Detour Destinations: Travel Smarter in 2025
As seasoned travelers, many of our readers have likely explored the iconic bucket-list destinations—Paris, Cancun, Rome, and beyond. But as travel trends shift in 2025, more and more savvy jetsetters (especially those with flexibility and experience) are embracing a new kind of destination: the Detour Destination.
These are places just outside the big-name cities that offer the same culture, scenery, and charm—without the high price tags, crowds, or hustle. They're close enough to the action, but just far enough away to give you a more relaxed, authentic, and affordable experience.
Why Detour Destinations Are a Smart Choice
With increasing airfare, elevated hotel rates, and surging tourism taxes, Detour Destinations offer travelers a few big advantages:
- Lower prices on lodging and dining
- Fewer tourists and less congestion
- More meaningful local connections
- Easy access to popular attractions nearby
It’s all about enjoying the journey while skipping the stress—and for retirees, couples, or solo travelers with time on their side, this approach is perfect.
5 Detour Destinations to Bookmark This Year
Reims, France (Instead of Paris)
Known for: Champagne houses, gothic cathedrals, peaceful streets
Distance: ~45 minutes by high-speed train to Paris
Bonus: Enjoy bubbly and beauty with fewer selfie sticks in sight
Cozumel, Mexico (Instead of Cancun)
Known for: Clear-blue diving spots, calm beach vibes, rich Mayan history
Distance: Short ferry from Playa del Carmen
Bonus: Fewer party crowds, more authentic island charm
Orvieto, Italy (Instead of Rome)
Known for: Hilltop views, hidden caves, Umbrian cuisine
Distance: 1.5 hours by direct train from Rome
Bonus: Taste Italy’s heritage at a slower, more soulful pace
Girona, Spain (Instead of Barcelona)
Known for: Medieval architecture, quiet plazas, local markets
Distance: ~38 minutes by train
Bonus: All the flavor of Catalonia, with half the foot traffic
Nafplio, Greece (Instead of Athens)
Known for: Seaside promenades, Venetian forts, neoclassical charm
Distance: 2 hours by car from Athens
Bonus: Coastal beauty and classical history—without the smog and sprawl
Smart Tips for Planning Detour-Style
Use small towns as your base and explore the popular city as a day trip.
Book early—smaller cities mean fewer rooms!
Keep an eye on travel advisories, transport options, and weather windows.
Bring travel insurance—always. Especially when your itinerary includes ferries, rail lines, or more rural medical access.
Tip from the ICI team: Don’t forget that coverage often varies between major cities and regional areas. If you're going off the beaten path, check your plan for emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and coverage network access.
What’s Your Favorite Hidden Gem?
Have you discovered a lesser-known destination that stole your heart? We’d love to hear about it—and feature it in our next issue of The Travelers Compass.
Email your story or photo to lauren@tripinsuranceconsultants.com and share your experience with fellow travelers in the ICI community.
Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a shoulder-season retreat, Detour Destinations offer a golden middle ground: authentic experiences, easier crowds, and better value. For seasoned travelers who’ve "been there, done that"—these quiet corners may just become your new favorite getaways.