Andrew Tidd

New York attracts millions of visitors, but to truly experience New York, you need to go beyond the crowded tourist sites. You know those places, but here are a few hidden gems.

With its cobblestone streets, harbor breezes, storied past, and vibrant neighborhoods, Boston embodies the layered richness of American history and culture. Yet its greatest treasures are not always found in hurried tours or packed itineraries. Boston is best experienced slowly, by walking its streets, tasting its flavors, and letting its stories unfold at their own rhythm.

Anne Boleyn is one of the most compelling and polarizing figures in history. If you are a history buff—particularly Tudor history—then a visit to these sites is a must. They can easily fit into a London visit while visiting London’s many other attractions.

The Bahamas have great beaches, but dive deeper, so to speak, and you will discover much more. In addition to the beaches, the Bahamas has a rich history, cuisine, and culture. The people-to-people program allows locals to show you the islands in a way that is unique to the Bahamas. If you can, go during Junkanoo, a bit like a Bahamian Carnival, between Christmas and New Year's.

The Loire Valley is known as the “Garden of France,” and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. French Renaissance architecture is on full display amid rolling vineyards and riverbanks. Majestic châteaux like Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise reflect the artistic and political ambitions of the 16th-century French court. The valley is also renowned for its wines, like the crisp Sauvignon Blancs and velvety Cabernet Francs. It is a perfect blend of French Renaissance history, culture, and taste.

Fado is essential to Lisbon’s music identity. Fado features melancholic vocals and the intricate sound of the Portuguese guitar, which conveys deep emotion and melancholy. Think of it like a Portuguese version of the blues. Lisbon is also a crossroads for world music, reflecting Portugal’s global ties to Africa, Brazil, and beyond. And it is home to the National Theatre of São Carlos, an 18th-century opera house in Chiado, where you can hear world-renowned artists. Lisbon is also home to world-class museums like the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, which houses many Portuguese and European artists like Bosch, Dürer, and Raphael, and the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, known for its classical and modern collections. There are good contemporary art museums as well, such as the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) and the Museu Coleção Berardo. Beyond the museums, be sure to visit the LX Factory, with its independent galleries, public art installations, and live performances.

Edinburgh is the kind of place that rewards those who linger. Beyond the postcard landmarks lies a rich, lived-in city full of quiet courtyards, independent bookshops and local cafés where stories unfold slowly. Walking its cobbled streets at your own pace reveals layers of history, creativity and community. It's a destination that invites reflection, connection and presence — perfect for the slow traveler.