Alright, fellow adventurers and travel dreamers! Forget everything you thought you knew about travel – It’s time to venture into the wonderfully weird and delightfully different world of niche tourism. Sure, lounging on sandy beaches and devouring mouth-watering street food are classic moves, but why not sprinkle a little eccentricity into your wanderlust?
Whether you’re a history nerd, a movie buff, or just someone who loves a good surprise, there’s a unique travel style out there with your name on it. So, grab your passport, pack your sense of humour, and let’s dive into ten of the most offbeat and fabulous types of tourism that’ll make your next trip unforgettable!
Also read: Excellent Travel Films That Will Inspire Wanderlust
1. SetJetting Tourism
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Ever dreamed of stepping onto the set of your favourite blockbuster or indie gem? Welcome to SetJetting Tourism, where your favourite films and TV shows come to life! Whether you’re traipsing across South Korea visiting the Squid Game filming locations or gazing in awe at the brutalist and neofuturistic sets of The Hunger Games in Noisy-le-Grand, Paris and Berlin, SetJetting lets you immerse yourself in the magic of cinema. Imagine reliving your favourite scenes and meeting fellow fans. It’s like being part of your very own movie – Cue the 20th Century Fox theme music!
2. Tolkien Tourism
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Calling all Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit enthusiasts! Tolkien Tourism is your golden ticket to walking in the footsteps of hobbits, elves, and wizards. Head to New Zealand to explore the breathtaking landscapes that brought Middle-earth to life on the big screen. Fancy a literary pilgrimage? Visit Tolkien’s birthplace in Bloemfontein, South Africa, and soak up the scholarly vibes in Oxford, England, where he penned his epic tales. It’s a magical journey that’ll make you feel like you’re part of the Fellowship!
3. Atomic Tourism
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For the history buffs with a fascination for all things atomic, Atomic Tourism is your gateway to exploring sites steeped in nuclear lore. Visit missile sites, nuclear reactors, and exclusion zones like the infamous Chernobyl or the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial. Wander through ghost towns like Pripyat and delve into the eerie yet captivating stories of the atomic age. Maybe then you’ll become death, the destroyer of worlds.
4. Monopolytourism
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Who says Monopoly is just for game night? Monopolytourism takes your favourite board game and turns it into a real-life adventure! Buy a local version of Monopoly, then tour the actual locations featured on the board. Roll the dice to decide where to visit next and watch as your game pieces come to life. It’s a playful twist on sightseeing that adds a dash of competition and a whole lot of fun. Ready to pass GO and collect your memories?
5. Sagittatourism
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Feeling spontaneous? Sagittatourism is all about embracing the thrill of the unknown! Just grab a map, throw a dart, and voilà – Your next destination is set. Whether it lands you in the bustling streets of Tokyo or the serene beaches of Bali, Sagittatourism turns every trip into a thrilling game of map roulette. It’s perfect for those who love surprises and live for the unexpected. Who knows where the dart will take you next? Maybe you’ll end up in the middle of nowhere, but hey – That’s part of the fun!
6. Contretourism
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Okaaaaaay let’s go! Why stare directly at famous landmarks when you can explore the magic around them? Contretourism encourages travellers to visit iconic sites but turn their backs on the main attraction, focusing instead on the surrounding areas. Stand at the foot of the Eiffel Tower but spend your time photographing the lush gardens of Champ de Mars and the majestic Trocadero instead. It’s a fresh perspective that lets you discover hidden gems right next to the big names. It’s time to think outside the landmark!
7. Narco Tourism
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Step into the shadowy world of narcotrafficking with Narco Tourism in Medellín, Colombia. Inspired by the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar and popularised by the hit Netflix series Narcos, this type of tourism takes you to hotspots linked to Escobar’s empire. Visit his grave at Montesacro Cemetery, tour his former home, and check out narco memorabilia. It’s a wild ride through Colombia’s tumultuous history – Definitely not for the faint-hearted but fascinating for those intrigued by the crime underworld!
8. Aerotourism
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Can’t afford to fly or just love airports? Aerotourism lets you explore the vast, bustling world of airports without ever boarding a plane. From marveling at architectural wonders (Jewel Changi, anyone?) to checking out quirky airport shops and lounges, aerotourists dive deep into the hub of travel activity. It’s a unique way to experience the behind-the-scenes magic of air travel – No boarding pass required!
9. Industrial Tourism
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If you’re fascinated by how things are made, Industrial Tourism is your go-to. Dive deep into history by exploring eerie coal mines that once fuelled the industrial revolution, or wander through vintage factories that still hum with the echoes of bygone eras. Whether you’re clinking glasses in a bustling distillery, savouring artisan chocolates fresh from the source, or stepping into the past in a sprawling factory, Industrial Tourism offers a delicious blend of education and hands-on fun.
10. Tombstone Tourism
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For those with a morbid curiosity, Tombstone Tourism (also known as cemetery tourism) is all about exploring famous graveyards and burial sites around the globe. Visit renowned cemeteries like Hollywood Forever in Los Angeles, USA and Pere Lachaise in Paris, France, do gravestone rubbings, and explore the resting places of the rich and famous. It’s a hauntingly beautiful way to connect with history and pay respects to those who’ve left their mark on the world.
Why Stick to the Ordinary?
Travel is all about exploring the world in ways that resonate with you. These quirky types of tourism prove that there’s more to adventure than the usual tourist traps. Whether you’re rolling the dice with Sagittatourism, diving into nuclear history with Atomic Tourism, or living out your fantasy dreams with SetJetting, there’s a unique travel style waiting just for you. So next time you plan a trip, why not try something a little different? Embrace the weird, the wonderful, and the wildly unique – Your next adventure awaits!
Also read: 5 Beautiful Locations to Visit After Dark: The Rise of Noctourism
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