London Is Overrated: Visit Rather Beautiful Prague Instead, Advises Seasoned Traveller

Seasoned traveller Luke Hoogmoed, a Dutch globetrotter who has already explored over 40 European countries by the age of 25, believes that many famed capitals are overhyped. He encourages adventurers to look beyond the usual hotspots and discover hidden gems that offer a more authentic, enjoyable experience.

For instance, although London is currently TripAdvisor’s favorite destination, Luke finds it overrated and even questions its safety due to frequent reports of incidents. Instead, he recommends spending a long weekend in Prague—a city steeped in history, bursting with vibrant culture, and offering a more affordable, safer environment. For a closer look at what makes Prague so captivating, check out Luke’s video on the city: Luke Hoogmoed on Prague.

Luke’s travel advice goes further than just comparing London with Prague. He suggests swapping well-known capitals with equally charming, less crowded alternatives:

• Paris vs. Budapest: While Paris has its iconic appeal, Budapest provides an authentically Hungarian atmosphere with fewer tourists.

• Barcelona vs. Porto: Instead of the bustling streets of Barcelona, Porto offers colorful architecture, excellent cuisine, top-notch wine, and even some beach time—all with lower prices and fewer pickpockets.

• Oslo vs. Tallinn: According to Luke, Oslo feels too sterile and modern. He recommends Tallinn for its Nordic charm, medieval centre, and a fairy-tale vibe that comes at a more affordable cost.

• Amsterdam vs. Wroclaw: Though Amsterdam has unique attractions, Wroclaw in Poland, close to the Czech border, offers a similar ambiance without the high prices, overwhelming crowds, or cluttered streets.

• Antwerp vs. Gdansk: For a change, Luke would choose Gdansk over Antwerp, citing its safe, clean environment and stunning architectural beauty.

He also suggests other interesting swaps: opting for Antalya instead of Turkey’s Bodrum, Riga in place of Stockholm, and Ghent instead of Brussels. Even the famed city of Venice is no exception—Luke would rather visit Perast in Montenegro, describing it as “one of the most disarming places I’ve ever seen.” He believes Perast outshines Venice with its safety, cleanliness, affordability, and genuine authenticity.

Overall, Luke Hoogmoed’s unconventional take on European travel is a refreshing call to explore destinations that many overlook. His firsthand experiences and candid critiques serve as a valuable guide for anyone looking to venture off the beaten path and discover the true charm of Europe.