Old stories and secondhand warnings can cling to a place for years, long after the reality on the ground has changed. It is smart to think about safety, weather, and whether a trip will feel worth the effort, but some destinations are still judged by outdated headlines rather than what travelers experience today. A recent Culture Trip report, picked up by the Daily Mail, highlighted 10 locations that many people avoid even though they do not deserve the side eye.
At the top of the list is Medellín, a Colombian city that still gets linked to the darkest chapters of the cartel era. Decades ago, its name was synonymous with violence and fear, especially during the 1970s through the 1990s when Pablo Escobar’s influence shaped global perception. While no big city is completely free of crime, Medellín today is widely described as energetic and welcoming, with neighborhoods known for striking street art, creative spaces, and a food scene that keeps getting better.
Second on the list is Rwanda, which has steadily become a bucket list destination for travelers who want safari experiences and close encounters with wildlife in natural habitats. The focus here is not on spectacle but on carefully managed tourism that allows visitors to see animals responsibly. For many, it is a place that surprises them with how organized and visitor friendly it feels.
In third place, the Balkans are framed as an underrated European gem, often considered generally safe for visitors. The region still carries stereotypes shaped by past conflicts, yet travelers talk about dramatic scenery, historic towns, and warm hospitality. Daily Mail journalist Rob Crossan once pointed to the Church of St John near the village of Kaneo as one of the most picturesque sights in the area, perched above clear water in a setting that looks almost unreal.
Saudi Arabia lands in fourth place and is increasingly being compared to a “new Dubai” thanks to its rapid expansion of tourism. Visitors are drawn to ancient sites and sweeping desert landscapes, including AlUla and the Nabataean heritage linked to places like Madain Saleh. The country is often described as having low crime rates, though travelers are advised to read up on local laws and cultural expectations, including modest dress and rules that can differ sharply from those at home.
Queensland in Australia rounds out the top five, selling the classic dream of white sand beaches, the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, and standout wildlife. The rest of the top 10 includes India, Nigeria, Singapore, Tunisia, and Transylvania in Romania, all places that can reward travelers who plan well and stay informed.
Which destination on this list would you visit first, and which one still gives you pause? Share your thoughts in the comments.
