Most Overrated Countries I’ve Visited (As a Malaysian Muslim Traveler)

1. Dubai, UAE

   
   

When I first landed in Dubai, I was so excited. Everything looked so modern and luxurious. The Burj Khalifa, the malls, the desert rides… all the influencers made it look like a dream. But after spending a few days there, I realized something. Dubai felt more like a giant shopping mall than a cultural destination. Almost everything was about spending money, from overpriced desert tours to basic food at ridiculous prices. I was also surprised at how little “real” Emirati culture you experience unless you go out of the city. And while it’s a Muslim country, Halal food wasn’t always clearly labeled, and some areas felt more Western than Islamic. In short, it was flashy but soulless. I left feeling like I paid a lot for something I didn’t connect with.

2. Paris, France

   
   

Ah, Paris. The city of love, lights, and… disappointment? I know it sounds dramatic, but the moment I arrived, things felt off. The Eiffel Tower was beautiful, but the area around it was full of pickpockets, scammers, and long lines. The romantic vibe? Completely ruined by people constantly trying to sell you keychains or fake tickets. And the attitude? Let’s just say, being a visibly Muslim traveler in France isn’t easy. I wore a hijab during my visit, and I could feel the stares, especially in the metro. Many Malaysians think Paris is a dream, but honestly, for me, it was a bit of a nightmare. Sure, the pastries were nice but they don’t make up for the uncomfortable energy and lack of warmth.

3. Venice, Italy

Venice was another bucket-list place for me. I imagined peaceful gondola rides and beautiful historic streets. But the reality? Crowded, humid, and touristy to the max. Everything was expensive, from the gondola (RM400 for 30 minutes!) to water bottles (RM15). I also struggled to find Halal or seafood options that weren’t super overpriced. Most restaurants didn’t even have English menus, and some made it pretty obvious they didn’t like tourists. Worst of all, Venice felt like a museum rather than a living city. Locals are moving out because of tourism and it shows. After one day, I felt like I had seen everything, yet spent way too much doing it.

4. Bali, Indonesia

I know, I know. Every Malaysian seems to love Bali. But hear me out. I was so excited to go, expecting a peaceful island with nature and culture. But the moment I arrived in areas like Canggu or Seminyak, it felt like I was in Australia. Full of digital nomads, loud tourists, and overpriced cafés selling smoothie bowls for RM40. Yes, there are stunning places like Ubud and waterfalls, but even those are packed with people now. What shocked me the most was how tourism has taken over the Balinese culture. Also, Halal food isn’t as easy to find as you’d expect in Indonesia. Many stalls mix ingredients or serve pork, so I had to ask again and again. For a place so close to Malaysia, it felt strangely exhausting. Too many people, too much hype, and not enough peace.

5. Los Angeles, USA

I grew up watching Hollywood movies, so visiting LA felt like a dream come true. But honestly, it didn’t live up to the hype. First, it’s so spread out. You need to drive everywhere, and the traffic is horrible. I stayed near Hollywood Boulevard, and it was nothing like I imagined. Dirty streets, homeless people everywhere, and almost everything felt fake or exaggerated. Even the famous “stars” on the sidewalk were surrounded by sketchy people trying to charge you for pictures. Plus, food prices were insane. One halal burger cost me over RM70. And don’t get me started on the immigration experience. Long, cold stares and intense questioning just for having a Muslim name. By the end, I couldn’t wait to leave.