10 Underrated Neighborhoods Locals Love: Hidden Gems from Lonely Planet
Discover captivating lesser-known neighborhoods in global cities through this excerpt from Lonely Planet's 1000 Ultimate Experiences. These districts are cherished by locals for their authentic charm and unique vibes.
1. Koreatown, Toronto, Canada
Toronto, one of the world's most multicultural cities, offers hidden treasures like Koreatown. Head west along Bloor St, past the indie Bloor Cinema and quirky Honest Ed's discount store, to cross into Korean territory. Bilingual signs lead to chobab (sushi) bars and kimchi eateries, while the PAT Central Market brims with exotic vegetables and ready-to-mix bibimbap (mixed rice dish). Cap your night at a noraebang—private Asian-style karaoke booths—belting out classics like 'I Will Survive.' Time your visit for the first weekend in June's Dano Festival, showcasing traditional Korean dance, music, and martial arts demonstrations.
2. Naka-Meguro, Tokyo, Japan
Once a down-at-heel area scarred by WWII, Naka-Meguro along the Meguro River now draws young creatives with affordable rents. Just two stops from Shibuya, it features 13 varieties of tea cafes, avant-garde fashion shops, galleries, and eclectic boutiques—from 1950s Pan Am memorabilia to vintage bikinis. For insider tips, visit www.bento.com. Yakitori fans can reserve at Kushiwakamaru (open 1–5pm; ~JPY3000 per person).
3. Waitakere, Auckland, New Zealand
Though part of Auckland, Waitakere—20 minutes west of downtown—feels worlds away. It encapsulates New Zealand's essence: black-sand beaches for surfers, pristine rainforest trails, hiking hills, and boutique wineries. Browse arts at Titirangi market (last Sunday monthly), grab fresh produce from roadside stalls, run the Waitakere Marathon, trek the ranges, or relax at iconic Piha Beach.
4. Williamsburg, New York, USA
Williamsburg in Brooklyn pulses with creativity. Long-haired musicians mingle with Puerto Rican, Italian, and Jewish communities along Bedford Avenue's bars. Stroll from Manhattan over the Williamsburg Bridge to explore 60+ galleries, record stores, and ethnic eats. Sample brews at Brooklyn Brewery, one of the borough's last. Catch outdoor concerts at McCarren Pool or try indoor trapeze at Streb Laboratory.
5. Crystal Palace, London, England
Spot the Eiffel-like radio mast to find this southeast gem. Though the palace burned in 1936, its park retains a maze, stage, and pioneering dinosaur models—perfect for picnics. Beyond, enjoy cozy cafes, diverse restaurants, a reptile shop, and vintage market. Climb Westow Hill for panoramic city views. Arrive by train to Crystal Palace Station from Victoria or London Bridge, or walk the Green Chain from the Thames.
6. Boedo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Skip touristy tango in La Boca and San Telmo; locals head to blue-collar Boedo, immortalized in tango classic 'Sur.' Its bars host sultry performers amid historic cafes where 1920s leftists gathered. Stroll 100-year-old cottages, then visit opulent Las Violetas (est. 1884). Explore more at www.boedomas10.com.ar, curated by local Susana Garcia.
7. Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
'Obz' bridged racial divides during apartheid and thrives today with University of Cape Town students animating its bars and cafes. Amid graffiti and peeling paint, savor modern maize porridge (mealie pap) and emerging bands. The South African Astronomical Observatory opens telescopes to visitors on the second and fourth Saturdays monthly—details at www.saao.ac.za.
8. Belleville, Paris, France
On Paris's second-highest hill, Belleville offers an edgier Montmartre sans crowds. Shop the bustling Tuesday/Friday market on rue de Belleville for picnic supplies, then unwind in its unpolished park. Edith Piaf's birthplace draws Algerian, Chinese, and North African influences to bakeries, hookah lounges, artist squats, and noodle bars. Metro to Belleville, Pyrénées, or Jourdain.
9. Balmain, Sydney, Australia
A quick 10-minute ferry from Circular Quay under Harbour Bridge lands you in historic Balmain. Georgian mansions and sandstone cottages mix with trendy cafes and galleries. Hunt quirks at Saturday markets in St Andrew's Church grounds (Asian ingredients to candles). Dawn at Pyrmont fish market for crabs and oysters, swim Dawn Fraser Baths, swing at Monkey Bar on Darling Street.
10. NoHo, Hong Kong
Skip SoHo for rising NoHo north of Hollywood Road on Gough Street. Once printing presses, now it's jewelry boutiques, galleries, fusion eateries, and street soup stalls. Hong Kong's premier LGBTQ+ spot starts at Lot 10 Mediterranean on Gough Street.
