The 7 Countries I Regret Visiting—And 15 That Were Absolutely Worth It
Travel has a way of changing you—but not every destination leaves you with the memories you hoped for. Some places capture your heart the moment you arrive, while others fall short, no matter how stunning they look in photos.
After years of exploring the world, I’ve learned that even the most popular spots aren’t always the most rewarding. This is a look back at the places that surprised me in the best ways—and a few that left me feeling underwhelmed.
1. Tunisia
Constant hassling from vendors made relaxation nearly impossible during my stay. Tunisia boasts beautiful Mediterranean beaches and fascinating Roman ruins, but the aggressive selling tactics left me feeling drained.
Simple tasks like walking through markets became stressful encounters. The historical sites deserved better than the rushed visits I gave them while trying to escape the next sales pitch.
2. Bangladesh
Navigating through streets so congested that a simple mile took hours left me exhausted daily. Bangladesh offers authentic cultural experiences and welcoming people, but the extreme urban density proved overwhelming.
Constant noise, pollution, and crowds made basic sightseeing feel like an endurance sport. Finding moments of calm became my primary goal rather than enjoying the country’s genuine cultural offerings.
3. Kazakhstan
Every simple interaction became a complex puzzle without English speakers or translated signs. Kazakhstan’s vast landscapes hold incredible natural beauty, but the communication barriers created constant frustration.
Ordering food, finding transportation, or asking directions turned into lengthy charade sessions. The stunning steppes and mountains deserved appreciation, but logistics consumed my energy instead of enjoyment.
4. Algeria
Securing a visa required mountains of paperwork and weeks of waiting for uncertain approval. Algeria possesses remarkable Roman ruins and Saharan landscapes that few tourists see, but for good reason.
Once there, military checkpoints and restricted movement made exploration feel controlled rather than adventurous. The country’s incredible history and geography remain largely inaccessible behind bureaucratic walls that drain travelers’ enthusiasm.
5. Nicaragua
Political tension hung in the air throughout my visit, making casual conversations feel risky. Nicaragua’s volcanoes, colonial architecture, and pristine beaches should make it a top destination, but safety concerns overshadowed everything.
Constantly checking news updates and evacuation routes isn’t how anyone wants to spend a vacation. The locals’ warmth couldn’t fully counterbalance the underlying stress of traveling through a country in political turmoil.
6. Myanmar (Burma)
Ethical questions plagued every beautiful moment I experienced along the way. Myanmar’s temples in Bagan rival Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, but knowing tourism dollars potentially support problematic regimes created constant moral dilemmas.
Each stunning sunset over ancient pagodas came with uncomfortable questions about whether my presence helped or harmed locals. The conflict between appreciating cultural treasures and avoiding complicity in oppression made enjoyment impossible.
7. Iran
Following strict dress codes and behavior rules turned sightseeing into a constant exercise in self-monitoring. Iran’s Persian heritage, incredible architecture, and hospitable people deserve worldwide appreciation, but travel restrictions create significant barriers.
Women travelers face particular challenges navigating clothing requirements and social expectations. The disconnect between locals’ private warmth and the public restrictions creates a travel experience filled with contradictions rather than relaxation.
8. Japan
Everything runs with clockwork precision that eliminates common travel headaches entirely. Japan’s bullet trains arrive to the second, while detailed English signage makes navigation effortless even for first-timers.
Ancient temples sit alongside futuristic technology in perfect harmony. The respectful culture, spotless streets, and incredible food create an environment where travelers can focus entirely on enjoyment rather than logistics or safety concerns.
9. Portugal
Sunshine bathes cobblestone streets where locals welcome visitors like long-lost friends. Portugal’s combination of Atlantic beaches, historic cities, and vineyard-covered hills comes with prices that won’t empty your wallet.
Fresh seafood dinners with local wine cost less than fast food back home. The relaxed pace of life, absence of tourist scams, and genuine hospitality make even first-time visitors feel instantly at ease in this gem of southern Europe.
10. New Zealand
Around every corner waits another jaw-dropping landscape that seems straight from fantasy films. New Zealand’s efficient infrastructure makes accessing remote mountains, beaches, and fjords surprisingly simple for independent travelers.
Rental cars come with excellent roads and clear signage. The famous Kiwi friendliness isn’t just a stereotype – locals genuinely go out of their way to ensure visitors experience their country’s natural wonders with minimum hassle and maximum enjoyment.
11. Italy
Centuries of artistic genius surround you while your taste buds experience heaven with every meal. Italy’s commitment to quality in everything from architecture to gelato creates an environment where excellence is simply the standard.
Small-town piazzas invite hours of people-watching over espresso. The cultural emphasis on enjoying life’s pleasures – food, art, conversation, beauty – makes Italy a place where even hurried travelers find themselves slowing down to savor moments that feel timeless.
12. Costa Rica
Wildlife appears so frequently and naturally that binoculars rarely leave your hands. Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation has created a paradise where sloths, toucans, and monkeys thrive alongside tourist infrastructure that makes exploration easy.
Zip-lining through rainforest canopies feels both thrilling and completely safe. The country’s “pura vida” philosophy permeates everything from the well-maintained national parks to the helpful tour guides who make wildlife spotting accessible for visitors of all ages.
13. Vietnam
Flavor explosions await in every humble street food stall for pennies on the dollar. Vietnam’s dynamic energy balances ancient traditions with rapid modernization, creating a fascinating cultural landscape for curious travelers.
Motorbikes zoom past centuries-old temples while vendors serve pho recipes passed through generations. The country’s affordability means travelers can splurge on experiences rather than basics, while the resilient spirit and entrepreneurial energy of locals creates an atmosphere of optimism that’s contagious.
14. Iceland
Otherworldly landscapes change dramatically every few miles along perfectly maintained roads. Iceland’s combination of geysers, waterfalls, volcanic beaches, and glaciers within easy driving distance makes it a photographer’s paradise.
Safety concerns are virtually nonexistent, even for solo female travelers. The country’s commitment to sustainability, along with the self-sufficient, creative spirit of Icelanders, creates a travel experience that feels both primally connected to nature and comfortably modern.
15. Canada
Breathtaking wilderness exists just minutes from sophisticated cities throughout this vast country. Canada’s multicultural urban centers offer world-class dining and arts scenes, while national parks protect some of North America’s most spectacular landscapes.
Friendly locals genuinely want to help visitors enjoy their country. The excellent transportation infrastructure, clean accommodations at all price points, and general atmosphere of safety and inclusion make Canada ideal for travelers seeking both outdoor adventure and cultural experiences.
16. Thailand
Budget travelers feast like royalty while sleeping in comfortable accommodations that cost less than parking back home. Thailand’s well-established tourism infrastructure makes everything from island-hopping to jungle trekking logistically simple.
Ancient temples stand alongside modern beach clubs. The famous Thai smile isn’t just for show – genuine hospitality permeates interactions from street food vendors to luxury hotel staff, creating an environment where travelers feel welcomed regardless of their budget or experience level.
17. Spain
Midnight dinners followed by sunrise walks feel perfectly normal in this country that embraces life’s pleasures. Spain’s pedestrian-friendly cities mean you can wander for hours discovering hidden plazas, tapas bars, and architectural masterpieces without needing transportation.
The siesta culture encourages a relaxed pace. Regional diversity ensures each province offers distinct culinary traditions, festivals, and landscapes, making Spain feel like several countries in one – all united by a common appreciation for quality living.
18. South Korea
Ultramodern convenience blends seamlessly with centuries-old traditions at every turn. South Korea’s subway systems feature English announcements and crystal-clear maps, making exploration effortless even for first-time visitors to Asia.
High-speed internet connects you everywhere. The fascinating contrast between ancient palace complexes and futuristic shopping districts creates a cultural experience that feels both grounded in history and racing toward the future – all accessible through infrastructure that eliminates common travel frustrations.
19. Greece
Azure waters invite daily swims between explorations of ruins where Western civilization began. Greece offers a perfect balance of education and relaxation, where morning archaeological sites give way to afternoon beach time.
Fresh food tastes transcendent in its simplicity. The Greek concept of “filoxenia” (love of strangers) creates genuine connections with locals who proudly share their heritage, while the island-hopping ferry system makes it easy to experience multiple distinct destinations in a single trip.
20. Ireland
Random conversations with strangers often become the highlight of each day in this legendarily friendly land. Ireland’s compact size means you can experience dramatic coastal cliffs, rolling green countryside, and lively cities all within short drives.
Pub culture welcomes everyone like old friends. The absence of language barriers for English speakers, combined with excellent roads and accommodations, creates a travel experience where logistics fade into the background while meaningful cultural connections and stunning landscapes take center stage.
21. Australia
Road trips feel like freedom incarnate on well-maintained highways connecting otherworldly landscapes. Australia’s combination of sophisticated cities and untamed wilderness creates perfect balance for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.
Helpful locals offer directions before you even look lost. The laid-back attitude permeates everything from beachside cafes to wilderness tours, while excellent camping facilities, hostels, and luxury accommodations ensure every type of traveler finds their perfect base for exploring this vast island continent.
22. Turkey
Ancient wonders from multiple civilizations appear around seemingly every corner in this crossroads of cultures. Turkey’s position bridging Europe and Asia creates a fascinating blend of influences visible in everything from architecture to cuisine.
Shopkeepers offer tea before any sales pitch. The genuine warmth extended to visitors goes beyond typical tourism hospitality – locals take personal pride in sharing their rich heritage, creating authentic connections that transform ordinary sightseeing into meaningful cultural exchange.