It’s a big wide world out there, so aren’t you occasionally surprised by the number of ‘same’ destinations you sometimes see in your newsfeed?

The entire experience of travel is not to just to tick off lists, but explore new and surprising destinations and learn from amazing heritage, and colourful cultural traditions.With this in mind, and to reignite the explorer within you, we’ve checked out some off-the-beaten path destinations, sure to delight a true traveller’s heart.

Myanmar

Now that Myanmar has opened for business as far as tourism is concerned, it’s the perfect time to explore while it remains relatively untouched by too many visitors. The people of Myanmar are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and sincerely happy that people are interested in their country and local heritage.

There’s a staggering amount of history to explore in this city, with some temples and Buddhist relics dating back to the 6th century.  

Your camera won’t get enough of the gorgeous photo opportunities as you explore the thousand ancient pagoda and temples in Bagan. One of the most breathtaking ways to take it all in is from a hot air balloon at sunrise, an experience you won’t soon forget.

You can also jump aboard a horse-driven cart, or cycle through town to take in the surrounds at a more comfortable pace.

The buzz of the floating market and serenity of the gardens at Inle Lake give you a real insight into local life, skirted by tiny villages built on stilts. Don’t miss the superb synchronicity and balance of the leg rowing fisherman, a sight unique to this lake.

Check out Ywama Village where monks have trained cats to jump through hoops, and the village of Nampan where locals hand wrap cigars (cheroot) and carve canoes.

Mandalay is home to some incredible history. Visit the Cultural Museum of Mandalay which houses huge collections from Mandalay royal regalia, and also royal commissioned art.

The stunning Atumashi Kyaung was built by King Mindon in 1857, and a built in traditional Burmese monastic design.

There’s a multitude of tours and activities to enjoy in Myanmar, which not only take you back in time but also directly connect and immerse you in local life, and a country you’re not likely to forget.

Koh Lipe, Thailand

Thailand’s coastline around the Andaman Sea is no longer a secret, attracting many to its pristine beaches and tropical, clear waters. But if you’re after something away from the pre-packaged resort trip, check out lovely Koh Lipe.

Accessible only by boat, Koh Lipe has some of the most dreamlike, peaceful beaches you could wish for, especially Sunrise Beach. Friendly locals and authentic Thai food top off this real taste of Thailand.

Designated within the Tarutao National Marine Park, Koh Lipe is unlikely to become overrun by huge tourism development and the perfect place to find that idyllic, and peaceful hammock in paradise.

Koh Lipe is Thailand the way you would like it to be. Take a snorkelling tour through waters where the only other people you’ll see are local fisherman, and not large groups of tourists.

Hội An, Vietnam

Vietnam’s great cities of Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh are buzzing with loads of cultural opportunities, but to delve deeper into Vietnam’s history and culture, check out the central coast town of Hội An.

The very well-preserved Ancient Town is criss-crossed with canals and once a melting pot of colonial cultures, the footprints of which can still be seen today. French colonial buildings sit amongst Chinese shophouses with the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge featuring at its centre.

Take some time to step out into the lush countryside near Hội An and spend some time with the rice farmers and their families. You’ll fall in love with the beautiful country and be surprised at the depth of rice farming traditions. Cross the famous Bamboo Bridge and get a real slice of Vietnam life.

Get a step-by-step guide to the art of lantern making, taught by local artisans at a traditional lantern factory, or take a bike tour of Cam Kim Island to meet more locals, while visiting the Kim Bong Carpentry Village, and attend a boat making workshop, because you never know when you might need one!

You’ll learn so much about this country from the people who live there, and pick up some new skills along the way.

Anita Duffin for BeMyGuest