Hidden Gems

Hidden Gems are the places we search for when we travel. We love hidden gems because they usually provide a surprise and are always very interesting. We find Hidden Gems in terms of places that are not well published. For example, like a church that holds great concerts, a truly beautiful waterfall or other scenic view. We also love to discover an older part of town, a beautiful beach, or a majestic vista. One of our favorite Hidden Gems is the Etrect golf course in France or the entire city of Hoi An in Vietnam. Also, the city of Loreto in Baja Sur in Mexico is also a true hidden gem. Some of our favorite hidden gems are restaurants. We ate in the cook’s home in Loreto which was truly spectacular.

Other hidden gem restaurants are Michelin reviewed but Bib Gourmand and Michelin Plate rated. Michelin Starred are most expensive. Most are familiar with the Michelin Star Restaurants, the best and likely quite expensive. Bib Gourmand includes good restaurants that offer a refined cuisine at an affordable price. The Michelin Plate symbol is given to a restaurant which has been recognized for its quality but may still be working towards a star.

As we have traveled around the globe, nothing has impressed us more as Hidden Gems, than some of the World Botanical Gardens that we have encountered. Funding for the maintenance and upkeep are normally supported by philanthropic organizations. They have made major contributions to their beauty. A few are supported by local governments, but whichever funding approach is used, the sheer beauty is always apparent. Here are some of the best that we have found.