underrated cities

These are the places overshadowed by other cities with more evocative names, usually unjustly so. I often find myself enjoying the B-list cities even more, since my expectations are lower, and often I'll an easier time finding bargains.

-Brussels. I wind up there a lot, most recently for a three-month project over 2011-12 winter. Brussels has some of the best food in the world, a very compact and gorgeous historical center, vibrant bar culture, and Europe's prettiest square. An added bonus is being 38 minutes from Antwerp, 80 minutes from Paris, and two hours from both London and Amsterdam.

-Kuala Lumpur. Another of the best cities in the world for eating. KL has some really unique architecture, an interesting blend of cultures (Malay-Chinese-Indian), modern infrastructure and connections to Singapore and Bangkok, and quirky colonial history.

-Medellin. People still look at you like you're crazy for having gone there as a tourist, two decades after Pablo Escobar. The city feels like it's in full renaissance, with a thriving arts and design scene. The climate is gorgeous, as well as the city's physical setting in a mountain valley. The cable cars integrated with the rail system make for a unique day out sightseeing.

Just off the top of my head, by no means comprehensive ...

Minneapolis-St Paul

busman7 wrote:Minneapolis-St Paul

Agreed, although I'm quite biased on this one.

Haven't visited there since the mid80's but always liked it & surrounding area.

Kansas City.

Baku, Azerbaijan - A UNESCO listed old city and palace, a shocking variety of above average international cuisine (uncommon in other countries in the region). An abundance of bars with live music. Philharmonics, ballets, dramatic theatre, puppet theatres all costing a couple dollars to see. Most international fashion brands for shop-a-holics. A nice seaside park.

Oslo, Norway - Expensive? Sure. But Oslo has a wonderful alternative lifestyle scene with interesting cafes, art, music and performances. There are culturally unique museums. And it's easy access to some of the most spectacular nature on Earth.

Panama City, Panama - Unlike other Central American capitals, Panama City is a safe yet vibrant city. plenty of excellent shopping choices during the day and even more party options at night. A unique Casquo Viejo (old city) overlooks the eruption of seaside skyscrapers which have earn the city the nickname "Miami of the South". Plus easy access to getaways like Taboga Island.