Do you remember the saying, “All that glitters is not gold”? Well, the saying is true when it comes to travelling. While you might see a stunning beach with blue waters on your friends Instagram page, it might not look like that in real life. Travel agencies, as well as people, like to edit their photos to make them more appealing. This technique is used to attract visitors to a certain country or to get some extra Instagram followers. So, before you pack your bags and head out to a destination based on an Instagram post or magazine cover, take a look at these 11 famous places in real-life.
1. GREAT WALL OF CHINA
It snakes along for miles, beautifully devoid of anyone but you.

In reality, there are humans everywhere.
2. EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS
We imagine a vast desert, the scorching sun, camels, and other Egyptian attributes when we hear “Egyptian pyramids”.
In reality, these masterpieces are extremely close to the city with millions of street vendors and locals trying to prey on tourists.
3. CHRIST THE REDEEMER
Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer is a sight to behold.
You would have a much better experience and be able to enjoy the scenery from a distance. Like any other tourist destination, the spot is insanely packed.
4. MONA LISA
The Mona Lisa is patiently waiting for you to take that perfect photo or selfie.
That is, if you are strong enough to push through hundreds of people trying to do the same thing.
5. NIAGARA FALLS
Niagara Falls, located in both the United States and Canada, is quite magical.
In reality, if you are lucky enough, you will get too see the bottom of the falls.
6. VIALE VATICANO
Enjoying the beautiful paintings on the ceilings and walls in Viale Vaticano, Roma, Italy.
It’s really a cattle herd with a beautiful ceiling.
7. EIFFEL TOWER
What’s a trip to Paris without a shot of the Eiffel Tower?
There’s a long line to get close to the Eiffel Tower. It’s best to enjoy the structural beauty from a mile or two away.
8. DISNEY WORLD
It is the most magical place on Earth…
…unless you have claustrophobia, that is.
9. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation that is known for its beaches, resorts and golfing.
Walk a mile away from the popular beaches and this is the view you will see.
10. TAJ MAHAL
The gorgeous Taj Mahal mausoleum, located in Agra, India.
The internet is filled with gorgeous views of the Taj Mahal. It’s beauty is indeed overwhelming but sadly, the Taj Mahal is located near a huge garbage dumping ground.
11. BUCKINGHAM PALACE
People love watching Buckingham Palace’s changing of the guards.
Apparently, a lot of people love watching Buckingham Palace’s guards change.
Have you ever been to a famous tourists hotspot and were disappointed? Share your experience with us through the comments section.