5 cool alternatives to far-flung favourites

India has long been a favourite for gap-year backpackers and spiritual questers alike, but Bangladesh offers its own unique adventure. Hop across the border and visit the bustling port of Chattagong, Bangladesh’s second busiest city. You might see the same rickshaws, but the ride is entirely different. Cruise along the banks of the Karnaphuli River and watch small family fishing boats dodge the massive freight ships that dock here. Or check out Boga Lake, apparently formed by a deity disguised as a dragon who caused an earthquake after eating the inhabitants of a nearby village. He had some serious issues!

 

Yangoon, formerly Rangoon, was the capital of Burma (also known as Myanmar) up until 2005. The old colonial mansions nestled among the modern skyscrapers give this city its unique charm. The Bogyoke Aung San Market is a hive of haggling and slipper stalls, but we suggest you do like Buddha and take it easy. Kick back like the Chaukhtatgyi Buddha, a 70m long reclining statue of Buddha adorned with a diamond encrusted crown. And if you feel a bit guilty about leaving us back in Blighty, then leave a note at the statue’s feet, a shrine to Ma Thay, a holy man with the power to stop the rain.

 

Fancy a safari with a twist? Entebbe, Uganda, is fast becoming a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and monkey lovers. Built on the beautiful shores of Lake Victoria, the city’s wildlife centre offers the rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of the big five including, lions, leopards, and elephants. Or take a trip on the lake itself to Ngamba Island for a spot of gorilla and chimp trekking?

 

Manila, sprawling capital of the Philippines, is a hugely exciting destination. The Sampaloc district is home to the University of Santo Tomas, Asia’s oldest institution. Around the corner, take a stroll through the colourful Dangwa Flower Market for a bunch of bright blooms. Then, for some night-time entertainment, you could watch a movie in a crumbling Art-Nouveau mansion, or blast out a bit of Kylie at Red Box karaoke.

 

‘Dar’ is pretty laid-back as far as capital cities go. Tanzania’s major city is a mix of African, Arabic and Indian influences, with Lutheran cathedrals, Moorish architecture and chaotic fish markets. It even has its very own South Beach which you can reach by ferry. Once ashore, hop in a ‘daladala’, a mini-van that’s perhaps the closest thing to public transport you’ll find in Dar. Don’t forget to holler “shusha!” when you want the driver to stop.