7 Beautiful Travel Destinations Where I Had the Best and Worst Experiences

Travel isn’t always picture-perfect. Sometimes the most breathtaking places are where you experience your biggest travel wins — and the worst meltdowns. Here are 7 destinations that brought me both the best and worst travel experiences, and why I’d still recommend visiting them (mostly!).

1. Santorini, Greece – Dreamy Views & Crowded Chaos

Best experience: Watching the sun dip below the horizon in Oia was one of the most romantic scenes I’ve ever witnessed. Whitewashed cliffs, blue domes, and soft island winds — absolutely perfect.

Worst experience: The crowds. Santorini in summer is intense. It took 40 minutes to get through narrow streets packed with selfie sticks and frustrated tourists. Overpriced taxis and fully booked restaurants made it feel more like survival than vacation.

Tip: Visit in the shoulder season (May or October) to avoid the crowds. Check updated travel guides on Visit Greece for local tips.

2. Bali, Indonesia – Wellness Retreat & Scooter Wreck

Best experience: I attended a wellness retreat in Ubud, practiced sunrise yoga, and hiked Mount Batur. The lush greenery and warm hospitality made it feel like a spiritual reset.

Worst experience: I wiped out on a rented scooter in Canggu after getting caught in heavy rain and bad traffic. No helmet, no insurance, and a big hospital bill.

Tip: Always wear a helmet and consider travel insurance like World Nomads.

3. Paris, France – Iconic Beauty & Rude Encounters

Best experience: Picnicking near the Eiffel Tower with pastries and wine is something I’ll never forget. Every corner of Paris oozes charm — especially Montmartre and the Latin Quarter.

Worst experience: I was pickpocketed on the metro near Gare du Nord. It soured my mood and cost me time and money.

Tip: Use an anti-theft travel bag and stay alert in tourist hotspots. Here’s a Paris safety guide from Lonely Planet.

4. Cairo, Egypt – Ancient Wonders & Culture Shock

Best experience: Standing face-to-face with the Pyramids of Giza was humbling and unforgettable. The scale, the history, the mystery — it gave me chills.

Worst experience: The moment I stepped off the plane, I was overwhelmed by pushy touts, confusing transport, and intense culture shock. It was difficult to enjoy the moment with constant hassle.

Tip: Consider hiring a certified local guide through platforms like GetYourGuide.

5. New York City, USA – Urban Adventure & Burnout

Best experience: NYC buzzes with excitement. I saw Hamilton on Broadway, strolled Central Park in the fall, and ate unforgettable ramen in the East Village.

Worst experience: I underestimated how draining NYC can be. Constant noise, high prices, and go-go-go pace left me physically and mentally exhausted by day three.

Tip: Take breaks in quieter neighborhoods like the West Village or walk the High Line for a peaceful escape.

6. Venice, Italy – Fairytale Beauty & Sinking Realities

Best experience: Venice is a masterpiece. Drifting down canals at sunset and exploring hidden alleys made me feel like I was living in a Renaissance painting.

Worst experience: “Acqua alta” hit while I was there. Streets were flooded, boots were overpriced, and I spent hours walking in water.

Tip: Monitor flood forecasts on Venice’s official website before booking.

7. Tulum, Mexico – Boho Paradise & Tourist Overload

Best experience: Swimming in turquoise cenotes, eating tacos on the beach, and practicing yoga under the stars? Pure bliss.

Worst experience: Tulum has become overdeveloped and commercialized. Prices were steep, and infrastructure couldn’t keep up. Wi-Fi and power outages were frequent.

Tip: Explore nearby towns like Bacalar or Valladolid for a more authentic experience.

Conclusion:

These destinations taught me that even the most beautiful places can come with challenges. But that’s what makes travel so memorable. Embrace the highs and lows — they’re all part of the adventure.