Swap St Tropez for Piran, Lisbon for Palermo, and Paros for Santorini…Maldives, Amalfi Coast, and Athens are some of the world’s most beautiful places. However they are also usually crowded, overpriced, and overrun by visitors. Select one of 2024’s biggest go trends: ‘ destination dupes’. What if we told you there are solutions that are as wonderful and memorable as the well-known ones, but they are also more inexpensive and less filled? Below are 10 place dupes to motivate your next vacation, whether you’re looking for a quick getaway this Eid or want to find some summer travel inspiration. This Romanian stone has a laid-back feeling that resembles St Tropez but at a lower price and crowds. Picture- great streets, wonderful cafes, and beautiful sea views make Piran a correct hidden gem. Even though there are no sandy beaches in Piran, jumping on the numerous piers and swimming along the quiet and crystal-clear waters are fun and full of light. If you’re willing to swap the glitter for some outdated- world beauty, Piran is the ideal coastal avoid. This Croatian stone offers a related group scene to Mykonos but with a more relaxed feeling and less of a holiday love, as opposed to Mykonos. Make your way to the hilltop mansion for breathtaking views after a tour along the palm-lined promenade along the beachfront pier. Take a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets full of traditional cocktail bars and seafood restaurants, and do n’t forget to check out the nearby boutiques that sell handcrafted jewelry and designer swimwear. Without breaking the bank, Hvar offers sun-soaked joy and Mediterranean elegance at the same time. There is no place quite like the Amalfi Coast in the summer, which is a destination that attracts people from all over the world via air, land, and ocean. Montenegro is your best option for an escape that essentially resembles the southern landscapes of Amalfi with fewer crowds and lower cost keywords. With lovely Italian- like towns, steep mountains, glass clear waters, as well as a more laid- up feeling, this Balkan beauty is a perfect mix of charm, adventure, and magic. Palermo instead of LisbonFor vacationers seeking a Mediterranean experience, Palermo, the vivid funds of Sicily, offers a beautiful option to Lisbon. With its rich history, diverse architecture, and coastal beauty, Palermo provides a similar backdrop for relaxation and exploration ( without the price tag and crowds ). The undervalued city is ready to welcome you with open arms and leave you spellbound, whether you’re enjoying Italian delicacies from the bustling street food markets, wandering around the old streets, sipping on an aperitivo at one of the great trattorias and organic wine bars, or marveling at the beauty of the feudal churches. For an authentic Cycladic getaway, visit Paros instead of Santorini. According to travel agency Expedia, Paros is 193 percent less crowded than Santorini, which is also known for its sky- high prices. Lose yourself in the twisting alleys of white- washed buildings and blue- domed churches, enjoy long lazy lunches filled with delicious seafood, discover the island’s remote beaches, go surfing, and, for history lovers, Paros’s ancient marble quarries and Ekatontapiliani Church will give you just as much to ponder as Santorini’s Venetian Castle. It’s truly one of Greece’s best kept secrets. Zanzibar instead of the MaldivesWhile we’ll never tire of the country’s renowned crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, Zanzibar is a more affordable option for tropical bliss, only a short five-hour flight from Dubai. With its dream- like beaches, superb seafood, and vibrant coral reefs, Zanzibar offers the perfect blend of relaxation and underwater adventure. Additionally, its rich cultural heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage- listed Stone Town and spice plantations, provides unique experiences not found in the Maldives. Gudauri is one of the world’s most undervalued skiing destinations, in contrast to the Swiss Alps, for the winter sports enthusiasts. It is one of the best places to ski in the world because of its excellent value for money, breathtaking views, uncrowded slopes, and exceptional terrain that caters to all levels of skiing. All for less than the Swiss Alps typically cost. Its ski season runs from mid-December to the end of April, giving enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to experience its burgeoning food and wine scene and snowy splendor. Copenhagen instead of AmsterdamSwap the Dutch capital for some Danish hygge this summer. Copenhagen offers a delightful alternative for those seeking a charming European city break, boasting picture- perfect canals, colourful buildings, a buzzing cultural scene, tasty food, and more. While it may not necessarily be the cheaper option, you can enjoy cycling around the city, indulging in delicious pastries, and exploring hip neighborhoods—minus the crowds. Liverpool instead of LondonIf you’re considering a city break in the UK ( firstly, why? Second, Liverpool offers a refreshing alternative to the capital and a vibrant cultural retreat with rich history. While London will always hold a special place in our hearts, Liverpool boasts an incredible music scene, top notch restaurants, plenty of iconic attractions and museums ( the largest number outside of London ), and a stunning waterfront. Every aspect of the endlessly walkable city appeals to everyone. Pattaya instead of BangkokJust around the bay from Bangkok, this vibrant coastal city offers a relaxed vibe with its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and exciting attractions. While Bangkok dazzles with its temples and markets, Pattaya provides a different kind of excitement, with water sports, amusement parks, and vibrant street scenes. Additionally, it’s only a short drive away from the capital, making it a simple and enjoyable option for a Thai adventure, especially if you’re traveling with family. Images: Unsplash
