Six Dangerous Locations Are Now Havens for Adventurous Travelers

“Hotbeds” Turned “Hotspots”:

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. October 14, 2008

JANUARY 23, 2008. War. Terrorism. Civil Unrest. Natural Disaster. Not exactly descriptions you're likely to find in a Chamber of Commerce brochure. However, for the following destinations-all of which were at some point plagued with misfortune and declared too dangerous to visit-these once accurate descriptions are now a thing of the past. Today, they represent safe and viable options for the traveler looking for the less predictable vacation destination.

Hostelworld.com unveils six locations once known as "hot beds" that have become this year's "hot spots" for world-wide travel.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

During much of the 70s, 80s and 90s Northern Ireland was known for regular terrorism and guerilla warfare between the Irish Republic Army and Great Britain. Today this once war-zone country is at peace with a booming economy and cultural activities. Visitors to Belfast will enjoy beautiful gardens, parks, restaurants and antique shopping. Travelers are encouraged to explore the newly refurbished Belfast Castle, which was built in the 12th century by Normans and represents Scottish baronial architecture. After a day of exploring, the Crown Liquor Saloon offers travelers a place to unwind and chat it up with friendly locals. This Victorian-era pub is known for its architecture and design and promises you that each time you enter the saloon you'll notice something new that you missed before.

Hostelworld.com recommends Belfast International Youth Hostel

(http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/BelfastInternationalYouthHostel-Belfast-452)

Hanoi, Vietnam

Best known in the history books for the Vietnam War, Vietnam's history is riddled with political unrest and conflict. However, since 1992 the country has experienced a peaceful existence and a cultural and social rebirth. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, which has experienced its share of unrest, today boasts a host of options for travelers. Old Quarter, a thousand-year-old version of a shopping mall, is perfect for the leisure shopper who will get to "street shop" many different commodities and goods. Comprised with nearly forty streets of shopping, there is surely something for everyone. Forty streets is a lot of ground to cover, but each street is named for its primary good or services, making it a breeze to get to where you want to be. Hanoi has many attractions unique to the region including Hoan Kiem Lake. Rare turtles have been spotted at Hoan Kiem Lake, making it a favorite for locals and tourists alike.

Hostelworld recommends Hanoi Backpackers Hostel

(http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/HanoiBackpackersHostel-Hanoi-10991)

Marrakesh, Morocco

In 2006 Morocco celebrated its 50th anniversary as an independent nation. Prior to its independence, Morocco suffered from political unrest and annexation. Today Morocco acts as a bicameral legislation and has free trade agreements with the United States and European Union. Morocco offers visitors an array of ocean views, mountain terrain and desert landscapes. In July the city of Marrakesh hosts a famous art festival where craftsmen, artists, musicians and dancers fill the street for a week of fun. The Draa River is also a favorite for visitors. Known for its pre-history of the valley the Draa dates back thousands of years, leaving behind evidence of rock art engravings. It is Morocco's longest river and flows from the High Atlas mountains to Tagounit.

Hostelworld recommends Equity Point Marrakech, Riad Amazigh, Marrakech, Morocco

(http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/EquityPointMarrakechRiadAmazigh-Marrakech-20004)

Phuket, Thailand

In December 2004, Phuket was one of many areas on Thailand's western coast to suffer unimaginable tragedy after being struck by a tsunami. The waves destroyed several highly populated areas in the region and killed as many as 5,300 people nationwide. However, Phuket has proven to be a resilient community and once again thrives as one of Asia's most popular beach destinations. From a world class diving experience in the Andaman Sea, first rate golf at a wide variety of championship courses, or a thrilling eco-adventure in a tropical forest, Phuket boasts a seemingly endless array of adventurous, cultural or just simply relaxing options for the worldly traveler.

Hostelworld recommends Phuket Backpacker

(http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/PhuketBackpacker-Phuket-14498)

New Orleans, USA

In August 2005 New Orleans was struck by Hurricane Katrina, one of the five deadliest hurricanes to have ever hit the United States. Known as the worst engineering catastrophe in United State's history, Hurricane Katrina left the city in ruins and thousands homeless. Since 2005 the city has been under reconstruction that has drawn the attention of tourists looking to experience what only New Orleans can offer. Music lovers flock to Bourbon Street to catch the live jazz music that spills into the streets. The annual Jazz and Blues Festival is held every year for two weeks in late April. After a night of dancing, The French Quarter provides courtyards of magnolia and wrought-iron balconies, perfect scenery for an afternoon stroll.

Hostelworld recommends India House Backpackers hostel

http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/IndiaHouseBackpackersHostel-NewOrleans-4857)

Belgrade, Serbia

Serbia was at the center of perhaps the bloodiest and contentious international conflict of the 1990s. War, violence and political unrest in Serbia blanketed the front page of newspapers throughout the world for much of the decade. However, today Serbia is experiencing the benefits or progressive political and social reform. Visitors to the country's capital, Belgrade, enjoy the rich culture the region has to offer. Known for its spirit of celebration, Belgrade hosts many annual festivals throughout the year, highlighting film, theatre, summer, beer, books and music. The city is also known for its National Museum that houses a collection of more than 400,000 exhibits.