes de la recherche en sciences sociales n° 42, p. 76-85.

Bachimon P., 2013, Vacance de lieux , Paris : Belin.

Berger M., Pousin F. (dir.), 2008, « Les espaces du quotidien », Strates , vol. 14.

Bernier X., 2013, « Marges et périphéries des routes touristiques et des itinéraires culturels : quelles interspatialités ? Quelques réflexions à travers les routes de montagne », Cahiers de Géographie du Québec , vol. 57, n° 162, pp. 369-378, [en ligne], URL : http://www.erudit.org/revue/cgq/2013/v57/n162/1026524ar.html .

Berriane M., Nakhli S., 2011, « En marge des grands chantiers touristiques mondialisés, l’émergence de territoires touristiques «  informels  » et leur connexion directe avec le système monde ». Méditerranée. Revue géographique des pays méditerranéens / Journal of Mediterranean geography , n o 116, pp. 115-122, [en ligne], https://mediterranee.revues.org/5437 .

Bessière J. (dir.), 2012, Innovation et patrimoine alimentaire en espace rural , Paris, Editions Quae.

Blondeau K., 2015, « Quelle place pour l’hôtellerie indépendante face à la pression des agences de voyage en ligne (OTA) et à l’émergence de l’économie collaborative ? », Annales des mines, Réalités Industrielles , n° 3, pp. 83-87.

Bourdeau P., 2012, « Le tourisme réinventé par ses périphéries ? » in Bourlon F., Osorio M., Mao P., Gale T. Explorando las nuevas fronteras del turismo. Perspectivas de la invetigacion en turismo , Nire Negro, pp. 31-48.

Bourdeau P., 2009, « De l’après-ski à l’après-tourisme, une figure de transition pour les Alpes ? », Revue de Géographie Alpine | Journal of Alpine Research [En ligne], 97-3 [en ligne], URL : http://rga.revues.org/1049 ; DOI : 10.4000/rga.1049.

Breton C., 2015, Hôtel du Nord – récits d’hospitalité de Christine Breton , Marseille : Éditions Commune.‬‬

Breton J.-M. (dir.), 2009, Patrimoine culturel et tourisme alternatif : Afrique, Amériques, Caraïbes , Europe, Paris : Khartala, 416 p.

Briedenhann J., Wickens E., 2003, « Tourism routes as a tool for the economic development of rural areas—vibrant hope or impossible dream? », Tourism Management , vol. 25, n° 1, pp. 71-79.

Bromberger, C., 1999, « Les monuments ordinaires de la vie quotidienne », in R. Debray (éd.), L’abus monumental ? , Paris : Fayard, pp. 197-206.

Brown P., 1998, Catskill Culture: A Moutain Rat’s Memories of the Great Jewish Resort Area, Philadelphia: Temple University Press, 301p.

Butler R. W., 2011, « Tourism Area Life Cycle », Contemporary Tourism reviews, Goodefellows Publishers [en ligne] http://www.goodfellowpublishers.com/free_files/fileTALC.pdf .

Butler R. W. ,1992, « Alternative tourism: the thin edge of the wedge », in Smith Valene L., Tourism Alternatives: Potentials and Problems in the Development of Tourism , University of Pennsylvania Press.

Butler R. W., 1990, « Alternative Tourism: Pious Hope Or Trojan Horse? », Journal of Travel Research , vol. 28, n° 3, pp. 40-45.

Butler R. W., 1980, « The concept of the tourist area life-cycle of evolution: implications for management of resources », Canadian Geographer, vol. ,24, n° 1, pp. 5-12 [en ligne] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1541-0064.1980.tb00970.x/abstract .

Calgaro E., Lloyd K., 2008, « Sun, sea, sand and tsunami: Examining disaster vulnerability in the tourism community of KhaoLak, Thailand », Singapore Journal of Tropical Geography , vol. 29, n° 3, pp. 288–306.

Cassidy K., Guilding C., 2010, « Defining an emerging tourism industry sub-sector: Who are the strata titled tourism accommodation stakeholders? », International Journal of Hospitality Management , n° 29, pp. 421-431.

Clapiers de R. (dir.), 2004, « Tourisme et banlieue », Espaces , n° 216.

Clémençon A.-C., 2015, La ville ordinaire : généalogie d’une rive, Lyon, 1781-1914, Marseille, Lyon, éditions Parenthèses, CAUE Rhône Métropole.

Clémençon A.-C., 1999, La fabrication de la ville ordinaire : pour comprendre les processus d’élaboration des formes urbaines, l’exemple du domaine des Hospices civils de Lyon : Lyon-Guillotière, rive gauche du Rhône, 1781-1914, thèse d’histoire de l’art de l’université Lyon 2.

Clivaz Ch., Nahrath S., Stock M., 2011, « Le développement des stations touristiques dans le champ touristique mondial », in Duhamel, P. & Kadri, B. (dirs.), Tourisme et mondialisation Paris : Espaces, p. 276-286.

Coate B., Handmer J., Choong W., 2006, « Taking care of people and communities: Rebuilding livelihoods through NGOs and the informal economy in Southern Thailand », Disaster Prevention and Management , vol. 15, n° 1, pp. 135-145.

Cohen E., Cohen S., 2012, « Current sociological Theories and Issues in Tourism », Annals of Tourism Research , vol. 39, n° 4: pp. 2177–2202.

Cohen E., 1987, « Alternative Tourism »—A Critique, Tourism Recreation Research , vol. 12, n° 2, pp. 13-18.

Cousin S., Djament-Tran G., Gravari-Barbas M., Jacquot S. , 2015 « Contre la métropole créative ... tout contre. Les politiques patrimoniales et touristiques de Plaine Commune, Seine-Saint-Denis », Métropoles, 17 [en ligne]. URL : http://metropoles.revues.org/5171 .

Darbellay F., Clivaz, C., Narhath, S., Stock M., 2011, « Approche interdisciplinaire du développement des stations touristiques. Le capital touristique comme concept opératoire », Mondes du tourisme , n° 4, p. 36-48.

Dassié V., 2012, « La thésaurisation affectives des objets souvenir. Du chez-soi au musée », in Tiphaine Barthéméy et Joël Candau (dir.), Mémoire familiale, objets et économies affectives , Paris/Bordeaux : CTHS, pp. 117-130.

de Certeau M., 1980, L’invention du quotidien , Paris, Union générale d’édition.

Di Filippo L., 2011, « Éric Chauvier , Anthropologie de l’ordinaire. Une conversion du regard », Questions de communication, n° 20, pp. 399-401.

Duarte M., 2014, « Le pari réussi des greeters en Seine Saint Denis », Espaces , n° 316, pp. 31-33.

Duhamel P., Knafou R. (dir.), 2007, Mondes Urbains du Tourisme , Paris : Belin.

Edensor T., 2001, « Performing tourism, staging tourism, (re)producing tourist space and practice », Tourist Studies , n° 1, p. 59-81.

Équipe Mit, 2005, Tourismes 2. Moments de lieux , Paris : Belin

Équipe Mit, 2011, Tourismes 3. La révolution durable, Paris : Belin.

Fagnoni E., 2004 « Amnéville, de la cité industrielle à la cité touristique : quel devenir pour les territoires urbains en déprise ? », Mondes en développement 1, 125, p. 51-66, [en ligne], URL : www.cairn.info/revue-mondes-en-developpement-2004-1-page-51.htm .

Fang B., Ye Q., Law R., 2016, « Effect of sharing economy on tourism industry employment ». Annals of Tourism Research . Consulté le janvier 17. doi :10.1016/j.annals.2015.11.018.

Farge A., 1994, Le Cours ordinaire des choses dans la cité du dix-huitième siècle , Paris, Éditions du Seuil, coll. « La librairie du xxe siècle ».

Faulkner B., Vikulov S., 2001, « Katherine, washed out one day, back on track the next: A post-mortem of a tourism disaster », Tourism Management , n° 22, pp. 331–344.

Feifer M., 1985, Going places , Macmillan.

Fullagar S., Markwell K. W., 2012, Slow Tourism: Experiences and Mobilities , Channel View Publications.

Gay J.C.,2009, « Les piètres performances du tourisme en France d’outre-mer » in Lemasson J.-P. et Violier Ph. (dir.), Destinations et Territoires . Volume 1 : Coprésence à l’œuvre , Montréal-Québec, Téoros-Presses de l’université du Québec,, p. 153-167.

Geppert A., Lorenzi E., 2013, « Le “patrimoine du quotidien”, enjeu renouvelé pour les urbanistes européens », Bulletin de l’Association de géographes français , vol. 90, n° 2, pp. 170-185.

Getz D., 1993, « Planning for tourism in business districts », Annals of Tourism Research, vol. 20, n° 4, pp. 583-600.

Ghaderi Z., Som A. P. M., Henderson J. C., 2012, « Tourism crises and island destinations: Experiences in Penang, Malaysia », Tourism Management Perspectives , vol. 2, n° 3, pp. 79–84.

Ghaderi Z., Henderson J. C., 2013, « Japanese tsunami debris and the threat to sustainable tourism in the Hawaiian Islands », Tourism Management Perspective , n° 8, pp. 98-105.

Girard A., 2013, « Faut-il raccorder une théorie générale de la postmodernité à une théorie à moyenne portée du post-tourisme ? », in Bourdeau P., Hugues F., L. Perrin-Bensahel (dir.), Fin ( ?) et confins du tourisme. Interroger le statut et les pratiques de la récréation contemporaine , Paris, L’Harmattan, pp. 43-52.

Gombault A., 2011, « Tourisme et création : les hypermodernes », Mondes du Tourisme , 4 [en ligne], consulté le 05 février 2016. URL: http://tourisme.revues.org/449

Graburn N. H.H., 1989, « Tourism : the Sacred Journey », in Smith V. L. (ed.), Hosts and guests  : the Anthropology of Tourism, Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Press, pp. 21-36.

Gravari-Barbas M., 2013, Aménager la ville par la culture et le tourisme , Paris : Editions le Moniteur.

Gravari-Barbas M., Delaplace M. (dir.), 2015, à paraître, « Le Tourisme hors des sentiers battus », TEOROS.

Gravari-Barbas M., Fagnoni E. (dir.), 2013, Métropolisation et Tourisme. Comment le Tourisme redessine Paris , Paris : Belin, coll. Mappemonde, 373p.

Halbert L., 2010, L’avantage métropolitain , Paris, PUF.

Hascoet Y., en cours depuis 2012, Récréations critiques et néo-esthétiques dans les territoires urbains. Nouvelles pratiques, nouveaux imaginaires, nouveaux tropismes ? , thèse de géographie sous la direction de Isabelle Lefort et de Éric Charmes de l’université Lyon 2.

Heap C. C., 2009, Slumming: sexual and racial encounters in American nightlife, 1885-1940, Chicago, Univ. of Chicago Press.

Hégron J.-Y., 2014, « Les réseaux de partage et d’hospitalité. Un concept de notre temps et un système qui marche », Espaces , n° 316 : pp. 43-46.

Hughes G., 1995, « The Cultural Constraints of Sustainable Tourism », Tourism Management , n° 16, pp. 49-60.

Huning S., Novy J., 2006, « Tourism as an engine of neighborhood regeneration? Some remarks towards a better understanding of urban tourism beyond the “beaten path” », CMS Working Paper Series , n° 6, Center for Metropolitan Studies, Berlin, 19 p.

Isnart C., 2012, « Les patrimonialisations ordinaires. Essai d’images ethnographiées ». ethnographiques.org , Numéro 24 - juillet 2012, http://www.ethnographiques.org/2012/Isnart.

Jacquot S., Gravari-Barbas M., Fagnoni E., 2013, « Patrimonialisation et tourisme dans la région métropolitaine parisienne. », in Gravari-Barbas, M. et E. Fagnoni, Métropolisation et tourisme. Comment le tourisme redessine Paris , Paris : Belin, pp. 103-117.

Jolé M., 2012, « Hôtel du Nord. La construction d’un patrimoine commun dans les quartiers nord de Marseille », Métropolitiques , [mis en ligne le 4 janvier 2012] URL : http://www.metropolitiques.eu/Hotel-du-Nord-La-construction-d-un.html.

Knafou R., 1996, « La transformation des lieux anciennement touristiques », Méditerranée , 84, n° 3, pp. 3-4.

Knafou R., 1991, « L’invention du lieu touristique : la passation d’un contrat et le surgissement simultané d’un nouveau territoire », Revue de Géographie Alpine , vol. 79, n° 4 : 11-19, [en ligne], http://www.persee.fr/doc/rga_0035-1121_1991_num_79_4_3624.

Kouloumbri T., Kouklia M., 2004, « Plaine Commune, à la rencontre de la population locale », Espaces , n° 216.

Koven S., 2004, Slumming: Sexual and Social Politics in Victorian London, Princeton, Princeton Univ. Press.

Lefebvre H., 1947, Critique de la vie quotidienne : introduction , Paris, Grasset.

Letissier F., 2007, Les temps de l’urbanité : habiter le patrimoine à Paris , thèse de géographie de l’université de Reims

Löfgren O., 1999, On Holiday. A History of Vacationing , Berkeley, University of California Press, 320 p.

Lubell B., Flower J., MacCannell D., 1998, « You are Here (You Think). A San Francisco City Bus Tour », in J. Brook, C. Carlsson, N. J. Peters, (dirs.), Reclaiming San Francisco. History, Politics, Culture , San Francisco : City Lights Books.

Lussault M., 2007, « le tourisme, un genre commun », in Duhamel Ph., Knafou R. (dir.), Mondes urbains du tourisme , Paris, Belin, coll. "Mappemonde", pp. 333-349.

MacCannell D., 1973, « Staged Authenticity: Arrangements of Social Space in Tourist Settings », American Journal of Sociology , vol. 79, n° 3, p. 589-603.

Magnan A., 2008 « Subir...sans réagir ? reflexions soulevées par la persistance des friches touristiques littorales de l’île de Saint-Martin (Petites Antilles) », in Le littoral : subir, dire, agir. Actes du colloque international pluridisciplinaire organisé par l’Ifresi (Lille, 16_18 janvier) (en ligne) http://www.ifresi.univ-lille1.fr/littoral2008.html.

Maitland R., 2013, « Backstage Behaviour in the Global City: Tourists and the Search for the ‘Real London », Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, vol. 105, n° 3, pp. 12–19.

Maitland R., 2010a, « Cool suburbs : Developing creative tourism in outer London », communication présentée au colloque Paris, Tourisme et métropolisation , organisé sous la direction de Gravari-Barbas M. et Fagnoni É., Sorbonne, Paris.

Maitland R., 2010b, «  Everyday life as a creative experience in cities », International Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research , vol. 4, n °3, pp. 176 – 185.

Maitland R., Newman P., 2004, « Developing metropolitan tourism on the fringe of central London », International Journal of Tourism Research , 6, pp. 339-348.

Marie, J.-L., Dujardin P., Balme R. (dir.), 2002, L’ordinaire  : modes d’accès et pertinence pour les sciences sociales et humaines , Paris, L’Harmattan.

Mazzella F., 2015, « BlaBlaCar et le tourisme collaboratif ». Annales des Mines - Réalités industrielles, n° 3, pp. 54 57.

Moscardo G., P. L. Pearce, 1999, « Understanding ethnic tourism », Annals of Tourism Research , vol. 26, n° 2: pp. 416-434.

Novy, J., 2011, Marketing marginalized neighborhoods. Tourism and leisure in the 21st century inner city, PhD, Columbia university.

Novy, J., 2010, « What’s new about new Urban Tourism? And what doc recent changes in Travel Imply for the “Tourist City” Berlin?”  », in J. Richter (eds), Tourist City Berlin, Braun Publishing.

Montel N., Backouche I., 2007, « La fabrique ordinaire de la ville », Histoire urbaine , n° 19, pp. 5-9.

Pirotte G., 2007, La notion de société civile , Paris, La Découverte, « Repères », 128 pages.

Poncelet M., Pirotte G., 2007, « l’invention africaine des sociétés civiles, déni théorique, figure imposée, prolifération empirique », Mondes en Développement, vol 35 n 139

Priskin J., Sprakel J., 2008, « “CouchSurfing”  : à la recherche d’une expérience touristique authentique », Téoros, vol.  27, n° 1, pp. 68 71.

Rieucau J., 2000, « La Grande-Motte, Ville permanente, ville saisonnière », Annales de Géographie , N° 616, p 631-654.

Rittichainuwat N., 2011, « Ghosts: A travel barrier to tourism recovery », Annals of Tourism Research , vol. 38, n° 2, pp. 437–459.

Rivière, G. H., 1989, La Muséologie selon Georges Henri Rivière : cours de muséologie, textes et témoignages, Paris, Dunod.

Robinson L., J. K. Jarvie, 2008, « Post-disaster community tourism recovery: The tsunami and Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka », Disasters , vol. 32, n° 4, pp. 631–645. [en ligne] ftp://ftp.shef.ac.uk/pub/uni/academic/AC/ar1mb/RobinsonJarvie_PostDisastercommunityTourismRecoveryVolume32Issue4.pdf

Rostock J., Zadniček F., 1992, Paradies/Ruinen - Das KdF-Seebad der Zwanzigtausend auf Rüge , Berlin, Christoph Links Verlag.

Sacareau I., L. Vacher, D. Vye, 2013, « La résidence secondaire est-elle un objet aux confins du tourisme ? Réflexions à partir de l’exemple des résidences secondaires des Britanniques en Poitou-Charentes », in Bourdeau P., Hugues F. et L. Perrin-Bensahel (dir.), 2013, Fin ( ?) et confins du tourisme. Interroger le statut et les pratiques de la récréation contemporaine , Paris : L’Harmattan.

Sallet-Lavorel H., 2014, « La Cité de la gastronomie Paris-Rungis. Un équipement au cœur de la stratégie touristique du Val-de-Marne », Espaces n° 320.

Sallet-Lavorel H., 2003, Pour un tourisme participatif en Ile-de-France. Encourager le rapprochement entre visiteurs et Franciliens , Institut d’Aménagement et d’Urbanisme de la Région Ile de France.

Sansot P., 1989, « Pour une esthétique des paysages ordinaires », Ethnologie française , T. 19, No. 3, Crise du paysage ? (Juillet-Septembre 1989), pp. 239-243.

Savelli N., 2012, « Géopolitique touristique d’un «  bout du monde  ». Journal of Alpine Research | Revue de géographie alpine , n o 100-2. doi :10.4000/rga.1790.

Sceau R., V. Plancoulaine, 1988, « Les contrats de pays d’accueil dans la région Rhône-Alpes : une amorce de politique régionale de développement du tourisme en espace rural / The system of “contrats de pays d’accueil” in the Rhône-Alpes region  : the beginning of a regional development policy for tourism in rural areas ». Revue de géographie de Lyon vol. 63, n° 4. doi :10.3406/geoca.1988.3377.

Schéou B., 2014, « Couchsurfing et les réseaux de partage réinventent l’hospitalité », Espaces , n° 316 : pp. 36-

Schéou B., 2013, « réseaux sociaux d’hospitalité et post-tourisme », in Bourdeau, Philippe, Hugues François et Liliane Perrin-Bensahel (dir.), 2013, Fin ( ?) et confins du tourisme. Interroger le statut et les pratiques de la récréation contemporaine , Paris : L’Harmattan, pp. 99-109.

Smith R. A., Henderson J. C., 2008, « Integrated beach resorts, informal tourism commerce and the 2004 tsunami: Laguna Phuket in Thailand », International Journal of Tourism Research , vol. 10, n° 3, pp. 271–282.

Staszak J.-F., 2015, « Tourisme et prostitution coloniales : la visite de Bousbir à Casablanca (1924-1955) », Via@ , 2,), http://viatourismreview.com/fr/2015/10/varia-art1/

Stephen W. (dir), 2004, Tourism: new directions and alternative tourisme , Londres et New York: Routledge.

Stock M., L. Léopold, 2012, « La double révolution urbaine du tourisme. », Espaces et sociétés, n° 151, pp. 15-30.

Thomazeau F., 2009, « Les cités mal aimées se rebiffent », Le Monde, 31 décembre.

Toffler A., 1980, The Third Wave , Bantam Books.

Urbain, J.-D., 2002, L’idiot du voyage : histoires de touristes, Paris, Payot.

Urry J., 2002, The Tourist Gaze , Sage publications.

Urry J., 1995, Consuming Places , Taylor and Francis.

Vergopoulos H., 2013, « Etre touriste chez soi. Le tourisme comme modèle socio-culturel d’appropriation du territoire quotidien », in Bourdeau P., Hugues F. et L. Perrin-Bensahel (dir.), Fin ( ?) et confins du tourisme. Interroger le statut et les pratiques de la récréation contemporaine , Paris : L’Harmattan, pp. 53-61.

Viard J., 2006, Eloge de la Mobilité. Essai sur le capital temps libre et la valeur travail , Editions de l’Aube.

Viard J., 2000, Court traité sur les vacances, les voyages, et l’hospitalité des lieux , Editions de l’Aube.

Violier P., 2002, « La Baule de la station au lieu de vie », Mappemonde 66, pp. 20-24.

Vitte P., 1998, « Tourisme en espace rural : le territoire à l’épreuve », Revue de géographie alpine vol. 86, n° 3, pp. 69-85. doi :10.3406/rga.1998.2893.

Watremez A., 2008, « Vivre le patrimoine urbain au quotidien : pour une approche de la patrimonialité », Culture et Musées , n° 11, Actes Sud, pp. 11-35.

Weaver D. B., 1998, « Peripheries of the periphery: Tourism in Tobago and Barbuda ». Annals of Tourism Research vol. 25, n° 2, pp. 292-313. doi:10.1016/S0160-7383(97)00094-7.

Wynn J., 2010, « City Tour Guides: Urban Alchemists at Work », City and Community, vol.  9, n° 2, pp. 145-163.

1 Source: Les Promenades Urbaines: http://www.promenades-urbaines.com/modules/content/index.php?id=22&page=missions

2 http://www.lemonde.fr/europe/article/2009/12/31/les-cites-mal-aimees-se-rebiffent_1286303_3214.html

3 As Pirotte concludes (2007): " Civil society is often broken down into characterisations that vary in accuracy. It distinguishes itself from the state, the market, the church and even from military society ". Like this author, we think that it is important to maintain a critical distance regarding the term "civil society" which appears to be mainly used to legitimatise "good" projects or practices because of the positive aspects it conveys.

4 Travel guides inviting Parisian inhabitants to become tourists " in their own homes " and to adopt another gaze on their environment.

Pour citer cet article

Référence électronique.

Aurélie Condevaux , Géraldine Djament-Tran et Maria Gravari-Barbas , «  Before and after tourism(s). The trajectories of tourist destinations and the role of actors involved in "off-the-beaten-track" tourism: a literature review  », Via [En ligne], 9 | 2016, mis en ligne le 01 juillet 2016, consulté le 09 mai 2024. URL : http://journals.openedition.org/viatourism/413 ; DOI : https://doi.org/10.4000/viatourism.413

Aurélie Condevaux

EIREST, Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University

Articles du même auteur

• Performances polynésiennes : adaptations locales d’une « formule culturelle-touristique globale » en Nouvelle-Zélande et à Tonga [Texte intégral] Polynesian performances: local adaptations of a « cultural-tourism formula » in New Zealand and Tonga [Texte intégral | traduction | en] Actuaciones polinesias: adaptaciones locales de una « fórmula cultural-turística global » en Nueva Zelanda y Tonga [Texte intégral | traduction | es] Paru dans Via , 1 | 2012

Géraldine Djament-Tran

University of Strasbourg, EIREST

Maria Gravari-Barbas

• Les destinations lune de miel : l’apparence et l’envers du décor [Texte intégral] Honeymoon destinations: appearances and behind-the-scenes aspects [Texte intégral | traduction | en] Destinos de luna de miel: la apariencia y entre bastidores [Texte intégral | traduction | es] Le destinazioni della luna di miele: tra aspetto esteriore e dietro le quinte [Texte intégral | traduction | it] Reiseziele für die Flitterwochen: Erscheinungsformen und was sich hinter den Kulissen verbirgt [Texte intégral | traduction | de] Destinacions de lluna de mel: l’aparença i entre bastidors [Texte intégral | traduction | ca] Os destinos de lua de mel : do visível aos bastidores [Texte intégral | traduction | pt] Paru dans Via , 24 | 2023
• Tourisme et imaginaires musicaux [Texte intégral] Tourism and Musical Imaginaries [Texte intégral | traduction | en] Turismo e immaginari musicali [Texte intégral | traduction | it] Turismo e imaginários musicais [Texte intégral | traduction | pt] Turisme i imaginaris musicals [Texte intégral | traduction | ca] Turismo e imaginarios musicales [Texte intégral | traduction | es] Tourismus und musikalische Imaginationen [Texte intégral | traduction | de] Paru dans Via , 23 | 2023
• Maria Gravari-Barbas : A la recherche d’une Eden (et de ses impacts…) [Texte intégral] Paru dans Via , 22 | 2022
• Via en Vacances ! [Texte intégral] Paru dans Via , 22 | 2022
• DIX ANS DE VIA TOURISM REVIEW : bilan et perspectives d’une aventure éditoriale dans les études en tourisme [Texte intégral] Paru dans Via , 22 | 2022
• Ariane Devanthéry et Claude Reichler (Edité et présenté par), Vaut le Voyage ? [Texte intégral] Histoires de Guides . Genève, Editions Slatkine, 2019 Ariane Devanthéry et Claude Reichler (Edited and presented by), Vaut le Voyage ? [Texte intégral | traduction | en] Histoires de Guides . Genève, Editions Slatkine, 2019 Paru dans Via , 17 | 2020
• Tous les textes...

Université Bretagne Occidentale

Droits d’auteur.

Le texte seul est utilisable sous licence CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 . Les autres éléments (illustrations, fichiers annexes importés) sont « Tous droits réservés », sauf mention contraire.

Numéros en texte intégral

• 24 | 2023 Les destinations lune de miel : l’apparence et l’envers du décor
• 23 | 2023 Tourisme et imaginaires musicaux
• 22 | 2022 (Mega)Evénements urbains et tourisme : pratiques touristiques et organisation spatiale
• 21 | 2022 Tourisme et biopolitique
• 20 | 2021 Tourisme religieux
• 19 | 2021 Tourismes et géopolitiques
• 18 | 2020 Ré-invention des territoires touristiques dans les stations des Alpes
• 17 | 2020 Le paysage comme ressource touristique des espaces ruraux. Perspectives de l’Asie du Sud et du Sud-Est
• 16 | 2019 Le tourisme à l'épreuve des paradigmes post et décoloniaux
• 15 | 2019 Tourisme et paix, une alliance incertaine en Colombie
• 14 | 2018 Représentations du tourisme au cinéma
• 13 | 2018 Questions conceptuelles dans le champ du tourisme
• 11-12 | 2017 L'érotisation des lieux touristiques
• 10 | 2016 Expériences touristiques
• 9 | 2016 Aux marges du tourisme : utopies et réalités du tourisme hors des sentiers battus
• 8 | 2015 Varia
• 7 | 2015 Le Brésil, le Tourisme au-delà du Carnaval
• 6 | 2014 Varia
• 4-5 | 2014 Patrimoine mondial tourisme et développement durable en Afrique
• 3 | 2013 Varia
• 2 | 2012 Tourisme et dynamiques identitaires
• 1 | 2012 Les imaginaires touristiques

Tous les numéros

• Présentation
• Institutions partenaires
• Recommandations aux auteurs
• Procédure d’évaluation en double aveugle
• Code éthique
• Liste des évaluateurs Via Tourism Review

Appels à contribution

• Appels en cours
• Appels clos

Informations

• Crédits du site
• Politiques de publication

Suivez-nous

Lettres d’information

• La Lettre d’OpenEdition

Affiliations/partenaires

ISSN électronique 2259-924X

Voir la notice dans le catalogue OpenEdition  

Plan du site  – Contact  – Crédits du site  – Flux de syndication

Politique de confidentialité  – Gestion des cookies  – Signaler un problème

Nous adhérons à OpenEdition Journals  – Édité avec Lodel  – Accès réservé

Vous allez être redirigé vers OpenEdition Search

• River City Live
• Newsletters

WEATHER ALERT

A river flood warning in effect for Columbia County

‘never visit this place’: wrestling legend ric flair bashes gainesville restaurant, claims he was kicked out, flair was in gainesville over the weekend for the graduation of a relative at uf.

Scott Johnson , Reporter/weekend anchor

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Legendary pro wrestler Ric Flair claimed he was kicked out of a Gainesville restaurant over the weekend after attending graduation ceremonies at the University of Florida.

The “Nature Boy” took to social media and posted this after a visit to Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza: “Spent $1500 at @piesanosstonefiredpizza To Be Disrespected More Than I Ever Have In My Entire Life. After Taking 20 Pictures With Customers And Staff, I Was Asked To Leave Because Of An Issue I Had With The Kitchen Manager Taking Too Long In The Bathroom. I Would Highly Recommend That Anyone Who Wants To Enjoy A Relaxing Time In Gainesville At A Nice Restaurant To Never Visit This Place! WOOOOO!”

Recommended Videos

MORE: News4JAX’s Going Ringside Podcast looks at the biggest stories in pro wrestling each week

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ric Flair® Nature Boy® (@ricflairnatureboy)

The Going Ringside Podcast , which covers the pro wrestling industry, contacted the co-owner of the restaurant and he sent a statement: “We have reviewed video of the incident that took place recently at our restaurant. It is clear, our team worked in a professional manner to ensure the safety of guests and staff. We have thanked our team for their professionalism. We are proud of how they responded to this situation using and displaying our team values.”

Footage has emerged of the incident where Ric Flair was kicked out of a restaurant. 🎥: bussines11.11 (tiktok) pic.twitter.com/wZy54YuLfH — Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) May 7, 2024

@goingringside Just in #natureboy #ricflair says he was kicked out of a restaurant I just talked to the business owner #wrestletok #goingringside #wwe #aew ♬ original sound - Going Ringside

Flair had been in Gainesville for the graduation of a relative earlier in the day.

Going Ringside has also requested an interview with the owner and will update if he agrees to speak publicly.

News4JAX’s Scott Johnson shares interviews and insights on professional wrestling and its impact on Jacksonville.

Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Scott johnson.

Scott is a multi-Emmy Award Winning Anchor and Reporter, who also hosts the “Going Ringside With The Local Station” Podcast. Scott has been a journalist for 25 years, covering stories including six presidential elections, multiple space shuttle launches and dozens of high-profile murder trials.

Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines.

Driver dies after crashing into security barrier around the White House complex, authorities say

WASHINGTON — A driver died after a vehicle crashed into an outer perimeter gate of the White House complex, and the incident late Saturday was being investigated as a traffic crash, police said. President Joe Biden was spending the weekend in Delaware, and the Secret Service said there was no threat to the White House.

The male driver, who was not immediately identified, was found dead in the vehicle following the crash shortly before 10:30 p.m., according to a Secret Service statement.

The Metropolitan Police Department said the vehicle crashed into a security barrier at the intersection of 15th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Police were called to the scene at 10:46 p.m. and said one adult male was pronounced dead from the crash into a security barrier around the complex.

The Secret Service said security protocols were put in place and that there was no threat to the White House. The Secret Service and police will continue to investigate.

The Associated Press

2024 Champions League final: All you need to know

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Article summary

The 2023/24 UEFA Champions League final will take place at London's historic Wembley Stadium.

Article top media content

Article body

The best of the best will be crowned on the ultimate stage when the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League season concludes at London's prestigious Wembley Stadium on Saturday 1 June.

This is the 69th season of Europe's elite club competition and the 32nd since it was renamed the UEFA Champions League.

Who is playing in the Champions League final?

Borussia Dortmund were first to confirm their place in the final with a 2-0 aggregate victory over Paris Saint-Germain . They will take on 14-time champions Real Madrid, who secured their own ticket to London with a dramatic 4-3 aggregate victory over Bayern München .

Where is the Champions League final?

The highlight of European football's club calendar returns to the London venue for a record eighth time, and the third in the UEFA Champions League era following the 2011 and 2013 finals.

Wembley has undergone a massive transformation since it hosted the last old-style European Champion Clubs' Cup final in 1992 , the famous twin towers arena making way for a new venue symbolised by the gigantic arch. Boasting a seated capacity of around 90,000, the new Wembley reopened its doors in 2007 and is once again home to the England national side, as well as host to the nation's premier domestic cup finals.

Wembley Stadium also hosted all three of England's Group D games at UEFA EURO 2020 , as well as two round of 16 matches, both semi-finals and the final itself , with the hosts only denied their maiden triumph in the competition on penalties against Italy. The outcome was more successful for England at UEFA Women's EURO 2022, as the Lionesses overcame Germany 2-1 after extra time to become European champions for the first time.

How to watch the Champions League final

Details of where to watch the Champions League final will appear here.

Is there extra time and penalties in the Champions League final?

Yes. If the score is level at the end of normal time, two 15-minute periods of extra time are played. If one of the teams scores more goals than the other during extra time, that team is declared the winner. If the score remains level after extra time, the winner is determined by a penalty shoot-out.

Who is the referee for the Champions League final?

The refereeing team will be announced in the lead-up to the final.

What do the Champions League winners get?

The UEFA Champions League trophy stands 73.5cm tall and weighs 7.5kg. "It may not be an artistic masterpiece, but everybody in football is keen to get their hands on it," said creator Jürg Stadelmann.

The 2023/24 UEFA Champions League winners will also automatically qualify for next season's league phase if they do not earn a place via their domestic league position.

Champions League winner rebalancing

What happens if the UEFA Champions League winners have also qualified for the league phase via their domestic league position?

Lastly, the European champions also earn the right to play against the winners of the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League in the 2024 UEFA Super Cup in Warsaw, Poland .

Where are the other 2024 club competition finals?

2024 Europa League final : Dublin Arena, Dublin, Republic of Ireland 2024 Women's Champions League final : San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao, Spain 2024 Europa Conference League final : AEK Arena, Athens, Greece

Where is the 2025 Champions League final?

Press Herald

Account Subscription: ACTIVE

Questions about your account? Our customer service team can be reached at [email protected] during business hours at (207) 791-6000 .

9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

You are able to gift 5 more articles this month.

Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. Learn more .

With a Press Herald subscription, you can gift 5 articles each month.

It looks like you do not have any active subscriptions. To get one, go to the subscriptions page .

Loading....

Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

Success. Please wait for the page to reload. If the page does not reload within 5 seconds, please refresh the page.

Enter your email and password to access comments.

Forgot Password?

Don't have a commenting profile? Create one.

Hi, to comment on stories you must create a commenting profile . This profile is in addition to your subscription and website login. Already have a commenting profile? Login .

Invalid username/password.

Please check your email to confirm and complete your registration.

Create a commenting profile by providing an email address, password and display name. You will receive an email to complete the registration. Please note the display name will appear on screen when you participate.

Already registered? Log in to join the discussion.

Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why .

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.

Send questions/comments to the editors.

Member Log In

Please enter your username and password below. Already a subscriber but don't have one? Click here .

Not a subscriber? Click here to see your options