Hanging out at dusk in Goreme, Turkey. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

Sometimes the last thing you want is another big city.  While they have their advantages for the traveler, a smaller city or town is what you really need. But, you still want to have access to the modern conveniences.  You don’t need to get away from it all, just most of it.  So, for part 2 of our series, we transition from the giant metropolises to the mid-size towns where you can be in a relaxed atmosphere but still get what you need.

Just like with the cities, each of these places offers something different. But, they all have 3 things in common.

1. They are traveler friendly.
2. They have a cool vibe
3. They make it easy to connect to the city, the country and the culture

10 Great Mid-Size Towns To Chill and Recharge

Captivating views outside Goreme, Turkey. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

1. Goreme, Turkey. There aren’t many places in the world where you can chill inside a cave and be comfortable. Located in the heart of Cappadocia, Goreme has lots of cafes, internet access and friendly people.  It’s a great place to sit and have an apple tea with the shopkeepers or others that you meet. It’s such a spiritual and centered place that it’s sure to help you recharge your batteries.

Puerto Natales is a great place to rest before and after visiting Torres Del Paine Park. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

2. Puerto Natales, Chile. This town is the gateway to the magnificent Torres Del Paine park. It has a rustic feel but plenty of modern conveniences. You’ll find plenty of cool internet cafes serving coffee, and restaurants for all tastes including a vegetarian option, several gourmet places and pizza that’s not bad at all. There are stores to stock up for your time in the Park or simply cooking for yourself at the local hostel. If you are debating between hanging out in Punta Arenas or here, choose this town. Oh, be sure to have to have the local Patagonian lamb.

Summer in Ushuaia, Argentina in December. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

3. Ushuaia, Argentina. While I would dispute its claim as the southernmost city in the world (Puerto Williams, Chile is further to the south), I would say that its superior to its southern neighbor for the amenities that it offers. You can explore the Tierra Del Fuego National Park during the day and hang out at night in one of the many bars and restaurants which include several ¨tenedor libre¨ or budget cafeterias. Be sure to have the king crab while you’re here.

Punta Ballena outside of Punta del Este features the famous Casapueblo. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

4. Punta Del Este, Uruguay. Known more as the playground of rich Brazilians and Argentines, this coastal city is charming, modern and a good place to rest. There aren’t a ton of things to see in the town. But, you can easily rent a car to make daytrips up and down the coast. You’ll be surprised at how good the local wine is.

The mix of colonial charm and beaches will make you feel at home in Paraty. Johan Ohrling

Copyright Johan Ohrling

5. Paraty, Brazil. This colonial town has a lot to love: beaches and cheap boat tours, cool colonial architecture, great street food and amazing restaurants.  Hang out here for a relaxing time where you will feel like you are off the beaten path, but without sacrificing modern conveniences.

One of the many coffee farms around Armenia Colombia. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

6. Armenia, Colombia. This city is the gateway to Colombia’s National Coffee park. Downtown is a little bland, but the city is cheap and has everything you will need.  Go just outside the town to stay at a remodeled coffee farm. Even though you are in the heart of coffee country, be sure to have hot chocolate for breakfast.

Main plaza in Cuenca, Ecuador. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

7. Cuenca, Ecuador. Known as one of the most cultured cities in Ecuador by Ecuadoreans, Cuenca has lots of great architecture and museums to keep you busy but at a pace where you won’t feel rushed.  Have coffee outside at one of the many cafes while reading or catching up on your email.

Cathedral at night in the main plaza in Salta, Argentina. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

8. Salta, Argentina. For something different in Argentina, head up to Salta. Teeming with outdoor cafes, museums and a vibrant nightlife, Salta will show you a different side of Argentina. For those that can’t make it to Bolivia or other Andean nations, Salta will give you a taste of Andean culture.  After you’ve relaxed, consider renting a car to explore the rest of the province and head up to the Jujuy province.

Monkeyland is a great place to spend part of your day outside of Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

9. Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. The epicenter of the Garden Route, Plett (as it is locally known) is a great beachside community where you can relax by the waves, explore the local nature parks and still have access to all the modern conveniences.  Head to Knysna for the country’s best oysters. And, if you head to Monkeyland, find Lara and tell her Jeff says hi.

Lake Nahuel Huapi bordering Bariloche, Argentina. Copyright CareerBreakSecrets.com

10. Bariloche, Argentina. If you like mountains, lakes and a bit of German heritage, then head to Bariloche. There’s plenty to do here and with the local bus system servicing the major mountain parks, it’s easy to get around.  Be sure to indulge in a bit of the local chocolate while you’re there. This is where I spent a month on my career break to learn how to ski.  Finally, the lake tours are a great way to see the scenery of the area.

What other mid-size towns and cities around the world do you suggest for nesting during your travels?

Next up, 10 Great Off-the-Beaten Path Towns!

Don’t forget to check out my favorite big cities to chill.

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Tags: career break travel, travel advice

This entry was posted on Friday, February 11th, 2011 at 7:00 am and is filed under Jeff's blog, Life on the Road, Where to go. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.