There’s nothing like a growing lack of authenticity to turn a once desirable destination into a hot-spot gone wrong. If you’re new to the travel game it’s imperative to spend your time and money wisely. An overcrowded location that serves watered down drinks and offers overpriced everything is not our idea of a good time (unless someone’s body surfing a crowd).

Don’t say we never warned you, check out some of the least likely places where you can find an enlightening conversation.

Waikiki Beach, Honolulu:  As beautiful as the Hawaiian beaches are, Waikiki has turned into the black sheep of them all, mostly because it’s in between a major port and a dirty place. If you find yourself on Waikiki and can get through the Aloha shirt traffic take the rental car around the other side of the island and get to know the real Honolulu.

Caribbean Cruise Lines:  The thought of sailing aboard a moving tourist trap could be more nauseating than actually being on the cruise line. Everyone wants to say that they’ve been to the most exotic islands but hanging out at the boardwalk gift shop doesn’t count. To get the most out of your travels surround yourself with the local culture, food, music and support the local economy.

Cancun, Mexico:  A.K.A. MTV tainted is infamously known across college campuses as the ultimate spring break we can’t remember… until you see your face across youtube. If you want to party on a beach at least find one with an ounce more of dignity like South Beach or Barcelona (I said an ounce).

Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles:  There are more important matters to life than obsessing over your 80′s sitcom crush. Get off your knees, away from the marble covered stars and visit countless of other attractions that Los Angeles has to offer. A once glamorous walkway is now inhabited by odd characters and even odder smells. From one nomad to another, don’t come here…unless it’s to visit our future spot in the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum.

Las Vegas, Nevada:  The mother of all tacky. Vegas is one of the few places in the world that can cause a seizure. This place is surprisingly full of culture, since nothing is censored. But what about the shows! Maybe, but I can think of a hundred and one places to see before I die and as trite as this is, it doesn’t make it on the list.