When in Rome, youre going to visit the Colosseum.

When in Paris, you’re gonna wanna see the Eiffel Tower.

The feeling of intense letdown even has a name: Paris Syndrome.

All too often, the hype is bigger than the attraction.

Here are some popular destinations that are overratedand some travel ideas thatareworth your while.

And just dont think Im an arrogant American dissing cultural icons like the literal Taj Mahal.

However, if your main draw is visiting Leonardo Da Vincis Mona Lisa, prepare to be let down.

For less chaotic museums in Paris, try out the Musee dOrsay and Musee Picasso.

If youre trying to see wild monkeys while in this region, considerMount Baturor theUluwatu Temple.

From sunrise to sunset, there isnt really a secret hour of the day where you wont be overwhelmed.

Its worth strolling around the cobblestone neighborhood, but the bar itself is an overpriced and overcrowded tourist trap.

Stonehenge, England

I believe Stonehenge gets a reputation as overrated because its fairly difficult to visit.

And look: I dont believe tourists should be allowed to climb on the rocks.

But personally, I really want to be able to climb on the rocks.

(There, my American arrogance is showing.)

Unfortunately, Hobbiton-specific tours are pricey, fast-paced, and jam-packed.

Consider visiting one of Kyotos smaller, underrated bamboo-clad pathways likeKodaiji Temple.

Hawaii

Alright, this one is a technicality.

Its not that Hawaii is overrated.

You shouldnt go because the people arebegging you not to come.

For now, here are some of my top picks to pique your interest.

Just double-check to get there at sunrise.

Remember to tip your guide generously at the end of the day.

I recommend booking a group tour that includes kayaking and caving.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands.Dont feel bad skipping the Red Light district in favor of the hip Jordaan district.

Plus, theVan Gogh Museumis one of my favorite places in the world.

ensure to try all sorts of amazing street food along the way.

Lima, Peru.A lively capital city that gets overlooked, but shouldnt.

Brussels, Belgium.verify to book a chocolate tour.

From street art to rainbow houses, this city is unbelievably colorful.

Puglia, Italy.Wine, pasta, and beaches.

Budapest, Hungary.The Little Paris of Middle Europe.

Dubrovnik, Croatia.Bummed about Hobbiton?

This is the main filming location for Kings Landing in HBOsGame of Thrones.

Denmarks Faroe Islands.Sheep outnumber humans 70,000 to 50,000 here.

Java, Indonesia.Less-visited than Bali, but just as beautiful.

Luang Prubang, Laos.The perfect spot for day trip to remarkable aqua waterfalls.

Taipei, Taiwan.This capital city has a culinary scene to die for.

Im not saying you should map out every minute of your vacation.

double-check you manage expectations and understand what youre getting into, wherever youre going.