As travel continues to recover and evolve, more UK holidaymakers are reconsidering their choice of destinations. Overcrowding, high costs, and the environmental toll in some destinations are creating interest in “destination dupes” — lesser-known locations that provide similar experiences to iconic hotspots. For travellers seeking fresh alternatives, destination dupes offer a compelling possibility
What Are Destination Dupes?
Destination dupes are travel alternatives that mimic the allure, aesthetic, or activities of popular locations but come with fewer crowds and often lower costs. These substitutes provide an opportunity to explore new regions while avoiding the drawbacks of overtourism. As demand for sustainable and affordable travel grows, destination dupes are becoming a smarter choice for plenty of thoughtful travellers.
Why Are Destination Dupes Relevant?
Several factors have made destination dupes a key trend in travel:
Overtourism
Popular destinations like Venice, Santorini, and Paris often experience overwhelming crowds during peak seasons, diminishing the quality of the visitor experience and straining local resources.
Rising Costs
High demand in iconic spots drives up prices for accommodation, dining, and attractions, making these trips less accessible for budget-conscious travellers.
Unique Experiences
Many tourists now value authenticity and novelty, seeking places that feel less commercialised and more culturally immersive.
European Alternatives
Ljubljana in Slovenia as an alternative to Venice
Venice’s picturesque canals and romantic charm draw millions of visitors annually, leading to overcrowding and high costs. Ljubljana, with its scenic riverbanks, pedestrian-friendly old town, and relaxed atmosphere, offers a similar experience. Visitors can explore the Ljubljanica River by boat, dine al fresco along its banks, and enjoy the city’s lively arts scene.
In Greece, Paros, instead of Mykonos
While Mykonos is renowned for its nightlife and whitewashed architecture, Paros offers a quieter alternative with the same Cycladic beauty. Visitors can enjoy serene beaches, quaint villages, and great dining at lower costs and with fewer other tourists.
Český Krumlov, in the Czech Republic rather than Bruges in Belgium
Bruges is famous for its medieval charm, but Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic rivals it with cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. The town’s iconic castle and riverside cafes provide a storybook setting without the crowds.
Porto, Portugal instead of Barcelona
For travellers seeking a vibrant city break with architectural wonders, Porto offers a more relaxed alternative to Barcelona. The city is known for its colourful Ribeira district, historic trams, and renowned port wine.
Beyond Europe: Global Destination Dupes
Taipei, Taiwan as an alternative to Seoul in South Korea
Seoul’s bustling urban energy, street markets, and culinary delights have made it a go-to for Asian city breaks. Taipei shares these qualities but with a unique Taiwanese twist. Highlights include night markets, the Taipei 101 skyscraper, and hot spring resorts nearby. And for car enthusiasts, look out for Saabs – Taiwan is reputedly the third largest market for used Saabs after the US and the UK
Hoi An, Vietnam Instead of Kyoto in Japan
Kyoto’s temples and traditional wooden architecture attract millions each year, but Hoi An offers a comparable cultural experience. The Vietnamese town’s lantern-lit streets, riverside markets, and UNESCO-listed old town provide a serene alternative.
Memphis, USA over Nashville, USA
While Nashville is celebrated as the home of country music, Memphis’s rich history of blues and soul offers a different yet equally exciting musical heritage. Visitors can explore Graceland, the Beale Street entertainment district, and the National Civil Rights Museum.
Advantages of Destination Dupes
Avoiding Crowds
Lesser-known destinations typically attract fewer visitors, providing a more relaxed and authentic experience. Travellers can explore attractions without the stress of overcrowding or long queues.
Cost Savings
Accommodation, dining, and activities in alternative destinations are often significantly cheaper than in their famous counterparts, making these trips more accessible.
Sustainability
By spreading tourism across lesser-visited areas, destination dupes help alleviate the environmental and social strain on over-visited cities and coastal locations. This contributes to more sustainable travel practices.
Destination Dupes – Potential Drawbacks
Limited Infrastructure
Some alternative destinations may lack the developed tourist amenities of their better-known counterparts, which can impact convenience.
Fewer Direct Connections
Travellers might find fewer flight options or longer travel times to reach dupes, adding logistical complexity to the trip.
Variable Quality
While dupes can offer similar experiences, they may not always match the iconic features or atmosphere of the originals. It’s essential for travellers to set realistic expectations.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dupe
When selecting a destination dupe, consider your priorities. Are you seeking a cultural city break, a scenic retreat, or an adventure-packed holiday? Research the activities and attractions available at your chosen alternative to ensure they match your interests and priorities. Adjust expectations and be realistic about possible shortcomings. And be aware that the good destination dupes may well soon be as busy as the originals they replaced.
Destination dupes offer an exciting opportunity to rethink traditional travel habits, explore new places, and embrace more sustainable tourism. These alternatives, very often real gems in their own right, prove that the road less travelled can often leads to richer experiences.
By Declan Morton, writer and editor at Essiell Ltd and Money4Travel.
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