*Forever chasing waterfalls- Camiguin Island, Philippines, 2025*

If you’re craving authentic experiences far removed from over-commercialized tourist traps, you’re speaking my language. For over 14 years, I’ve been chasing off-the-beaten-path adventures—discovering hidden gems where culture feels authentic, interactions feel genuine, and every moment pulses with the thrill of discovery.

Let’s be real: popular destinations, while beautiful, often lose their magic under the weight of overtourism. Streets become lined with souvenir shops selling the same factory-made trinkets. Locals, understandably, become jaded, treating visitors as walking wallets. Meanwhile, “Instagrammable” spots pop up everywhere, serving overpriced Western meals in places that once celebrated their own culinary traditions.

In these spaces, you see more foreigners than locals. And I can’t help but think: Why leave home for more of the same? I travel to immerse myself in different cultures, savor new flavors, and feel the rhythm of a lifestyle entirely unlike my own.

The Nature of True Adventure

Here’s the thing about truly getting off the beaten path: it can’t be spoon-fed. If I were to write a step-by-step guide on how to reach a remote destination, it wouldn’t be “off the beaten path” anymore. True adventure starts with a map, a spark of curiosity, some cash, zero expectations and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

It’s about noticing a stretch of coastline, a mountain trail, or a jungle you want to explore—and going for it. No blogs to prep you. No TripAdvisor reviews to guide you. Just a sense of wonder, a sprinkle of street smarts, and the faith that everything will work out.

But let’s not romanticize it too much.

The Challenge of Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

Here’s the truth: off-the-beaten-path adventures can be tough. Exploring lesser-known destinations means trading conveniences for authenticity-—and a big dose of flexibility.

*The bathrooms we put up with to be on remote, untouched islands*

Take the Philippines, for example—one of my favorite countries on Earth. With over 7,000 islands, crystal-clear waters, and some of the kindest people I’ve ever met, it’s paradise. But getting off the beaten path here requires a dose of grit.

*Mat cooking over a fire for our dinner each night- Dinagat, Philippines, 2024*

My husband and I have stayed in homes that were little more than cement blocks, showered with buckets of cold water for weeks, and cooked meals over open fires because there were no restaurants around. Accommodations are often basic and far from “Western standards.” Bugs might wander into your room uninvited, toilets might only flush when you dump a bucket of water into them, and squat toilets are more common than you’d think. WiFi? A rarity. Cell service? Can be trying. In fact, we once had to leave a stunning island a week early because we had job interviews and there was absolutely no way to connect to the internet.

Dietary restrictions? Forget about it. In the Philippines, the staples are pork, chicken, and rice. As a vegetable lover, I found myself longing for greens.

Getting around is another challenge. Many remote places in Asia don’t have public transport, so you need a motorbike. In areas without rental shops, this involves wandering around town, asking everyone if they know where you can rent one—shopkeepers, restaurant staff, anyone who might help. Once you find one, haggling is part of the process. All this just to get the motorbike, take off on an adventure annnnnddd get rained on for the entire journey. Yes, planning for weather (based on the season) is also imperative.

The key to thriving in these situations? Adaptability. Every day, I had to remind myself: “This is all part of the adventure.” That mindset became a cornerstone of our journey.

Why It’s Worth It

The magic of off-the-beaten-path travel isn’t just in the landscapes; it’s in the connections. When locals wave enthusiastically as you pass by on a motorbike or teenagers giggle in awe at your presence, you know you’ve found a slice of unfiltered life. Sometimes, children run up with wide grins, asking to take a picture with you, their pride shining as they show off their newfound "friend" in selfies.

Raw glimpses into daily life, untouched by mass tourism, are the real treasures of travel. They remind me why I do this: for the discovery, the authenticity, and the chance to see the world as it truly is.

*Mat with an excited group of local boys at the local swimming hole-Sumbawa, Indonesia, 2024*

Is It Right for You?

*Hiding from the rain on a motorbike trip across Dinagat Island, Philippines, 2024*

Before you dive headfirst into off-the-beaten-path travel, consider what you want from your trip. If relaxation, indulgence, and ease top your list, this might not be the adventure for you—and that’s okay!

But if you’re ready to embrace discomfort, unpredictability, and the thrill of the unknown, here are a few essentials to keep in mind:

Health & Safety:

Invest in comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected mishaps..
Research vaccinations and preventative medications through reliable sources like Fit for Travel or the CDC.
Be aware of local safety conditions. Research areas to avoid, especially in big cities. The world is full of wonders, but it’s not all a playground. Naively straying into unsafe zones can have serious consequences. Trust me, I know from accidentally wandering into a dangerous area in Morocco. Read more about it in my book!

Logistics:

Research visa requirements thoroughly. Some regions may have restricted areas.
Pack light—lugging around too much stuff gets old fast.
Always keep your fuel tank topped up when driving or motorbiking. You never know when you’ll see the next petrol station!
Carry reusable utensils and hand sanitizer. This helps you avoid unnecessary plastic waste and ensures better hygiene while eating in remote places.

Preparation:

Download offline maps for navigation in areas with no internet or cell service.

Look into local tourism websites for great information on destinations not covered in mainstream travel blogs. These can reveal hidden gems that you won’t find elsewhere.
Carry a well-stocked first aid kit (check out my blog on must-have travel essentials).
Pack culturally appropriate clothing, especially for more modest destinations.
Be adaptable and resourceful—flexibility is key to navigating the unexpected.

Mindset

Be friendly and open-minded. A smile and genuine interest in the culture can open doors to incredible experiences.
Stay adaptable and resourceful—things won’t always go as planned, and that’s part of the fun!

Ready to Take the Leap?

Off-the-beaten-path travel isn’t just a vacation; it’s a mindset. It pushes you, transforms you, and offers experiences you’ll never find on the “Gringo Trail.” For those willing to take the plunge, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience the world.

Have questions or want to share your own adventure? Drop a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear your stories and help inspire your next journey.

Happy trails! 🌍 ✨

Is Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel for You? Pros, Cons, and Preparation Tips