With April Fool’s Day on the horizon on April 1, people around the world can expect a light-hearted laugh and a proper giggle on the annual day of jokes and pranks that tickles the whole world. To join in on the fun, Booking.com is sharing six humorously named destinations to put a smile on travelers’ faces, and maybe even a new destination on their bucket list. Whether travelers are craving a little drama in Greece, would like an audience with a past U.S. President in Obama in Japan, or feel like attempting to spell or pronounce Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch in Wales, there’s a hilariously named destination out there for everything from a good laugh to a fantastic vacation.

Kutta, Karnataka 

Well, what’s in the name? Sound humorous we know why, but this place in the Indian state of Karnataka, Kutta, a small village in the Ponnampet taluk of Kodagu, serves as the hub for the many nearby tourist destinations. It is famous for its wildlife, well, goes somewhat with its name, right? Kutta is most known for serving as the entry point to the Nagarhole National Park and is home to misty mountains, undulating rivers, and tumbling waterfalls. The village is bordered to the north by coffee plantations and paddy fields, to the west by the Brahmagiri Mountain Range, to the east by Nagarahole, and to the south by the Wayanad district’s Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary.

Where to stay: A fantastic lodging option with a garden, free WiFi, a shared kitchen, and room service, Entire Villa at the Heart of the Wayanad Forest is situated in Kutta, 13 kilometres from Thirunelly Temple. Private parking spaces are available at no cost, as well as a free shuttle. The property offers complimentary shuttle service as well as private parking. The villa offers two separate bedrooms, a living area, a fully functional kitchen with a burner, and two bathrooms. Each morning, the staff serve a delicious breakfast that includes buffet, continental, and Asian cuisines. At Entire Villa at the Heart of the Wayanad Forest, the travellers can rent a car and a bicycle, and can go fishing nearby.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Wales

This long-named village which translates as ‘St Mary’s Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel near a Rapid Whirlpool and the Church of St. Tysilio near the Red Cave,’ is a bit of a mouthful of a destination. However, travelers shouldn’t let the longest place name in Europe put them off, as the quiet seaside town is located on the charming island of Anglesey on the northwest coast of north Wales. Visitors can stroll down the stunning beaches for a brisk walk full of fresh air before cozying up in a cute local pub for a delightful drink. For a day trip, Bangor is a short drive away where history lovers can enjoy a tour of the local Bangor Cathedral and some shopping down Wales’ longest high street. Or travelers can visit nearby Llandudno to take a trip further afield with a Snowdonia, Portmeirion, and Conwy Tour to experience stunning views of the coast and Caernarfon Castle which is a treasured UNESCO World Heritage site.

Where to stay: Almost as hard to pronounce as the town where its guests are staying, Y Gorsaf is a colorful and uplifting holiday home, perfect for the 78% of travelers who want their travel plans to be simple over luxurious in 2023.* Featuring quirky and modern interiors, this stay is perfect for families and features bunk beds for kids to enjoy. The holiday home is also conveniently located within driving distance of some of Anglesey’s gems from the iconic Menai suspension bridge to stunning coastal paths. The holiday home is also just next door to a lovely Welsh pub. 

Drama, Greece

Located in the northeastern corner of Greece, there’s thankfully no emotional spectacle needed to explore Drama, except for the spectacular views. The city of Drama features a picturesque center with vibrant cafes and restaurants, serving delicious local cuisines such as mouth-watering pork and chicken gyros or rustic Bougatsa, a traditional Greek pie consisting of flaky filo pastry layered with a filling of delicious, minced meat, cheese, or custard. The wider region, also called Drama, is blessed with amazing natural wonders, including valleys, mountains and even ski resorts. With over half (55%) of travelers wanting adventures well suited to a group of friends traveling together, * it’s an ideal destination for any gang to enjoy outdoor activities in the winter months. Visitors can wander around the charming squares admiring the preserved neoclassical mansions such as the Anastasiadis Mansion which was exquisitely built with local marble. Guests can admire these stunning buildings without a care in the world or any melodrama…

Where to stay: Housed in an old tobacco warehouse, Hydrama Grand Hotel is a lovely stay for travelers to explore the city of Drama. The modern rooms offer great views of Agia Varvara springs, the city’s largest park worth strolling through. Guests can enjoy various activities in the surrounding area, including cycling and hiking. And after a day filled with sightseeing and activities, guests can enjoy relaxation at the property’s spa and wellness center with an aromatherapy massage to heighten the senses. This Booking.com Travel Sustainable stay also makes an effort to reduce food waste and has a ban on single-use plastics to support the environment.

Obama, Japan

Not to be confused with the former U.S. president, although the connection has been used to humorously promote tourism, this picturesque port city is located in Fukui Prefecture, just north of Kyoto. The name Obama means “little beach” and is known for its very steep and irregular coastlines. Besides enjoying views of Wakasa Bay, travelers can explore the city’s culture by visiting one of the many historical temples throughout the city, particularly the Myotsu-ji Temple which is surrounded by beautiful ponds and vibrant greenery. For food lovers, Obama will not disappoint as the city is known for its delicious seafood, its delicacy being mackerel which is popularly served in sushi. Travelers can visit the Wakasa Obama Fish Market at the crack of dawn for a truly authentic Japanese experience to visit a traditional fish market, ideal for half (71%) of global travelers who wish to experience a culture shock on their travels in 2023.

Where to stay: Obama Machiya Stay is located just a short walk away from Shiratori Beach, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a bit of the seaside during their stay. This charming holiday home offers spacious rooms with traditional Japanese décor furnished with cozy wood interiors and sleek, functional designs. Guests can explore the surrounding area on foot, including the Wasaka Fisherman’s Wharf to taste some of the best seafood, including fresh sushi and sashimi. 

Sauce, Peru

Known for its incredible natural setting, the lakeside town of Sauce in the San Martin region in Peru is a dreamy destination for travelers seeking to relax and unwind on their next vacation. The town’s Lake Sauce is crystal clear and surrounded by incredible scenery making it a serene spot for wild swimming and fishing. This Peruvian hidden gem is located off the beaten track but its untouched beauty and breathtaking views make it a destination worth a visit. For travelers wanting to explore more of the region, it’s definitely worth renting a car. Tarapoto, the largest city of the region known as ‘the city of Palm Trees’ is a short drive away or visitors can take a trip to the wineries in the San Martin region if seeking some stronger sauce.

Where to stay: Travelers can enjoy the tranquil ambiance at Maloca Inn as the lodge is directly located near Lake Sauce and is surrounded by luscious greenery, mountain views, and tropical nature. Guests can relax and unwind by taking a dip in the outdoor pool and savoring a cooling cocktail while enjoying the sunset from their private balconies and terraces. The stay’s cabana overlooking the picturesque lake features comfy hammocks where guests can read a book while gazing out over the water.

Krk, Croatia

While there aren’t many letters in the name, Croatia’s largest island has much to offer. Located in the center of Kvarner Bay and nicknamed the ‘golden island,’ Krk is known for its fantastic warm weather, sandy beaches, and charming forests on the island’s western side. Travelers can explore the numerous authentic Mediterranean fishing villages and ancient towns boasting historical and cultural monuments from St Mary’s Cathedral to Frankopan Castle located in the town center and on the southwest coast of the island. For travelers seeking a thrill and to see Krk from great heights, a zip line as far as two kilometers (1.24 miles) gives visitors a fantastic bird’s eye view of the island they may struggle to pronounce (pronounced Kirk). Travelers can also explore the Adriatic Sea and the wild bays of the region on a Boat Tour To Plavnik, a gorgeous and unpopulated island off Krk, by swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters.

Where to stay: Just a short walk away from Vela Plaža Beach in the south of the island,Happy Apartments Baška offers comfortable and modern interiors for a stay that feels like home. Guests can unwind on their charming private patios, with some guests lucky enough to opt for a hot tub in which they can relax. The stay is located in the heart of the town of Baška where travelers can wander around the quaint streets to peruse the promenade, port, and St. Lucy’s Church to absorb the Croatian culture.

For travelers who added these humorously named destinations to their bucket list, Booking.com is sharing Getaway Deals. Discounts start at 15 percent at participating properties indicated by the “Getaway Deal” badge, and are valid for stays with check-out on or before 28 September 2023. In addition, Booking.com is giving travelers around the world the keys to unlock a new level of additional perks with the introduction of a third tier to its Genius loyalty program. Designed to make every trip a better experience, Booking.com’s loyalty program is completely free, easily accessible and membership lasts a lifetime – travelers simply need to create an account to achieve Genius status for life. As Genius members unlock new levels, they get access to larger discounts and more travel rewards that never expire. All travelers have to do is sign into their Booking.com account and look for the Genius logo to identify benefits, discounts and perks.

*Travel Predictions 2023 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total 24,179 respondents across 32 countries and territories were polled (including 1014 from Argentina, 1006 from Australia, 505 from Austria, 504 from Belgium, 1009 from Brazil, 503 from Canada, 1009 from China, 1010 from Colombia, 505 from Croatia, 505 from Denmark, 1010 from France, 1001 from Germany, 500 from Hong Kong, 1005 from India, 504 from Ireland, 504 from Israel, 1008 from Italy, 1003 from Japan, 504 from Mexico, 502 from The Netherlands, 1007 from New Zealand, 1009 from Portugal, 507 from Singapore, 1008 from South Korea, 1001 from Spain, 505 from Sweden, 508 from Switzerland, 500 from Taiwan, 504 from Thailand, 1006 from the UK, 1009 from the US and 504 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in August 2022.

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