It’s easy to fall into a holiday rut — returning to the same tried-and-true spots again and again. But if there’s one way to shake the travel funk, it’s to venture to an under-the-radar, small town, in a far-flung country. Choosing where exactly to head though, well, that can be tricky. Do you select a beach oasis or a bustling area with actual shops and hangouts?
Well, Airbnb is here to help. The San Francisco-based company has rounded up a list of neighbourhoods that are experiencing not only massive growth (based on the number of folks booking rentals in the area), but also provide culturally enriching experiences for tourists looking for more a unique adventure. These 15 enclaves run the gamut from an urban getaway in Hamburg, Germany, to a busy arts district in Mexico City. Consider your next trip booked.
Location: Chūō-ku in Osaka, Japan
Why You Have To Go: Chūō-ku is full of trendy cafés, shops (over 300 of 'em!), galleries and historical points of interest. Don't forget to make a point to see Osaka Castle, which was built in the late 16th century. And definitely don't gloss over the alleyways, which are home to many new bars and eateries.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Banglampoo in Bangkok, Thailand
Why You Have To Go: It may seem like a sleepy district at first, but tucked away in the quiet streets are endless options for visitors looking for a truly local experience. Think charming noodle shops in people's first-floor apartments, beautiful temples and bars with jazz acts.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Brickfields in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Why You Have To Go: Brickfields is also known as "Little India" for its plethora of shops selling saris, spices, and silks; and for restaurants boasting Indian cuisine. Plus, we hear local favourites like the banana leaf rice and curry puffs are out of this world.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Capucins in Bordeaux, France
Why You Have To Go: There's no better locale for fresh seafood and tapas than this little slice of paradise in France. Known for its markets full of fresh produce, baguettes, and more, no wonder the Capucins region is dubbed the "the belly of Bordeaux."
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Koukaki in Athens, Greece
Why You Have To Go: This small district is a local gem packed to the brim with ancient buildings and tasty offerings. Recently, two pedestrian-only roads were introduced, making it an ideal destination for those who prefer wandering on foot.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Triana in Seville, Spain
Why You Have To Go: Waterfront restaurants, sailors, bullfighters, flamenco dancers and azulejos (painted ceramic tiles) galore — this district in Seville sure sounds dreamy, right? All of these local attractions make Triana an artsy escape.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Hammerbrook in Hamburg, Germany
Why You Have To Go: Lined with canals, Hamburg's Hammerbrook is a community recognised for its new-meets-old appeal. You'll find historic and modern buildings, cafés, art and more. The spot is often dubbed "Hammerbrooklyn" for its similarity to the New York borough. Hey, we'll take it!
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Kaneohe on Oahu, Hawaii
Why You Have To Go: As if we needed another reason to head to Hawaii? Located within the lush jungle, Kaneohe is not just packed with beautiful hikes and relaxation spots, it also packs a punch when it comes to grub. Apparently, it has the best garlic chicken on the island. Who knew?
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Roma Sur in Mexico City, Mexico
Why You Have To Go: This area of Mexico City is a community full of creativity. Whether you're hitting up a local gallery, chowing down on some street tacos, or catching an independent film at the neighbourhood's storied theatre, you'll walk away wowed.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Poncey-Highland in Atlanta, Georgia
Why You Have To Go: A growing district with boutiques carrying local designers, artisanal eateries (included famed BBQ spot Sweet Auburn) and a lounge-y park to rest your head — this 'hood seemingly has it all. We'll admit, they had us at BBQ.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Oak Lawn in Dallas, Texas
Why You Have To Go: A rustic escape in heart of Texas, Oak Lawn is a quaint, LGBTQ-friendly community with loads of coffee shops, jogging trials and boutiques.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: District VII in Budapest, Hungary
Why You Have To Go: Craft beers, galleries, and some of the best goulash ever? Sign us up.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: The Bukit Peninsula in Bali, Indonesia
Why You Have To Go: It's all about the scenery for this Balinese enclave. Whether you take a trip to the cliff-hanging temple, the world-famous surf, or gorgeous beaches — you won't be let down. (It's Bali!)
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Richmond in Melbourne, Australia
Why You Have To Go: A culinary mecca, Richmond is home to some of the country's most diverse eateries. Everything from Vietnamese noodle stands to Greek taverns line the streets of this cute community.
Photo: Courtesy of Airbnb.
Location: Constitución in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Why You Have To Go: The Constitución district is having a bit of a revival. Known for its outstanding nightlife and music scene, this charming village is one to hit up for a truly local feel.
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