Seeing the world can become a little bothersome when there are thousands of enthusiastic tourists blocking your way. If you love travelling but hate the crowds and find yourself in need of a desperate escape, check out this list of countries that are perfect for people who just can’t handle all the crowds.
Where: Central Europe
Why so few tourists?
About 25km long and 12km wide, Liechtenstein doesn’t have an international airport, so getting into the country is slightly tricky and expensive. You will have to fly to Switzerland's Zurich Airport to reach this Alpine country that's still ruled by a prince.
Why you should still bother to go
Liechtenstein is the only country in the world to be totally in the Alps. A summer haven for cycling and hiking and snow-covered skiing perfection in winter, this surreal country is guaranteed to mesmerise you with its unparalleled beauty and sensational vistas.
Where: West Central Africa
Why so few tourists?
Unless you're an American, you will need a visa to get in, and Equatorial Guinea is one of the hardest visas to get.
Why you should still bother to go
Do you crave for a holiday where you can explore atypical wildlife, picturesque beaches with crystal clear water, and applaud unique colonial architecture? Then Equatorial Guinea is the place for you.
An impressive advantage of visiting Equatorial Guinea is that you would have the place largely to yourself as it is one of Africa’s most closed countries and not many people visit it.
Where: Caribbean
Why so few tourists?
The country never quite recovered from a series of natural disasters. First, Hurricane Hugo hit 90 per cent of the island's structures in 1989 and later in 1995, cataclysmic eruptions of the Soufriere Hills Volcano destroyed whatever little was left.
Why you should still bother to go
To take advantage of snorkelling and diving in its azure waters. Apart from that, Montserrat is an excellent place for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying a tranquil ambience.
Where: Southwestern Pacific Ocean
Why so few tourists?
Nauru, a tiny island nation in the Pacific, has only one airline serving it – Our Airline. You will also need a visa to be allowed in, and in all honesty, how many embassies or consulates of Nauru have you seen?
Why you should still bother to go
The coral reefs surrounding Nauru are fantastic for diving or fishing and it is one the few countries in the world where you don't have to go far if you want to indulge in sightseeing (total area is only 21 km).
Where: Africa
Why so few tourists?
One of the most secretive countries in Africa, visa formalities take six-to-eight weeks and usually result in unexplained rejections.
Why you should still bother to go
It might be a tiny country by Africa's standards, but is immensely intriguing, scenically inspiring and culturally compelling. For those who like to explore the unexplored, Eritrea offers challenges and excitement alike, with an amalgamation of unique blends of natural and cultural highlights.
Where: South Pacific
Why so few tourists?
Tuvalu doesn't have much to offer. This island nation has around 10,000 tenants, with 8km of streets, and just one hospital, Princess Margaret. Also, Tuvalu is not very well-connected by plane routes. You have to fly to Tuvalu via Fiji.
Why you should still bother to go
To enjoy a dazzling smear of turquoise waters and picture-perfect beaches. Additionally, the island has little crime and a low terror threat, so safety is a given!
Where: Central Pacific
Why so few tourists?
Kiribati is in the middle of nowhere. The nearest civilisation is about five hours north of Hawaii.
Why you should still bother to go
Kiribati is the only country in the world that lies in all four hemispheres. And unfortunately, this stunning paradise nation is slowly sinking under water. Visit it before it's too late.
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