12 Destination Dupes To Save You Money
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The thing about traveling is that popularized destinations come with inflated prices and large crowds, which may make the beautiful destinations not worth it anymore. Why would you pay huge amounts of money to encounter huge crowds and not enjoy your well-deserved vacation?
If you are the kind to look for the worth of every coin you pay, you may want to consider less popular options that offer the same allure as their highly publicized counterparts.
While they may be considered “destination dupes,” they are definitely worth it if they help you save money and give you even better exploration opportunities.
Looking for budget-friendly alternatives to the most sought-after destinations? Read on; we have you covered below.
Swap Bora Bora for Mauritius for a Luxurious Tropical Escape
Both Bora Bora and Mauritius are renowned for offering luxurious coastal escapes. While they both cater to travelers looking for lavish stays, Mauritius often offers more affordable accommodation options compared to Bora Bora.
Like Bora Bora, Mauritius features overwater bungalows, upscale resorts, and water-based activities such as snorkeling and diving. However, you will love that Mauritius has more to offer beyond coastal escapades. Tourists can explore its lush landscapes, historic sites, and cultural experiences, offering a richer vacation at lower costs.
When in Mauritius, you can explore Port Louis, the country’s capital. This city features vibrant markets, historic sites such as Aapravasi Ghat, and landmarks such as the Blue Penny Museum.
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Nature enthusiasts can experience wildlife at Black River Gorges National Park, which also offers hiking and bird-watching excursions. Beach lovers can spend their days at Trou aux Biches, Flic en Flac, Belle Mare, and Le Morne.
That being said, any savvy tourist would choose more experiences at lower costs, which is precisely what Mauritius offers.
Read also: Iconic Places
Swap Tokyo for Doha for Modern Cosmopolitan Cities
World-class infrastructure, a rich culinary scene, impressive skylines, and a touch of modernity at every turn are some of the experiences you get when you choose to visit Tokyo or Doha. While the experiences can be borderline the same, Tokyo is more expensive regarding accommodation and dining.
Instead, save some bucks and visit Doha, the capital of Qatar, which is known for its modern architecture, luxurious shopping malls and cultural attractions.
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When in Doha, visit the Museum of Islamic Art, which has one of the world’s most comprehensive Islamic art spanning over 1,400 years. You also want to discover traditional markets such as Souq Waqif, take a dhow cruise along Doha’s Corniche, Visit the Pearl-Qatar, an artificial island development featuring luxury residences, upscale shopping boutiques, and waterfront dining; go on desert safaris, visit the architecturally pleasing National Museum of Qatar, or explore rich Qatari cuisine at the city’s upscale restaurants.
Read also: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Choose Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Over Aspen for Upscale Ski Resorts in North America
Aspen, Colorado, is known for offering world-class ski resorts that attract skiing enthusiasts worldwide.
While Aspen is known to take the skiing experience to unimaginably thrilling levels, the prices of the services can be outrageously high. If you would like the same experience but at lower costs, your best bet is Jackson Hole in Wyoming.
In the heart of the Teton Range, Jackson Hole is renowned for offering challenging terrains, steep slopes, thrilling backcountry runs, and natural scenery featuring towering mountain peaks and alpine forests. If lucky, you may also bump into elks, bison, and moose when visiting this ski resort town.
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For your next ski trip, save your money by skipping Aspen and choosing Jackson Hole. It offers an experience comparable to Aspen’s, whether you want to go skiing, take scenic helicopter tours, snowshoe or snowmobiling, or relax in lavish resorts.
Read also: Small Towns Out of a Fairy Tale
Go for Paros Instead of Santorini for the Ultimate Greek Island Experience
Many tourists planning to visit the Greek Islands almost always have Santorini as one of their top choices. It is truly a charming destination that all island-life enthusiasts should experience at least once.
However, with so much publicity comes large crowds and inflated prices.
Escape the large crowds and save some money by choosing Paros instead. Paros is very much similar to Santorini in terms of traditional Greek architecture, pristine beaches, azure waters, magical sunsets, and endless water sports activities.
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When in Paros, you can walk and cycle around admiring the scenic olive groves, visit historical sites such as Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Church of a Hundred Doors), or spend your days relaxing on its scenic beaches, such as Kolympithres, Santa Maria, Pounda Beach and New Golden Beach.
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World
Choose Zanzibar Over Seychelles for Pristine Beaches
Looking for a tropical paradise to escape to in Africa? Seychelles stands out as a top contender, which is pretty obvious why. Seychelles beaches like Anse Source D’Argent are scenes out of a painting.
With so much popularity, flying and staying in Seychelles is expected to be expensive. Besides, the peak season attracts huge crowds.
A great money-saving alternative would be Zanzibar. While it is not a secret in the tourism industry, Zanzibar is far cheaper than Seychelles.
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Zanzibar is home to undestroyed beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje, all of which promise the ultimate tropical experience. For a more immersive experience, explore the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take dhow cruises to nearby islands like Prison Island, or swim with turtles at Mnarini Marine Turtles Conservation Ponds.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities Around the Globe
Go for Taipei Instead of Seoul for a Vibrant Asian Capital Experience
Asian capital cities are known to interlace vibrant traditional cultural heritage with modernity, something that keeps fascinating big city enthusiasts. Seoul is a popular tourist destination thanks to its numerous attractions, top among them the rise of K-pop culture.
While visiting Seoul can be a once-in-lifetime experience, it can cost an arm and a leg. If you are on a budget, consider going to Taipei, the capital of Taiwan.
Both Taipei and Seoul let tourists experience iconic skyscrapers, vibrant night markets, rich cultural heritage sites, modern shopping experiences, dynamic street food scenes, world-class museums, traditional tea houses, colorful street art, and murals. The most significant difference is that Taipei lets you experience all this without breaking the bank.
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When visiting Taipei, swing by Shilin Night Market and Raohe Night Market to sample Taiwanese specialties such as stinky tofu, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea.
Looking for more exploration options in Taipei? Visit Longshan Temple, ride the Maokong Gondola, snap photos of Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, learn some history at the National Palace Museum, or hit the Elephant Mountain (Nangang District Hiking Trail), which offers scenic views of the city’s skyline.
Read also: Exotic Beaches for Your Bucket List
Pick Singapore City Over Dubai for Opulence and Futuristic Architecture
Oh, Dubai—everyone wants to go there. From travelers to digital nomads and start-up businesses, the opulence and urban sophistication that come with Dubai are irresistible to many people.
But is it overrated? Maybe yes, especially because influencers try so hard to sugarcoat its reality. Beyond seeing the tallest man-made structure, Burj Khalifa, a lot of what you experience in Dubai can be experienced in Singapore City without having to worry about digging deeper into your pocket.
In Singapore, you can marvel at the sleek design and futuristic architecture of Marina Bay Sands, an iconic landmark that rivals Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. You can also go luxury shopping at Orchard Road, comparable to Dubai’s Dubai Mall.
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If you enjoy urban life and modern-day sophistication, Singapore City offers unique experiences with smaller crowds and lower costs.
Read also: Underrated Tropical Destinations
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Over Cancun, Mexico for a Vibrant Coastal Experience
Cancun is a loved destination, and visiting it has been a dream-come- true for many North Americans. Cancun’s peak season falls between December and April, and many tourists travel to this paradise to escape the frigid weather in their countries. In the peak season, you can almost always expect inflated prices and large crowds on the Cancun beaches.
Choosing Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic allows you to have a peaceful retreat with smaller crowds without paying more for dining, experiences, and accommodation.
Punta Cana offers pristine white sand beaches, diverse water activities, vibrant nightlife, stunning sunsets, and a rich culinary scene, just like Cancun.
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Some picturesque beaches not to miss in Punta Cana include Juanillo Beach, Bavaro Beach, and Macao Beach.
Read also: Hidden Beaches Around the Globe
Consider Palawan, Philippines Over Bali, Indonesia for Tranquil Nature Getaways
Are you even a travel enthusiast if you do not have Bali on your bucket list? Everyone wants to go to Bali, and the place is almost ever crowded, come rain come shine. There are always people braving the rain and queuing to enjoy the dreamy Bali swings you see on Instagram.
Yes, Bali is a little paradise with many activities to enjoy. However, if you are a frugal traveler or not a fan of crowds, consider Palawan in the Philippines, which is just as pristine as Bali.
Palawan offers untouched natural beauty, crystal clear landscapes, diverse marine life, pristine beaches, luxury resorts and sunset cruises.
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When in Palawan, things that need to feature in your itinerary include a visit to the Seven Commandos Beach, El Nido Marine Reserve Park, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, The shipwrecks of Coron Bay and Calauit Safari Park.
Read also: Warm February Getaways
Skip the British Virgin Islands for Balos, Crete in Greece for an Unforgettable Island Escape
The British Virgin Islands are one of the most expensive destinations in the Caribbean. The islands are known for luxurious and premium services, making them a magnet for tourists ready to splurge money.
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Balos in Crete would be a good alternative for a tourist who loves the British Virgin Islands and is looking for something similar. Like the British Virgin Islands, Balos offers exotic beaches, island-hopping adventures, exclusive sailing and yachting services, underwater exploration opportunities, sunset cruises, luxury resorts, and rich cultural immersion opportunities.
Read also: Visa-Free Countries
Skip the Maldives for Maui, Hawaii for a Romantic Escape
The Maldives is one of the world’s top destinations for honeymoons and romantic escapes. It is a beautiful destination, and we dare say it is worth the high prices it charges. Pulling a budget trip in the Maldives can be a hassle; it is a luxury destination.
Looking for a destination dupe is the best option for anyone who would like to save some coins and still experience the Maldivian charm. A good Maldives dupe would be Maui in Hawaii.
Like the Maldives, Maui is home to exotic beaches, lush natural landscapes, luxurious resorts, unique cultural experiences, numerous waterfront activities, underwater exploration, and relaxation and wellness opportunities.
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If you want a luxurious honeymoon option, choose the Maldives; it’s cliche but worth it. However, if you are more adventurous and want to enjoy more activities while still saving, Maui is the place for you.
Read also: Hidden Countries To Visit
Opt for Rome Instead of Paris for an Immersive Historical and Cultural Experience
Both Rome and Paris hold top spots for must-visit European capitals. They offer ancient architectural marvels, world-renowned architecture, rich artistic scenes, world-class museums, and picturesque gardens and parks.
However, it is essential to note that accommodation and food in Paris are noticeably pricier than in Rome. This makes Rome a better option for budget travelers.
Some unmissable attractions in Rome include ancient landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon; the history-filled Vatican City; and charming city squares like Piazza Navona, Campo de Fiori, and Piazza di Spagna.
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Other than being budget-friendly, Rome definitely gives Paris a run for its money when it comes to food. While both have rich culinary scenes, Rome’s is a step ahead, which is a good winning point for foodies.
Read also: Secret Romantic Getaways
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She is regularly featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire, and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
