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We firmly believe that traveling is one of the best parts of being born a human being. We have the sort of freedom to go on life-changing, cultural, and educational adventures like nobody else in the animal kingdom. (Except for birds, of course—they can go anywhere, any time, and they always fly first class. Yes, we’re jealous!) However, what you see in those bright and brilliant travel ads isn’t always what you get.
Underwhelming, disappointing, and a waste of time—that’s how some members of the wildly popular, 6.5-million strong r/travel community felt after going to these ‘must-see’ and ‘must-visit’ tourist attractions. And today we’re featuring their candid comments about what they felt was overhyped so you don’t fall into the same trap… or at least so you manage your expectations.
Pack your bags and get your scrolling muscles warmed up, Pandas, because we’re about to go on a trip into the Land of Disappointment (featuring the Valley of Over-Hyped Stuff and Paris Syndrome). Got any horrible travel stories to share with the class? Do you disagree with some of these redditors’ opinions? You can spill the tea (and/or beans) in the comments.
One of the moderators helping run r/travel, u/SiscoSquared, was kind enough to answer our questions. Bored Panda also got in touch with entertainment, pop culture, and lifestyle expert Mike Sington, who's known as Hollywood's Ultimate Insider. He was happy to share what first-time visitors to Los Angeles should definitely see and what they should probably steer clear of if they don't want to be disappointed. Check out both interviews below.
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#1
The Dead Sea. You're in Israel. In the desert. It's blazing hot, like 115°F. You think you'll go take a dip in the Dead Sea to cool off, right? Wrong. First, you have to pay to go through a spa to use their towels, pools, etc. Then you take the wagon/shuttle that drives you from the spa down to the shore. The wagon/shuttle goes about 5 miles per hour in the scortching sun. No breeze. Next, you get to the shore of the Dead Sea. You the proceed to run over the sand that's so hot you're sure your feet will burn off. You tentatively step into the water....and it's like the hottest bath you've ever taken in your life. The water is maybe 1° away from boiling. But you figure you've made it this far, might as well get the full experience. So you submerge. It's a mistake. Every pore on your body is burning from the salt. If you have shaved any part of your body within the last three years, you will feel the salt seep into the little micro cuts and burn you from the inside out. You find cuts on your body you didn't even know you had. Even your asshole is burning because you have pooped and wiped within the last week, so your skin is raw there. And the worst part is, when you decide you have had enough of this boiling body of water, you practically have to crawl out because you're too bouyant to stand. And in the process of crawling out, you scrape your knees on the bottom where the salt rocks have crystalized which sets off a whole new round of pain. So now you're hot, sticky from the salt, and every inch of your body burns.
In moderator u/SiscoSquared's opinion, there are two ways to go about avoiding disappointment when traveling anywhere. The first is to go in with little (or better yet, no) expectations. The other thing you can do is put in a bit more effort and do more than just read the promotional material. Consider asking someone you know who's experienced it all before, or find a guide or a blogger with similar interests as yours. That way, you can get a more nuanced opinion on whether or not a location's worth visiting.
"I think the more popular a place is, the more easily it is to become overhyped and a letdown," they pointed out that the sense of disappointment, culture shock, and unmet expectations is commonly known as Paris Syndrome. (Naturally, it isn't just Paris that can let you down—Hollywood can do the same, as entertainment expert Mike told us, but hang on for a bit for his insights.)
The r/travel mod believes that all of us are unique and how we enjoy our vacations is entirely up to us. Nobody should feel forced to do something that they hate. "For many people, learning the local culture, on a surface level or maybe more makes for a fun trip, for others sitting at an all-inclusive resort at the beach is ideal. How you enjoy your vacation is up to you. Thankfully, we're not all identical and boring as a result."
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#2
Dubai. It's the most soulless, cultureless, and artificial city I've been to. The shameless and obscene display of bling-bling only adds to this vibe, and the supertall skyscrapers and mega malls get old sooner or later.
To top it off, all of this is built overnight on what is essentially slave labor.
Dan Padgett 2 years ago
I completely concur with this. Been many times due to a relation working there. You forgot to mention the sheer amount of abandoned skyscrapers that ran out of cash.
#3
While the Louvre is wonderful, the Mona Lisa was a huge disappointment.
The painting itself is tiny and there are always hordes of people around it.
There are a million better things to see at the Louvre.
Mihai Mara 2 years ago
I find it good that people are attracted by that painting as it means that the other rooms containing magnificent works of arts are not that crowded! So yay! When I went to the Louvre I stayed for two minutes in that room, mostly getting amazed at the hoard of people that were desperate to get in front and to take a picture. That was quite a show. And then I continued my tour in the other amazing rooms. (I am not saying the Mona Lisa painting is not beautiful, it really is a work of art, great portrait, nice and subtle touches, I knew beforehand that it is regular size portrait. I agree with OP that it is overhyped by ignorant tourists)
Redditor u/SiscoSquared boasted about their fellow moderators who have "done an excellent job of setting up a very comprehensive automod." That means that a small handful of moderators can take care of the entire massive subreddit. "We each just do it in our spare time, maybe when we're bored at the airport or train station! Most of the work is filtering posts that don't follow the subreddits posting guidelines and responding to reports."
Hollywood isn't like it is in the movies, folks. It's likely to not meet your expectations. "There’s one popular, supposedly must-see attraction that’s way overhyped in Los Angeles, and that’s Hollywood. Everyone has heard of it and everyone wants to see it, but once you arrive in the real Hollywood, you’re sure to be disappointed," entertainment expert and LA local Mike shared with Bored Panda.
"It’s very crowded, and there’s hardly anything to see except the stars in the sidewalk. Once you do that, and you have to dodge the crowds to even navigate the sidewalks, that’s it. I’d suggest passing on Hollywood itself, and taking one of the professionally run studio tours all the major movie studios offer," he stressed that Hollywood itself doesn't have much to offer.
#4
Disney Parks. Want to eat? Be ready to Shell out $50 a person per day. Oh, you came for the rides? Enjoy the four or five you make it on unless it's a busy day, those days enjoy the two or three
Sarah Jane 2 years ago
I hate Disney. Husband and I went with his parents. They paid for our room, tickets, and dinner (thank God!). I started just sharing my husband's breakfast plate because $40+ every morning was going to put us in the poor house. It was hot, too many kids running around, and not enough places to cool down. Huge waste of money.
Alexandra Davis 2 years ago
I disagree. Bring you own lunch to avoid big food costs and then have money for treats that are cheaper and we managed every ride we wanted to in Orlando when we went and some rides 2-3 times. Yes it wasn't peak peak season but not far off. I was actually pleasantly surprised at the queue lengths. Disney Paris is even better as the queues even in July are always fairly short and the food not half as expensive as you'd think. Any tourist place is going to charge more than normal, that should be expected.
Troux 2 years ago
I love Disney World, and lived in central FL so I've had the opportunity to be desensitized by it. Yes, it's expensive and packed, as a world-famous legendary tourist destination should expect to be - accept that and plan around it. There are PLENTY of cheap (and safe) hotels and places to eat nearby, and you're welcome to pack snacks to bring into the park. If you are willing to splurge a little, the Disney hotels and restaurants are very unique and at a high standard. You may leave with 'That was way too much money' but rarely 'I could have gotten the same thing at ___.' What sets Disney apart from any other artificial destination is the exquisite attention to detail. They do very well to complete the experience and hide the evidence of 'operations.' That, and the extremely engaged and entertaining staff (cast) make it a unique and lovable experience for me. I'm not an obsessive Disney fan, but I will never tire of appreciating the parks and resorts for being so well-executed.
Kristina Cowan 2 years ago (edited)
That's true, they put a lot into the experience for what it's worth, I will add that the Harry Potter area was amazing at Universal Studios when me and my husband went, it definitely had some charm. Anyway, I loved Magic Kingdom!
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Fitz_N_Fartz 2 years ago
I visited Disneyland with my daughter in Sept 2019 and had a whale of a time. The Star Wars ride had just opened and as a big kid I did it 3 times (must have had a minimum of 8 rides during the day). It is what you make it, if cost is a focal point and you want to visit, bring your own food.
That'sEndorable 2 years ago
Disney isn't worth it for the rides. As a college student who couldn't exactly go on a world tour, I liked Epcot Center's nations, even though I knew from the science-y side not to expect too much authenticity. And I went in January; I can't imagine going in the summer. If you don't like it, people try to shame you by saying, "oh, you need a childlike sense of wonder." But kids don't like being infantilized.
TheDivineMsM 2 years ago
As someone who lived next door to Disney for almost 25 years- Disney is super overrated.
AgedViolet 2 years ago (edited)
Amen! When I was there, Snoopy and Woodstock roamed the park. Walk around a corner, there's an old-fashioned shootout going on. Turn another corner, and there's a hoedown. Later that day, a hypnotist is turning some unsuspecting soul into the Roadrunner. In other words, NO AUDIOANIMATRONICS. You really get your money's worth there.
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May light defeat the darkness 2 years ago
Not for me as well. Visited once for the sake of the kids but that’s it for me. Too crowded.
Marianne 2 years ago
I visited Disneyland in September. At the entrance, a sign said: Due to our Halloween Party, the park will close at 6 instead of 11pm. So we got 5 hours less for the same price. When I asked staff about it, they said it was on their homepage. Well guess what, it was not on your homepage when I booked my tickets months ago. I feel this should pop up if you're booking the day of such a party.
Polly Culberson 2 years ago
Went to Disney at Halloween and enjoyed it immensely.
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Littlemiss 2 years ago
Went to Disney in California. They took our money and failed to mention that 60% of the park was closed for maintenance. Families with kids 10 and under were covered, all that was open. Stopped and asked a Disney rep about how long maintenance was going to be and got a snarky response pfff well you chose to come today duh! I wanted to smack her upside the head, I'd researched going and there was nothing posted whatsoever. Absolute waste of money.
A_Human_Bean 2 years ago
If you know how to do Disney, you can get plenty of rides a day, and if you only do lunch at the parks and breakfast and dinner in an air bnb, it won’t be as expensive. The genie plus also helps to sneak in a couple quick rides, and isn’t too expensive, but if you have a big group I would be. I went with my family of 7 and my cousins and grandparents, so and 16 total and we had the time of our lives. (Although a bit stressful with planning and little kids)
RandomHumanBean 2 years ago
I haven't been to Disney, but I went to Hershey Park and I can guarantee you that it is soooooooo much better. Lines are shorter, it is way less heat, and there's chocolate. and the rides are literally the same. so yeah, I will definitely stick to Hershey.
Who Panda 420 2 years ago (edited)
I lived in Florida and every time a relative came to visit they always wanted to go to Disney world. It is so overpriced and ridiculous but we felt that we had to go every single time. I probably been at least 15 times in my life. Some of the other parks I like way better like SeaWorld because I enjoy sea creatures but they are all tourist traps and you better be prepared to pay big money for even a bottle of water. And don't believe the hype because it is definitely not the happiest place on earth
Sandra Givens 2 years ago
Poor planning is the usual reason for disappointment. We enjoy a Disney trip every year, do at least 7 or 8 attractions, and enjoy the shows, parades and fireworks. Meals cost pretty much what they do outside the parks, so if you were to eat at Denny's or Chili's, you would still be paying the same. In fact, we found some of the meals cost less at WDW than at the mentioned restaurants. There are many good choices for food, from burgers and chicken to French style sandwiches, salmon platters, and customizable bowls that cost $10 - 16, not $50.
Anna Banana 2 years ago
This sounds like hell, but I'm surprised at the OP's surprise. I've never been, or even considred going, and it's still exactly what I'd expect in there.
Kylie Leanne 2 years ago
I'd love to go, but every single one of you have validated my reasons to not go, so it will stay a fun daydream of mine
Raphael Biock 2 years ago (edited)
I was there today (DL Paris). Do not go there. 9 (!!!) out of approx. 25 attractions were closed. Why should I pull full price though? Additionally some of them close already at 5pm while the park closes 6 hours later at 11pm. The weather was great and we wanted to go a ride with the paddle way steamer after the parade at 5:30. Closed. I asked three different people frum the stuff and all ansewere "we dont know why it closes that early, it just does". Also there are the well known or already mentioned aspects about ridiculous prices. A mickey-ballon with helium just 10 €. Miserable food for 16 €/person and all the other extras you have to pay absurd money One more fake are the waiting times shown at a lane at the attraction or in the mobile app. Spoiler: They are all wrong. And I do not mean 'wrong, like 5min wrong.' Approx they were wrong by 100% or more. It says 45mins, you will wait 90. It said 30mins at big thunder rollercoaster (in the evening), it was 75mins. It's all a scam.
Steven John 2 years ago
Huge disappointment, in France, head for Parc Asterix. Better, cheaper, easier to get around and no crowds of 20+s pushing everyone out of the way.
Janice - Hazeldine 2 years ago
Disney parks are just giant shopping centers that you have to pay a lot to get into.
RandomFrog 2 years ago
Yeah I’d rather spend the week at lagoon (water park) for the same cost lol
Dorothy Reiser 2 years ago
We were lucky(?) our oldest son had a fractured shin bone. When you have a wheelchair, you get to go to the front of the line (at least in 1998). Everything was overpriced and crowded, and we were caught in a hurricane (no refunds for the 3 day pass).
Babsevs 2 years ago
Well....not anymore! At least in Orlando. We were there in April, cost us a lot (15 of us travelled to USA from UK for 3 weeks...full Disney and Universal and Busch parks passes)! One of our party was in a wheelchair, most you get is them and up to 5 other family members will get a return time, and then you still have to queue. Only good treatment we had was in SeaWorld, they were amazing. Disney was very *meh* and Universal was 90% disgusting crew member treatment. They were pretty much bullying towards our party, especially at the Harry Potter zone..... Really crappy towards us. (Wheelchair user was one of the parents in our group...late 30s in the middle of cancer treatment...we were hugely upset with their behaviour at a lot of rides)
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William Hicks 2 years ago
Once was too many. Spot on about over priced and riding many rides. Unless you pay extra for a fast pass.
Amy Taylor 2 years ago (edited)
I'm a CA native and I've sworn off Disneyland since they started the season passes. Growing up, it was reasonably priced, not that crowded, and totally enjoyable. After the post covid re-opening, they were operating at 30% capacity and I took my daughters...it was just like my childhood memories of it :)
that.bitch.mae 2 years ago (edited)
I went to Disneyland recently and it was kind of a bummer. My mom was able to get a sort of disability fast pass so we waited in almost no lines. You would think that'd be pretty great but nope, you realize just how little there actually is to do at the park when you plan to stay for 10-12hrs and hit all but maybe four rides that are in service (unfortunately weren't able to hit Pirates, Nemo, or Roger Rabbit) because you aren't interested in them in only 6hrs. I'd much rather see what Walt Disney World, Disney Paris, and Disney Tokyo have to offer cause Disneyland ain't s**t. And also I spent 7 dollars on three Babybels, 6 on a partially stale churro, 5 on a smart water, and another 6 on a school lunch-sized tray of fries so yes, I'm salty.
Remington Greer 2 years ago
Last time I went, over a decade ago, tickets were $150 per person. (Lines aren't as bad if you go the week after a holiday like memorial day) an amusement park in my home state offers season passes for $120 (lagoon in Utah for those curious) which allows unlimited access while the park is open. I went to Disneyland right after Thanksgiving, so it got a little chilly at night. We ordered some hot chocolate that was $8 or so for an 8 Oz cup. It was the worst hit chocolate ever, it tasted like hot brown water and there was no flavoring. I've had better cups of Swiss miss
Lee Kerr 2 years ago (edited)
I’ve been to Disneyland Paris many times because my son is autistic and loves it. We. always buy tickets well in advance, stay in Paris itself and only have lunch and snacks at Disneyland. I loved it, particularly once we were able to a avoid school holidays. I’ve never seem the appeal of actually staying there; it just seems so limiting
Ruth Meszaros 2 years ago
Go in the winter. The lines are short or non-existent. We went several times right after Christmas and it was great—cool, no crowds, no waiting, and there were fireworks.
Talon 2 years ago
I’ve been to Disneyland in California once and DisneyWorld in Florida like 3 times and there have been many times in DisneyWorld where I’ve almost passed out and I’ve gotten sick from going in and out of the air conditioning in DisneyWorld. (I went there so many times because I’m a cheerleader and we had a competition at ESPN a couple years in a row)
Lei Lutz 2 years ago
I went with a coworker that goes every year. She planned everything methodically and it was a completely magical experience. (Of course this was quite awhile ago, and definitely way before covid.) We had amazing rooms, meals included, utilizing fast passes,and sticking with 1 park per day. My coworker's daughter planned fun things, like the princess makeovers, and a fun candy crawl to collect different countries candies at Epcot,along with a place for the kids to have their names written in the language (think Japan for example) with message in oreign languages. did go a bit crazy with souvenirs, but had planned on this and was prepared. My coworker knew so many ways to save money, while getting the most out of every park. We left early in the mornings, went on the off season. I made my daughter an autograph book at home (had it bound at Staples) so I was able to personalize the book to fit my daughter's preferences. I read a few blogs, made "Disney" treats for the flight out.
B Jean the Jelly Bean 2 years ago
I went to Disney World during the first few years it was opened. The cost to enter the park was about $6.00 (adult). That included all rides and attractions if I remember correctly. Of course the park wasn't as large but still.... The one memory that sticks with me is the awful smell of all the plastic flowers!!
Mer☕️🧭☕️ 2 years ago
I went to Epcot Center/et al back in the 80s. That was enough for me. Hot, humid, too much walking, too many blisters on my feet, too many people in too many places...thankfully I wasn't into riding the germy rides (was there for the Epcot'ness anyway), and see absolutely no reason to return. Fwiw, loved Disney as a kid but see no reason to look at people dressed up in plastic-y costumes or hear kids whining.
Robert Ham 2 years ago
When we went, we bought a book on how to do the park--you arrive an hour early because they start letting people in then, you go counter-clockwise around the park because most people go the other way. First day we went we got on our first six rides (including Space Mountain) without standing in line at all. Oh, and you don't stay at the hotels in the park or eat there. The book also said which rides loaded fast and which were slow. It was a long time ago but I'm sure you can still get this kind of book.
That nerd Zoe ️🇺🇦️ 2 years ago
Personally I love Disney but I'm a teen who has really good memories of going when I was 7 and 9 so... I get to go again this year! The worst for me is lines and the car ride there but yeah... (I live in the Midwest so it's over a 16 hour drive XD) pls don't downvote me into oblivion lol
Rachel Ainsworth 2 years ago
Easy solution, skip lunch and go on all the rides you want with almost no queues while everyone else is standing in queues to pay exorbitant prices for lunch.
Sebastián Morales 2 years ago
i've gone to disney world Orlando twice and tbh it's severely overrated
Richard Black 2 years ago
Wow. $50 a day for dining out. That will be an eye ooener for anyone who mostly uses the mcdopalds drive thru.
New Everywhere 2 years ago
I think you just need to be prepared. Go in the off season if you can. Don't eat your big meals at the park (like, why?). If it is somewhat crowded shell out for the fast pass, you'll get to do more. Gotta have a theme park attitude to even think about having a good time
DorkLimester6001 2 years ago
I like Disney. I had a couple genie + stuff but not that much. It’s still fun to walk around and especially go to galaxy’s edge.
Sali Seydel Mounce 2 years ago (edited)
Find an online forum, or friends who've been there, to give you advice on when to go on which rides, etc. We loved it. Took our kids when they were young, followed advice of friends, got there early and took the rides that are usually crazy later in the day. When the lines were the worst, we sat in the shade and enjoyed snacks we'd brought in my backpack. We chose the special food we really wanted to eat. We visited Disney/Epcot in Florida where there's more space, and enjoyed the three days we were there. Yes it's pricey, long lines and lots of people. But if you plan well and explain to any kids who are along how it's going to work it can be a fun memory!!
Tigerpacingthecage 2 years ago
I'm in Europe so the only Disneyland I've been to is the one in Paris so I don't know about US. Yes it is pricey. Absolutely. But I found it worth it for the experience of nostalgia (exactly how they want you to feel I guess) I remember on vhs when I was younger how they used to advertise for it and I always wanted to go (obviously) and it WAS that same experience that I wished for. But yeah it's obviously overpriced and a capitalist nest so I don't want to like it (but secretly do).
Benita Valdez 2 years ago
I prefer going during Halloween and going to Universal Studios. That's alot of fun and people are split between rides and Halloween attractions so the lines aren't bad
#5
Hollywood. The most disappointing garbage and pee covered place on earth
Mohammad Ammar 2 years ago
What even is Hollywood? A part of a city? Residential area or what?
#6
The London eye. It's so overly expensive, and you have to wait in a long line for your turn. If you want a good view of London, I'd recommend checking out St. Paul's Cathedral (even if you're not religious). It's a lot cheaper, and if you're able to climb the stairs you can go all the way to the top and take in an even better view
According to Mike, it's important to manage your expectations when coming to Los Angeles. "Because the city is often pictured in the movies and on television as some glamorous place, that’s often all that visitors are expecting. Sure, Los Angeles is beautiful and diverse, and the weather is spectacular, but keep in mind it’s a very big city, so it has all the problems and urban sprawl of most big cities," he said that some visitors expect only the upsides and don't foresee the downsides.
"As a longtime resident of Los Angeles, I’m very familiar with what’s worth seeing, and what’s not. Here’s my personal list of the actual 'must-see' places for a first-time visitor:
- Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
- Getty Center
- Runyon Canyon
- Santa Monica Beach
- The Grove
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art
- The Broad
- Universal Studios
- Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
- Beverly Hills
- Mulholland Drive"
#7
Machu Picchu. I respect the Incas for building it, the real issue I have with it is the current management. It’s flooded with people (they let in over 3x the cap sto make money) being annoying and it’s very expensive, they bus people up a huge hill all day and we are required to have a tour guide and only spend 3 mins at certain areas. It’s misrepresenting the history of the Incas to people with selfie sticks. Not my fave
You are WAY better off seeing the Inca capitol, Cusco because it’s where they actually lived and thrived. See Sasqsyhuaman and the Qoricancha sun temple. Go on a backpacking trip and you will find Inca and pre Inca stuff Everywhere. With no idiotic tourists families. I highly recommend it.
¡Viva Perú!
Wang Zhuang 2 years ago
Despite this review, Machu Picchu remains on my travel bucket list. I'd like to visit Cusco as well
#8
I didn’t get anything out of Las Vegas. It was cool to see the themed hotels but besides that it was just an overpriced cultureless soulless city designed to entertain you
Mir Adwari 2 years ago
Um, well yes... If you wanted something else out of your visit, pick a different part of the country 🤷♀️
#9
Sydney Opera House. The tours are expensive and the inside is kind of underwhelming. The outside is free and is also the best part. ALTERNATIVE: Just walk around Sydney harbor. It's free and gorgeous.
Graham Chapman 2 years ago
I agree, the outside of the opera house and the surrounding area is fantastic!
The r/travel subreddit is an online community that unites travel enthusiasts from around the globe. They celebrate people’s desire to explore the world, and members, in turn, share their photos, and stories, and ask others for advice. Community members are encouraged to put in effort, be descriptive, and add details to their posts. Low-effort posts aren't the way to go.
It’s all friendly, educational, and done in the spirit of adventure. The sub has a handy FAQ for any new redditors joining just now. And the moderators advise members to search the community for specific questions and topics before asking a question. It’s to see if someone’s already answered it before. That way, you get to rely on the community’s collective experience and save everyone’s time by avoiding repeating questions (or asking stuff that you'd easily find on Google).
It’s very important to manage your expectations when doing anything. If you’re overhyped about visiting a place, seeing a work of art in person, or going to a (supposedly) great restaurant for a meal, you might end up disappointed even if the actual experience is objectively fine.
For sure, it’s hard to meet expectations if they’re sky-high. Being realistic and avoiding being overly excited can, paradoxically, make your trip far more enjoyable. That way, you get to be pleasantly surprised instead of disappointed that things aren’t as wonderful and ‘perfect’ as you imagined them to be.
#10
If you go to the Great Wall of China, I'd suggest not going to the section right there in Beijing. Very rebuilt and touristy.
Take a van ride a ways out of the city, to the Simitai section. Now there's some uncrowded, old-school Great Wall.
#11
Japan has such a romanticized view of France that they actually have a term, "Paris Syndrome", for the sudden shock suffered by Japanese tourists when they see that France isn't how they imagined
Anna Banana 2 years ago
I loved Paris but I think it helped that I was there as a poor student. You naturally avoid most of the tourist attractions (except museums, but they were discounted) and instead spend long hours walking around the city, having supermarket wine and cheese by the Seine and finding little local places to eat. I am working now, but I still prefer to travel this way.
#12
Naples. I did a big trip through Europe after college and spent about a month in Italy. Naples was easily the worst place I visited. It was seedy, rundown, trashy, and unsafe. I would never go back
Aside from your expectations, it’s also vital that you put in the effort and do your research before heading out. For example, Professor Christine Vogt, the Director of the Center for Sustainable Tourism at Arizona State University, told Bored Panda some time ago that people should learn about their destination’s culture, customs, and language before packing their bags.
“More than likely that is what draws a person to visit a certain place. The more local knowledge a traveler has, the more a traveler can feel like a local and fit in," she explained, adding that the locals appreciate foreigners putting in the effort.
"Local customs can include how a traveler dresses, eats, uses a cell phone, etc. When a traveler is out in a community such as walking in a downtown area or eating in a restaurant, these local customs can come into play,” the professor said.
“For example, in Buddhist countries, a woman who has not covered her shoulders or legs may not be allowed into temples or even a restaurant. Learn as many local customs as you can and a few key words to enhance your experience.”
#13
Egypt, all the beauty and awe of the ancient civilisation is completely outshone by how absolutely horrible the modern civilisation is. Think of all the worst parts of India and then add sand to it
#14
Casablanca, Morocco. I think it's the least interesting place in a fascinating country. It felt like a dumpy business district on the coast. Other than one obscenely expensive mosque built by a previous king, there's nothing to see. But the rest of Morocco? It's one of the most beautiful places I've seen. Fez, Essaouira, the High Atlas Mountains, and Marrakesh were all gorgeous
#15
The Guinness brewery tour in Dublin. It was an absolute tourist trap. They don't even brew beer at the storefront any more.
Meanwhile, you should also keep in mind that the Covid-19 pandemic isn’t over yet. There are some restrictions still in place, depending on where you travel. You should definitely read up on them while planning your trip to avoid some nasty surprises.
For instance, investor and author Rick Orford, who has traveled all over Europe, recently shared with Bored Panda the headache of a system that was in place in the Southern part of the continent.
He’d planned to sail to Greece from Italy on a cruise ship, but the rules regarding Covid tests caused a lot of stress. In short, the rules were inconsistent with what’s happening on other forms of transportation.
#16
The Skybridge at the Grand Canyon was definitely a bad experience, and an overpriced one. I don't understand why so many tourists do this. There's the entire freakin' Grand Canyon right there for you to access for free. The park offers thousands of breathtaking views all over. And exploring the trail with its ledges and views is thrilling enough. Walking the Skybridge is a far cry from the best experience you can have there
Kerry Coetzer 2 years ago
It saddens me that beautiful natural wonders cannot be left untouched without adding a tourist trap of some kind to monetise it. Humans have spoilt so much of the natural world as it is, it would be amazing if we could just leave some parts of it to just be.
#17
The Taj Mahal (Agra). It's surrounded by 10-meter-high walls, and the entrance fee is ludicrously expensive compared to any other attraction in India. If you're in Agra and want to see the Taj Mahal, go across the river. There are some gardens almost directly across from it, and there's a great spot by the river with a brilliant view of the Taj Mahal, particularly at sunset. This experience is totally free, and you won't have to deal with crowds
Paul Ellis 2 years ago (edited)
I went there years ago and loved it. It was being renovated and I came across an artisan cutting pieces of marble to replace lost or damaged areas. We talked for hours, and at the end of our convo he gave me three pieces of the original Taj marble he had replaced. I have them still, my own piece of this extraordinary symbol of love.
#18
Bali.
It's just drunk Australians all over the place.
Fish Boden 2 years ago
I'm Australian and find the Sigha singlet wearing 'drunk aussie' to be the absolute worst. They are a national embarrassment.The Balinese hate them, and for good reason.
"We must have a negative Covid test to get on a cruise ship. On a plane, at a hotel, restaurant—[it's] not needed. But on a cruise ship... it's mandatory," he said.
"What I find really fascinating is that one can visit a hotel, or a restaurant, or take a train or a plane here in Italy, and nothing is required. Yet, to get on a cruise ship, one needs to prove vaccination, and give a negative Covid test within 48 hours of sailing," he stressed that the rules aren’t always consistent and that they might fit someone’s understanding of common sense. In short, do your research, check the rules.
#19
Niagara Falls. I didn’t expect the falls to be in a city. I expected something more like a national park, but the whole falls and its surroundings just felt like a giant shopping mall
#20
Calanque de Sormiou in Marseille, France. Called one of the best beaches in Marseille, I expected a wonderful, spacious, and quiet white-sand beach with crystal-clear blue water. But what I found was a packed, small, and polluted strip of sand. Turns out you can't always trust the idyllic photos of a destination
Saint Thomas 2 years ago
Anyplace that is named "the best" is bound to be submerged by tourists, though. No big surprise there.
#21
The glass bridge over the grand canyon.
Total rip-off tourist trap.
It takes HOURS to get there from Vegas
They charge you $20 to park in an empty desert
They charge you $30 per person to take the bus from the parking to the attraction (it's like walking from parking into a mall - no distance at all!)
Then they charge you $30 per person if you actually want to walk on the bridge
You cannot take pictures or bring a camera onto the bridge, but they will sell them to you, of course.
There is one overpriced place to eat where they sell you canned food heated up in a microwave for big money... or you could drive 5 hours back to Vegas...
Go there to get scalped.
John Murray 2 years ago
The drive is only 2 hours and if you had read their web page and checked out reviews, you would've known about everything you just listed. Teachable moment is read up on places before just jumping in the car and going for it.
#22
Plitvice National Park in Croatia was a disappointment. I expected a stunning natural wonder, and hoped it would be a little crowded on a random Monday in September (not peak season, not a weekend). The reality: a perfectly pleasant national park that was absolutely jam-packed with the world's pushiest, screaming, selfish visitors. I was basically trapped on a boardwalk shuffling along desperately just trying to get a space to see the waterfalls
#23
Ha Long Bay in Vietnam was a bit of a letdown. Based on the photos, I was so excited to visit, but there was so much garbage in the water it felt extremely polluted. Our junk ship operators were visibly annoyed with us because we didn't want to buy any of the touristy trinkets they were pressuring us to purchase on board. I’m glad I went and experienced Ha Long Bay, but I wouldn't go back
#24
The Temple Bar area in Dublin. Sure, walking the streets is nice, and there are some neat shops and street art to see. But going in a pub in Temple Bar? Unless you like overpaying for drinks and listening to some guy sing a cover of 'Wonderwall,' I wouldn't recommend it
#25
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland. It's very artificial, and these days it's just a place where tourists like to get drunk in dirty water. There are tons of natural thermal pools scattered all around Iceland that are far nicer and authentic.
#26
Pisa.
Besides the small square with the tower where everyone is taking the same stupid joke pic. And guys tryna sell you toys.
The rest of the town is pretty lame. You're in Tuscany, go to ANY small town and you'll enjoy it far more
Roxanne D'souza 2 years ago
Disagree. Spent almost two days there and it was great. Visited the tower during sunset on the first day. It was beautiful with almost no crowd. They usually let people stay on top for an hour but I easily sat there for 2 hours, listening to music. Walked back to my hostel later that night. The view of the canal with the stars was mesmerising. Next day I rented a cycle and cycled around, searching for Keith Haring's mural. Made it back to the tower by noon, ate a sandwich, took a nap on the grass, read a book, and then headed to the train station to my next destination.
#27
I wasn't a fan of Lake Bled, Slovenia. The photos make it look so majestic, surrounded by nature in solitude. In reality though, the whole shoreline is covered by hotels, businesses, overpriced restaurants, and touristy shops. You'll spend a lot of money to take a little row boat out to the island, wander around for a few minutes, eat your hundredth cone of gelato, and then row back. I'd say to visit Lake Bohinj instead because it's far more peaceful
Nadine Bamberger 2 years ago
I'm amazed that tourists complain about tourist locations being too touristy. What do you expect?
#28
Central Restaurant in Lima, Peru was a big disappointment. Ranked the fifth best restaurant in the world, I was expecting an amazing meal, especially for the hefty price. It was admittedly a very impressive meal in the sense that it was full of unusual ingredients prepared in interesting ways and plated beautifully, but taste-wise, everything was just OK. It was not nearly as good as many other, less acclaimed restaurants I've eaten at
Zephyr Anthem 2 years ago
Where I live there's a famous restaurant that is always packed, a queue two hours before opening and no possibility of reservation. The main dish is always the same : entrecote and potato gratin, and a little desert choice. It's a place to see but pretty disapointing, which is sad because this city is renowned for its gastronomy
#29
Masaya Volcano National Park in Nicaragua. I had wanted to see it in person ever since seeing photos on Google and YouTube videos, but it really didn't live up to the hype. I feel bad saying it, but I wasn't impressed
#30
Mount Rushmore was horrendously underwhelming. Years ago, my family drove across the US. For hundreds of miles as you drive you see huge signs counting down the distance to Mount Rushmore. For days the excitement builds...and then you get there. It is four faces on mountains. There is nothing else there. Just four faces you've seen time and time again in pictures and textbooks and movies
What do you think ?
Fred L. 2 years ago
So basically the tourists are angry about everything getting ruined for tourist by other tourists or the tourist industry.
Zephyr Anthem 2 years ago
That's what i felt too, by 1/3 of the article i stopped reading, it's was always the same complains
Load More Replies...
Giovanna 2 years ago
Honestly? Sounds like tourists who went to the touristic spots of the city/country, telling themselves they were "really travelling" but actually following a map of cliches, and then complain that they were cliches
Anna Banana 2 years ago (edited)
Yep! The person who was surprised that the "best beach in town" was crowded seemed like they've never done any traveling before.
Load More Replies...
wowbagger 2 years ago
"The Moon. Cost a fortune to get there, giant potholes, no amenities. Really, just lacked atmosphere. The only positive was I lost weight while I was there, but I gained it all back when I went home. 1/10 wouldn't go again." --N. Armstrong
Jiminy 2 years ago
Do you now have a collaboration with BuzzFeed, or did the article stealing simply reached new dimensions? In the last few weeks it got really bad...
Anna Banana 2 years ago
"Tourist attractions attract a lot of tourists and as a tourist I hated to be among all of those tourists!"
A_Human_Bean 2 years ago
This was basically a list of underprepared tourists complaining about things that should have been researched/expected…
Iam Knucks 2 years ago
This list is such a grouping of rich people problems with a dash of racism in places. The Egypt one was particularly problematic.
Łukasz Markuszewski 2 years ago
It looks like some people who were visiting The Place was expecting a whole big amusement park and lasers-shooting-s**t things on site as well, but met just with The Place which very often has historical value, but is not very impressive by definition and are angry about it.
Florencia Renedo 2 years ago
I cannot believe how entitled these people are! It is such a fortune to travel and see different places! I was fortunate to be able to go to some of the places in the list and I loved them all.
Troux 2 years ago
Can't believe NYC didn't make the list. Loads of wonderful things to see and experience there (museums and galleries above all else), but all the downtown touristy parts of it are glitter on horseshit. Once you venture outside the hotspots, it's mostly the same but without the glitter. It smells awful, it's filthy, and the locals are miserable (partly because of the tourists). Standard complaints with most things on this list: too many tourists, way overpriced.
Lisa Nazarenko 2 years ago
I found New Yorkers to be some of the friendliest people I've met anywhere!
Load More Replies...
Mika N 2 years ago
I think what helps us avoid these situations when we travel is that we have no money lol! We always find the cheapest or free things to do, hiking trails, enjoying nature, or walking around small towns, and trying an affordable (small, local, probably less touristy) restaurant or cafe etc.
phil blanque 2 years ago
It is easy enough to do plenty of research about a planned trip. If people have a "bucket list" mentality about traditional tourist sites: "Oh I want to see the Mona Lisa.", then they have to expect high prices, long delays, large crowds, and typical tourist exploitation. I like the comments that point out far better alternatives. It is a simple choice.
Lara Verne 2 years ago
So, tourists complaining that tourist attractions were crowded by tourists.
Best behave.... 2 years ago
Clearly there should only be one tourist allowed in these places, and that's me...
Debbie Barnes 2 years ago
You are always going to get people who don't like a resort, for one reason or another. We could all pick out bits that we disliked about a trip, while others liked. Isn't travelling an individual thing, much like food, clothes, etc?
Mary Pigott 2 years ago
Blame social media, if everyone in the world weren't seeing these places, th3n going there, they might still be nice..
C Michael Baker 2 years ago
All of these complaints are variations of "No one goes to that restaurant because it's always so crowded"
Ivan Petrov 2 years ago
It was dirty - geez, I wonder why. Every place frequently visited by tourists will be dirty - because they are foreigners and have next to zero respect for the place.
Jessica Julian 2 years ago
So, the world famous tourist destinations had too many tourists, and the resulting filth, because of them...how is this surprising?
Wayne Gossman 2 years ago
When I was a kid (7 years old) we were going to the petrified forest in California (1967). I expected trees of stone all over the place! Instead, it was a bit of desert (just like everywhere else we were driving) with rocks in the dirt that we were told once were trees.
Glenda Whare 2 years ago
I would add the Batu Caves in KL. Absolutely filthy when we visited. Rubbish everywhere. Overly commercialized for a temple.
Wolf127 2 years ago
Saigon is the worst! It's crowded, expensive and you're taking life in your hand crossing the streets because of "millions" of motorbikes on the streets. Hell, they drive on the sidewalks, street lights and signs are mere "suggestions" to these motorbikes. Very few sights to visit. And, if you're in a tour group, you generally get dropped off at huge, touristy shopping area. Ugh!
Izzy Curer 2 years ago (edited)
Winterthur, Delaware. I've been to other places I adored, but this was my little example of disappointment. We're all about museums and history stuff in our house. Winterthur was one of the big museums in our area, but it was going to be a little bit of a hike for us to get there. So we kept putting it off for a few years, which only built up the hype for me. We finally set some time aside to treat ourselves, and we just went. I was pretty excited on the drive out there. The museum itself was impressive, but our tour guide was so rude it just completely ruined it for me. In fact, she nearly made me cry, and I just wanted to leave. It wasn't just our own guide, either. I saw other staff behaving oddly around the visitors, as well. They acted sort of 'priveledged', almost like the people they were giving the tours to were dirty, or dumb, or that they didn't belong there. I don't know how the place is managed, but it definitely didn't have a welcoming feel to it, like other museums I've been to. I left depressed. Maybe it was just a fluke. Hopefully other people have a better time, there
Scotira 2 years ago
Soooo, I read Winterthur... disappointment... unfriendly at the museum... and I'm like what the heck, Winterthur is such a nice city with nice restaurants, the Technorama is awesome and the staff is really friendly and helpful. So I go back to the top of your post, read again and WTF Winterthur, Delaware??? 🤣🤣🤣 so I google and what do I know there's a Winterthur there, too 🙈 has it's name even from the Winterthur I thought you meant. So, if you ever want a nice Winterthur, come to Switzerland 😉 but the prices might shock you 😇
Load More Replies...
Katie Lutesinger 2 years ago
Buckingham Palace was one of the most utterly boring things I've ever seen.
T. D. Bostick 2 years ago
How about Zermatt, Switzerland for skiing? What a disappointment! On slightly windy days, the lifts get shut down. On the days they're actually open, the lines are so long (gondola lifts only) that you'll be doing good to have four good runs down the mountain before it's time to go home. Anywhere I've skied was better than Zermatt. The town was a pretty nice to visit, thankfully, but if you came to ski, you're going to be very disappointed.
Scotira 2 years ago
The town is nice and waaaayyy too overpriced! There are plenty other locations for good if not better skiing in Switzerland!
Load More Replies...
Scott T Brynildsen 2 years ago
Expectations generally create disappointments. Did they think they were the first person to see it after they saw it on that tv show about that location? They played themselves and then bitched and moaned about it.
Fish Boden 2 years ago
I love the posts that offer up some alternatives to the tourist hells. Nice work!
CozyPanda 2 years ago
I feel like some of these people are disappointed because the places look different from the pictures we have seen. I think some of thse places are pretty nice...zanzibar for example...its not that great but OK...most of these places a week or two is more than enough otherwise you get bored....
Todoroki Simp 2 years ago
Crazy Horse Memorial. We thought we would see more than half a dude's face. They've been working on the thing for 30 year's.
Fred L. 2 years ago
So basically the tourists are angry about everything getting ruined for tourist by other tourists or the tourist industry.
Zephyr Anthem 2 years ago
That's what i felt too, by 1/3 of the article i stopped reading, it's was always the same complains
Load More Replies... Giovanna 2 years ago
Honestly? Sounds like tourists who went to the touristic spots of the city/country, telling themselves they were "really travelling" but actually following a map of cliches, and then complain that they were cliches
Anna Banana 2 years ago (edited)
Yep! The person who was surprised that the "best beach in town" was crowded seemed like they've never done any traveling before.
Load More Replies... wowbagger 2 years ago
"The Moon. Cost a fortune to get there, giant potholes, no amenities. Really, just lacked atmosphere. The only positive was I lost weight while I was there, but I gained it all back when I went home. 1/10 wouldn't go again." --N. Armstrong
Jiminy 2 years ago
Do you now have a collaboration with BuzzFeed, or did the article stealing simply reached new dimensions? In the last few weeks it got really bad...
Anna Banana 2 years ago
"Tourist attractions attract a lot of tourists and as a tourist I hated to be among all of those tourists!"
A_Human_Bean 2 years ago
This was basically a list of underprepared tourists complaining about things that should have been researched/expected…
Iam Knucks 2 years ago
This list is such a grouping of rich people problems with a dash of racism in places. The Egypt one was particularly problematic.
Łukasz Markuszewski 2 years ago
It looks like some people who were visiting The Place was expecting a whole big amusement park and lasers-shooting-s**t things on site as well, but met just with The Place which very often has historical value, but is not very impressive by definition and are angry about it.
Florencia Renedo 2 years ago
I cannot believe how entitled these people are! It is such a fortune to travel and see different places! I was fortunate to be able to go to some of the places in the list and I loved them all.
Troux 2 years ago
Can't believe NYC didn't make the list. Loads of wonderful things to see and experience there (museums and galleries above all else), but all the downtown touristy parts of it are glitter on horseshit. Once you venture outside the hotspots, it's mostly the same but without the glitter. It smells awful, it's filthy, and the locals are miserable (partly because of the tourists). Standard complaints with most things on this list: too many tourists, way overpriced.
Lisa Nazarenko 2 years ago
I found New Yorkers to be some of the friendliest people I've met anywhere!
Load More Replies... Mika N 2 years ago
I think what helps us avoid these situations when we travel is that we have no money lol! We always find the cheapest or free things to do, hiking trails, enjoying nature, or walking around small towns, and trying an affordable (small, local, probably less touristy) restaurant or cafe etc.
phil blanque 2 years ago
It is easy enough to do plenty of research about a planned trip. If people have a "bucket list" mentality about traditional tourist sites: "Oh I want to see the Mona Lisa.", then they have to expect high prices, long delays, large crowds, and typical tourist exploitation. I like the comments that point out far better alternatives. It is a simple choice.
Lara Verne 2 years ago
So, tourists complaining that tourist attractions were crowded by tourists.
Best behave.... 2 years ago
Clearly there should only be one tourist allowed in these places, and that's me...
Debbie Barnes 2 years ago
You are always going to get people who don't like a resort, for one reason or another. We could all pick out bits that we disliked about a trip, while others liked. Isn't travelling an individual thing, much like food, clothes, etc?
Mary Pigott 2 years ago
Blame social media, if everyone in the world weren't seeing these places, th3n going there, they might still be nice..
C Michael Baker 2 years ago
All of these complaints are variations of "No one goes to that restaurant because it's always so crowded"
Ivan Petrov 2 years ago
It was dirty - geez, I wonder why. Every place frequently visited by tourists will be dirty - because they are foreigners and have next to zero respect for the place.
Jessica Julian 2 years ago
So, the world famous tourist destinations had too many tourists, and the resulting filth, because of them...how is this surprising?
Wayne Gossman 2 years ago
When I was a kid (7 years old) we were going to the petrified forest in California (1967). I expected trees of stone all over the place! Instead, it was a bit of desert (just like everywhere else we were driving) with rocks in the dirt that we were told once were trees.
Glenda Whare 2 years ago
I would add the Batu Caves in KL. Absolutely filthy when we visited. Rubbish everywhere. Overly commercialized for a temple.
Wolf127 2 years ago
Saigon is the worst! It's crowded, expensive and you're taking life in your hand crossing the streets because of "millions" of motorbikes on the streets. Hell, they drive on the sidewalks, street lights and signs are mere "suggestions" to these motorbikes. Very few sights to visit. And, if you're in a tour group, you generally get dropped off at huge, touristy shopping area. Ugh!
Izzy Curer 2 years ago (edited)
Winterthur, Delaware. I've been to other places I adored, but this was my little example of disappointment. We're all about museums and history stuff in our house. Winterthur was one of the big museums in our area, but it was going to be a little bit of a hike for us to get there. So we kept putting it off for a few years, which only built up the hype for me. We finally set some time aside to treat ourselves, and we just went. I was pretty excited on the drive out there. The museum itself was impressive, but our tour guide was so rude it just completely ruined it for me. In fact, she nearly made me cry, and I just wanted to leave. It wasn't just our own guide, either. I saw other staff behaving oddly around the visitors, as well. They acted sort of 'priveledged', almost like the people they were giving the tours to were dirty, or dumb, or that they didn't belong there. I don't know how the place is managed, but it definitely didn't have a welcoming feel to it, like other museums I've been to. I left depressed. Maybe it was just a fluke. Hopefully other people have a better time, there
Scotira 2 years ago
Soooo, I read Winterthur... disappointment... unfriendly at the museum... and I'm like what the heck, Winterthur is such a nice city with nice restaurants, the Technorama is awesome and the staff is really friendly and helpful. So I go back to the top of your post, read again and WTF Winterthur, Delaware??? 🤣🤣🤣 so I google and what do I know there's a Winterthur there, too 🙈 has it's name even from the Winterthur I thought you meant. So, if you ever want a nice Winterthur, come to Switzerland 😉 but the prices might shock you 😇
Load More Replies... Katie Lutesinger 2 years ago
Buckingham Palace was one of the most utterly boring things I've ever seen.
T. D. Bostick 2 years ago
How about Zermatt, Switzerland for skiing? What a disappointment! On slightly windy days, the lifts get shut down. On the days they're actually open, the lines are so long (gondola lifts only) that you'll be doing good to have four good runs down the mountain before it's time to go home. Anywhere I've skied was better than Zermatt. The town was a pretty nice to visit, thankfully, but if you came to ski, you're going to be very disappointed.
Scotira 2 years ago
The town is nice and waaaayyy too overpriced! There are plenty other locations for good if not better skiing in Switzerland!
Load More Replies... Scott T Brynildsen 2 years ago
Expectations generally create disappointments. Did they think they were the first person to see it after they saw it on that tv show about that location? They played themselves and then bitched and moaned about it.
Fish Boden 2 years ago
I love the posts that offer up some alternatives to the tourist hells. Nice work!
CozyPanda 2 years ago
I feel like some of these people are disappointed because the places look different from the pictures we have seen. I think some of thse places are pretty nice...zanzibar for example...its not that great but OK...most of these places a week or two is more than enough otherwise you get bored....
Todoroki Simp 2 years ago
Crazy Horse Memorial. We thought we would see more than half a dude's face. They've been working on the thing for 30 year's.
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