TOP 10 TOURIST TRAPS TO BE AWARE OF IN 2022

For this list, we include both - overrated attractions and ones that might be interesting but are either unpleasant or of genuine interest only to smaller subsets of travelers. 

Although today's topic is set on a sad note, we still have that awesome news like always. Even if you decide to tour around all those traps - hotel prices can be significantly high in most of these destinations.
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#10 The Little Mermaid | Copenhagen, Denmark

What can we say about this attraction? It’s a statue of a mermaid inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale upon which the Disney film is also based. This statue sits on a rock along the waterfront of Copengahen’s long Galena promenade.

About 4.5 feet tall, the statue was unveiled in 1913 but has since been removed and replaced with a replica. Perhaps because it’s been the subject of numerous acts of vandalism over the years, including multiple decapitations. Considering the fact that there are various copies around the world, this little mermaid simply doesn’t have that much inherent magic to her. A quick glance is good enough.

#9 Pyramids of Giza | Giza Plateau, Egypt

The legendary Great Pyramids of Giza are among some of the most iconic structures in existence and the only one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. As a result, they are a bucket-list item for many - an attraction that needs to be seen at least once.

Considering the limited technology available during their construction, the pyramids are impressive and a crucial part of human history. But here’s the thing. For those who don’t have a passion for history, it might feel like a pile of old stones too crowded to be enjoyed. Blasphemy - we know.

#8 Manneken Pis | Brussels, Belgium

Not to take the piss out of this famous attraction, but a statue of a little boy peeing in the fountain is just as interesting as it sounds. In other words, not much.

On the other hand, though, its historical context might make it of interest. Some version of this statue has been there for hundreds of years. The fact that it’s only 2 feet tall makes for a rather underwhelming site. Yes, it’s funny, especially when you consider that this fountain was once an essential source of water for the locals. But when you take the statue’s diminutive size and add to it the fact that the statue isn’t even the original - this one was installed in 1965 - it loses much of its historical appeal.

#7 Prague Astronomical Clock | Prague, Czech Republic

Do you have a passion for astronomy? Not just a passing interest in meteor showers or other major space-related events? We mean, a real passion… Chances are, the answer is no. And if that’s the case, you probably might not want to bother with this particular attraction. It’s not that Prague’s famous Astronomical Clock isn’t interesting. It’s actually a rather fascinating and beautiful piece of technology but dates back to 1410. We doubt most people would bother to seek it out if its reputation didn’t precede it as a noted attraction. Standing in a crowd to look up at this clock and its procession of apostolic statues might not be the best use of your travel time.

#6 The Equator | Quito, Ecuador

Straddling The Equator is like standing with one foot on either side of any border shared by two states or countries. It’s cool and novel and concept, but that’s about it. The novelty wears off real quick.

The Equator, of course, is the line that runs around the globe equidistant from the two poles. They can be crossed in numerous countries, but few cities or towns have attempted to capitalize on the Equator like Quito. An entire park has been constructed in honor of this line and the man who did significant research there. Hilariously, their painted line isn’t the actual Equator - it’s off by about 780 feet.

#5 Hollywood Walk of Fame | Los Angeles, California, USA

After checking out this attraction for yourself, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve been duped by the allure of celebrity culture. Los Angeles has a lot to offer the savvy traveler, but it’s also riddled with tourist traps.

The Walk of Fame feels like the linchpin in the Oso, satisfying for Fey of sights and sounds that Hollywood Boulevard offers. They draw a bunch of celebrity names etched on the sidewalk. It’s an underwhelming way to try and feel a close connection to your favorite stars, but don’t worry... You’re sure to feel overwhelmed by the street performers, souvenir shops, vendors, and tour guides who’ve set up shop there.

#4 Leaning Tower of Pisa | Pisa, Italy

This off-kilter structure puts Pisa city on the tourism map, but is it worth your time? It certainly makes for an exciting photo op. Or so it would if it were a structure you randomly came across while exploring the countryside.

However, given the tower’s popularity, every angle feels like it’s been photographed to death. So do yourself a favor - skip Pisa and add Bologna to your itinerary instead. It is the food capital of Italy. It’s also home to 2 leaning towers that are way less crowded, although more modest.

#3 The Forbidden City | Beijing, China

The Forbidden City served as the home of China’s emperor from the Ming to Qing dynasties. During that time, it earned its name by being strictly off-limits to the general population unless invited. Unfortunately, what awaits visitors nowadays feels anything but forbidden. It’s not one of China’s biggest draws and attractions. As such, the Forbidden City is usually very crowded, making it difficult to really soak in or appreciate the majesty of the Imperial Palace and the surrounding complex. Don’t get us wrong, there’s plenty to see, but you need to get there early if you like personal space. And the various souvenir stalls and shops that dot the Forbidden City kind of killed the vibe.

#2 Damnoen Saduak Floating Market | Ratchaburi Province, Thailand

The concept of a floating market is fascinating. Once upon a time, you could have had a genuine experience on the man-maid channel connecting the touch in and making long rivers. For roughly 100 years, the Damnoen Saduak was home to numerous water-based markets and served as a central hub of commercial trade. Sadly, Damnoen Saduak is not what it once was.

The need for a water-based trade dried up in the late 1960s, and since the early 70s, it’s been replaced by a market aimed explicitly at tourists. From a boat rental to the offerings of local vendors - everything is overpriced. The market is overcrowded, and the entire experience is kind of meh…

#1 The Blarney Stone | Blarney, Ireland

Ireland is an island rich in culture and history with a breathtaking landscape to explore and numerous sites to see. But for generations, this particular stone has been treated as a must-see or rather a must-kiss attraction with very little justification.

To be fair, castle Blarney which dates back to the 15th century, is an interesting landmark. Still, the stone means long lines and a disappointingly underwhelming experience. Also, consider the germs before kissing that stone, seriously.

What would you add or take off our list? 📝