As overtourism has ascended in many of Europe’s iconic destinations, travelers increasingly are looking for new options that have a mix of safety, rich culture and authentic experiences without the crushing hordes. The best places outside of Europe to get travellers these traits have been revealed by influencer marketing platform Heepsy in a recent study. Safety levels, available accommodations, available tours, climate and social media popularity were analyzed to rate each non-European destination, demonstrating the potential for visitors to discover new spots with less tourists and just as many rewards.

The results suggest that middle eastern countries in particular has established as the obvious alternative to long established European hotspots. From the glitzy UAE to the cultural richness of Oman, the regions offer a combination of modern, world-class facilities and experiences that seem to strike a chord with contemporary travelers. The following are some of the most compelling locations on the list.

The UAE: The Pinnacle of Luxury and Safety

Heading the list of the non-Europe visiting countries is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a nation that is well known for its affluent living, fitful security and remarkable tourism facilities. With 19,700 hotels in the UAE, the country has a wealth of both big and small hotel choices for the tourist. Whether you’re brought in by the ultramodern skyscrapers of Dubai or the cultural marvels in Abu Dhabi, the UAE has 8,851 attractions to cater to numerous interests.

Shopping in the world’s largest mall, the adrenaline-pumping Ferrari World (also the more contemplative Louvre Abu Dhabi), skydiving, restaurants by world-renowned chefs, the most expensive soccer and fashion boutiques and the most luxurious hotels. The countries social media reputation is not to be scoffed at either, as tourists post about their adventures with 18.2 million Instagram hashtags, demonstrating that the appeal of the country is widespread. That level of infrastructure and security, combined with less busy experiences than popular European cities, you would think the UAE is a perfect alternative for a luxurious and peaceful vacation.

Qatar: A Cultural and Adventurous Gem

Securing second place is Qatar, another Gulf nation offering high safety standards and an ever-growing tourism industry. With nearly 700 attractions, including world-class museums like the Museum of Islamic Art, desert safaris, and cultural sites such as the Katara Cultural Village, Qatar is quickly becoming a premier destination for travelers looking for a unique mix of modernity and tradition.

Qatar also holds a strong presence on social media, with over 35.9 million Instagram posts, reflecting the immense popularity of its tourist activities. The nation’s reputation for exceptional hospitality, coupled with its forward-thinking approach to tourism, makes Qatar a standout destination for cultural explorers and adventure seekers alike.

Taiwan: A Hidden Gem of Nature and Tradition

Taiwan ranks third on the list and is often regarded as one of Asia’s most underrated travel destinations. Taiwan’s appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage. The island nation offers 9,900 accommodations and a broad range of tourist activities, from hiking in Taroko Gorge to relaxing in hot springs. Taiwan’s unique night markets, mountain temples, and historical sites are incredibly Instagram-worthy, with 38.4 million posts dedicated to showcasing the country’s allure.

Not only does Taiwan boast excellent safety standards, but its eco-tourism practices and sustainable development make it an increasingly popular alternative to the overexploited tourist hotspots of Europe. Taiwan’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while offering modern amenities has made it a haven for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Macao: A Blend of Portuguese Heritage and Modern Entertainment

Macao, a special administrative region of China, is a destination that combines old-world charm with modern flair. Famous for its Portuguese colonial architecture, world-class casinos, and culinary fusion, Macao offers 67 curated experiences that cater to a wide variety of interests. The destination also enjoys high safety standards, making it an attractive alternative for those looking for an international destination with a rich cultural history and an array of entertainment options.

Despite its small size, Macao punches above its weight in terms of appeal. Its ability to blend traditional cultural elements with modern leisure activities has made it an increasingly popular stop for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Oman: A Pristine Destination for Nature Lovers

Oman ranks fifth, offering diverse experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With over 1,300 attractions, Oman boasts stunning landscapes that range from the desert dunes of Wahiba Sands to the rugged mountains of Jebel Akhdar and a long coastline offering spectacular beaches and marine life.

Oman’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage has earned it a growing international following, especially among travelers who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and desert expeditions. The country also maintains high safety standards and offers 1,400 hotels to accommodate visitors. Oman’s presence on Instagram, with nearly 20 million hashtags, reflects the increasing recognition of the Sultanate as a rising star in global tourism.

Hong Kong: A Blend of Urban and Traditional Adventures

Hong Kong combines urban aesthetics with rich cultural traditions in a compact and accessible city-state. Known for its towering skyscrapers, bustling street markets, and impressive culinary scene, Hong Kong offers 489 experiences and 628 accommodations. The city’s efficient transport system makes it easy for tourists to explore its cultural landmarks, such as the iconic Victoria Peak and the Wong Tai Sin Temple.

Hong Kong’s Instagram popularity (785,000 posts) speaks to its appeal as a concentrated urban adventure with a strong local identity. The fusion of East and West in Hong Kong’s architecture, cuisine, and cultural sites ensures that travelers experience a rich variety of activities, all within a city that feels both global and authentically Chinese.

Other Noteworthy Destinations

Beyond these leading destinations, several other places have shown considerable promise as non-European alternatives. Japan, with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and high safety levels, ranks seventh. The country offers 50,500 hotels and 8,657 activities, including visits to shrines, cherry blossom festivals, and technological marvels. China, with its vast cultural and historical sites such as the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors, takes eighth place, while Singapore, known for its clean streets, efficient infrastructure, and year-round warm climate, is ninth. Bahrain completes the top ten with its growing tourism appeal, offering 100-plus activities and a vibrant social media presence with 32.1 million Instagram posts.

Conclusion: Embrace the New Wave of Travel

With overtourism taking its toll on Europe’s most popular cities, travelers are on the hunt for fresh experiences without the throngs of tourists. The growth of Middle Eastern and Asian countries including the UAE (and Abu Dhabi), Qatar, Taiwan and beyond provide travelers with vibrant new options to explore. These are countries where you will find super homes/properties as well as safety, state of the art infrastructure and culturally engaging experiences which have by the way started trending in the new age media.

Whether you want luxury, thrill, or tradition that’s off the beaten path, these alternative destinations are changing the world of tourism as you know it, offering a fresh and eco-friendly spin on travel for the modern-day traveler.