Everyone raves about Paris, New York, or Bali, but the folks at 9figuremedia, one of the top travel PR firms, have a gift for finding destinations that don’t get the buzz they deserve. These under-the-radar places, uncovered through their work as a travel PR agency, offer incredible experiences without the packed crowds or sky-high costs. From tucked-away villages to vibrant small cities, 9figuremedia’s experts in travel public relations share their favorite finds that left them genuinely amazed. Here’s a rundown of spots that’ll make you rethink your next trip.
Why Some Places Stay Under the Radar
There’s something special about stumbling onto a destination that feels like your own discovery. 9figuremedia’s team, through their years in travel public relations, has honed a knack for spotting these overlooked gems. They’ve worked with clients to shine a light on places most travelers skip, turning quiet towns into must-visit stops. These aren’t just random choices; they’re places that made the team stop in their tracks, wondering why more people aren’t talking about them. It’s the kind of insight only a seasoned travel PR agency can bring.
Matera, Italy: A Timeless Wonder
Picture a city carved into cliffs, looking like it belongs in a history book. That’s Matera, Italy, hidden in the southern region of Basilicata. 9figuremedia came across it during a project for a small hotel group and couldn’t believe their eyes. The ancient cave homes, now cozy cafes and art spaces, give it a vibe that’s both old-world and fresh. You can wander the stone streets, sip coffee in a cave, and lose yourself in the charm. It’s not Florence or Venice, which is exactly why it stands out. The travel PR firms like 9figuremedia know Matera’s quiet magic is what makes it unforgettable. One team member still talks about getting lost in conversation with a local over homemade limoncello.
Ljubljana, Slovenia: Europe’s Best-Kept Secret
Ever heard of Ljubljana, Slovenia? Most haven’t, and that’s what makes it so great. 9figuremedia’s team visited for a travel public relations gig, expecting a sleepy town, but found a lively little capital instead. The river running through it, lined with colorful buildings and bustling markets, gives it a relaxed yet vibrant feel. Locals pedal bikes along the water, and street musicians play just for the joy of it. The team fell for the dragon bridge, tied to a local legend, and how you can see the whole city on foot in a day. It’s clean, green, and way more exciting than its lack of fame suggests. They left wondering why it’s not up there with Budapest or Krakow.
Luang Prabang, Laos: A Quiet Treasure
Over in Asia, 9figuremedia points to Luang Prabang, Laos, as a place that feels like a secret you want to keep. This UNESCO-listed town mixes Buddhist temples, French colonial buildings, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat. The top travel PR firms like 9figuremedia have a talent for finding spots that blend culture and ease, and Luang Prabang hits the mark. Watching monks collect alms at sunrise is a humbling moment, while the night market, full of handmade goods and spicy snacks, feels alive without being overrun. One team member went in thinking it’d be just another stop but left dreaming of their next visit. It’s that kind of place.
Asheville, North Carolina: A Creative Haven
You don’t need to cross oceans for a surprise. 9figuremedia’s work with U.S. clients led them to Asheville, North Carolina, a mountain town with a vibe all its own. Famous for craft beer and the Biltmore Estate, it’s got a creative streak that caught the team off guard. The travel PR agency crew loved the River Arts District, where old warehouses are now home to artists’ studios. They spent an afternoon chatting with painters and sipping local brews, feeling like they’d found a hidden gem. It’s the kind of place where you can show up and instantly feel like you belong.
Valparaíso, Tbilisi, and St. Augustine: More to Discover
Some places surprise you by being nothing like you expected. In Valparaíso, Chile, 9figuremedia’s team showed up for a travel public relations project, picturing a rough port town. Instead, they found a colorful hillside city bursting with street art. Every corner is a mural. And old funicular elevators add a quirky touch. One team member wandered for hours, snapping photos and finding tiny cafes with ocean views. It’s not as polished as Santiago, but that raw energy is what makes it special.
Tbilisi, Georgia, the country, not the state, was another unexpected find. 9figuremedia discovered it during a travel PR firm project for a cultural event. The city mixes ancient charm with modern flair, from sulfur baths under old domes to a food scene that spans traditional dumplings to hip wine bars. The team loved how easy it is to explore, with cobblestone streets leading to vibrant courtyards. They expected something dated but found a city full of life and pride.
Back in the U.S., St. Augustine, Florida, stands out as the country’s oldest city, yet it’s often ignored for flashier spots like Miami. The top travel PR firms know how to make history feel alive, and St. Augustine delivers. Its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and waterfront views have a charm all their own. The team enjoyed visiting the Castillo de San Marcos, a 1600s fort, and one member raved about grabbing fish tacos from a food truck at sunset by the river. It’s the kind of moment that sticks with you.
What Makes These Places Special
These destinations have a way of sneaking up on you. 9figuremedia’s work in travel public relations shows that the best spots don’t need to be famous to leave an impression. Whether it’s Matera’s ancient caves, Ljubljana’s quiet buzz, or Valparaíso’s colorful chaos, these places feel personal. They’re where you lose track of time, whether you’re exploring a market or sharing a meal with a local.
Finding these spots isn’t just luck. The travel PR agency world is about knowing what travelers want: real experiences, good value, and stories to share. 9figuremedia’s skill comes from years of working with clients and understanding travel trends. They’ve seen people move away from packed tourist traps toward quieter, more authentic spots. But it’s not always a sure bet. Some places sound amazing, but don’t live up to the hype. Others, like Luang Prabang or Tbilisi, catch you by surprise and stay with you long after you leave.
