What no one tells you, an easy way to Avoid Overtourism
How visiting a second city can help us be responsible tourists
What is a second city I hear you ask?
A second city would be not the 1st place you think of when you think of a country.
So when you think of Spain you may automatically think of Barcelona, but what no one tells you about, is the second city of Seville. Instead of visiting Lisbon in Portugal, consider the second city of Porto.
Read on to discover some lesser known second city gems you will want to add to your bucket lists.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been amazed at how quickly Earth has been recovering from pollution. With many cities across the world in some form of lockdown the amount of pollution we are putting into our atmosphere has decreased dramatically.
Reports from India, China, and the USA have shown dramatically lessened smog, clear skies, and views that this generation hasn’t seen.
The most powerful of these images for me was this one:
Himalayas seen for the first time in 30 years!
Posted on Instagram by Diksha Walia @Deewalia, on the 3rd April 2020, this photo clearly reveals the Himalayas in the distance: a view which has not been seen for an incredible 30 years!
So, these reports led onto me thinking about the issue of overtourism and the idea that people would be willing to visit 2nd cities in order to avoid the tourist crush and to help avoid the environmental issues associated with this modern-day issue.
What no one tells you about Environmental Impact
Overtourism has a number of environmental impacts. We are all aware of the issues Venice is having with the influx of 20 million visitors each year, leading to a ‘tourist tax’ of 10 euros per person. Dubrovink and Amsterdam are also struggling with the volume of tourist descending on their cities each year. UNESCO has recently listed both Venice and Dubrovnik as World Heritage in Danger.
Machu Picchu has restricted the number of passes it issues to control access, and Maya Bay in Thailand, famous for the film ‘The Beach,’ has closed indefinitely to facilitate the reef’s recovery.
Overtourism has ecological and economic ramifications. Not only are our flora and fauna at risk, but the inhabitants of these cities are facing rising housing costs that are pushing them out of their homes.
What can we do to avoid the overtourism trap?
Did you know that 80% of travellers in the world only go to 10% of tourist destinations?!
I was genuinely shocked when I read this statistic.
We can visit destinations other than the stock Paris, Venice, Amsterdam, Prague and, with a little research, find out what other cities and regions in our bucket list countries have to offer.
Here are 5 suggestions of 2nd cities to start you off 😊
- Seville, Spain
- Porto, Portugal
- St Petersburg, Russia
- Antigua, Guatemala
- Fez, Morocco
1. Seville, second city of Spain
Seville draws me in like no other city, love it. Sitting second to Madrid, it’s sultry heat, the impressive architecture and the chance to see an authentic flamenco show mean I absolutely loved my visit. Andalusia is the home of the Flamenco and is definitely the place to see it performed.
Cathedrals & Palaces
You probably already know I love the Gothic and visiting churches, Seville just happens to have the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world! That’s some claim that has to be checked out. Also, the Real Alcázar is a Moorish fort which evolved into a Royal Palace. Just opposite the Cathedral, it is one of the best examples of mudéjar (Moorish & Christian) architecture on the Iberian Peninsula and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tile work is stunning and the gardens with the sound of flowing water at every turn, weirdly helping to dissipate the intense heat, were so relaxing.
A Plaza to relax in
After all that culture you will want to retreat to the maze-like Barrio Santa Cruse to have a wander around the narrow alleys, stumbling across idylic squares, such as Plaza de Doña Elvira,
Casa del Flamenco provides a comprehensive overview of flamenco culture with their hour-long shows in a historic, Andalusian patio
Casa de Flamenco
is the place to see an authentic flamenco show in Seville
2. Porto, second city of Portugal
What no one tells you about Porto.
Porto is one of the second cities that I am desperate to visit. The city is also known as the ‘unvanquished city’ or ‘invincible city’ because it endured a year-long siege in the 19th Century. Porto is situated on the banks of the Rio Douro and is described by Lonely Planet as ‘edgy-yet-opulent.’ They suggest that it lures visitors with its historic center, delectable food and wine, and charismatic locals. Voted Best European city in 2017, as well as best value for money, Porto sounds pretty good so far!
Meander through the Ribeira
The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. The colorful painted houses in the maze-like Ribeira area are sure to enchant you, as are the views from the promenade. You can opt for a walking tour or a tram tour through the city, or simply get happily lost while wandering the narrow lanes, admiring the unique blue glazed tiling, and pausing for refreshments at one of the numerous cafes..
Porto allows to to gain a panoramic view of the city without getting a sweat on. Hop on the Gaia Cable Car for a trip up to the viewpoint at Miradouro da Serra do Pilar. Whilst the short trip doesn’t take you out over the River, it does give you a magnificent view of it. While at the top you can visit the Se Cathedral, or just absorb the panoramic views.
The Livraria Lello Bookshop
If like me, you’re a bit of a book nerd check out one of the most amazing bookshops you will ever see.
The Livraria Lello bookstore in Porto was opened in 1906 and is rumored to have provided inspiration for Harry Potter, as J.K. Rowling visited it.Rowling worked in Porto and frequented it during her stay.
Also the wine! As the birthplace of Port, you have to try it at one of the numerous outside cafes at which you can while away the hours soaking up the view and people watching.
And if that’s not enough, there are also boat rides on the river, or a visit to the exceptionally cool Parque de Serralves with its modern sculptures, beautiful tree lined avenues and lake.
Head for the Beach
If your time in Porto extends to beyond a long weekend break and you fancy a beach day, fear not! There are a number of beaches are within a half hour excursion of the city. One that is recommended is Aguda Beach, Vila Nova de Gaia (17km away), by bus: 32 min. Look at the cool boardwalk.
Slightly further afield, but worth it if you love peace and a more natural vibe, is Moreiró Beach, Vila do Conde (19km away), by bus: 1h 15 min.
Days out to Braga & Guimares
Other towns in the vicinity for day trips include Braga, for its religious heritage, Guimarães to visit the Durque of Barganca Palcce and climb the Penha mountain (you can go up by cable car if hiking isn’t your thing) and the Douro Valley for some wine tasting – count me in!
Trains run regualarly to both Braga and Guimaraes, times can be checked online here: https://www.cp.pt/StaticFiles/timetables/oporto-braga-urban-trains.pdf
Douro Valley Wine Tasting
But if you fancy heading out into the Douro Valley for wine tasting I recommend taking a tour – you want to be able to sample those wines 🙂 Aviator has a number of day trips including wine tasting and cruising on the Douro. Click on the link below to explore your options. https://www.viator.com/Porto/d26879-ttd
Want to go?! I know I do!
3. St. Petersburg, second city of Russia
What no one tells you about St Petersburg
It’s hard to imagine St Persburg as a second city, but it is just that, second to Moscow.
I was in St Petersburg in February, when winter still held the city in it’s grasp and rivers were frozen solid. One of my favourite memories is climbing down to walk on the frozen river – much to the distress of our tour guide. At this time of year you need to layer on the thermals as the average temperature is around -6 degrees, though during our few days there it averaged around -13! The weather doesn’t detract from the beauty of the city though, far from it.
St Petersburg’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has a European flavour to it. It’s a very different look from that of Moscow. Moscow’s dominating architecture seems to be all about promoting the might of Russia, whereas, Emperor Peter the Great, back in the 1680’s imagined for St Petersburg, a luxurious playground for the ruling elite, a true window to Europe. He’d spent much time in Europe and wanted to emulate the design and feel of those cities.
Must see places to visit include The Winter Palace, which now houses the Heritage museum, the Summer Palace and the Church on the Saviour on Spilled Blood.
Winter Palace & The Hermitage Museum
The Winter Palace is vast. It takes up a whole block and contains 1,057 rooms – it would take a week for you to view all the treasures housed within!
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, also known as Catherine’s Palace, is where the Tzar and his family spent the summers
Church of the Saviour of the Spilled Blood
The Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood was constructed on the site where Emperor Alexander II was severely wounded and subsequently died in March 1881. Hence, it received its name. Begun in 1883 it took until 1907 to complete. The interior of the church is absolutely stunning and is a must-see.
St Petersburg is much easier to navigate these days as signs, following the football World Cup in 2018, are now in both Cryllic and English.
Antigua, second city of Guatemala
What no one tells you about Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua, Guatemala, not to be confused with the island of the same name in the Caribbean, is second city to the capital of Guatemala City. It’s a beautiful city, full of colourful colonial architecture and surrounded by a dramatic backdrop of volcanoes. Yet another UNESCO World Heritage site, pretty cobblestone streets are lined with colourful buildings opening into hidden plazas.
It’s also the jumping off point to get to Lake Atitlan, only 50 miles away in the Sierra Madre highlands, which is on my bucket list of places to set my hat down for a few months.
photo credit: Shutterstock
Spanish & Salsa Lessons Anyone?
Want to learn Spanish? second city Antigua is renowned as the best place to learn, another reason it’s high on my agenda. It’s also known as the place to learn to Salsa. I could cope with a couple of months here, immersing myself in Spanish and Salsa, before heading off to explore more of Central and South America.
An earthquake in the 17th Century threatened to destroy Antigua and meant the ruling powers moved to Guatemala City. the city may begin to remind you of Rome, the way you wander around a corner and stumble on yet another incredible ruin: churches, monasteries, convents and schools. The Santa Clara Convent has created gardens amongst the ruins, a peaceful place to take your rest from sightseeing.
Much of Antigua has undergone reconstruction in the traditional style, and it continues to captivate us today. While some may criticize it for being a tourist hotspot, there’s a good reason for its popularity. Antigua is renowned for its welcoming and safe environment.
Santo Domingo Del Cerro Sculpture Park
A must visit site is the sculpture garden displaying the works of Efrain Recinos. The park of Santo Domingo Del Cerro is free to enter and contains 10 of the ‘Guatemalan Picasso’s’ murals plus a number of his sculptures including the famous, El Triunfo de la Guatemalita, of a woman standing on a VW Beetle.
I’m drawn to Antigua because of its reputation for a laid-back ambiance, the friendliness of the local population, and its convenient location for accessing exciting trips. Want to spend a night next to an active volcano? No bother, Pacaya Volcano is an overnight trip not to miss. Love to visit a coffee plantation to get your coffee fix? Which would you like to choose? Local markets and roof top bars abound.
Take a walk to Caoba Farm
A visit to out to Caoba Farm is another must. Caboa Farm grows and serve local produce and holds a variety of events. From farmers markets to free yoga on a Sunday, check out what is on whilst you are there. It’s walking distance from the town centre, so no excuse!
Visit or stay at Earth Lodge
Stepping out of the city the incredible Earth Lodge is worth a visit. I’m super interested in eco-dwellings and this place combines being an avocado farm, with fabulous hikes, yoga classes a restaurant and the most amazing tree-house with a view! Check it out here: https://www.earthlodgeguatemala.com/
I’m definitely going to be visiting when I make it to Antigua, which is my choice of second city in Guatemala.
Fez, second city of Morocco
What no one tells you about Fez
Fez is known as the cultural and spiritual centre of Morocco. This second city contains the walled centre, known as Fes El-Bal, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Imperial city is 1,200 years old and holds onto its heritage by remaining a car-free zone.
You will be walking alongside donkeys carrying wares, as they have for eons, as locals continue to live and work in the maze like streets. Fes El-Bal is the best preserved Medina in the world.
Hire a Guide
I suspect however, that it could all be rather overwhelming, with the press of people in this medieval maze. I recommend hiring a guide because the sheer volume of people and the absence of recognizable landmarks may lead to getting lost. However, the Medina is not large, so you should eventually find yourself back on the periphery. Maybe you like that and feel it is all part of the experience. My gut feeling is that I might start to panic rather than enjoy! This half-day tour of the Medina comes recommended: https://www.getyourguide.co.uk/activity/medina-of-fes-l87364/fez-medina-guided-tour-t199153/
Chouara Tannery
The Tannery, where all those Instagram picture originate of vats of coloured dyes is on everyone’s list to see when visiting Fez.
However, what the pictures don’t convey is the sensory experience of the smells involved.
Enterprising locals may sell you a sprig of mint to hold under your nose.
Visit Jnan Sbil: the garden refuge
When you need a respite from the intensity of the Medina, head out to the gardens of Jnan Sbil, which translates as ‘garden escape’ or ‘garden refuge.’ Sultan Moulay Hassan created these gardens in the 19th Century, and they offer a haven from the medina’s hustle and bustle. You will find paths lined with eucalyptus, citrus, orange blossom, and palm trees that provide shade, along with ornate fountains and many cafes where you can sit and enjoy some refreshments. Sounds idyllic doesn’t it?
One thing you should do whilst in Fez, is go to the Cafe Clock, a ‘cross-cultural’ arts centre. This 250-year-old courtyard house is home to a cafe, library, bar and cinema. Staff stage regular musical events and performances to help preserve Morocco’s tradition of hikayat (storytelling). That would be a cool night out.
Henna Parties
Palaiseamani.com offer henna parties which allow you to learn about the cultural meaning of henna whilst experiencing first-hand the beauty of henna art. Check out https://www.palaisamani.com/experiences/ for more details.
Visit a Hamman
One final thing for you to check out is the hamman bathing houses. I have visited one in Granada, Spain and it was one of my favourite things I did during my whole trip to Andalusia. Most hammans are segregated, so check you are arriving at a women’s time. You don’t have to be completely naked, you can keep your bikini bottoms on. Some hammans will give you disposable underwear. If you try out a public hamman, you will find yourself mixing with locals as you move through the rooms. Bathers usually begin in a dry, heated zone to relax and open pores, before entering a steam room.
For an intense body scrub a kessa loofah black olive-oil soap, known as savon beldi, is applied. Much rinsing and scrubbing follow, until you’ve shed a layer of skin, dirt, and stress. Once a week, as is often the custom, you emerge anew and refreshed.
Which would you choose?
Which of the above second city choices appeal to you? I’m incredibly interested in history and UNESCO World Heritage sites, you may be noticing a pattern here. Have you experienced any of them? Let me know in the comments below.
