When we think of world travel, the same old culprits come to our minds: France, Japan, the United States, or Italy. But beyond these popular destinations lies a world full of lesser-known countries that are incredibly fascinating in their own way. Every nook and cranny of this globe shelters nations which, despite their unique cultures, histories, and landscapes, mostly go by unnoticed. Let us take a look today at three such countries: Comoros, Suriname, and Bhutan. And, of course, all of these countries have stories to tell and surprises that will make you desirous to explore more of our incredible planet.

1. Comoros is a mysterious island nation.

Comoros, situated in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mozambique, is a small, volcanic archipelago of four islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan, and Mayotte, the latter being politically disputed because it is still claimed by France. Despite its stunning natural beauty, Comoros is seemingly one of the least-known or least-visited countries in the world. Now, let's see what makes the nation so intriguing:.

A Rich Blend of Cultures

Comoros represents a peculiar blend of African, Arab, and French influences. For the most part, its population is Muslim, speaking Comorian-a dialect of Swahili-along with Arabic and French. The cultural mix is expressed in its architecture, music, cuisine, and daily life. A stroll through the streets of its capital, Moroni, will bring you by whitewashed buildings, narrow alleyways with the feel of old Arabian towns, and rowdy markets full of local produce and spices.

Natural Beauty and Challenges

Comoros boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and volcanic landscapes. The country boasts one of the largest active volcanoes in the world: Mount Karthala. This gives adventurous travelers a chance for some trekking and assuring panoramic views. The islands are fringed by living coral reefs that teem with marine life, making them a snorkeler's and diver's paradise. However, despite this natural beauty, many challenges abound within Comoros, including political instability and poverty, which have contributed to its low tourism profile.

Interesting Fact

Ylang-ylang essential oil used in such perfumes as Chanel No. 5 is produced by a leading producer, Comoros. The country strongly depends on the export of this aromatic oil, alongside vanilla and cloves.

2. Suriname: South America's best-kept secret

Smack between French Guiana, Guyana, and Brazil lies Suriname, one of the best-kept secrets on the continent of South America. This tiny country is a former Dutch colony filled with cultures and biodiversity, yet remains largely off the global tourism radar.

Cultural Mosaic

One of the most interesting features about Suriname is its cultural diversity. With descendants from African slaves, Indian and Javanese indentured workers, Chinese immigration, and indigenous peoples, Suriname represents a true cultural mosaic. The capital, Paramaribo, boasts colonial Dutch architecture with mosques, Hindu temples, and synagogues all within walking distance of each other. The city's wooden buildings, dating back to the 17th century, make it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Untouched Rainforests

With 80% of its land covered with tropical rainforests, Suriname is a haven for nature lovers. Another UNESCO site, the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, provides habitat for jaguars, giant river otters, and harpy eagles, among a wide array of other wildlife. For those who seek adventure, the country offers riverboat cruises up through the dense jungle, treks to waterfalls, and remote exchanges with the Maroon and indigenous people.

Interesting Fact

With over 600,000 inhabitants, Suriname has one of the smallest populations in the South American continent. The official language of Suriname is Dutch, a remnant of colonial history, although the inhabitants are widely speaking a creole language called Sranan Tongo, among others.

3. Bhutan: The Himalayan Kingdom of Happiness

Bhutan is a small, landlocked kingdom in the eastern Himalayas that often gets overshadowed by neighbors India and China. Still, it's carved out for itself a unique identity where the very happiness of its citizens is prioritized over economic growth. Bhutan's policy of Gross National Happiness, not Gross Domestic Product, is one guiding philosophy of its development.

Land of the Thunder Dragon

Known as "Druk Yul," or the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," Bhutan is rich in Buddhist culture and traditions. Its majestic dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, and chortens (stupas) dot the landscape, with the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery perched precariously on a cliffside being a must-visit. The Bhutanese people live in harmony with nature, which is evident in the country's lush forests, snow-capped mountains, and deep valleys.

Environmental Conservation

Bhutan is one of only a few countries in the world that are carbon-negative; it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it produces. Almost 70% of the country is covered in forests, and it has strict environmental laws for the preservation of biodiversity. Bhutan opened to tourism cautiously, based on its "High Value, Low Impact" policy, which charges every tourist a certain amount of money daily to help preserve its culture and natural environment.

Interesting Fact

Bhutan is the only country in the world that has banned the sale of tobacco products. Smoking in public is not allowed, as it befits the country's commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy environment.

Comoros, Suriname, and Bhutan are countries that are rarely, if ever, in the spotlight; however, they hold a lot of culture, wonderful landscapes, and different worldviews. Exploring these nations can provide a refreshing departure from the usual tourist trails. Whether it is Comoros, with its bright, spice-scented islands; Suriname with its mosaic of cultures; or Bhutan, with its serene mountains centered around happiness, each shows there is more to see in our big, diverse world.