There’s no better time than the start of a new year to start planning for a holiday in the months ahead. And if you’re looking for places off the beaten track, Airbnb has just announced a list of 16 up-and-coming neighbourhoods that have been super popular throughout 2015, and it turns out that the majority of these towns are outside the ‘traditional’ tourist areas in those cities. Why people flock to these ‘hoods: For their vibrant art scenes, cool shopping and amazing food. Click through our gallery to find out just where they are (hint: you just might find cool new hangout spots in Bali, Thailand and Australia). By Lucy Rees.
It’s famous for its temples and the Kuromon Ichiba Market – an area with over 300 stores also known as “Gastronome” or “Osaka’s Kitchen.”
Head here for a cool bar scene and an ever-evolving marketplace. In the Rattanakosin area or “Old Bangkok,” visit an emerald Buddha carved from a single block of jade.
Also known as “Little India”, the area is undergoing a massive urban transformation. Lining the streets are Indian shops selling saris, spices, silks, not to mention some of the best Indian restaurants.
We might know Bourdeaux for its wine, but Capucins – aka “the belly of Bordeaux” – is known for its food. The major drawcard: Marché des Capucins, where visitors queue for oysters and fresh regional produce.
This is home to ancient treasures as well as pedestrian-only streets – sit outside, order a coffee and watch the world go by.
This neighbourhood is famed for its sailors, bullfighters, flamenco artists and azulejos (tin-glazed ceramic artworks). What more is there to say?
The up-and-coming area has started to be called “Hammerbrooklyn” after the hipster New York borough.
Go on hikes with breathtaking views and beautiful beaches, or indulge yourselves in this food mecca.
The city stretches 20 kilometers down the coast, perfect for hopping on a boat and exploring nearby fishing villages.
Take a trip down to this traditional Mexican neighbourhood for its bustling local market, Mercado de Medellín.
If you’re the adventurous type, this Texas neighbourhood includes jogging and bike-riding trails (the Katy Trail) as well as awesome music and food.
The Beltline Trail makes the city pedestrian-friendly. It also plays host to several art exhibitions.
Visit the old Jewish quarter otherwise known as Erzsebetvaros, home to both beautiful synagogues and architecture as well as a happening nightlife thanks to “ruin bars”, in which old buildings and derelict public spaces have been transformed.
Apparently one of the world’s best locations for surfing, it’s also where the famous cliff-hanging temple at Uluwatu is located.
The multicultural Melbourne suburb is known for its vibrant art scene, farmers’ markets and the best Vietnamese and Greek restaurants.
With a burgeoning arts and music scene, this local area is undergoing a revival.
Like this? Book these stylish Airbnbs in Bangkok on your next trip there.