Sometimes, popular tourist spots don't live up to the hype. They can be too crowded, too expensive, or just underwhelming. We're about to reveal 10 famous places that might not be worth your time and money. Instead, we'll suggest some lesser-known gems that offer a more authentic and enjoyable experience. Ready to find out which spots to skip?
AUTHOR: Matt Harris
Table of Contents
- 1. The Hollywood Sign
- 2. Astronomical Clock, Prague
- 3. Times Square, New York
- 4. The Little Mermaid, Copenhagen
- 5. The Mona Lisa, Paris
- 6. The Red Light District, Amsterdam
- 7. The Trevi Fountain, Rome
- 8. Nottingham, England
- 9. Miami, Florida
- 10. Piccadilly Circus, London
- 12 Life Secrets From People Over 70 You'll Wish You Knew Sooner
- 12 Things You Can't Say In An Elevator
- 12 Best American Foods According To Visitors
1. The Hollywood Sign
One poster is baffled that tourists will hike up steep terrain to take a photo of a giant set of letters. They advise you to Google a photo of the sign and enjoy the rest of the holiday. I'd suggest using a long lens to take some pictures, but I'd also avoid the unnecessary walk.
2. Astronomical Clock, Prague
This is my entry to the discussion. I loved Prague as a city; this was meant to be the weekend's highlight. Installed in 1410, the Astronomical Clock is the oldest still in operation, and a crowd of us gathered at 11 a.m. We were all underwhelmed as a procession of tiny, indistinct figures emerged to mark the hour. "See you all back here in an hour," I said, but I couldn't convince myself it was worth it.
3. Times Square, New York
One poster was quite angry when recalling their trip to Times Square, having been told there were many things to do that were unique to New York. They claimed that everything was a "rip off," and the only good thing was the cheap tickets to Broadway shows. Another complained that Times Square was more of an oblong. There's just no pleasing some people.
4. The Little Mermaid, Copenhagen
The title has a clue, but many are still surprised at how small The Little Mermaid is. The sculpture honors the classic fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen, but it could be more impressive. The Little Mermaid is also relatively inaccessible and resembles something you might see in your local park.
5. The Mona Lisa, Paris
Size isn't everything, but this is another attraction where the small dimensions are a big surprise. One commenter refers to the painting as the "Little Mona Lisa," aside from its reputation, they need help understanding the vast crowds gathering in the Louvre to see it.
6. The Red Light District, Amsterdam
A reply lists several reasons to avoid what is arguably Amsterdam's most famous tourist attraction. They were incredibly uncomfortable to discover that many children are taken to see the Red Light District, while overcrowding is also an issue. Personally, I was horrified to find out that my parents had visited.
7. The Trevi Fountain, Rome
On this occasion, the big letdown is not the site itself. The Trevi Fountain is said to be one of the most beautiful locations in Rome, and few travelers would argue. The problem is that sellers have surrounded the fountain itself with all manner of cheap souvenirs. It's too tacky for many to enjoy the experience.
8. Nottingham, England
If you live in a city long enough, everything might seem mundane. One commenter from Nottingham can't understand why anyone would visit the castle, which is essentially a modern reconstruction from a shell. I suppose if I lived in the shadow of the Himalayas, I'd eventually get bored with the view.
9. Miami, Florida
Miami let down one commenter, and they found the people rude and false. They added that there "was not much to do, besides drink and party," which sounds like a perfect reason to visit to some!
10. Piccadilly Circus, London
I'm proud that I was born in London and I'll defend most of its landmarks, but I agree that Piccadilly Circus is tacky. It's also described as a poorer version of Times Square. The illuminated advertising signs were once a big draw for tourists, but they're only remarkable now if you're unfamiliar with electricity.
Source: Quora.
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