Rik Brinks’ favourite destinations you must visit

I’m Rik Brinks, the founder of CultureRoad: behind the scenes, mostly in charge of ensuring that everyone has their best time on our tours. My goal is to make sure every request is met, every experience is smooth, and every journey is unforgettable. Since I often join in on our off-the-beaten-path tours, have you ever wondered what my favourite destination is? Well, I’ve decided to share this little secret with you today!

Before I reveal my top pick, let’s take a step back. CultureRoad was born nearly a decade ago out of a single passion: exploring unique and hard-to-reach destinations, like North Korea. With that passion, I created a company that has allowed hundreds of people worldwide to experience destinations as remarkable as the ones that inspired me.

With a rich variety of countries I visited and cultures I explored, you can imagine how hard it must be for me to pick just one favorite. So, instead, I’m sharing my top three with you in this blog.

3. Turkmenistan 

Turkmenistan is a treasure trove of culture and architecture, where ancient civilizations like Merv come to life. A hidden gem is the Yangykala Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of Central Asia. While it’s challenging to reach, the breathtaking views make the journey worth it. With its warm hospitality and status as an off-the-beaten-path destination, Turkmenistan guarantees an adventure you won’t forget.

Misconceptions about Turkmenistan

These are the most common misconceptions and questions I receive about Turkmenistan:

• “Isn’t it just a big desert with no modernity?”
  FALSE. While the Karakum Desert is a defining feature, Turkmenistan offers so much more: ancient UNESCO sites, breathtaking mountains, and Ashgabat, a capital city covered in gleaming white marble, holding the Guinness World Record for the highest density of white marble buildings in the world.
• “What makes the Gates of Hell so fascinating?”
  Gates of Hell, a fiery crater that has been burning since the 1970s, offers a truly unique experience and remains a must-see and the most famous attraction in Turkmenistan, though rumors suggest it might close someday due to environmental concerns. Now it is still burning, and waking up next to this fiery crater is an unforgettable experience. 

2. South Sudan 

South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, offers raw and untapped experiences unlike anywhere else. Most travelers seek out the Mundari for their unique traditions and way of life, and camping with them is a humbling experience that makes daily life feel like a distant memory. It’s a place where you can discover diverse ethnic groups like the Dinka, Jie, and Mundari, gaining an authentic glimpse into their rich traditions and way of life. Plus, with some of Africa’s most untouched landscapes, it’s an incredible destination for wildlife viewing, offering a raw and unforgettable adventure.

Did you know that…

• South Sudan doesn’t have a National Museum yet because it is such a young country, having gained independence in 2011. The nation has been focused on establishing infrastructure and addressing challenges related to development and stability. Building cultural institutions like a National Museum may not have been a top priority amidst these pressing needs. However, South Sudan’s rich cultural and natural heritage remains a testament to its history and diversity, even without a formal museum to showcase it.

Misconceptions about South Sudan

The most common misconceptions about South Sudan are:

• “Is it true that there’s no wildlife?”
  FALSE. South Sudan is home to extraordinary wildlife, including one of Africa’s largest antelope migrations in Boma National Park. With the CultureRoad team’s carefully designed tours, safety is always the priority while you explore this untamed and unforgettable land.
• “South Sudan’s Sudd swamps is that they are desolate and uninhabited”
  FALSE. You can also visit the Sudd swamps and see how fishermen live on the water in difficult conditions. It gives you a look into a unique and strong way of life.

1. North Korea  

They say you never forget your first love, and for me, North Korea holds that special place. But it’s not just nostalgia, this country truly captivates with its unique blend of culture, nature, history, and local insights. Curious to experience it for yourself? Rumors say that North Korea may reopen some time in 2025. Want to be the first to hear the news?

Some interesting facts about North Korea:

• For adventure lovers, Mt. Paektu is a must, this sacred site holds deep significance for Koreans, and while it’s a tough journey to get there, the breathtaking views are worth every step.
• Foodies will fall for Korean Cold Noodles, a dish so unique and refreshing, that it’s a must-try experience. 

Misconceptions about North Korea

Now, I would like to overcome some of the stereotypes about this country and share some interesting facts about North Korea:

• “Western brands are not present in North Korea”
  FALSE. While Western brands are rumored to be absent, don’t be shocked to spot a Heineken at your hotel bar!
• “You can’t bond with the locals”
  FALSE. Perhaps the most special part of the trip? Meeting locals and connecting with your guide. Despite language barriers, these small, meaningful exchanges offer an incredible glimpse into daily life, leaving you with memories that stay with you forever.
• “Isn’t it risky and hard to visit?”
  Now it isn’t possible to visit, but hopefully North Korea will open again in 2025. As long as you travel with a trusted company like CultureRoad, your experience will be as safe as possible. Plus, it’s a rare chance to dive into the local culture in one of the world’s most unique destinations.

I hope this blog has inspired you to consider stepping off the beaten path and diving into one of these unique destinations. From North Korea’s rich culture and history to Turkmenistan’s surreal landscapes and South Sudan’s raw beauty, these destinations are as unique as they are misunderstood. My top 3 prove that the world is full of hidden treasures waiting to be explored. My main advice for any traveler wanting to explore a new destination is to travel with an open mind and just go for it.

Ready to see them? Mail us to book a tour with us or get expert tips, and more fascinating travel stories. Adventure is just a step away!