Who hasn’t wondered about the origins of the mysterious and magnificent Stonehenge? This remarkable United Kingdom landmark raises some fascinating questions.
Everyone is dying to know if it was meant to be a place to crown kings, a mechanism to track time, or maybe the site of strange rituals.
Fantasy: Honolulu, United States
Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, is both a fast-paced cosmopolitan city and a beautiful tourist gem. The island offers fine dining, art museums, breathtaking beaches, historic monuments and bike paths.
So, relax, feel the warm breeze on your skin, borrow a surf board, and enjoy the gentle strumming of a ukulele, all on this one-of-a-kind island.
Reality: Honolulu, United States
Sadly, Honolulu is not the island paradise the tourists get to see but is dealing with high crime levels and drug problems. The city also has a large homeless population.
When visiting it is important to keep in mind that there have been reports of tourists being mistreated by the locals.
Fantasy: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa in known all over the world for its unintentional “lean”. This bell tower was built with improper foundations on overly soft ground which caused it to tilt roughly 3.99 degrees to the right.
On the green grass, with the city of Pisa in the distance, you may be tempted to capture the moment with a cliché but amusing snapshot of yourself “holding” the tower up with your hand.
Reality: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
Sadly, you are not the first person who wanted to help “hold up” the tower. You will be sharing that privilege with a lawn full of tourists who came to Pisa just to see the Leaning Tower. Also, despite a lot of hard work and money, the tower’s lean is continuing to deepen, which may cause its eventual collapse.
When you take into account the almost 300 uneven stairs to reach the top, the visit may be more than you bargained for.
Fantasy: Santorini Island, Greece
When people think of Greece, they are really thinking about the island of Santorini, with its iconic white buildings, lovely black sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island offers first class accommodations and gourmet restaurants and the chance to hike up a volcano on the Fira trail and capture the spectacular sunset.
The island is rapidly becoming a destination for weddings and families, and travelers from all over the world.
Reality: Santorini Island, Greece
Your stay on the island may be a dream, but the high price for accommodations and other services is a bit of a nightmare. Driving on the island may allow you the freedom to have adventures but try not to be too free.
The island roads are notoriously narrow, and driving on them, especially at night during tourist season, can be dangerous.
Fantasy: Great Wall of China, China
The Great Wall of C hina has been named one of the traditional “seven wonders of the world” and is roughly 13,000 miles long, although different surveys have come back with different lengths. The wall stretches in an east-to-west direction across the original borders of China and is known for its great length and fortifications.
Although the myth that it can be seen from space has been disproved, it is still an architectural marvel and an amazing place for any adventurous tourist to visit.
Reality: Great Wall of China, China
However, if you decide to visit, you will not be the only one who knows that the wall is great. You will have to share the narrow walkways with many other tourists, some of which litter or even deface the wall with graffiti.
This is an especially big problem in the most frequently visited section in Badaling. The wall there may not be as clean or impressive as you’ve been led to expect.
Fantasy: The Eiffel Tower, France
Nothing says a Parisian vacation like a tasteful selfie of you and your loved ones having a picnic, with a baguette of course, under the Eiffel Tower.
It’s a beautiful place from which to enjoy the city of love, in all its modern yet peaceful splendor. The 324-meter-high tower is the ultimate symbol of the French capital, and you can’t beat the view.
Reality: The Eiffel Tower, France
In reality, the Eiffel Tower is a tourist mecca with roughly 7 million visitors per year, leaving very few open picnic spots on the lawn, especially in summer.
And if you actually decide to climb the tower, you have to go through security, wait in really long lines, and when you finally get inside, share your view with countless others.
Fantasy: The Mona Lisa, France
The Mona Lisa is one of the most famous paintings in the world. Created by Renaissance master Leonardo de Vinci and now hanging in the Louvre in Paris, the woman’s mysterious expression begs the age-old question, is she smiling, or not?
There is a reason this painting is considered a masterpiece and art and culture lovers should definitely add it to their bucket lists.
Reality: The Mona Lisa, France
Sadly, this classic is always thronged with crowds wanting to check it off their own bucket lists. You will have to push through them just to get a quick glimpse or snap a quick picture. And in reality, the painting is behind glass and a lot smaller than you’d think.
Therefore, trying to get close and see if her eyes really do follow you across the room is pretty much impossible.
Fantasy: Copacabana Beach, Brazil
Copacabana Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the worlds, with mountains in the distance, a sandy promenade and deep blue waters.
The strand is lined with beach kiosks, if you get hungry after your swimming and sunbathing, and all of this is located in the middle of the bustling city of Rio de Janeiro. It is truly a perfect getaway to relax and get into the Bossa Nova beat.
Reality: Copacabana Beach, Brazil
While lounging on this particular beach, it is important not to get too relaxed, because the neighborhoods in the area have a dodgy reputation.
Rio de Janeiro is known for gangs and crime, and it is important to keep an eye on your valuables and stay safe.
Fantasy: Venice, Italy
Everything about the city of Venice is like walking through a lovely dream. Beautiful canals, breathtaking buildings and amazing food. The city hasn’t changed in decades and you can walk around and feel like the star of an Italian film from the 1960’s.
Venice has something for everyone, classic opera houses, authentic Italian food, and high-end shopping in the world famous Piazza San Marco.
Reality: Venice, Italy
Like most modern cities, Venice has its share of traffic jams. However, these take place in the water and not on the road. Meaning your romantic gondola ride may quire literally bump into water taxis, other gondolas and even ambulances.
Also, the canals while lovely, have a bit of an odor problem, especially in the sweaty crowded tourist season. Making your trip along the water memorable in a different way than you may have expected.
Fantasy: The Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is another wonder of the world and is known both for its incredible architecture and the story behind its construction. The monument was commissioned by emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 in honor of his beloved late wife.
Locals say the palace changes colors with the different times of day according to the light from the sun and the moon, like the moods of the emperor’s late queen.
Reality: The Taj Mahal, India
Due to its worldwide fame, the Taj Mahal is often overrun by tourists. Prepare yourself for massive lines, and make sure not to plan your visit for a Friday, because the monument is closed on that day.
Also, because this region of India is extremely polluted, thick smog which reduces visibility is a common occurrence and some say that the building is also suffering the effects of pollution.
Fantasy: The Trevi Fountain, Italy
The Trevi Fountain, situated in the heart of Rome, is 86 feet high and 161.3 feet wide. This fountain, from the Baroque era, is one of the most famous fountains in the world and has appeared in countless films.
It is decorated with Greek gods, Triton’s horses, shells and much more, and is an amazing piece of art. While there, it is customary to throw a coin into the fountain over your left shoulder for luck.
Reality: The Trevi Fountain, Italy
Although the fountain is a beautiful place, people who have been there agree that the huge crowds make the visit less enjoyable. Their recommendation is to go either very early in the morning or late at night.
If you are an early riser you can beat the crowds and at night the fountain is hopefully less crowded and if not, at least you get to see it all lit up.
Fantasy: The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The breathtaking Pyramids of Giza are another famous mystery. They were built to stand the test of time and are holding up incredibly as one of the last largely intact wonders of the ancient world.
The pyramids served as tombs for Egyptian rulers and are filled with decorations, depicting the rich Egyptian culture, their way of life and their beliefs about death.
Reality: The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The mysteries surrounding the pyramids these days are tourists, traffic and pollution and you will be sure to see your fair share of all three on your visit there. Taxi drivers have been known to take advantage of tourists trying to get to the pyramids, so make sure to set your fare before accepting a ride.
Locals aggressively selling souvenirs and other trinkets are also known to make the experience less pleasant for travelers.
Fantasy: The Stonehenge, UK
Who hasn’t wondered about the origins of the mysterious and magnificent Stonehenge? This remarkable United Kingdom landmark raises some fascinating questions.
Everyone is dying to know if it was meant to be a place to crown kings, a mechanism to track time, or maybe the site of strange rituals.
Reality: The Stonehenge, UK
The truth may be out there, but you are not the only one looking for it, as your fellow tourists can attest. The area is known for outrageous traffic jams and exorbitant parking prices.
The worst part is that you can’t even see the stones up close, you only have access to a designated path that goes around them. That’s no way to solve a mystery.
Fantasy: The Colosseum, Italy
The Colosseum in Rome is famous in both fact and fiction and is a must-see destination for curious travelers. The Colosseum was used by Roman emperors as an arena in which they hosted battles by gladiators and savage animals, sometimes simultaneously.
Walk through the stands and feel the energy and excitement of the gory battlefield.
Reality: The Colosseum, Italy
You may be expecting something out of the movie “Gladiator”, but in truth the amphitheater is not in great condition, with large parts destroyed and decayed.
This symbol of Rome has become quite the tourist attraction, known for its long lines and Disneyland-like photo ops with people dressed up in costumes of ancient Rome offering to pose with you for the measly price of €20.
Fantasy: Central Park, United States
New York city is known for its busy sidewalks, pizza, yellow taxis and of course no visit to the Big Apple would be complete without an outing in Central Park. This enormous urban park features shops, gardens, monuments, fountains, an ice rink in the winter and even an entire zoo.
The park offers a beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city and if you’re lucky you may even spot a celebrity jogger.
Reality: Central Park, United States
Although the park is enormous it is often packed with tourists, joggers, cyclists and office workers on their lunch breaks.
So, remember not to load up on those sodas or iced coffees, because the lines for the restrooms can be quite long.
Fantasy: Machu Picchu, Peru
The ruins of Machu Picchu are Peru’s most popular tourist destination. This Incan citadel is an architectural wonder nestled in the slopes of the Andes amongst the Amazonian jungle.
Visitors can put their muscles to the test and climb to the mountain peak or take a local Cusco train right to the top.
Reality: Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu has remained in great condition for centuries, but that may soon change due to massive tourism and economic and environmental issues.
The United Nations report that trash left by visitors is becoming a real problem, meaning your hike through the mountains may become a smelly and dirty affair.
Fantasy: The Sydney Opera House, Australia
The Sydney Opera House perched on the Sydney Harbor in Australia is one of the most famous and distinctive buildings in the world.
The performing arts center hosts over 40 shows per week including music, theater, dance, comedy, lectures and of course opera. A fascinating tour of this incredible building will definitely be the highlight of any trip down under.
Reality: The Sydney Opera House, Australia
No one can argue with the building’s visual appeal but unfortunately the Sydney Opera House is not as appealing to the ears.
The concert hall is known for its terrible acoustics, with major renovations taking place to address the problem. In the meantime, you can still enjoy the view.
Fantasy: Yosemite National Park, United States
Yosemite National Park in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains in the perfect place for hiking and camping. The park is known for stunning vistas, amazing waterfalls and ancient sequoia trees of enormous size.
This is truly a wonderful place to get away from it all, rock climb, picnic, go for a horseback ride or just sit around and absorb the beauty of nature.
Reality: Yosemite National Park, United States
When arriving at the park in the summer, expect two to three-hour delays just to enter the valley. Even worse, the sheer number of tourists have unfortunately caused habitat loss and damaged the scenery.
If you decide to go after the summer peak, the trails are worn from overuse with park personnel not yet able to clean everything up. And with controlled forest burning taking place around the reserve, you may be in for a smoky hike.
Fantasy: Hollywood, United States
Hollywood is not just the place to go if you have a dream in your pocket or a guitar on your back. Tinseltown really has it all as a vacation destination, with shows, attractions, world famous shopping and the best hotels and restaurants.
Try and get a selfie with a big star while taking in the sights and enjoy the beautiful year-round sunshine. Hollywood welcomes you!
Reality: Hollywood, United States
The streets here are not just filled with celebrities and young actors about to get their big break, they are also brimming with tourists who want to discover the place they have only seen in their favorite movies or on awards shows on TV.
The capital of the movie world is a lot like the movies it creates, a lot of makeup and special effects, but underneath it all is just another West Coast town. Crowded, congested and more than a little expensive.
Fantasy: Mount Rushmore, United States
Located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is a true feat and might even be the greatest testament to America's power. This massive sculpture stands at roughly 60-ft and depicts the most influential leaders in the land; George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
These four men made America what it is today and what better way to remember them than to carve their faces into a massive mountain. The sculpture began in 1927 and was completed by 1941 by artist and sculptor Gutzon Borglum. The mountain attracts thousands of tourists daily who come to gaze in awe at this impressive artwork and celebrate American culture. How can we blame them?
Reality: Mount Rushmore, United States
If you haven't yet had the chance to make it the Black Hills, and all you have is your imagination and the memory of some Google Images, you might be in for a surprise. All those close up shots over the years have certainly painted a different picture in our minds. If you do get to go there, brace yourself for a slightly different view.
It is a mountain, after all, perched up high and far away. You might have to bring out the binoculars when you're peering into the distance...from a busy lookout. There's no real path leading up to the faces. or any kind of tower that's standing close by. Not to mention the swarms of tourists milling around you.
Fantasy: Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro
This iconic Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was created by the French sculptor Paul Landowski and by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa. The statue has become an international symbol for Christianity and attracts a plethora of tourists to come marvel at the cultural and religious landmark. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the sculpture is situated on the Corcovado Mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park that overlooks the entire city of Rio de Janeiro.
The construction took place between 1922 and 1931 and is certainly a sight to behold up close. The outstretched Jesus is, according to The Encyclopaedia Britannica, the largest art deco sculpture in the world. No wonder it gets a lot of buzz.
Reality: Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro
Let's be clear. This is the largest art deco sculpture in the world. So it is essentially the largest sculpture out of many other typically small sculptures that belong to this French modern art form. This might create some disappointment when you arrive at this famed spot. While still impressive, it's no Statute of Liberty - in fact, it is smaller than it's the pedestal that holds the Statue of Liberty. So bear in that mind.
Still, you can marvel all you like at this little sculpture 124ft sculpture. That is of course if you can handle the crowds. It is, after all, a global symbol for Christianity, and Christianity makes up about 2.3 billion of the world population. So, you certainly won't be alone up there.
Fantasy: Niagra Falls, U.S/Canada Border
The majestic Niagra Falls that runs along the border of New York State and Ontario, Canada is a sight to behold no doubt. No man-made structure can compare to the natural marvels of the world, the glory of a waterfall is a perfect example of that. The falls span 17 miles north-northwest of Buffalo, New York, and 75 miles south-southeast of Ontario, Toronto.
The falls were formed when glaciers from the last ice age receded and the water from the newly formed Great Lakes created a path. The natural beauty is also a source of hydro-electric energy. So, not only is it a breathtaking sight, but it is also a commercial and industrial resource.
Reality: Niagra Falls U.S/Canada Border
That being said. As fantastic as it might be to think about, it is, in essence, countless tons of water from about 180ft just pummeling into a lake. That's not exactly a soft sprinkle. The force of the water can create a major splash, not to mention mountains winds blowing water in all directions.
If you're trying to catch a glimpse of the falls you might end up getting pretty soaked. Viewers wear funny looking blue raincoats so everyone there kind of just looks like smurfs. What did you expect? It is really all about splashing water.
Fantasy: Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark is known to be a beautiful and idyllic city. It's no surprise that it is home to the famous mermaid statue - a symbol of the city's rare beauty. Seems fitting. The statue was inspired by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen who created the famous fairytale, you guessed it, The Little Mermaid.
The statue is incredibly iconic and has over the years attracted millions of tourists to the city.
Reality: Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen
While it has its charm, the Little Mermaid statue isn't exactly a great marvel. To start with, it's pretty small, 4ft to be exact, and sits at the waterside of a busy promenade in Langelinie, Copenhagen. That hasn't stopped the buzz one bit.
Copenhagen's Little Mermaid statue is swarming with tourists all moving about trying to get a snap of the famous mermaid. It's also been a target of some nasty vandalism so it doesn't always look its best. Over the areas, the poor statue has had its limps removed, and even once its' head.
Fantasy: Manneken Pis, Brussels
This must-see attraction in Brussels, Belgium has created quite the splash (pun intended). The statue, while still small is a must-see for anyone visiting Brussels. It captures the essence of the city's sense of humor and playful spirit and is a landmark in the bustling city center.
The bronze sculpture, as the name implies depicts a naked little boy urinating into a fountain's basin. The artist who created it, Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder put in place in the year 1618 or 1619. Ever since it has been a Belgian landmark.
Reality: Manneken Pis, Brussels
The statue is really in the corner of a building in the bustling city of Brussels, so, while it is technically a landmark it doesn't really pop out at first glance. You will probably first spot the hundreds of tourists crowding the little thing with selfie sticks before you see the actual statue itself.
At the end of the day, it is a sculpture of a little boy urinating into a fountain. It may be culturally symbolic, but what you see is what you get. And it's not exactly pretty. That's Belgium for you we suppose.
Fantasy: Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas
Sin city is a perfectly suitable name for this crazy city. And it all goes down on the infamous Las Vegas Strip. The lights and sounds are certainly a sight to behold making this probably the most fantastical and entertaining block in the world. There are countless hotels, shopping venues, flashy restaurants and amazing clubs. It's really got it all.
You get up to all kinds of mischief over there, all in good fun of course. It doesn't hurt to party up a storm in the flashiest, swankiest and most lit up part of town. The strip will dazzle you for days.
Reality: Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas
Las Vegas really pops, but, perhaps more so when the sunsets. It is a city made for wild nights after all which makes the day times rather sleepy. The city is in a desert, so while the heat makes it a good summer getaway, it might not be as picturesque as some other getaways.
If you plan on heading on over there, bear in mind, it's a spot made for night owls. So, run free, but avoid the daylight the same way a vampire would. It's not as enticing.
The Fantasy: Sistine Chapel, Vatican City
One of the grandest chapels in the world that contains some of the most impressive works of art in human history, the Sistine Chapel will make you question the extent of our abilities. Its frescoes are simply breathtaking and the course is most famous for Michaelangelo's Last Judgement that is painted on the ceiling.
Located in the Vatican, the epicenter of Catholicism, the marvelous chapel is meant to be studied and marveled at in silence as you contemplate the wonderment and history of the religion and culture.
Reality: Sistine Chapel, Vatican City
If there is one man that can draw a crowd, its the pope. Day after day, the Vatican is swamped with tourists who flood the tiny city to witness the glory of Christianity. The Sistine Chapel is by no means an exception, in fact, it's one of the major attractions. Good luck trying to quietly take in this great art when you are boxed in by people everywhere.
On the bright side, if you're' tilting your head up just to catch a breath from the sea of people, you can still gaze upon the amazing art above you. It just might not be the most comfortable state to view it in. What's worse, you can't even take pictures of your time there. There's always Google Images.
Fantasy: The Changing of The Guard at Buckingham Palace, London
What grander place to feel like royalty than Buckingham Palace. Many people, both locals and tourists love gathering to witness the iconic 'changing of the guard' ceremony in front of the palace. It's time where the new shift replaces the old one but it is no regular event! As the queen's guards, these men are highly trained to protect her and the royal family at all costs.
Watching these men march around in front of England's most historical and cultural landmark just shows how dedicated the English are at upholding their traditions in an everchanging and modernizing world.
Reality: The Changing of The Guard at Buckingham Palace, London
London weather is notoriously bad. You will be lucky to catch a sunray or two during your stay there. The clouds are perpetually gray and everything feels kind of miserable. We mentioned how people love to gather around the palace. Thousands upon thousands of people visit the queen's gates every day. NOt just tourists. The English are just as royal-obsessed as the rest of us, in fact even more.
The ceremony itself is also about 30 minutes. Yes, it's a bit of a show and nice to see old-timey looking guards marching in front of a palace, but ultimately, they don't do much but guard the queen. In the end, you'll catch a very quick glimpse at some fury hats marching about for a few minutes... in the rain.
Fantasy: The Spanish Steps, Rome
Visiting the Spanish Steps or if you want to sound cultured, Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti is a must if you're visiting Rome. The iconic set of steps was built between 1723-1725 by the somewhat then-unknown architect Francesco de Sanctis.
It was built in order to connect the Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Trinità dei Monti (where the famed church of the same name stands). It's 135 steps with little stones along the path so you can just sit and absorb the surrounding baroque architecture. You can also reenact the scene in A Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn.
Fantasy: The Spanish Steps, Rome
You can't really miss ancient impressive landmarks in Rome. The city is basically one huge time capsule and every stone and wall is a piece of history, so it's likely that by the time you get to the stairs it's really just...stairs. You can go up and down the stairs from the piazza to the church. You can also sit on them. The world is your oyster.
By the looks of it though, it seems as if it is more of a place to sit on rather that than walk up and down on. Good luck trying.
Fantasy: Chichen Itza, Mexico
One of the New Seven Wonders, the Chichen Itza pyramid site is the largest pre-Columbian structure in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexic. In 1988 UNESCO even granted World Heritage Site status, so it's clearly an extremely significant structure. It is believed that the ancient city where it is located may have had a really diverse population.
This explains the different architectural styles of the site. You can find it in the Tinúm Municipality, Yucatán State, Mexico. You won't miss it!
Reality: Chichen Itza, Mexico
Like many cultural landmarks around the world, the charm tends to fade away when overrun by tourists. And wherever the tourists are, there is money. This is why the site is filled with local vendors selling all kinds of cheesy memorabilia. Can you blame them?
Of course, there is a lot of poverty in Mexico and people have to make money somehow, but if you're expecting a peaceful place to contemplate thousands of years of civilizations that have come and gone, you're not going to find it there.
Fantasy: Empire State Building, New York, USA
The Empire State Building is one of New York City’s most beautiful and stately icons. The structure towers into the sky and has become one of the top tourist spots for those visiting New York and even the U.S. for the first time.
Most imagine when they first reach the top of the skyscraper, that they will easily access the most breathtaking views.
Reality: Empire State Building, New York, USA
Well, the reality for most excited visitors to the Empire State Building is that they could be among a crowd of other tourists who are trying to see from the top. You may have to wait to walk to the edge and see out over the Big Apple.
But, if you have the patience and the time available, the wait will be well worth it.
Fantasy: Palace of Versailles, Versailles, France
The Palace of Versailles is a must-see for many visiting France. The extravagant Palace once belonged to royal residents (from Louis XIV to Louis XVI) till the French Revolution began.
Visitors are eager to see the opulence of the French Baroque interior, decorated in gold, crystals, and other luxurious elements.
Reality: Palace of Versailles, Versailles, France
As a tourist upon entering The Palace of Versailles, you will still be surrounded by over-the-top elegance, but you will also be surrounded by many other tourists. Versailles is usually very high on the sight-seeing lists of many people, so you will have to contend with others to take in the details of the palace from about April to June.
If you would like to have a better chance of personal space, you can try to visit in the low season from November to March.
Fantasy: Disney World, USA
Perhaps one of the most desirable vacation destinations on the planet, Disney World holds mass appeal for young and old alike. “The happiest place on earth” promises all-inclusive family fun in a consistently bright atmosphere.
Every year, people come from across the globe to Disney World to make lasting memories with loved ones.
Reality: Disney World, USA
The reality is, though the renowned theme park is packed with many wonderful activities, you will encounter masses of people, long lines for attractions, and, most likely, very overpriced concessions and side activities.
When you come to Disney World, be sure to bring your patience, plenty of water, and an open wallet!
Fantasy: Forbidden City, Beijing, China
The fascinating Forbidden City in Beijing, China is a top tourist attraction for its history and architectural beauty. It is thought to have been constructed between 1402 and 1420 and was the former residence for the emperors of China (the Ming Dynasty through the Yongle Dynasty).
The structure itself isn’t just rich in history but the grounds themselves are also covered in artifacts.
Reality: Forbidden City, Beijing, China
The Forbidden City is yet another site that has great potential for overcrowding. The ancient structure and the Great Wall typically the two places most visitors clamor to see while in Beijing.
Many people try to snap a picture of the Emperor’s ceremonial seat, which was used for about 6 centuries. Be prepared to wait your turn to get your photo!
Fantasy: Big Ben, London, U.K.
When you think of the city of London one of the first landmarks that may first come to mind is Big Ben. Also known as the Great Bell, the clock is located at the north end of the Westminster Palace.
Tourists often want to snag a selfie with the gothic-style clock in the background to highlight their trip to England.
Reality: Big Ben, London, U.K.
Because so many want to grab a photo in front of Big Ben, it can often be a terribly overcrowded place and you’ll be lucky to get a good picture for yourself. Tourists also gather heavily around noon to hear the bells chime.
It's recommended to visit either early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds and grab the memorable photos you're looking for.
Fantasy: Beaches of the Maldives
The Maldives is one of the top destinations for both honeymooners and families and is typically advertised with aqua-colored waters and white, sandy beaches. The island formations are showcased as exotic and crowd-free with plenty of space to snorkel and relax on by the pristine water.
From a simple internet search, you may think you would have your own private island.
Reality: Beaches of the Maldives
There are some resorts that offer much of what the Maldives is advertised as but there is also a darker side to these gorgeous islands. Certain portions of the Maldives have chronic pollution with garbage accumulating on some of the sandy shores.
While there are efforts in place to help curb the problem, be sure to know what beach you’re swimming at so you don’t find yourself swimming in trash.
Fantasy: St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City
The Vatican City is an incredible experience for all tourists to Rome. The city-state within a city has many buildings that are historically and religiously significant.
You could easily spend an entire day taking in this fascinating city and the incredible art and artifacts inside and out. You will want to bring your camera, but not in the Sistine Chapel.
Reality: St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City
Though Vatican City is certainly worth seeing, you’ll want to plan ahead to avoid the long lines. The length of the lines is due to both the volume of tourists and because of the security process of entering the building.
The best way to avoid long lines is to purchase tickets in advance or to visit in the low season (from November to December).
Fantasy: Beaches of Thailand
Thailand’s beaches are exotic to many travelers who can’t wait to explore the lush greenery around the coasts and enjoy the sun on the sandy shores. Many of the islands have no roads or cars and allow travelers the simplicity of nature.
Most vacationers look forward to taking in all of Thailand’s natural beauty.
Reality: Beaches of Thailand
The harsh reality is that Thailand is one of a number of once naturally thriving places that are now victims of over-tourism. Over-tourism occurs when there are simply too many tourists to an area (especially one found in nature) and the constant traffic begins to harm the environment.
You will most likely encounter many others on islands you visit, which could really affect your relaxation. It may be best to give the islands (and yourself) a rest and find a different vacation spot.
Fantasy: Mt. Everest, Nepal
A place like Mt. Everest is generally considered to be a destination for the outdoor elite. To climb this snow-covered mountain you need to be prepared for the journey and have the endurance for mountain climbing in extreme temperatures.
When most people think of Mt. Everest, they probably think both of overcoming personal challenges and being in relative isolation.
Reality: Mt. Everest, Nepal
While you would hardly think there would be the possibility of waiting in line to climb Mt. Everest, you may find yourself doing just that. While you need to obtain a permit to climb the famous mountain, there are others looking to do the same. 2019 marked a deadly season for Mt. Everest climbers as some were not prepared, resulting in 11 deaths.
In an effort to protect would-be climbers and to stop overcrowding, the Nepalese Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation has put heavier requirements and restrictions in place for climbers.
Fantasy: Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The Acropolis is often shown as a larger-than-life ancient structure. Tracing back to the 5 century B.C., it is a UNESCO World Heritage site that many have on their travel lists.
Being housed high up on a hill, the Acropolis is especially stunning at night and can be seen from different locations below in Athens.
Reality: Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The Acropolis is certainly one of the most stunning buildings you can visit in Greece but it may not be quite as big as you think. It also is typically more crowded than you might imagine it to be too.
Additionally, if you want to grab some memorable shots of the ancient wonder, you may not get the cleanest photos as there are usually renovations that involve equipment sticking out around the inside and outside of the structure.
Fantasy: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto, Japan
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest located in Kyoto, Japan is marketed as a unique, serene bamboo garden. In many photos, you see the forest of bamboo almost act as green curtains that would shade travelers as they walk through it.
For those used to the typical pine or oak tree-covered forest, Arashiyama is considered a special experience.
Reality: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto, Japan
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is another location where visitors will want to be strategic about when they visit. Because it is one of the biggest attractions in Kyoto, many people may join you on your “serene” walk through the green forest.
It’s best to visit in the morning where there aren’t so many people.
Fantasy: Howrah Bridge, Kolkata, India
Upon first seeing it in a photo, you may think the Howrah bridge is located somewhere in Europe or on the East Coast of the United States. The sixth-longest bridge in the world is actually located in Kolkata, India, and is considered to be a major landmark of the city.
Amazingly, it was constructed without nuts and bolts, and instead, its parts are riveted together.
Reality: Howrah Bridge, Kolkata, India
Sadly, when tourists finally get to Howrah bridge, they may find an accumulation of garbage in the waters surrounding the incredible structure. Also a shock, you may still see people venturing into the water, but it is definitely recommended to stay well away from polluted areas like these.
If you want good photos, thankfully you can simply crop out most of the trash on the shore and capture the bridge instead.