Meaningful Travel: Find Your Next Adventure Off the Beaten Path

SHARP Travel Guide, Presented by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

The United Kingdom, Italy, France… These iconic destinations need no introduction, and have long been the favourite destination of North Americans heading overseas. With each country topping 200,000 visits by Canadians in the third quarter of 2023, these Trans-Atlantic routes are well-trodden for a reason: they are within a day’s travel, yet just far enough to offer a new experience. Still, the cobblestone streets lose a bit of their charm when they’re swarmed by crowds of tourists.

That’s what led us to veer off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known locales, from the Baltic states to the eastern Mediterranean. Taking a trip to these enticing locales feels less like a tour and more like an adventure; each city is sure to be a fun-filled getaway, but these destinations yield meaningful memories, too — when you travel well, living in the moment comes naturally. Plus, thanks to KLM, seamless trip planning is easier than ever. Hop aboard and enjoy easy transfers that make these cities just as accessible as typical tourist hotspots. Scroll down to discover your next adventure.

Tallinn, Estonia

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History buffs and Arctic aficionados alike can appreciate the rich culture of Estonia’s capital city, Tallinn. By air, Estonia is just a few hours further than the UK; Tallinn boasts the same cobblestone streets and historic Old-World charm that draw thousands of tourists to Great Britain. That said, the city’s museums and monument flaunt a history and native faith that are unlike anything you’ll find in Western Europe. Start with a trip to the Kohtuotsa viewing platform, where visitors can drink in the stunning skyline, packed with crimson-coloured rooftops and historic silhouettes. Then, take a stroll down Catherine’s Alley — previously known as Monk’s Alley — to discover Tallinn’s treasure trove: the ancient route is bursting with local boutiques and artisan shops. It’s a must-see sport for those looking to find a souvenir from the city; after all, travel well means finding a memorable connection to the places you see.

For an up-close look at the city’s architecture, drop by Baroque Kadriorg Palace: originally built for Catherine I of Russia, the structure has lived many lives since. Today, it’s known as the Kadriorg Art Museum, a hub for Western European and Russian artwork. Yet, as the museum notes, the building itself is perhaps the most important artifacts on display. Ornate ceiling murals show scenes from Ovid’s Metamorphoses, complemented by intricate, gilded details adorning the gallery’s every corner.

Larnaka, Cyrus 

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Through no fault of its own, the Italian coast suffers a case of overtourism; after stepping off an eight hour flight, the last thing you’ll want to do is stand in a flock of fanny-packs and carry-ons under the beating sun. Such is the case for crawling across the Mediterranean: this summer, check out Cyprus. It’s got the same balmy beaches, steeped in Greco-Roman history and packed with activities. When you’re strolling across the gold, sandy beaches of Cyprus, travelling well is easy.

Take your morning jog through the neighbourhoods, and you’ll be treated with a brief tour of the ancient world. Remnants of pottery and architecture date back to the 13th-century BCE, while the city’s most famous attraction — the Church of Saint Lazarus — stems from Byzantine rule in the 9th century. On the seaside, there’s Larnaka Fort, a former Ottoman military site that acts like a portal to the 1600s. And, while you’re in the area, there’s plenty of good eats. A flock of swanky seafood spots line white sand beaches, offering fresh-caught cuisine for sun-drenched visitors. The local fare doesn’t disappoint, either: fasolaki, a Cyprus staple features beans, lamb, and red wine.

Graz, Austria 

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France is jammed with romantic museums and rooftop restaurants, but, unfortunately, also jammed with long queues. Swap the crowded Parisian streets for a just-as-stylish retreat in Graz, Austria — known as a “designer city” on the river Mur. Take a sophisticated ride through the streets via tram, and you’ll see a chic mix of old and new architecture. As Austria’s second-largest city, Graz is teeming with attractions; in 2003, Graz even earned the distinction of “European Capital of Culture.” The designation prompted Graz to build a host of new architectural marvels, including the riverside Graz Museum of Contemporary Art.

You’ll find the best design-per-square-inch ratio along Innere Stadt, a historic district at the city’s heart. The entire quarter is a visual feast, collaging design styles from Central Europe, Italy, and the Balkan States. For this, UNESCO declared Inner Stadt a heritage site in 1999. Don’t take our word for it, though; check out the view of Graz yourself — luxe lookouts abound. Murinsel Graz, a manmade island floating atop the river Mur, is perhaps the most unique. Designed by New York artist Vito Acconci, Murinsel is a self-described hotspot for the city’s design scene.

Whether it’s the eclectic history and serene beaches of Larnaka, dense designs in Graz, or the crisp contours of Tallinn’s skyline, we hope you’ve found a refreshing alternative to the usual European attractions. With all this history just a stone’s throw from the ‘Arrivals’ gate — and, thanks to KLM, a bevy of Canadian departure times — we’ve reached the modern age of exploration: it’s easier than ever to travel well. So, what are you waiting for?

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