Exposing Travel Hype: Overrated vs. Underrated Destinations - Are They Worth The Hype?

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  • čas přidán 15. 04. 2024
  • Join us as we venture into the discussion of travel hype, unraveling the allure of popular destinations compared to their lesser-known counterparts - Overrated vs. Underrated! With over 2 1/2 years of immersive travel experiences under our belts, we share our perspectives (and possibly controversial opinions 😉) on what truly distinguishes a remarkable destination.
    From lively tourist hubs to hidden treasures nestled away from the crowds, we explore through the misconceptions to unveil the authentic charm of lesser-known locales. Get ready to challenge your assumptions as we shed light on the realities of both overrated and underrated destinations. We aim for this discussion to spark your curiosity towards lesser-traveled areas, with the hope of igniting fresh inspiration for your next adventure.
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Komentáře • 492

  • @lambkrdmd
    @lambkrdmd Před měsícem +37

    I think there is a close relationship between 'overrated' and 'over-touristed'. Rome is amazing, you could go back to Rome every year of your life and not see and experience everything that's there. However, there are a bazillion tourists there (for good reason) and hence you have all the related problems - more crime, more garbage, higher prices, less authentic experiences, etc, etc. Generally, these things are more true of larger population centers as opposed to smaller, more rural areas as well. Expectations, as stated, play a large role too. Just go and experience it all and gravitate to those things that make you happier. An expectation not met while traveling is way better than a great day at work in the grind! There's no cure like travel! 😁

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      I 100 percent agree - we will take an overrated over the daily grind any day! Yes, being over-touristed certainly makes a place less appealing in our eyes - although as you mention, there are places like Rome, you just need to see. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻

    • @dmcguckian
      @dmcguckian Před 5 dny +1

      Good talk about your preferences, but it seems you discount the cultural offerings of a place like Italy because it’s crowded and less convenient. If you’re interested in art and history in the West, you can’t beat Italy. There is a reason it’s so filled with tourists. For me personally, Portugal is overrated. It’s become very popular, and it has very few things to offer that can’t be found (better versions) in other nearby countries. The art is not at the level of it’s close neighbors. The castles and grand architectural structures are often crowded and not as spectacular as the ones in nearby countries. The food is good, but not as good as Spain for example. You mentioned beaches quite often and you mentioned visiting the islands in Greece. It sounds like maybe you are looking for something more sensory than intellectually stimulating. Many places are both scenic and intellectually stimulating, but if you’re looking primarily for tasty food, nice beaches, great views, good beaches, etc than the incredible cultural value of a destination like Rome will be lost on you due to the congestion and dirt. Difficult destinations for different preferences, but again you talked about Turkey’s mountains and water without mentioning it’s epic cultural offerings. Turkey and Italy are both beautiful but if they were the ugliest countries on earth they still offer more important things to see first hand than 90% of the world’s other countries.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před 5 dny

      Thank you for adding your opinion to the conversation!
      Cheers!!🍻🍻

  • @damis2372
    @damis2372 Před měsícem +16

    Portugal is getting more expensive. Prices have skyrocketed in the past year. It’s no longer a budget destination.

  • @falquezfalquez
    @falquezfalquez Před měsícem +22

    I went to Paris for 3 days and felt it was highly overrated. Nothing wrong about providing your opinion, these are your experiences. Thanks for the great content.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      Thank you for watching and commenting. The support is very much appreciated. 😀

    • @vaughnharp06
      @vaughnharp06 Před měsícem +4

      We agree with people overrating Paris, relative to all the other incredible places in Europe and other cities. For the prices and the amount of people and Parisians not being as friendly it isn’t somewhere we would go back to again

    • @falquezfalquez
      @falquezfalquez Před měsícem +3

      I still thinks it’s a beautiful city and a must go for anyone, but not sure if I would repeat it either.

    • @RickandTee
      @RickandTee Před měsícem +4

      We love Paris - no other city is like it. Wouldn’t stay for a month but a week or two every once in a while works for us!

    • @densnow4816
      @densnow4816 Před měsícem

      Paris in August, when best restaurants are closed, may indeed risk being over-rated.

  • @Ed-jg3ud
    @Ed-jg3ud Před měsícem +12

    If u get off the beaten path and drive small town Ireland u will realize how underrated it is. The large cities are such a different experience from rural Ireland. Big time underrated!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      When we go back that is what we are going to do!! Thank you for commenting, Ed!!

    • @gregmiller9437
      @gregmiller9437 Před měsícem

      @@BrianandCarrie Dingle Peninsula! Wonderful trip driving around it. Bicycling the Wild Atlantic Way is also amazing. E bikes cruising through the rural countryside was our favorite.

  • @stevenakelly
    @stevenakelly Před měsícem +14

    I’ve been to almost all of the places you mentioned. Your reviews are spot on. Not that I didn’t trust you before, but I will be trusting you more in the future! 😊

  • @JessicaLopez-fm9fm
    @JessicaLopez-fm9fm Před měsícem +2

    The food in Mexico will exceed your highest expectations - SO GOOD - the people are so friendly and there is so much history AND beautiful scenery. You will have a great time!

  • @rainylluvia
    @rainylluvia Před měsícem +1

    So excited to learn more about all your travels. Thank you for the post. Loving them.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      So happy you are enjoying them ☺. Thank you so much for watching!

  • @andreablack4573
    @andreablack4573 Před měsícem +1

    Great podcast team. Thanks v much. Cheers

  • @muravi8167
    @muravi8167 Před měsícem

    Brian n Carrie - thank you for the inputs and knowledge. happy travels to both of you.

  • @charliedurham4248
    @charliedurham4248 Před měsícem

    Great video! Added some places to my future itineraries!
    Can't wait to see your videos on South America!

  • @RetirementMilebyMile
    @RetirementMilebyMile Před měsícem +11

    Thanks for all your advice and recommendations! You definitely made me look into Romania, and we took a two week trip there last year. We loved it! I agree with you about Italy. We flew to Rome for spring break with our two teenage daughters. We scooted right around the city and went straight to the small town of Tivoli. The small towns are better! We have still have not been to Rome and may never. Our friends think that’s crazy but we know what we like and that’s the small town vibe with friendly people and amazing sites not overrun by tourists. This video has moved Turkey and Vietnam up my list, and Malaysia down. I value your opinions. Keep on traveling I look forward to following you for many years to come!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +3

      That's so wonderful to hear, we truly loved Romania ❤️ and love hearing the same from others that visit. I totally agree, the smaller towns resonate with us so much more. Some people see travels as seeing every site...for me it's more about feeling like I'm living life in this new town and just taking it all in. Thanks so much for watching and following along 😊

  • @AHauser-rw7dr
    @AHauser-rw7dr Před měsícem +12

    Looking forward to your hearing about your experiences in Mexico this Fall. I’ve spent ten months over the last few years exploring the old colonial towns of central Mexico and found it much more rewarding than the coastal resort cities we always hear about. And near perfect, mild weather throughout the year. Hope you enjoy!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +4

      We are looking forward to going and will do exactly what you describe. Exploring central Mexico!!
      Salud!! 🍻

    • @angelalewis7868
      @angelalewis7868 Před měsícem +2

      Me too! Looking forward to Mexico

    • @k.k.9897
      @k.k.9897 Před měsícem +1

      Me 3!

    • @danieltroyo3847
      @danieltroyo3847 Před měsícem

      While in México,you should visit Puebla City,you will love it(food,affordable, great weather and beautiful historic towns close by)

    • @stacie007
      @stacie007 Před měsícem +1

      I lived in Queretaro for a year and half. Great city. I liked it MUCH better than the Yucatan, but I never acclimated to the combo of high altitude and dry air. 🙁

  • @dianegriffith3006
    @dianegriffith3006 Před měsícem +3

    I watched several CZcamsrs who moved to Portugal plus a couple I’d known from CA who real recently moved there. It’s the thing to do I’ve heard. You two provide such great information. Thank you!!

  • @philwebster3914
    @philwebster3914 Před měsícem +1

    Another great video, love your honesty, thank you and safe travels

  • @mikeshawn5864
    @mikeshawn5864 Před měsícem +2

    I personally like Italy. It is the history and museums. Since they are mostly indoor activities, we chose to go off season, November. It is cheaper and the line is much shorter. We are also from rainy Pacific Northwest so we don’t mind the rain. All popular European cities have the same over rated problem. Expensive and crowded in season.

  • @coraliebulliard171
    @coraliebulliard171 Před měsícem +2

    I apreciate your honest opinion 👏😘 thanks for sharing such a good content and love your podcast, you put so much effort in your videos/podcast❤

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thank you so much ♥. We truly appreciate your kind words and you watching and following along.

  • @angelalewis7868
    @angelalewis7868 Před měsícem +3

    First time commenter, long time fan! Love your honesty. Please keep keeping it real, by your opinion 😊 Love your new format with education and showing us the places you visit. I really enjoy your content!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thank you for the support and commenting for the first time!!! 😃 We will be doing more destination-style videos soon!! 😀

  • @TheCabinman
    @TheCabinman Před měsícem +1

    Excellent overview, thanks so much!

  • @jeffutley3845
    @jeffutley3845 Před měsícem +1

    Thank you for sharing your honest thoughts & opinions. These types of videos provide a great deal of value to people such as my wife & I who are always looking for the next non-typical place to visit. Happy to hear that you're visiting Mexico City this fall. I will bet my left arm that it will end up making your top-five list for places that you've ever experienced while slow travelling. I highly recommend that you consider staying in the La Condesa area...as that neighbourhood will check off all of the boxes that you have shared are important to the lifestyle that you both enjoy. Keep up the amazing content...your efforts are very much appreciated!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thank you, Jeff! We are starting to put together our Mexico trip as we speak! Thank you for the suggestion on La Condesa!! Thank you again for watching and commenting!!
      Cheers!!🍻

  • @chriswissmar504
    @chriswissmar504 Před měsícem

    Great video.I use your travel experiences for planning my next travels

  • @passportwalletphone
    @passportwalletphone Před měsícem +7

    We used Sail Croatia two years ago for a private catamaran tour with our adult children - one of the best vacations ever! We are going back this year for a wine tour also with Sail Croatia.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      That sounds amazing!! We will keep them in mind when we decide to go back. Guessing it will be sooner than later!! Thank you for the recommendation!!
      Cheers!!🍻

    • @dsan2020
      @dsan2020 Před měsícem +1

      Just looked at Sail Croatia…thank you for the recommendation. Can I ask which tour you took 2 years ago. Thx

    • @passportwalletphone
      @passportwalletphone Před měsícem +2

      @@dsan2020 This year we are doing an Elegance cruise that is focused on a wine tour - haven't done that before, but we suspect it will be awesome.

  • @amandar3467
    @amandar3467 Před měsícem +5

    Love you guys and am excited for every video! I just turned 30 and started my slow travel journey as I'm lucky enough to have had a remote job since the pandemic. Currently balancing hopping around and making sure I'm back in NY for things like my mom's birthday. Spent two months in Vienna and two months in Seoul so far, and am excited to spend another month in Vienna and a month in Warsaw this summer! Your videos make me excited to spend more time in so many other countries. ❤

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +3

      You'll love Poland!! We need to get back soon and explore Warsaw and would really like to get to Gdansk as well. How exciting to be able to work remotely at such a young age!!
      PS: Good for you not missing mom's birthday!!! 😀

  • @rebeccamanahan5054
    @rebeccamanahan5054 Před měsícem +4

    Watching your videos made me look at slow travel when I retire (instead of staying long term and getting a visa). You also made me looked at Romania to travel to. And after watching other vloggers, rewatching your videos and researching more on Romania, I will definitely add it to my of cities/towns I will visit.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      Slow travel is such a wonderful way to go - you can see so much more and still do it very affordable. Hope you enjoy Romania as much as we do! Cheers

  • @TNTTravelsWW
    @TNTTravelsWW Před měsícem

    I love your videos. Thank you for the information. My husband and I have been traveling for about a year and we have Greece and Turkey on our list for the fall.

  • @comfortszone7420
    @comfortszone7420 Před měsícem +2

    You're spot on with the underrated locations. I haven't been to Romania(hope to go this summer) but Portugal and Vietnam were awesome. Personally I love Malaysia and wanted to retire there but Covid ended that. But different strokes for different folks. On a side note congratulations on your 50K subscribers!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Yes, absolutely, there someplace for everyone 😊. Thanks so much, it's a pretty awesome milestone.

  • @nancyl7989
    @nancyl7989 Před 24 dny +1

    Thank you for your honest videos. I really appreciate your straightforward and open commentaries as you share your experiences.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před 24 dny

      Thank you, Nancy. We appreciate the kind words and for you watching our channel. ❤️😊

  • @RimShot99
    @RimShot99 Před měsícem +3

    Thank you for giving your opinions despite knowing they would be unpopular with some. As someone with limited time for international travel, your honesty is quite helpful. I randomly booked a trip through Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey for this summer knowing nothing about the region. I'm more excited than ever to go after hearing your comments!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      That is so exciting!! You will have a wonderful time!! Thank you for watching and happy travels!! 😀

  • @reawakenedcuriosities4386
    @reawakenedcuriosities4386 Před měsícem +1

    We agree about your opinion of Greece. We keep on going back to the Cyclades. We originally set an itinerary to explore Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Delphi and Meteora. Santorini was our first stop but we loved it so much that we made as our only stop. We explored and hiked beautiful places during the day, eat delicious food and drink beautiful wine in the evening, and join the busy, touristy areas during our non-hiking days…such a beautiful place.

  • @MrChrisjonesaus
    @MrChrisjonesaus Před měsícem +1

    Great insights and appreciate your honesty! Travel experiences are always personal and your overrated countries sharing is very helpful as they make us think about countries that we may go to, but have a more realistic expectation if we go there. The more I hear about Vietnam and Thailand, the more I want to go and being in Australia, its on our doorstep - so will visit there soon. Thanks for your great videos.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      We appreciate the support!! Travel is subjective. We need to make our way to Australia sooner rather than later. Thank you again for supporting the channel!!
      Cheers!!

  • @gwenwelch7593
    @gwenwelch7593 Před měsícem

    Thanks for the list….will think of some new ones you suggested

  • @fabio-go3976
    @fabio-go3976 Před měsícem +1

    Wow, y’all are really cranking out the videos. Interesting perspectives but revealing for the types of experiences that are important to you. I love Italy but some of the points you make are absolutely true. Just got back from Vietnam, you can have it. Because of your video on Antalya I’ve started researching Airbnb for October. Can’t figure out exactly on the map the location of the marina area you suggested. Any tips appreciated. Romania is on the radar. Another job well done.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We can understand why Vietnam wouldn't be for everyone, but we did enjoy it! Look up The Dam Hotel in Antalya, we stayed in the same neighborhood and liked the area for longer stays. Old Town and the marina are about a 10-minute cab ride away. Thank you for watching and commenting! Safe travels!

  • @danatravis9240
    @danatravis9240 Před měsícem +4

    We under-rated Malta and Albania, for sure. We had no idea we'd enjoy those places so much! Super excited to hear about your experiences in Mexico. We're thinking of adding that to The List for the end of 2025 and so we'll definitely be watching those videos.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      That's great to hear about Malta, it's high on our list.. Hopefully in the next few years. Cheers!!

  • @user-mz2le8px1z
    @user-mz2le8px1z Před měsícem +5

    Good to hear that Spain is clean. Wait till you get to Japan. We were blow away at how clean Tokyo is. We definitely want to go back to Japan.

  • @loricoupon3518
    @loricoupon3518 Před měsícem +1

    Love your honesty and content. I look foward each week to your video. I cant wait to start traveling in 2025.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thanks so much ♥. We appreciate you watching and following along. Cheers!

  • @Jvang102
    @Jvang102 Před 13 dny

    Love your Videos, thankyou!
    You mentioned Croatia, and possibly a cruise, would you happen to have any names of the the cruises you were thinking of.?

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před 12 dny

      Thank you!! We don't have any one cruise in particular but there are several to choose from. This may be something that we have to save for in 2026. 😊

  • @karend7487
    @karend7487 Před měsícem +1

    Great video! I actually loved Italy but I'm so excited to try some of your underated destinations! Can you please do a video on how to get started on selecting an itinerary for a trip? I'm so overwhelmed with picking things to see and selecting where to stay for my next destination which is Portugal. Thanks guys!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thank you! We will be doing a video/podcast within the next few weeks on how we plan our travels. Not sure that will answer all your questions, but hopefully some 😉. Cheers!

  • @ALTHALLOFFICIAL
    @ALTHALLOFFICIAL Před měsícem +1

    Thank you for the
    honesty and for being so authentic. Cant wait to watch the Mexico videos. Hoping you go hit up Scandinavian countries in the future. More expensive but their values are so what the U.S. needs. Bragging is looked down upon, being showy, flaunting wealth, and so much more responsible of society. Enjoy your Mexico travels!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      We look forward to Scandinavia but can't afford to go. You won't have to worry about us flaunting our wealth. 😂

  • @Evan12346
    @Evan12346 Před měsícem +3

    Hi Brian and Carrie. I’m from Vancouver and thought your accents were from up here. Glad to see some CZcamsrs from my region and close to my age as well. Thanks for all the useful information and for inspiring me to travel more. -Evan

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      Thank you for watching, Evan! Vancouver is a beautiful city!!!

  • @thomasdeansfineart149

    Italy. If the Roman Empire and the Italian Renaissance aren’t your thing, I can totally agree with you. If, like me, you’re a lover of Italy’s incredible contributions to history and high culture, it’s unmissable. I know it’s ever more crowded. I advise off seasons and staying off the beaten path but with train access to other places. We chose Umbria. We stayed in a hillside hamlet of four houses. The neighbors owned a small albergo/guesthouse a mile away with public restaurant, simple but elegant, and with a terrace for dinners at sunset overlooking the Umbrian hills. Mostly locals came for special occasions. The hotel was a second career for our neighbor, who loved to cook (he was a retired state policeman). They cooked for us and invited us to their parties. Real Italian food. The most fabulous preserved cherries and local wine. Our 16th century farmhouse overlooked olive groves, sunflower fields, and Lake Trasimeno, where Hannibal fought the Romans, and farmers still dig up bones from the battle. The train was a 15 minute drive, and then an hour to either Rome or Florence for day trips. We used the car for less accessible places, medieval hill towns, for instance. A little grotto fed by a mountain spring provided our preferred drinking water-someone had thoughtfully put a tap into the rock wall. Some nights from the hills we watched distant firework displays, from neighboring towns celebrating the name day of a local saint. Often, you can see their bones in the parish church. There are ways to see Italy away from the tourist buses if you plan ahead and know where you want to go. Remember, Italy has been a unified country for only 150 years. Each province has its own unique history, cuisine, and culture, of which the residents are very proud. Don’t pass it up. For art and culture-the birthplace of opera!-Italy can never be overrated, in my view.

  • @jillharrell3256
    @jillharrell3256 Před měsícem +2

    I really appreciate your opinions, thank you! And I completely understand how you reached them.
    Unfortunately I think quite a few places were AMAZING and are now overrated due to out of control tourism as well. Either way, always great to hear from experienced, recent travelers!

  • @RG-cz1tc
    @RG-cz1tc Před měsícem +4

    I think the ratings are a good start, probably more valuable for the "underrated". Other comments make the good point that "overrated" largely depends on whether you are stuck in the heavily touristed areas. Rick Steves' video on Venice says to get away from St. Marks Square, go out into the neighborhoods, and the tourists drop off, it is surprisingly quiet. That's an example. The costing out of different places is helpful, but I think you should also work on developing an "adaptabilty rating" to places. Let's face it, we are Americans, and while we want to be flexible and fit in with the locals, there is a limit to that and that varies by country. For example, the Algarve vs Romania, which could you actually live in long term, if you were not doing slow travel? Many of us are looking for alternatives to the U.S.. Vietnam was cheap, the people friendly etc, but could you live there permanently? So I think an "adaptability rating" would also be helpful, something to consider. Great discussions for sure.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Great idea! Thanks so much for watching 😊

    • @sweetjane6506
      @sweetjane6506 Před 17 dny

      Not everyone watching this is American. : ) CZcams is available worldwide.

  • @davidj7516
    @davidj7516 Před měsícem +2

    Thank you for your time and posting. Boy, I'm sure glad you said Vietnam. ;) Have you ever had Russian River Beer from Santa Rosa CA? Named the best in the world multiple times. :)

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      Brian has had it and has actually gone to the brewery. He said it's great! Thanks for watching - Cheers!!

  • @shanhad1572
    @shanhad1572 Před měsícem

    Oh no ~ we're going back to Italy this summer (but only to Puglia) ha ha. Also, Vietnam is on our list! Can't wait for your videos in Greece. Enjoy!

  • @dawnzaffery4980
    @dawnzaffery4980 Před měsícem +1

    Great video (as always)!
    Any plans to see South America in the near future?

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      Thank you! Yes, in winter of 2025 were heading that way.

  • @parttimelarry
    @parttimelarry Před měsícem +4

    Loved this one, definitely have your underrated places high up on the list now - Romania, Turkey, and Vietnam are a priority. I will say that I don't think Portugal is under the radar anymore at all -- the word is out and it's quite busy in Lisbon/Porto. We rented such a cool apartment in Porto years ago and I definitely had some daydreams about staying :). Where would you put Krakow and Budapest -- properly rated?

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +4

      We loved Krakow but only spent a few days. We just booked Budapest for June and trying to temper our excitement. We don't want to get our expectations too high!! 😃

    • @Laura-kb5sr
      @Laura-kb5sr Před měsícem

      @@BrianandCarrie My husband's from Budapest, so we visit his family and friends (from Maryland) from time to time. Love it!!! Definitely visit swimming pool complexes (some have spas too) and eat the junk food there (at pools and lakes)--lángos (fry bread), palacsinta (crepes), ohhhhh yum! Margitsziged is a park that locals adore. If you want to get out of the city, Lake Balaton is soooo beautiful-green, and you can get there by train--and it's a cultural experience to vacation there too. But English isn't super-common, Hungarian and German are more so. And be aware, air conditioning isn't super widespread, but maybe June will still be fine (but it's worth being sure your accommodation has a/c unless you want to roast if there's a fluke heat wave). I wouldn't stay in the most crowded tourist areas, so overwhelming to me at least, but you can get public transportation anywhere (but again, not all with a/c).

  • @orangelily935
    @orangelily935 Před měsícem +5

    Travel is very personal. Your education background, your lifestyle, your taste, your travel experiences, your sense of arts , Are you culture traveller or nature lovers etc . Just like shopping clothings, everyone has the uniqueness. 😅😊 As your guys mentioned multiple times, this is YOUR OWN OPINIONS. I like that.❤ Vietnam is POULAR in the states for a long time. Not just the tourism media didn't promoted TOO MUCH . In Asia , Chinese ,Koreans, Japanese etc all of southeast Asian states are their backyards. 😂 So as audience ,we don't have to take yours unique opinions as our choices. We shuold have always find our own uniqueness. But you yuys experiences just add a little bit of seasongs in our travels. Thanks for your humble podcasts ! 🎉🎉🎉

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      Thank you so much. Yes, we all have our own thoughts on a area... One place that may check one persons boxes, may check none of ours. That's the beauty I see in the world, so many wonderful places, there is something for everyone 😊. Thanks so much for watching.

  • @APeeKay
    @APeeKay Před měsícem +1

    Loved the video as always. Heard that Turkey costs are increasing. For attractions, minimum wage, taxis. Did you notice it this year.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      Yes, we did notice prices increasing for the over 3 months we were there over a 6-month period. Hopefully, things balance out soon, especially for the locals that it has to be so challenging for. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻

  • @TexasDoug393
    @TexasDoug393 Před měsícem +1

    I could sit and read maps all day, and I could watch you guys talk about places you've visited all day. When you were talking about meeting expectations, I was curious what you thought of Santorini, and there you go, answered that right there. If you ever have a long layover at DFW, I'd be happy to buy you some Mexican food. We do that pretty well around here. Tacos and burritos, even some more authentic fare and all the guac you can eat. 😀

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      Thank you, Doug! One of these years we will be doing a US tour to explore our own country. We will swing by!! 😃

  • @monicarowe7915
    @monicarowe7915 Před měsícem

    As an experienced solo traveler, I appreciate your sensible, broader approach, away from the better known, stereotypical locations. Your videos are helping me immensely to narrow down, and plan my itineraries. Many thanks, again!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      So happy to hear you are enjoying our videos and they are helping you in your itinerary planning. Thanks so much for watching and following along! Cheers

  • @davidbaillieul109
    @davidbaillieul109 Před měsícem

    Very interesting discussion. I pretty much agree with your views. We are looking forward to your Mexico trips. This year we did 2 trips to Mexico and 1 trip to Portugal. We loved Mexico, but the 'tourist pricing' in the resort areas will move us to central mexico next year. The 'strip' in Tulum will make you shake your head. Its more like the vegas strip than Vegas :) . The new train should be interesting, give it a whirl!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We are looking forward to Mexico as well. We will be in central Mexico for the duration of our time. We may visit the cost in 2025 but haven't heard anything positive about Tulum. Thank you for watching our channel!!!

  • @befreetv354
    @befreetv354 Před měsícem

    As a romanian I just cant thank you enough for the good impression you make about the country...and watching your vlogs are a joy : simply realistic and enjoyable ! Salutari from Black Sea Costs of Romania - Constanta

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      We love Romania and look forward to making it back soon. We hope others will also consider traveling there, as it's such a beautiful country ❤️

  • @anitariley7086
    @anitariley7086 Před měsícem

    Great info! We are going to Italy and Greece in September. We fly into Rome and to be honest I would be quite happy to just train straight down to Puglia where we will spend 2 weeks. But the pressure from everyone else …”oh you have to see this this and this in Rome”. Well researching “this this and this” in Rome is making me not want to go there even more! Easier to do skip the line tours they say…which cost a fortune…especially for us Aussies! But when you look at the horrendous lines if you don’t book one of these tours it makes my feet hurt before even standing in that line for hours lol. I think I am like you…prefer the smaller towns. At least when we go to Greece we are just doing a Greek Islands cruise and we can relax somewhat. I have seen those Croatia sail cruises….definitely on my list to do one day! Thanks again for your content!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      I hear you about the crazy lines. We did enjoy Rome, but it was December, so crowds were minimal. Greek islands on a cruise will be perfect. Enjoy😊

  • @JoseReyes-ov2tu
    @JoseReyes-ov2tu Před měsícem

    Great video. Its funny what you say about Spanish people not being friendly. My mom went to Spain for the first time recently and had a similar experience. She loved the place, but the people were not friendly. And she is a huge fan of Spanish TV and Spanish shows, so that surprised me.
    Brian, it is MAlaga (stress on the first A) :) I know you aren't there yet, but you can start practicing early LOL

  • @millars4
    @millars4 Před měsícem

    Great podcast thanks to you both. We are planning a four month trip to Thailand and Vietnam (Da Nang) in June to September this year so we were pleased to see Vietnam featured in this podcast. We have watched your Thailand and Vietnam videos (some twice) and have found them very helpful. We are a similar age to you guys and have similar interests and/budget. We also love to walk everywhere and I love beer 😆so I can relate to that as well. We realise the time of year (wet season) isn’t perfect for Thailand and some of Vietnam however I see that Da Nang is ‘dry season’ due to the mountains so we are hopeful to get some nice weather there. Being the off season also has some cost benefits. We are from New Zealand so we are escaping our winter months. We usually go to Bali this time of year (dry season) but we wanted to try something different and Bali has gotten very busy and not as ‘affordable’ as it used to be. Cheers.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      We've heard that about Bali, it's unfortunate 😔. Vietnam, even during the wet season should be great! The nice thing about their rain is most days (not all) it can downpour for a stretch and then be fine the rest of the day. Even when we were there in March it downpoured for a full day at a time - so you just get that. Harder to plan a vacation around, but a long term stay it should be fine. Enjoy your travels!

  • @wilmabrock6257
    @wilmabrock6257 Před měsícem +1

    I spent some time in Albania last year and loved it. I’m off to Romania in May and know I will love it. Over the last 12 years I have done all the touristy places in Europe plus Australia and New Zealand and now find I go where it is less popular. Loved Turkey so I am of the same mind as you. May hit Vietnam next year. Cheers from a subscriber in Nova Scotia Canada!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      Excited for you visiting Romania! We really do think that you will love it as much as Türkiye. Thank you for subscribing from Nova Scotia!! 😀
      Cheers!!🍻

  • @shmoocrew
    @shmoocrew Před měsícem

    Spot on assessment of all the places you highlighted. Just back from Florence (meh). Malaysia, especially Penang was so disappointing. Not been to Vietnam so Mexico would be our No1 destination. Got to say, we love some of your city pronunciations. Keep up the good work guys.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We can't wait to get to Mexico. At this point, we've only ever been to the typical more popular beach towns, excited to explore central Mexico. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻

  • @d.y.e3803
    @d.y.e3803 Před měsícem +1

    Great comments, guys. I'm glad that you just put it out there as your opinions of places which is fine with me as we're all different. Thumbs up!
    As for the your minus places: Malaysia and Italy.
    Malaysia: I've been there many times since 2001 due to going to the S.E. Asia region almost annually since late 1990s. I'm fine in Malaysia for a certain amount of time. I tend to be more of a Penang person than a KL person and always fly down to Penang after having spent at least three weeks in my beloved Bangkok. I've also been in areas south of KL. As for Penang, I find Penang relaxing.
    I seriously considered the MM2H visa back in 2014/2015, but to strategically position myself in the region and be able to go to Thailand and other places more easily. The long-term visa situation in Thailand has always been a mess. But, with MM2H, I would have been granted 10 years to come and go and then I could have continued spending time and working some months here at home, but also would have been able to leave home and easily be in the region for months.
    Italy: It's a big country with a lot of regions and a lot depends on where one is as far as one's experience. I've been going there since a young traveler in the 1970s and basically enjoy certain parts. I was last there in 2017. I've been from the north to as far down as Napoli. I've found it easier to travel there as I've gotten older as opposed to when I was a young female solo traveler as I travel the world solo.
    Your plus-rated destinations:
    Vietnam: I still haven't been. I have had it on the list for decades, but somehow end up in other places in the region. When in the region, I go to my 2-3 go-to places and then try to add one extra country destination to check it out for a few days. My rule of thumb is to only do 3-4 nights in a new place in case I don't like the place. If I like it, I can extend the stay or go back the following year. Instead of Vietnam on one trip, I ended up back in Indonesia. I've been both on Bali, not my favorite, but glad I went back in the late 1990s, and Jakarta (which I really liked) around 2018, I think it was. Hopefully, I'll get back to Jakarta. And everyone that I personally know didn't like Jakarta. But, I was fine with it.
    Turkey: I agree with you. I also loved it and need to spend more time there.
    Romania: I have put it on my list due to your reports on it. Thanks.
    Croatia: It's been on my list for years as my now unfortunately late best male friend had been going there regularly for 2 decades and loved it. He was living in Italy permanently after early retirement in his mid-50s and he and wife would vacation in Croatia. But, he had also vacationed in Croatia solo before he got married 20 years prior to his passing a few years ago.
    Spain: I definitely want to spend more time there. I was only in Seville which I loved. I think that was
    around summer 2016 or maybe 2017.
    Thailand: My heart has been there since the late 1990s and that's where I spend most of my overseas time.
    Portugal: I still haven't made it there although I spent whole summers in Europe for a couple decades. But, it's so far away from the country where I spent/spend whole summers, partial, summers, and 2-3 weeks in summer that I never made it down to Portugal. But, in the 1980s, my now late best male friend and I and two of our best ex-pat friends from here, who have now lived in Europe for over 50 years, had a sit down to discuss buying a house there. He and I even went to the Portuguese consulate in the country where we were and were shown on a huge map areas where to buy. Now, I can kick myself for not having bought back then as a house and even a restorable villa and land cost about what a luxury car cost here. I had a lot of friends from here who were going to Portugal in the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s.
    The bottom line is to try a variety of places and various regions in the same country. Everyone I knew loved Bali, but I didn't. And they didn't like Jakarta at all, but I went anyway and really liked it. Just be adventurous!
    Greetings from Los Angeles

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thanks so much for watching and commenting. Cheers!!

  • @brendataylor8388
    @brendataylor8388 Před měsícem

    Great insights! I hope you get to central Mexico like Morelia, Puebla, or even better San Miguel de Allende!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts😉. Cheers 🍻

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      We will be in central Mexico this fall and plan to stay in San Miguel for a month!! We will also be exploring surrounding areas. 😀

    • @brendataylor8388
      @brendataylor8388 Před měsícem

      @@BrianandCarrie yaaayyyy! You’re gonna love it😉

    • @wanderwildes
      @wanderwildes Před měsícem

      @@BrianandCarrie You have to go to Guanajuato!!! I think it's much better than San Miguel.

  • @RickandTee
    @RickandTee Před měsícem +2

    Teresa and I completely agree on Portugal (we are there now) - loved the Algarve and Lisbon and can’t wait to return. Türkiye is on the list based on your recommendations!
    Although I get your comments on Italy, Rome has a special place in our hearts - no hate here!
    Can’t thank you enough for your views. We really depend on them to help set our future itinerary.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      So happy you are enjoying Portugal ♥. We are so thankful for the time we had in Italy - and Rome had some wonderful sites to see! It just didn't check many boxes in comparison to so many of the areas we've been in that we were so surprised by. Happy and safe continued travels - Cheers!!

  • @KenFTL
    @KenFTL Před měsícem +1

    I’m glad you mentioned Vietnam. I spent eight days solo-traveling there in late November 2023. HCMC, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and others places have quite the infrastructure to handle tourists. It was very easy to travel. I’m going to spend 3-4 days in Romania in July 2024 (along with other nearby countries). Lastly, Mexico will be awesome. CDMX is my fav city and Puebla, Oaxaca and others are all great. The food is amazing everywhere. Happy travels!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We are so excited about Mexico and still finalizing plans. I will look up Puebla, not familiar with that area. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻

  • @lisaburch5228
    @lisaburch5228 Před měsícem

    Great video thanks. We’re in New Zealand and have been lucky to visit many Asian countries. Vietnam is probably our favourite, with Laos a close second. We’re heading off for a three month trip in July. Pleased to hear that our choices of Romania and turkey are probably good ones. We’re also really looking forward to Sri Lanka.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We have Laos on our list when we return to SE Asia. Hopefully in 2025. You'll love both Romania and Turkey! Thank you for watching and safe travels!

  • @allanahquinn7277
    @allanahquinn7277 Před měsícem +2

    Hope people take your advice about Italy. The smaller towns are lovely but the popular ones were quite suffocating and we were pleased to move on. We stayed up near the university in Venice which was much quieter and nights walks over the bridges were beautiful and very peaceful.

    • @jonblogondrong4792
      @jonblogondrong4792 Před 20 dny

      Don't take any negative advice about Italy. You will find nothing like Italy's level of culture in Romania, nor is the food anywhere close to being as good. Totally inappropriate comparison.

  • @hellsfro
    @hellsfro Před měsícem +3

    I agree with you both regarding Italy, especially the known tourist destinations. Whilst we spent an incredible 12 weeks driving the loop north to the south. The off the beaten paths in Italy we enjoyed the most and the most authentic. Two things that were near impossible to find in Italy... public toilets and picnic tables 😂

    • @fabio-go3976
      @fabio-go3976 Před měsícem +1

      Spent 5 weeks in Italy. You are soooo right about toilets in Italy. I just don’t get it.

    • @mcrheaume7137
      @mcrheaume7137 Před 12 dny

      We are full time travelers. We are in Italy for the second time in 7 months. We now live one month in Genoa (Gênes ). I have a new saying. '' In Rome do like the romains, In Mcdonald's use the toilet even if you don't need it ''

  • @vaguelyvagrant9694
    @vaguelyvagrant9694 Před měsícem +1

    Awesome video. I've been to all of these countries and I couldn't agree more. I would add a couple of places to the underrated list: Bulgaria, Cambodia, Albania, Slovenia, and Indonesia.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We have been to Albania, and we would agree. Thank you for watching!!
      Cheers!!🍻

    • @vaguelyvagrant9694
      @vaguelyvagrant9694 Před měsícem

      @@BrianandCarrie Almost forgot another 100% underrated country: Georgia. Absolutely a must experience!

  • @TheAreksen
    @TheAreksen Před měsícem +1

    My wife and I really loved Portugal (visited cities like Tavira and Vila Real because of ur recommendation) and found Spain as we expected.
    Definitely moving Italy down and moving Turkey and Croatia up. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      So happy to hear you loved Portugal - it's definitely held a place in our hearts since the beginning and we hope to get back soon. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻

  • @Andrew-cg2zl
    @Andrew-cg2zl Před 14 dny

    thank you for your content. this is a 30 minute video. i wish there was easier breakdown, time dots to show which cities you are talking, where people can quickly find which cities you are discussing.

  • @markeaston7353
    @markeaston7353 Před měsícem +1

    Not yet been to Romania but totally agree with all of the other places on your under rated list. Vietnam in particular is one of our very favourite places and we have been there many times. Also agree on Italy. Have been there and enjoyed it several times but would much rather go back to Turkey. Malaysia is on our list for next year but after hearing your views we just might shorten our planned stay, so thanks for the insight.

  • @user-ou7um2od8t
    @user-ou7um2od8t Před měsícem +1

    How interesting. I actually was a bit let down by Portugal - I had super, super high expectations it didn't quite live up to - except Madiera, which I adored any day there wasn't a cruise ship in Funchal. Italy is my favorite country (out of 47 and counting..) I also didn't love Viet Nam - it pretty much just feels like China to me, and China was more interesting, and I was really excited to go to Ha Long Bay, but it was crowded and there was lots of trash floating. Loved Laos, however. That said - love your videos, hoping to go to Romania soon. (I love Turkey, too, have been waiting for years to go back but was a little scared off by the governmental changes since the last time I was there - but your experiences have put it back on my list.) But we don't stay super long in one town (2 weeks is pretty much the max) which might make a big difference in our favorites. (My overrated would be Greece. But I was in high tourist areas, like Athens in Mykonos.)

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Yes, it is interesting how we can all have different views on locations. It's not surprising though, we all have different boxes that need to be checked for a place to feel like home. Thanks so much for watching 😊. Cheers!!

  • @user-jb2ks2cc4z
    @user-jb2ks2cc4z Před měsícem +4

    Romania definitely on my list. My best friend here in Sicily is from there. Turkey I’ve always heard was great. Porto is def worth the trip, though got mild food poisoning from cabbage soup. I haven’t been elsewhere in Portugal.The crowds are abhorrent in Italy, otherwise I personally think it’s the overall prettiest and food by a loooong shot. It is dirty. The trains are better than most might think. Not always on time, but very comfortable and clean. Slovenia… next week, so I’ll let you know. Btw… I now have dual citizenship, and live in Sicily, near Palermo…. A place you particularly don’t like. Yes, it’s even dirtier than mainland Italy. However the food is sooo much better than mainland Italy.😊you guys are still OK!😊

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      Slovenia sounds so interesting, would love to hear your thoughts! We do wish we had explored more of Sicily, and tried more of the food 😉. Thanks for thinking we're still okay ☺. Cheers!!

  • @staciebrooks1328
    @staciebrooks1328 Před měsícem

    You might consider San Miguel de Allende. It definitely exceeded our expectations. We are returning in February for our third visit. Thank you for another excellent video!

    • @Laura-kb5sr
      @Laura-kb5sr Před měsícem +1

      We visited briefly and it's really gorgeous, though not super-economical where we looked (but maybe we just needed to look further out). I spent 2 weeks studying at a Spanish-language school in nearby Guanajuato City and loved, loved, loved it--beautiful and hilly, definitely under the radar for people from the U.S. and Canada (but therefore hard to manage without any Spanish...apparently very popular with Mexican tourists though).

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      That's on our list! Looks beautiful ❤️

  • @Lawnbird
    @Lawnbird Před měsícem

    Oh great. We are going to Italy for two weeks next month. Lol😂 just kidding. I will have to lower my expectations so I can be pleasantly surprised. Thanks for your insights and opinions. They are very helpful.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      You'll have a fantastic time!! Everyone needs to travel to Italy at least once. 🙂 Thank you for watching and safe travels!!

  • @andyg4546
    @andyg4546 Před měsícem

    I was meant to go to Porto about 3 years ago but got covid. After watching your video I'm definitely putting it back on my list of places to go!

  • @rainylluvia
    @rainylluvia Před měsícem

    We visited Ho Chi Minh City because we had been to Thailand and Cambodia and said oh what the heck. We definitely want to go back to Da Nag, Hoi An maybe Hanoi. We were really surprised. Wished we had had more time to explore. Since I've seen yalls videos, I can't wait now.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      It's a totally different feel in Vietnam, we loved it. We also can't wait to go back and explore more ☺

  • @ianwhittaker3041
    @ianwhittaker3041 Před měsícem

    Hi guys, great video, thanks for your insight :). Quick one. Are you planning a thorough travel experience through central and south America anytime soon? I heard you mentioned Mexico, but often CZcamsrs go to Mexico then off to somewhere else like Europe or south east Asia. Cheers from the UK :)

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We are heading to Mexico in the fall, home for Christmas, and then to Argentina in January. We still haven't figured out every place that we will visit so any suggestions are welcomed.
      Cheers!!🍻

  • @feldhdleh
    @feldhdleh Před měsícem

    You nailed Spain and Thailand. Fantastic places to visit.

  • @sbkpilot1
    @sbkpilot1 Před měsícem +4

    One very underrated destination I have been to is Guatemala - Lake Atitlan area is absolutely stunning (Santorini levels without the massive crowds) and I highly suggest you put it on your list. I also enjoyed the ancient ruins of Tikal in eastern Guatemala which are the best preserved Mayan ruins located in the middle of the jungle. Overall Guatemala isn't on anyone's radar but it is a stunningly beautiful country. BTW, i'll be in Vietnam for the first time in Spring 2025, it's been on my list forever :)

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      That's so interesting to hear - we will have to look into the area more. You're right though, Guatemala isn't on most peoples travel list. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻

    • @Mr.S65
      @Mr.S65 Před měsícem +1

      @@BrianandCarrie”#…heard of Lake Atitlan in Guatemala from a famous quote from Aldous Huxley, the author of Brave New World where he called it “the most beautiful lake in the world.” Comparing it to Lake Como in Italy, he said Como "touches the limit of the permissibly picturesque." Atitlan, however, "is Como with the additional embellishment of several immense volcanoes. It is really too much of a good thing." It’s breathtaking, and indeed, the most beautiful lake in the world. Tikal…. Antigua Guatemala… you’ll find lots of French tourists as it is always the case in places where Americans are rarely seen. The locals thought we were French and spoke to us in French. They have learned it through contact with them.

    • @margaretgiudice7698
      @margaretgiudice7698 Před měsícem

      @@BrianandCarrie If you go to Antigua, Guatemala time your stay to be there in the days leading up to Easter. They have the most amazing religious street processions with big hand carried floats, bands etc. The women use flowers to make beautiful ‘carpets’ at various stages along the cobblestoned route that get trampled by the procession, so make sure to get your photos first 😁. It was a unique experience.

    • @phoenixnmhesq
      @phoenixnmhesq Před 21 dnem

      Yes. Guatemala is beautiful. It was a very pleasant surprise. I visited a hot springs waterfall and we stayed at a hotel in the middle of the lake I. The region near Tikal. Actually, all of Central America is pretty awesome.

  • @05glisedan
    @05glisedan Před měsícem +2

    Italy, perhaps visit Capri island but stay in Anacapri. Much less tourist and lots to do. There's also an airbnb host who's able to pick you up and drop you off right in front of the ferry/dock.
    Positano, have good walking shoes and expect to take 1k + step per day. No car needed. Lots to do.
    Amalfi, no car needed. To stay away from crowds, consider Pontone. In between Amalfi and Ravena. You're able to walk to both locations from Pontone. Lots of walking, public transportation very good. No car needed.
    Cinque Terre, fast train service between all 5 villages. Lots of walking. Train ride to Portofino to the north. Porto Venere to the south. Many town in between, quick train ride. No car needed, great public transportation.
    Lake Como. Stay in Vernazza, less crowded. Short ferry ride to all major villages on Lake Como. Boat rent is very affordable. 8 hours will feel like 3 hours. No car needed. Lots of walking. Close to Switzerland. Take the Bernina Express for a great experience. Stay in Pontresina. Explore the area.
    Lastly, Venice. What's not to like (other than crowds). Take taxi from airport. Expensive but what the heck, why not. Get away from St. Marks Square when the rush comes in. Explore surrounding areas. Return early evening for dinner. Late evening, you'll have the places basically to yourself. Try to go early summer for better weather. Springtime can be very cloudy.
    Lots of other places but those will be a good start. Once again. Good shoe such as Hoka, Altra, Topo, On Cloud, ect... Your gonna get miles in, at least 10+ on average day.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Great tips!! Thank you so much for adding to the channel!!

  • @TheAreksen
    @TheAreksen Před měsícem +3

    Brian now you need to do the same list based on the beer in each country 🍻

  • @JToronto53
    @JToronto53 Před měsícem +1

    Your comments are your accurate opinion - don’t apologize. Personally I love Italy but I understand what you’re saying - we like to spend far more time in smaller, lesser known parts of Italy. Yes, Rome, Venice and Florence are wonderful places and everyone who can go there should (off season if at all possible), but it’s crowded and expensive for good reason. We were also underwhelmed by Malaysia, haven’t been to Vietnam and are about to go to Romania.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      As much as we stress that these are just our opinions, we still get some negative comments. It goes with the territory. 😀 You will enjoy Romania!! Safe travels and thank you for the support.
      Cheers!!🍻

  • @karinbryant2924
    @karinbryant2924 Před měsícem

    Go to La Paz...its on the sea of Cortez...beautiful. great for a few days

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thanks for the suggestion, we'll look into it 😊

  • @gwenwelch7593
    @gwenwelch7593 Před měsícem

    Great to hear about Spain..up next.

  • @jenniferconlan9861
    @jenniferconlan9861 Před měsícem

    Thanks!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Thank you, Jennifer!!! We appreciate the support so much!! ❤

  • @victorlamadrid6117
    @victorlamadrid6117 Před měsícem

    Very nice video, really interesting. I would recommend you to go to the North of Spain. This side of Spain it's very much ignored by international tourist. Go to Asturias, Galicia, Santander, the bask region. There are mountains and a beautiful coast line. June to September is the best time to visit.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      That sounds wonderful - we do hope to make it there in the next few years and will look into these areas. Cheers!

  • @omahgroup4080
    @omahgroup4080 Před měsícem +1

    I think the key thing here is to try and have no expectations, but that's just not easy sometimes. Years ago i bought a cheap run down car in Ireland and travelled there, the UK and Europe. I visited 3 major cities to see the famous sights, I waited in lines and shuffled behind the crowds looking at the back of peoples heads just to get glimpses of the attractions. I wasn't getting the experience or feeling any connection that i had hoped for, it was hard work and tiring. It was when i decided to stope going to cities and major attractions and instead drove to smaller towns, villages and the countryside that i truely felt like i was having a genuine cultural experience. There are so many things to do and see if you just dare to taking the road less travelled. I begin my "free life" next year (55yrs old) and I'm excited to start my solo slow travels. I don't know if ill buy a car this time, but it will be interesting and an adventure to see how i manage to get out to the less travelled and unknown places, and maybe visit a major city during winter. Your channel is great! It will definitely come in handy in helping me with my travels.
    ❤Zeljka

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Yes, agree crowds of tourists really does take away from the experience. Getting off the beaten path has been where we've had some of the best experiences. Happy travel planning for your upcoming adventure. Cheers!!

  • @merrillmixer1190
    @merrillmixer1190 Před měsícem +1

    We have traveled a lot in Mexico and love real Mexican food! What is amazing is how different the food is in each region. Yum! I hope you can make it to the Yucatan (Mérida) someday for cochinita pibil and panuchos and their different specialties.
    Funny thing, but your KL video really made me want to go stay a month there. We actually don't mind there being nothing to do other than eat and drink and walk around in a perfect climate!
    We love finding an underrated location and have loved Thailand, Vietnam, Albania, Croatia, Spain, Istanbul and Romania as well as Italy. We'd go back to any of those locations. I think budget is a big part of that, when a place is so affordable. Too expensive is a big turnoff to budget travelers. There are a few destinations on my list that I really, really want to visit and they will probably be a bit disappointing: France, Germany and Switzerland, where there are some places we'll just dash through - like you did in Vienna, and others where we will look for smaller villages.
    Unfortunately, costs of living are rising everywhere.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We will be exploring central Mexico this year and perhaps the coast in 2025. Either way we are looking forward to the food. Costs are increasing it seems all over. Argentina, we understand is still affordable so we will be going there in January!

  • @alicemallen8997
    @alicemallen8997 Před měsícem

    Next time you are in Croatia go to Korcula, nice Island, no big cruise ships. I also loved Türkiye, Istanbul was fascinating.

  • @kategreen9647
    @kategreen9647 Před měsícem +1

    Also agree with you about Malaysia which totally surprised me. We spent 4 months there back in 2001 and a month in 2012 and loved it so were looking at the MM2H. But just went to Penang for a couple of weeks and really did not click at all. Too many changes or something. Loving Vietnam and before that Thailand much more. I hope you do like central Mexico. We did a long term rent for a year in San Miguel and enjoyed it:) No burritos. Tacos though.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      San Miguel may be our first stop! We are excited despite no burritos.😀

    • @Laura-kb5sr
      @Laura-kb5sr Před měsícem

      Did you go to Malaysian Borneo? My husband and I are planning to, but we can tell downsides (intact ecosystems scarce but precious, lots of super-expensive tours but with more economical options possible).

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +2

      No we did not, we know plenty of people who did enjoy it though.

    • @kategreen9647
      @kategreen9647 Před měsícem +1

      @@Laura-kb5sr we enjoyed kuching a lot. One week was perfect for me:)

  • @Anyone-zb8bh
    @Anyone-zb8bh Před měsícem

    Can you post an overall rating list of countries you've been to so far along with maybe some quick comment on why they landed at a certain rank on your list? Interested in Montenegro for instance. Looking for overall ranking across your global list for places not just individual video reviews.

  • @whirltraveller1350
    @whirltraveller1350 Před měsícem

    Despite the following reaction, I love most of your videos and appreciate what you share.
    I am glad that you qualified it by emphasising that these are your opinions that, while subjective in nature, are personal to you and perfectly legitimate.
    Nevertheless, I have to most assuredly differ with you on Italy. After four visits there, I can only look back at the wonderful and varied experiences I have had encompassing its history, cuisine, and people, as well as the great surprises I encountered along my journeys that make for indelible and great memories.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We love to hear this! We have opinions that will differ from others most definitely and encourage other opinions to be heard. Thank you for watching and adding to the conversation. We are sure others will agree with you! Thank you again for supporting the channel! 🙂

  • @ItsGonnaGetBumpy
    @ItsGonnaGetBumpy Před měsícem +2

    I wish I could play the song "Is that all there is?" To accompany this comment. I'm stuck in my Puglia AirBNB for the rest of the month. The cities are rather dingy, the people look joyless. In mid April and wear my jacket inside 24 hours a day... brrrr... Sorry to say this. But compared to the other destinations that lost out to Puglia, I am reminded of the saying, "Twice the Price for half as nice." Oh, and Florence!!! As an aside...Graffiti Everywhere. Probably among the Top 5 Overtouristed destinations on Earth. Just my opinion. Thanks. Like many, disappointed what has become of Italy.

    • @claudinekent5823
      @claudinekent5823 Před měsícem +1

      Snowed while we were in Puglia in March. I was shocked. We have been twice for a total of 5 weeks. I determined I don't want to live there but loved several towns. Do not go for the food!

    • @wanderwildes
      @wanderwildes Před měsícem +1

      I'm in Lecce right now. It's finally warming up!!! I didn't really care for Lecce, but I absolutely LOVED Monopoli. Walking along the water with all the private coves and tiny, beautiful beaches. It was stunning. I'm heading to Gallipoli today. I need to get back to the sea!

  • @lorriepatterson418
    @lorriepatterson418 Před měsícem +1

    Agree with almost everything in this video.
    Only disagree with Portugal, but I believe our expectations were too high so no surprise we were disappointed. We didn’t visit Algarve either- only Porto and Lisbon.
    Looking forward to visiting Romania someday!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Lisbon was our least favorite place in Portugal. It does have some really great day trips that we enjoyed. Sentra and Obiedos were both really fun places to visit. Thank you for commenting, Lorrie!! ❤

  • @COOKINGFROMTHELOFT
    @COOKINGFROMTHELOFT Před měsícem

    Interesting thoughts on Malaysia. The videos I've seen have left me like "meh, looks boring." Not saying I won't go (cause I will), but I hear ya. Great feedback and perspectives.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      We just didn't care for it. KL was fun for the first few days but not much to do after that. The food in Thailand and the vibe in Vietnam were much better.

  • @mangostickyrice555
    @mangostickyrice555 Před měsícem +1

    Thumbs up 👍 Carrie & Brian….

  • @jemakhan
    @jemakhan Před měsícem +2

    You were underwhelmed by Kuala Lumpur but that's fine. The old expat saying was work in Singapore(higher earnings), live in Kuala Lumpur (better for families) and party in Bangkok. 😊 . But you should visit Sabah if you get a chance for a change of scene and see another part of Malaysia. Happy travels.

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      HAHA!! Love that!! Thank you for the recommendation and comments. We appreciate the support.
      Cheers!!🍻

  • @jenniferconlan9861
    @jenniferconlan9861 Před měsícem +1

    I live in Prague so Italy is close but I love Portugal more.
    We also love Spain so I agree that if you are from the States you really don't have a ton of information about Turkey or the Balkans. Nice review 🎉

  • @carolpool5583
    @carolpool5583 Před měsícem

    I understand what you are saying. My dad told me that Morocco was the most interesting country he had been to, so I went 2 years ago and was not impressed at all. I also loved seeing Egypt and the antiquities but the city of Cairo was shocking and not my cup of tea. That is the beauty of adventures, we find great places no one knows about and some of the hot spots are not for everyone. Andorra was a wonderful surprise for me and a relief from the heat of summer in Spain. FYI many Islamic countries around the world it is nearly impossible to find a beer. cheers!

  • @pamelaalston4178
    @pamelaalston4178 Před měsícem +2

    We visited Santorini, Greece and Thailand twice (and we’re going back to Thailand this summer with our son and his girlfriend), we lived in Korea, Germany, and Japan and yes we drove there too. We’re not interested in visiting France, Italy, Singapore, or Malaysia but we would like to visit Vietnam, Portugal, Turkey, and Iceland (Iceland to experience the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis).

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Sounds wonderful! You've seen so many great places ♥

  • @dominiquetheeasyminimalist
    @dominiquetheeasyminimalist Před měsícem

    Very interesting to hear your perspective! I thought Italy was overrated as well 😂. Spain from north to south, center to the coastline is by far my favorite country out of the 26 I've been to. I haven't been to SE Asia yet, next October is when I'll start that journey. No plans to go to Malaysia as it's known for not having the best food and that is a criteria that is non-negotiable for me!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      We loved Spain - can't wait to make it back. Yes, Malaysia was lacking in food in our opinion. So many raved about the food, but what we realized was the wide variations of different cultures mixed together. We did have the best ever Chinese food there 😂. Happy and safe continued travels!

  • @sydneyexpert
    @sydneyexpert Před měsícem

    I agree with most of your thoughts and totally agree about the best way to see Italy is to visit the off the beaten track and stay in smaller cities.
    I think the key to enjoying Italy is to go in late Oct or early November We have been to Portugal, much of Eastern Europe and pretty much everywhere in Vietnam and agree these are amazing holiday destination but Italy is pretty amazing too. We have been 3 times and while it's by no means our favourite country I think it's worth the hard work to see the historic sites and small communities but you do need to plan it well in advance to save money. It's not a great place to wing it. We have a few weeks in Bolonga later this year and I am looking forward to seeing how it stacks up as a longer stay destination.
    As for Malaysia, its definately not for everyone, but I have visited 7 times and covered most of the country and if anyone is looking for places to see Ipoh and the Cameron Highlands are fabulous, Malaka and Perhentian Islands are also favourite. Unlike you guys we love Penang and have considered an extended stay there.
    Visiting Albania and planning to spend more time in Turkey based on your experiences! Thanks for sharing.

    • @sydneyexpert
      @sydneyexpert Před měsícem

      BTW for me Japan is overrated lol which I am sure would upset many people haha

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem

      Yes, seeing Italy by traveling through the smaller villages may have been more our style. We are so happy we saw the places we did and spent the time we did - just so many places ranked much higher for us.
      But, really that is the whole idea of it - we will all have those places that check some or all our boxes...thankfully one place isn't for everyone 😉 Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻

  • @HH-fo9sg
    @HH-fo9sg Před měsícem +2

    I think it’s probably a mistake that everyone goes to Italy in the summer, especially July and August. And a lot of people are just checking boxes when deciding on vacation spots. I can completely imagine how Rome feels disappointing, despite its once-in-a-lifetime historic and cultural sites, which are key for me in any location (or even a home city). I spent a month in Madrid and found it very livable-loved it!

    • @micheleyamamoto545
      @micheleyamamoto545 Před měsícem +1

      We went to Italy and loved it. Can’t wait to go back. We were there in mid November and stayed in northern Italian cities. It wasn’t overcrowded. Milan is very underrated, we thought. Looking forward to seeing southern Italy off season and Madrid is on my list for the future!

    • @BrianandCarrie
      @BrianandCarrie  Před měsícem +1

      A great way of putting it - I do think people just have a list they want to check off. Honestly, I can relate to that - we all have those bucket list destinations which sometimes after going we can wonder why they were so high on our list. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers 🍻