When it comes to discovering authentic travel experiences, James Chisnall, Owner of Untravelled Paths, is never short of recommendations. From hidden gems in Europe to far-flung intrepid adventures, he’s passionate about helping travellers uncover places that surprise, delight, and stay with you forever.
We sat down with James to hear his thoughts on under the radar destinations for 2026, his favourite cities, the countries he keeps returning to, and those he’s itching to add to the Untravelled Paths collection.
Which Under the Radar destinations would you recommend for 2026?
James: “Three destinations stand out right now – Georgia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Slovenia.”
Georgia: “Now that there are direct flights, it’s become much more accessible. Georgia is unique, with a delicious food culture, incredibly friendly locals, dramatic mountain scenery, and the bonus of being very affordable. It’s one of those rare countries where every meal feels like a celebration.”
Bosnia & Herzegovina: “This country has it all: fascinating history, stunning scenery, a surprisingly tasty food scene, and a truly intriguing mix of cultures. Sarajevo and Mostar are musts, but venture outside them and you’ll find a country that’s still relatively untouched by tourism.”
Slovenia: “Quite simply picture-perfect. As one of Europe’s greenest countries, it’s a dream for those who love nature, with lakes, caves, and mountains galore. Add a fantastic food and wine scene, and you’ve got one of the most underrated destinations in Europe.”
What are your favourite cities in the world?
James: “Cities have a special way of drawing you back. Here are the ones I rate most highly.”
Sarajevo: “National Geographic actually named it their top city for 2025. A Muslim city in the heart of Europe, Sarajevo is vibrant, fascinating, and has a brilliant food culture.”
Istanbul – “The energy is off the charts. Sitting between Europe and Asia, it’s buzzing, full of history, and endlessly fascinating.”
Seville – “I could live off the tapas here! Combine the food with stunning Moorish architecture and a genuine local feel, and it’s an easy favourite.”
Cape Town – “I lived here for years and it still takes my breath away. Beautiful beaches, wildlife, nature, lively atmosphere, and world-class food and wine – it’s got the lot.”
Where in the world do you keep returning to and why?
James: “Some destinations are impossible to resist – I always find myself back in South Africa, Montenegro, and Morocco.”
South Africa: “It’s a fabulous all-rounder. You can combine it with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe or Zambia for safaris and wildlife. There’s just so much variety.”
Montenegro: “I love the pace of life here. Add a great climate and stunning scenery and you’ve got a real gem.”
Morocco – “Only a short hop from Europe but it feels like another world. Once you adapt to the culture, it’s easy to relax and immerse yourself fully.”
What are the most unique countries you have visited?
James: “Two really stand out: Ethiopia and Iceland. Both are like nowhere else I’ve ever been.”
Ethiopia: “This country is one pinch-yourself moment after another. I’ve attended a Bull Jumping ceremony with the Hamer tribe in the Omo Valley, walked among Gelada monkeys in the Simien Mountains, fed hyenas in Harar, climbed to remote rock-hewn churches in Tigray, and even slept by an active volcano. It’s simply extraordinary.”
Iceland: “It feels like being on another planet – so wild and raw. You can hike glaciers, explore ice tunnels, walk volcanic black beaches, snorkel between tectonic plates, relax at the Blue Lagoon, and if you’re lucky, catch the Northern Lights.”
Which countries are you itching to visit?
James: “I’ve always got a list, but three destinations are right at the top.”
Kyrgyzstan – “It’s a dream for intrepid travellers – think vast mountain landscapes, nomadic traditions, and an authentic way of life that feels untouched.”
Namibia – “I’ve always loved safari, but Namibia takes it to another level. The idea of seeing wildlife against the backdrop of the arid desert fascinates me.”
Japan – “I went briefly as a youngster, but I’m desperate to go back and do it properly. The food, the culture, the traditions – it’s a world I can’t wait to explore.”
Whether it’s savouring farm-to-table cuisine in Slovenia, exploring Bosnia’s mix of cultures, or ticking off once-in-a-lifetime adventures in Ethiopia, it’s clear that James has a nose for destinations that excite and inspire.
At Untravelled Paths, we’re all about crafting those kinds of experiences – places that feel authentic, surprising, and unforgettable.
👉 Ready to discover your own adventure? Explore our collection of unique journeys with Untravelled Paths here.
Written By Marius Macoveiu
The post Beyond the Beaten Path with the Architect of Untravelled Paths appeared first on Untravelled Paths.
from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/beyond-the-beaten-path-with-untravelled-paths/
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