The road more travelled

The availability and affordability of international travel means many of us can travel. I think it is a great that people travel and reap the benefits of it. A downside of this popularity is, inevitably, is overcrowding of tourist destinations, and, in my opinion, less appealing because of it.

If you have read other pages on my website, you might have realised that I prefer to be away from people, in peaceful places, when I travel. At the time of writing this, I’m living in London – which I enjoy – but I heightens my appreciation when exploring nature and the world’s most beautiful destinations. Here, I will discuss the reasons for avoiding crowds, and how to do it.

Tranquillity

The most memorable parts of my trips are commonly when I find a natural, scenic spot, with a view of the surroundings, fresh air, and few people around. The silence is disturbed only by the singing of birds or the blowing of wind in the trees. These physical surroundings can alter my mindset for the better. Whatever is going on in my life, or awaits me in the future, vanishes while I am there.

In these times, I feel I’m living in that moment, taking in the sights, and enjoying the tranquillity. The past instances of feeling overwhelmed with responsibility seem miles away, both literally and figuratively. It helps provide perspective of the world and my place in it. It frees my mind of worry; I feel calm.

Those moments are so strong that, when I think back to them, I can restore that mental sanctuary. It feels like a form of mindfulness, revisiting those memories until my mindset returns to how it was in those times – relaxed and at peace.

Noise

Naturally, those moments are far less effective if the peace is drowned out by constant talking, and the view is blocked by hordes of selfie-takers – transforming the scene of tranquillity into a myriad of noise and distractions.

Now, if you hoping to avoid the crowds too, there are a few things to consider that can help you do so.

Off-piste

Firstly, choosing a destination that is less well-known will dramatically improve your chances to find quiet spots. Unfortunately, the most spectacular places are often the most visited for a reason. However, there are plenty of stunning places that are overlooked, or are less easily accessed, that are worth visiting – and can offer you those moments of serenity.

Off-peak

Secondly, research when the peak and off-peak seasons are. Yellowstone National Park in the USA, a park I hope to visit one day, attracts around a 2.5 million visitors a year. Most people visit between June and August, so, a trip outside of the busy summer months could help avoid the hordes of people and cars.

My visit to Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta, Canada in late May and early June seemed relatively quiet, which I was told contrasted with July and August when the park is very busy. As a result of visiting earlier in the season, although we had to navigate ice on the highest points of the hiking trails, there were few people on those trails. Additionally, there was little traffic on the road, except near Lake Louise, which attracts people all-year round due to the ski slopes. On that trip, I had many of the moments I described above.

Early bird

Thirdly, get up early to beat the mid-morning. If you set off before 6 or 7 in the morning, you will get to wherever you are going much sooner than most other visitors. That may be the difference between sharing a trail or a view with 10 people, rather than 100 people. If you’re worried about breakfast, pack one and eat it on the walk – or sit and eat while enjoying the view.

Toleration

Ultimately, none of us can expect to have anything to ourselves. Given we are at the exact same spot, it is hard to rationally begrudge a fellow traveller’s presence. If the mood strikes, I may even indulge in conversation with a stranger on hikes or at scenic viewpoints.

I also show respect by being polite, keeping noise to a minimum, allowing people space, not blocking their view, and keeping the area clean. If all travellers act thoughtfully and considerately, we can reduce the disruption and disturbance to each other, and ensure that even busy sights can be enjoyed by everyone.