Have you ever arrived at a highly anticipated tourist destination then felt underwhelmed? There are many reasons why this might happen. Sights sometimes leave a dull impression when the media glamorize them. Hype is something most landmarks do not live up to.

That said, disappointment can also stem from a lack of comprehension. Even if you know what you’re looking at, you might not understand why. This often explains the emotional detachment you might feel.

Study Up Before Going Sightseeing

Landmarks often become such because of some historical or natural significance. But without that context, a monument will seem relatively regular to you. This doesn’t mean you need to become a history buff, but you should choose your landmarks by interest rather than popularity.  

Take Unusual Paths to Known Places

Popular cities sometimes have designated routes for tourists to take. These are usually littered with commercial spaces looking to capitalize on the traffic. For an authentic experience, detour from these tourist traps and see what the backstreets offer. You’ll likely find a few local gems that add to your overall sightseeing experience.

Map Your Destinations Ahead of Time   

Without an itinerary, you may go about your travelling waywardly. Try to group landmarks by proximity to prevent repeatedly crossing the city and wasting time. Even if one particular spot seems semi-isolated, that’s when you seek out those unusual nearby paths.