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We firmly believe that traveling is one of the best parts of being born a human being. We have the sort of freedom to go on life-changing, cultural, and educational adventures like nobody else in the animal kingdom. (Except for birds, of course—they can go anywhere, any time, and they always fly first class. Yes, we’re jealous!) However, what you see in those bright and brilliant travel ads isn’t always what you get.

Underwhelming, disappointing, and a waste of time—that’s how some members of the wildly popular, 6.5-million strong r/travel community felt after going to these ‘must-see’ and ‘must-visit’ tourist attractions. And today we’re featuring their candid comments about what they felt was overhyped so you don’t fall into the same trap… or at least so you manage your expectations.

Pack your bags and get your scrolling muscles warmed up, Pandas, because we’re about to go on a trip into the Land of Disappointment (featuring the Valley of Over-Hyped Stuff and Paris Syndrome). Got any horrible travel stories to share with the class? Do you disagree with some of these redditors’ opinions? You can spill the tea (and/or beans) in the comments.

One of the moderators helping run r/travel, u/SiscoSquared, was kind enough to answer our questions. Bored Panda also got in touch with entertainment, pop culture, and lifestyle expert Mike Sington, who's known as Hollywood's Ultimate Insider. He was happy to share what first-time visitors to Los Angeles should definitely see and what they should probably steer clear of if they don't want to be disappointed. Check out both interviews below.

#1

The Dead Sea. You're in Israel. In the desert. It's blazing hot, like 115°F. You think you'll go take a dip in the Dead Sea to cool off, right? Wrong. First, you have to pay to go through a spa to use their towels, pools, etc. Then you take the wagon/shuttle that drives you from the spa down to the shore. The wagon/shuttle goes about 5 miles per hour in the scortching sun. No breeze. Next, you get to the shore of the Dead Sea. You the proceed to run over the sand that's so hot you're sure your feet will burn off. You tentatively step into the water....and it's like the hottest bath you've ever taken in your life. The water is maybe 1° away from boiling. But you figure you've made it this far, might as well get the full experience. So you submerge. It's a mistake. Every pore on your body is burning from the salt. If you have shaved any part of your body within the last three years, you will feel the salt seep into the little micro cuts and burn you from the inside out. You find cuts on your body you didn't even know you had. Even your asshole is burning because you have pooped and wiped within the last week, so your skin is raw there. And the worst part is, when you decide you have had enough of this boiling body of water, you practically have to crawl out because you're too bouyant to stand. And in the process of crawling out, you scrape your knees on the bottom where the salt rocks have crystalized which sets off a whole new round of pain. So now you're hot, sticky from the salt, and every inch of your body burns.

_Emerald_Eyes_ Report

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In moderator u/SiscoSquared's opinion, there are two ways to go about avoiding disappointment when traveling anywhere. The first is to go in with little (or better yet, no) expectations. The other thing you can do is put in a bit more effort and do more than just read the promotional material. Consider asking someone you know who's experienced it all before, or find a guide or a blogger with similar interests as yours. That way, you can get a more nuanced opinion on whether or not a location's worth visiting.

"I think the more popular a place is, the more easily it is to become overhyped and a letdown," they pointed out that the sense of disappointment, culture shock, and unmet expectations is commonly known as Paris Syndrome. (Naturally, it isn't just Paris that can let you down—Hollywood can do the same, as entertainment expert Mike told us, but hang on for a bit for his insights.)

The r/travel mod believes that all of us are unique and how we enjoy our vacations is entirely up to us. Nobody should feel forced to do something that they hate. "For many people, learning the local culture, on a surface level or maybe more makes for a fun trip, for others sitting at an all-inclusive resort at the beach is ideal. How you enjoy your vacation is up to you. Thankfully, we're not all identical and boring as a result."

#2

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Dubai. It's the most soulless, cultureless, and artificial city I've been to. The shameless and obscene display of bling-bling only adds to this vibe, and the supertall skyscrapers and mega malls get old sooner or later.

To top it off, all of this is built overnight on what is essentially slave labor.

PacSan300 , Nacho Pintos Report

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Dan Padgett
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I completely concur with this. Been many times due to a relation working there. You forgot to mention the sheer amount of abandoned skyscrapers that ran out of cash.

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#3

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences While the Louvre is wonderful, the Mona Lisa was a huge disappointment.

The painting itself is tiny and there are always hordes of people around it.

There are a million better things to see at the Louvre.

lenachristina , Paul Beattie Report

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Mihai Mara
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I find it good that people are attracted by that painting as it means that the other rooms containing magnificent works of arts are not that crowded! So yay! When I went to the Louvre I stayed for two minutes in that room, mostly getting amazed at the hoard of people that were desperate to get in front and to take a picture. That was quite a show. And then I continued my tour in the other amazing rooms. (I am not saying the Mona Lisa painting is not beautiful, it really is a work of art, great portrait, nice and subtle touches, I knew beforehand that it is regular size portrait. I agree with OP that it is overhyped by ignorant tourists)

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Redditor u/SiscoSquared boasted about their fellow moderators who have "done an excellent job of setting up a very comprehensive automod." That means that a small handful of moderators can take care of the entire massive subreddit. "We each just do it in our spare time, maybe when we're bored at the airport or train station! Most of the work is filtering posts that don't follow the subreddits posting guidelines and responding to reports."

Hollywood isn't like it is in the movies, folks. It's likely to not meet your expectations. "There’s one popular, supposedly must-see attraction that’s way overhyped in Los Angeles, and that’s Hollywood. Everyone has heard of it and everyone wants to see it, but once you arrive in the real Hollywood, you’re sure to be disappointed," entertainment expert and LA local Mike shared with Bored Panda.

"It’s very crowded, and there’s hardly anything to see except the stars in the sidewalk. Once you do that, and you have to dodge the crowds to even navigate the sidewalks, that’s it. I’d suggest passing on Hollywood itself, and taking one of the professionally run studio tours all the major movie studios offer," he stressed that Hollywood itself doesn't have much to offer.

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#4

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Disney Parks. Want to eat? Be ready to Shell out $50 a person per day. Oh, you came for the rides? Enjoy the four or five you make it on unless it's a busy day, those days enjoy the two or three

flipamadiggermadoo , Moto "Club4AG" Miwa Report

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Sarah Jane
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hate Disney. Husband and I went with his parents. They paid for our room, tickets, and dinner (thank God!). I started just sharing my husband's breakfast plate because $40+ every morning was going to put us in the poor house. It was hot, too many kids running around, and not enough places to cool down. Huge waste of money.

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#5

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Hollywood. The most disappointing garbage and pee covered place on earth

existentialism91342 , Hans Splinter Report

#6

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences The London eye. It's so overly expensive, and you have to wait in a long line for your turn. If you want a good view of London, I'd recommend checking out St. Paul's Cathedral (even if you're not religious). It's a lot cheaper, and if you're able to climb the stairs you can go all the way to the top and take in an even better view

iPixiee , bvi4092 Report

According to Mike, it's important to manage your expectations when coming to Los Angeles. "Because the city is often pictured in the movies and on television as some glamorous place, that’s often all that visitors are expecting. Sure, Los Angeles is beautiful and diverse, and the weather is spectacular, but keep in mind it’s a very big city, so it has all the problems and urban sprawl of most big cities," he said that some visitors expect only the upsides and don't foresee the downsides.

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"As a longtime resident of Los Angeles, I’m very familiar with what’s worth seeing, and what’s not. Here’s my personal list of the actual 'must-see' places for a first-time visitor:

  • Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
  • Getty Center 
  • Runyon Canyon
  • Santa Monica Beach
  • The Grove
  • Los Angeles County Museum of Art
  • The Broad
  • Universal Studios
  • Walt Disney Concert Hall
  • Academy Museum of Motion Pictures 
  • Beverly Hills
  • Mulholland Drive"
#7

Machu Picchu. I respect the Incas for building it, the real issue I have with it is the current management. It’s flooded with people (they let in over 3x the cap sto make money) being annoying and it’s very expensive, they bus people up a huge hill all day and we are required to have a tour guide and only spend 3 mins at certain areas. It’s misrepresenting the history of the Incas to people with selfie sticks. Not my fave

You are WAY better off seeing the Inca capitol, Cusco because it’s where they actually lived and thrived. See Sasqsyhuaman and the Qoricancha sun temple. Go on a backpacking trip and you will find Inca and pre Inca stuff Everywhere. With no idiotic tourists families. I highly recommend it.

¡Viva Perú!

ccut Report

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Wang Zhuang
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Despite this review, Machu Picchu remains on my travel bucket list. I'd like to visit Cusco as well

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#8

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences I didn’t get anything out of Las Vegas. It was cool to see the themed hotels but besides that it was just an overpriced cultureless soulless city designed to entertain you

viktor72 , billy kerr Report

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Mir Adwari
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Um, well yes... If you wanted something else out of your visit, pick a different part of the country 🤷‍♀️

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#9

Sydney Opera House. The tours are expensive and the inside is kind of underwhelming. The outside is free and is also the best part. ALTERNATIVE: Just walk around Sydney harbor. It's free and gorgeous.

CaligulaAndHisHorse Report

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Graham Chapman
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree, the outside of the opera house and the surrounding area is fantastic!

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The r/travel subreddit is an online community that unites travel enthusiasts from around the globe. They celebrate people’s desire to explore the world, and members, in turn, share their photos, and stories, and ask others for advice. Community members are encouraged to put in effort, be descriptive, and add details to their posts. Low-effort posts aren't the way to go.

It’s all friendly, educational, and done in the spirit of adventure. The sub has a handy FAQ for any new redditors joining just now. And the moderators advise members to search the community for specific questions and topics before asking a question. It’s to see if someone’s already answered it before. That way, you get to rely on the community’s collective experience and save everyone’s time by avoiding repeating questions (or asking stuff that you'd easily find on Google).

It’s very important to manage your expectations when doing anything. If you’re overhyped about visiting a place, seeing a work of art in person, or going to a (supposedly) great restaurant for a meal, you might end up disappointed even if the actual experience is objectively fine.

For sure, it’s hard to meet expectations if they’re sky-high. Being realistic and avoiding being overly excited can, paradoxically, make your trip far more enjoyable. That way, you get to be pleasantly surprised instead of disappointed that things aren’t as wonderful and ‘perfect’ as you imagined them to be.

#10

If you go to the Great Wall of China, I'd suggest not going to the section right there in Beijing. Very rebuilt and touristy.

Take a van ride a ways out of the city, to the Simitai section. Now there's some uncrowded, old-school Great Wall.

DownUpOverAndBack Report

#11

Japan has such a romanticized view of France that they actually have a term, "Paris Syndrome", for the sudden shock suffered by Japanese tourists when they see that France isn't how they imagined

onlysane1 Report

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Anna Banana
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I loved Paris but I think it helped that I was there as a poor student. You naturally avoid most of the tourist attractions (except museums, but they were discounted) and instead spend long hours walking around the city, having supermarket wine and cheese by the Seine and finding little local places to eat. I am working now, but I still prefer to travel this way.

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#12

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Naples. I did a big trip through Europe after college and spent about a month in Italy. Naples was easily the worst place I visited. It was seedy, rundown, trashy, and unsafe. I would never go back

wanna_meet_that_dad , Pug Girl Report

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Yili Lai
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's it's charm though, check it the history of Pompei, it's basically a red light town.

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Aside from your expectations, it’s also vital that you put in the effort and do your research before heading out. For example, Professor Christine Vogt, the Director of the Center for Sustainable Tourism at Arizona State University, told Bored Panda some time ago that people should learn about their destination’s culture, customs, and language before packing their bags.

“More than likely that is what draws a person to visit a certain place. The more local knowledge a traveler has, the more a traveler can feel like a local and fit in," she explained, adding that the locals appreciate foreigners putting in the effort.

"Local customs can include how a traveler dresses, eats, uses a cell phone, etc. When a traveler is out in a community such as walking in a downtown area or eating in a restaurant, these local customs can come into play,” the professor said.

“For example, in Buddhist countries, a woman who has not covered her shoulders or legs may not be allowed into temples or even a restaurant. Learn as many local customs as you can and a few key words to enhance your experience.”

#13

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Egypt, all the beauty and awe of the ancient civilisation is completely outshone by how absolutely horrible the modern civilisation is. Think of all the worst parts of India and then add sand to it

PublicOccasion , David Stanley Report

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Kai
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I found it to be full of very friendly people, tasty food, and a chance to fully immerse into a culture.

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#14

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Casablanca, Morocco. I think it's the least interesting place in a fascinating country. It felt like a dumpy business district on the coast. Other than one obscenely expensive mosque built by a previous king, there's nothing to see. But the rest of Morocco? It's one of the most beautiful places I've seen. Fez, Essaouira, the High Atlas Mountains, and Marrakesh were all gorgeous

Manhattan , Nicolas Vigier Report

#15

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences The Guinness brewery tour in Dublin. It was an absolute tourist trap. They don't even brew beer at the storefront any more.

super_salamander , Cityswift - Ireland Report

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T.
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's more like a museum than a brewery. Neevertheless I thought ut was worth the visit, albeit being crowded.

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Meanwhile, you should also keep in mind that the Covid-19 pandemic isn’t over yet. There are some restrictions still in place, depending on where you travel. You should definitely read up on them while planning your trip to avoid some nasty surprises.

For instance, investor and author Rick Orford, who has traveled all over Europe, recently shared with Bored Panda the headache of a system that was in place in the Southern part of the continent.

He’d planned to sail to Greece from Italy on a cruise ship, but the rules regarding Covid tests caused a lot of stress. In short, the rules were inconsistent with what’s happening on other forms of transportation.

#16

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences The Skybridge at the Grand Canyon was definitely a bad experience, and an overpriced one. I don't understand why so many tourists do this. There's the entire freakin' Grand Canyon right there for you to access for free. The park offers thousands of breathtaking views all over. And exploring the trail with its ledges and views is thrilling enough. Walking the Skybridge is a far cry from the best experience you can have there

SalamandrAttackForce , l0da_ralta Report

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Mixed Reality Portal
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1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was harassed when I visited there it was horrible. I was in Vegas and my friend wanted to go on it. When we got there they changed their mind so, I thought I'd go on it since we were there. Big mistake ... It was non stop pushing by the guides. No cameras - official photos only. No loitering to take in the view and the questions. The neverending questions as to why as a woman I was on my own ... How if I had a real boyfriend they wouldn't have let me come alone ... How they had a cousin who'd love to meet me ... I repeatedly said I wasn't interested and to stop hassling me but he continued saying I could be removed from the exhibit for being a security threat. It was late afternoon in late December when I visited and there weren't so many tourists about. Those that were there were only interested in the scenery or pretended not to notice. I've visited different parts of the grand canyon over the years and they've all been amazing - except the Sky Bridge. I'll never go back there.

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#17

The Taj Mahal (Agra). It's surrounded by 10-meter-high walls, and the entrance fee is ludicrously expensive compared to any other attraction in India. If you're in Agra and want to see the Taj Mahal, go across the river. There are some gardens almost directly across from it, and there's a great spot by the river with a brilliant view of the Taj Mahal, particularly at sunset. This experience is totally free, and you won't have to deal with crowds

Nevermind04 Report

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Paul Ellis
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1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went there years ago and loved it. It was being renovated and I came across an artisan cutting pieces of marble to replace lost or damaged areas. We talked for hours, and at the end of our convo he gave me three pieces of the original Taj marble he had replaced. I have them still, my own piece of this extraordinary symbol of love.

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#18

Bali.

It's just drunk Australians all over the place.

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Fish Boden
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm Australian and find the Sigha singlet wearing 'drunk aussie' to be the absolute worst. They are a national embarrassment.The Balinese hate them, and for good reason.

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"We must have a negative Covid test to get on a cruise ship. On a plane, at a hotel, restaurant—[it's] not needed. But on a cruise ship... it's mandatory," he said.

"What I find really fascinating is that one can visit a hotel, or a restaurant, or take a train or a plane here in Italy, and nothing is required. Yet, to get on a cruise ship, one needs to prove vaccination, and give a negative Covid test within 48 hours of sailing," he stressed that the rules aren’t always consistent and that they might fit someone’s understanding of common sense. In short, do your research, check the rules.

#19

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Niagara Falls. I didn’t expect the falls to be in a city. I expected something more like a national park, but the whole falls and its surroundings just felt like a giant shopping mall

youburyitidigitup , Jorge Láscar Report

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Lucy B
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The falls on the Canadian side are much much better to see than the falls from the US side. Also, The Maid Of The Mist is the US boat.... Don't do it. The Hornblower boat on the Canadian side, is again, much better and gets much much closer to the falls. But, Niagara Falls town on the Canadian side is so so tacky. Its just arcades and games. I was a bit shocked on my first visit. We only go there for a laugh now to let loose. It's so tacky

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Kevin Teng
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What's wrong with the maid of the mist? I've been on it, and it was pretty fun.

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Nadine Bamberger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think people would be less disappointed if they'd properly research a destination instead of relying on instagram and assumptions.

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Therese Ernholdt
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not on the Canadian side. It’s bigger and more beautiful than the American side of the falls

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Jennifer Shaw
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The falls, maybe, but the US side is more park-like. CA was way too touristy with parts reminding me of a cheap carnival. I was surprised.

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Wang Zhuang
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I really enjoyed visiting Niagara Falls, at least from the Canadian side. True, it's quite touristy, but the falls themselves were amazing to see. And I enjoyed the Maid of the Mist ride

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would love to! I have watched a few Icelandic tv series recently and it inspired me :)

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Jiska Veldhuizen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh I actually loved those. I visted the falls at the Canadian side and I thought they were beautiful, I also loved thr boat tour that got us really close to them.

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Antonio Manuel Pinheiro da Silva
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just found this app on internet called Google Maps. Gives me a bird eye view of any place on earth (blurred or not). And the beautiful Canadian Falls sits right between the Tesla power plant and the honeymoon capital of the world, and in certain days could be a jungle out there 😂

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Iampenny
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Unfortunately, I have never been, but my brother has, both on the US and the Canadian side, he wasn't impressed by the US side, but loved the Canadian side.So when I do (hopefully) finally make it there, it will be in Canada.

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JLN
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Bonus is that you can see both sides from the Canadian side! And at night they light them up

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Hobby Hopper
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As an American, I almost hate to say it, but I think the Canadian side is nicer, especially if you take the path upstream past all the more touristy stuff.

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John Otruba
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You Must go to the Canadian side to actually get the best view. The view from America is anemic.

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Sarah Jane
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Stay on the Canada side, park in the casino parking lot to save money, tour some wineries, eat outside the tourist areas. And get a bus pass so you don't have to drag yourself up very steep Clifton Hill (the main drag).And skip Maid of the Mist. I almost threw 15 people overboard on that stupid boat.

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Linda Roy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That sounds like the Canadian side, it's like Las Vegas but with a waterfall.

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Lisa Nazarenko
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was in Niagara Falls and the American side had a lovely park and one could get close to the edge and see the Falls. The Canadian side was a parking lot.

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Beth L
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The trick is to 1) go off season, and 2) travel up the gorge towards Lake Ontario.

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That'sEndorable
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went there in the 1980s. Might have changed a lot. But what amazed me is that the Canadian side was all cheesy rides and tourist-trap and kitsch and shopping mall, and the American side was parkland. Neither was exactly pristine; the American side had a lot of parking lots and cleared grassland. Want to know something worse? I went to see Grand Falls in New Brunswick, and the Canadians had turned them off. 100% of the water was being used for electricity production. Apparently, you have to pick the right time of year.

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I loved Niagara Falls. We went during winter so virtually no crowds either! Only thing I couldn't do that I would have liked to is the maid of the mist because it doesn't run in winter.

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Gary Harkins
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What?!?! Whoever put this list together must hate life because though yes, some of these places can be a bit ehhh, it's all what you make of it! And here, one of the most beautiful natural falls in the world, to say you are disappointed? Well maybe you shouldn't go on vacation anymore!

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Chaz83
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I loved Niagara Falls. Although I spent my time looking at the falls, not at the surrounding city.

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Scarlett O'Hara's Ghost
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People who say things like this don't understand the sheer volume and size of the falls. I was born there. Of course it's in a city, these falls don't trickle over an edge of anything. They roar over a canyon. People are not surprised at the size of the grand canyon, nor should they be the size of Niagara falls. However the Canadian side is better, unfortunately. People in the first part of the 19th century didn't know how to take care of nature's gifts and the people in Western New York were no different. The industrial revolution did horrible things to the natural power The falls be held. People took advantage and ruined it for further generations. Niagara falls on the New York side is one dilapidated steel mill after the next. You aren't even supposed to eat the fish out of the Niagara River because it is so dirty. Has anyone ever heard of Love Canal common they mentioned it in Arab rockovich. Love Canal is in Niagara falls. It's awful. It's a travesty. Learn a lesson from it.

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Gladys Hayes Southerland
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Falls are stunning. The best way to see them is to take the boat (since the walkway under the Falls may still be closed) You just have to avoid the tourist stuff & search out what you really want to see-there's alot

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Nina Khmielnitzky
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The restaurants in NF are terrible. We asked a local where the nearest grocey store was and we picked up food there which we ate in our hotel room.

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Sandra Givens
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, let's diss something we didn't read a thing about before going. I've been a couple of times on both sides, enjoyed it both times. Is it touristy? Sure, and has been for many decades. My brother liked to go to gamble, but I particularly enjoyed seeing the many wonderful Art Deco buildings in Buffalo and the interesting places to eat. Both falls are beautiful.

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Shiane 1465
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

it was ok for me... at least on Canada side, its better than other tourist spots

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AdL
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I totally agree. You are hearded like cows to het on a ferry, can hardly see anything and then hearded back..not worth the ride, better stroll rond the shore and see more.

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Elisabeth Breckenridge
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

On the Canadian side yes it is a carnival..on the American side you have nothing to entertain you. But did you do no research at all beforehand? I don't know where you got the idea that the falls would be in the middle of a park......

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Mtownmick
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thought the boar ride next to the falls was an amazing experience. To feel the power of all of that water. One of my favorite trips. Otherwise, yeah, it's in city.

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Agnese Purvinska
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was treated to a trip by Candlelight Cabinetry once, when I worked at a kitchen showroom in Brooklyn and represented them. They are a Canadian company, so I was on the other side, and they invited us to a dinner at a restaurant that had Niagara Falls view. It was breathtaking and a surreal experience.

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TM
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

From Cadian site I can tell the Niagara Falls are awesome!

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Donna Oswald
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nest views are actually from the Canadian side(equally touristy away from the falls). There is a state park just upriver, but to see the cascade you have to be in one of the Niagara Falls towns. You can get within about 10 feet of the top of the falls in the Canadian side which is incredible.

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AnonymousApple
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah, I mean, the town itself has become a total tourist trap. The falls themselves though, I think are worth visiting. The boat tours are awesome.

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B Jean the Jelly Bean
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Canadian side is built up, but the US side has Niagara Falls State Park. Completely different. I lived in Buffalo and went there quite often.

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Joyce Brazel
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was not disappointed at all. I stood right at that right corner of the falls. It was amazing.

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Polly Culberson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The falls are gorgeous and the color of the Niagara River stunning. Have to admit there's a lot of schlock.

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Dawn Welton
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband said that seeing Niagara Falls from the Canadian side is a much better/prettier experience than seeing it from the USA side. And it's even better to see when you're poor, to ignore the tourist traps. :P

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Aaron Drossart
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not just a shopping mall... a trash shopping mall. Then go look at the Canadian side and it's gorgeous. I think it accurately highlights the difference between the countries. Yes, I'm American and I've seen much of the US and several other countries. Yes, I'm jealous of Canada. Please keep the "you're an America hating a**" comments to yourself :)

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Barbara Skolly
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Canadian here. The area around the falls is mixed, Fallsview, near the top of the falls is mainly hotels, restaurants and a bit of shopping and nice nightclubs . Clifton hill is the tacky entertainment such as haunted houses and wax museums, a ferris wheel and fantastic gokart track (long line but great fun). Niagara Falls region on the Canadian side is very large, it includes Niagara falls city (where the falls are) and Niagara-on-the -lake which is a large area of land with some villages scattered throughout, this area is known for fantastic vineyards and culinary experiences.... this is a completely different experience than the falls and is worth doing by itself. I cannot think of any reason to not enjoy the Canadian side,

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Tara Martin
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hope you went to see Lake Niagara and check out the rest of the park on the Canadian side. Beautiful. And I agree it is touristy, but I think it is still amazing. So much power. We did both sides.

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Shelly Anderson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The falls are spectacular, but the surrounding area is one big tourist trap...

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Jennifer Shaw
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel you, I love the movie ‘Niagara’ and imagined a similar stay, but after research, adjusted my expectations. However, that is why I chose to stay on the American side, despite all the hype over the Canadian side being better. I wanted a park feel, which is what I got on the US side va the Carnival feel of the CA side. The city itself though, was not great, but I didn’t mind because I wasn’t there to see it.

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Sue McDaniels
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The New York side is nice since it's a state park. We bought the package that let us go to different parts, it included a ride on the Maid of the Mist and the Hurricane Deck. The day we went it was in the 90's and the water felt great.

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Me
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I enjoyed visiting both sides of Niagara Falls. Liked that we could get so close to the falls on the American side and enjoyed the views from the Canadian side.

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Sebastián Morales
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

go to the Canada side. It's a protected park there and isn't riddled with shops.

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Amy S
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rent a car and drive 1 hr or so and go to Lilydale. Get a reading. It's fun and charming. Do it just because.

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Richard Black
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They closed the barrel store at the niagra mall, and replaced it with starbucks

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Really
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OMG did you ever think of doing research before you go to a place.

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Bonnie Buttons
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

From Ontario. Can confirm. Of course the actual falls are beautiful, but turn your head and it's a tacky amusement park.

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Steve Kenney
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went as a kid and had a blast, of course that was like 1987 so probably it's changed since then.

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Troy Parr
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have always thought of Niagara Falls of being much bigger. This is the first time I have seen the whole falls in the one photo, and now they look much smaller.

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Deborah Lazor
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Jump over, next time. Just walk around, the American and Canadian side, near the water. Been going all my life, living one hour away. Don't go to the surrounding areas.

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Marilyn Russell
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes it would have been nice if someone decided back in the day to make it a park instead of a city I guess. I used to live in Toronto and my friend and I would go there to rollerblade along the river. It was beautiful.

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Sarah Monk
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That’s if you stay in the lowest priced area when I went we stayed slightly more upmarket and our view over breakfast was awesome

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Firstname Lastname
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's nice to hike near, but there are many more gorgeous waterfalls in that area that aren't swamped by people.

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Dia Carmignani
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The falls existed. Cities came after. Do u research. Waterfalls in a national park are everywhere, in the middle of a city, f**k yeah! Look with new perspective. More fun.

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#20

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Calanque de Sormiou in Marseille, France. Called one of the best beaches in Marseille, I expected a wonderful, spacious, and quiet white-sand beach with crystal-clear blue water. But what I found was a packed, small, and polluted strip of sand. Turns out you can't always trust the idyllic photos of a destination

thisismostlyfine , JeroSig Report

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Saint Thomas
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyplace that is named "the best" is bound to be submerged by tourists, though. No big surprise there.

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#21

The glass bridge over the grand canyon.

Total rip-off tourist trap.

It takes HOURS to get there from Vegas

They charge you $20 to park in an empty desert

They charge you $30 per person to take the bus from the parking to the attraction (it's like walking from parking into a mall - no distance at all!)

Then they charge you $30 per person if you actually want to walk on the bridge

You cannot take pictures or bring a camera onto the bridge, but they will sell them to you, of course.

There is one overpriced place to eat where they sell you canned food heated up in a microwave for big money... or you could drive 5 hours back to Vegas...

Go there to get scalped.

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John Murray
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The drive is only 2 hours and if you had read their web page and checked out reviews, you would've known about everything you just listed. Teachable moment is read up on places before just jumping in the car and going for it.

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#22

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Plitvice National Park in Croatia was a disappointment. I expected a stunning natural wonder, and hoped it would be a little crowded on a random Monday in September (not peak season, not a weekend). The reality: a perfectly pleasant national park that was absolutely jam-packed with the world's pushiest, screaming, selfish visitors. I was basically trapped on a boardwalk shuffling along desperately just trying to get a space to see the waterfalls

AF_II , fraganda Report

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blondine
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yup. I was in July, same experience. Krka national park is not so famous but more beautiful.

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#23

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Ha Long Bay in Vietnam was a bit of a letdown. Based on the photos, I was so excited to visit, but there was so much garbage in the water it felt extremely polluted. Our junk ship operators were visibly annoyed with us because we didn't want to buy any of the touristy trinkets they were pressuring us to purchase on board. I’m glad I went and experienced Ha Long Bay, but I wouldn't go back

keysey224 , Not So Dusty Report

#24

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences The Temple Bar area in Dublin. Sure, walking the streets is nice, and there are some neat shops and street art to see. But going in a pub in Temple Bar? Unless you like overpaying for drinks and listening to some guy sing a cover of 'Wonderwall,' I wouldn't recommend it

travelerahoy , Chad and Steph Report

#25

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland. It's very artificial, and these days it's just a place where tourists like to get drunk in dirty water. There are tons of natural thermal pools scattered all around Iceland that are far nicer and authentic.

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LW
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Lol. Of course it's artificial. It's the wastewater from the nearby geothermal plant! But I do agree that if you want a good soak, there are plenty of other pools and natural springs to pick from.

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#26

Pisa.

Besides the small square with the tower where everyone is taking the same stupid joke pic. And guys tryna sell you toys.

The rest of the town is pretty lame. You're in Tuscany, go to ANY small town and you'll enjoy it far more

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Roxanne D'souza
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Disagree. Spent almost two days there and it was great. Visited the tower during sunset on the first day. It was beautiful with almost no crowd. They usually let people stay on top for an hour but I easily sat there for 2 hours, listening to music. Walked back to my hostel later that night. The view of the canal with the stars was mesmerising. Next day I rented a cycle and cycled around, searching for Keith Haring's mural. Made it back to the tower by noon, ate a sandwich, took a nap on the grass, read a book, and then headed to the train station to my next destination.

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#27

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences I wasn't a fan of Lake Bled, Slovenia. The photos make it look so majestic, surrounded by nature in solitude. In reality though, the whole shoreline is covered by hotels, businesses, overpriced restaurants, and touristy shops. You'll spend a lot of money to take a little row boat out to the island, wander around for a few minutes, eat your hundredth cone of gelato, and then row back. I'd say to visit Lake Bohinj instead because it's far more peaceful

deleted , hideraldo dwight leitão Report

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Nadine Bamberger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm amazed that tourists complain about tourist locations being too touristy. What do you expect?

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#28

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Central Restaurant in Lima, Peru was a big disappointment. Ranked the fifth best restaurant in the world, I was expecting an amazing meal, especially for the hefty price. It was admittedly a very impressive meal in the sense that it was full of unusual ingredients prepared in interesting ways and plated beautifully, but taste-wise, everything was just OK. It was not nearly as good as many other, less acclaimed restaurants I've eaten at

Kier_C , Elvert Barnes Report

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Zephyr Anthem
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Where I live there's a famous restaurant that is always packed, a queue two hours before opening and no possibility of reservation. The main dish is always the same : entrecote and potato gratin, and a little desert choice. It's a place to see but pretty disapointing, which is sad because this city is renowned for its gastronomy

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#29

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Masaya Volcano National Park in Nicaragua. I had wanted to see it in person ever since seeing photos on Google and YouTube videos, but it really didn't live up to the hype. I feel bad saying it, but I wasn't impressed

claireinmanchester , Brian Johnson & Dane Kantner Report

#30

30 Disappointed Tourists Share Their Underwhelming Travel Experiences Mount Rushmore was horrendously underwhelming. Years ago, my family drove across the US. For hundreds of miles as you drive you see huge signs counting down the distance to Mount Rushmore. For days the excitement builds...and then you get there. It is four faces on mountains. There is nothing else there. Just four faces you've seen time and time again in pictures and textbooks and movies

deleted , U.S. Department of the Interior Report

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