Trends in the constantly changing travel industry influence how people see the world. “Destination Dupe” is one such emerging trend that is gaining popularity among adventure seekers, social media influencers, and tourists on a tight budget. However, what is a destination dupe exactly, and why is it gaining so much traction?
An alternative travel destination that provides a comparable experience, landscape, or cultural atmosphere to a well-known or pricey spot but at a lower cost and with fewer tourists is known as a “destination dupe.” With this idea, tourists can have a dreamlike experience without having to deal with exorbitant prices, excessive tourism, or lengthy wait times.
Understanding Destination Dupes
The term “dupe” originally comes from beauty and fashion, where a “dupe” (duplicate) refers to a more affordable alternative to a high-end product. The same idea has now been applied to travel. Destination dupes are about finding an alternative place with a similar aesthetic, experience, or cultural appeal to a well-known and often over-touristed location.
For example, instead of visiting Santorini, Greece—a hotspot flooded with tourists and high accommodation prices—travelers might choose Albania’s Ksamil or Italy’s Procida, which offer similar stunning coastal views and Mediterranean charm.
Why Are Travelers Choosing Destination Dupes?
1. Cost Savings
Many famous tourist destinations have exorbitant travel costs, from flight tickets to accommodation and even dining. Destination dupes provide an affordable alternative while offering a similar ambiance and activities.
2. Avoiding Over-Tourism
Popular destinations like Venice, Machu Picchu, and Bali suffer from over-tourism, leading to overcrowded streets, long waiting times, and environmental concerns. Travelers are seeking quieter and more authentic experiences, making destination dupes an attractive option.
3. Unique and Authentic Experiences
Often, less popular destinations retain their authenticity, culture, and charm, allowing travelers to enjoy a more immersive experience rather than just being another tourist in a crowded place.
4. Sustainability & Eco-Tourism
Choosing a lesser-known destination helps distribute tourism more evenly, reducing the negative impact of mass tourism on specific areas. This promotes sustainability in travel.
5. Social Media & Trend Influence
With travel bloggers and influencers discovering and sharing hidden gems, destination dupes are gaining popularity through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Top Destination Dupes Around the World
Here are some of the best destination dupes to consider for your next trip:
🌍 Europe
| Original Destination | Destination Dupe | Why It’s a Great Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Santorini, Greece | Milos, Greece | Same blue-domed churches, fewer crowds, more affordable. |
| Paris, France | Lyon, France | Stunning architecture, incredible food, half the price. |
| Venice, Italy | Ljubljana, Slovenia | Romantic canals, medieval charm, way less touristy. |
| Amsterdam, Netherlands | Ghent, Belgium | Beautiful canals, historic buildings, no tourist crowds. |
🌏 Asia
| Original Destination | Destination Dupe | Why It’s a Great Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Bali, Indonesia | Lombok, Indonesia | Pristine beaches, surfing, and lower prices. |
| Kyoto, Japan | Kanazawa, Japan | In Traditional tea houses, fewer tourists. |
| Phuket, Thailand | Koh Lanta, Thailand | Stunning beaches, relaxed vibe. |
🌎 Americas
| Original Destination | Destination Dupe | Why It’s a Great Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Tulum, Mexico | Bacalar, Mexico | Lagoon views, no crowds, cheaper. |
| Maldives | Caye Caulker, Belize | Turquoise waters, great snorkeling, and budget-friendly. |
| New York City, USA | Chicago, USA | World-class museums, architecture, and lower costs. |
🌍 Africa & Middle East
| Original Destination | Destination Dupe | Why It’s a Great Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Marrakech, Morocco | Essaouira, Morocco | Coastal charm, relaxed medina, fewer touts. |
| Dubai, UAE | Muscat, Oman | Luxury without the extravagance, authentic culture. |
How to Find Destination Dupes
If you want to discover a destination dupe tailored to your travel style, consider the following factors:
1. Define What You Want from Your Trip
- Are you looking for beaches, mountains, historical sites, or cultural experiences?
- What kind of activities do you enjoy? Adventure, relaxation, nightlife, or local food experiences?
2. Compare Climates and Landscapes
- Look for places with similar geography and climate to your dream destination.
- Example: If you love the fjords of Norway but want something budget-friendly, consider Chilean Patagonia.
3. Consider Budget and Accessibility
- Check flight prices, accommodation costs, and overall expenses.
- Sometimes, a lesser-known alternative offers better value for money.
4. Research Through Social Media & Travel Blogs
- Use platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to search for hidden travel gems.
- Travel bloggers often review lesser-known destinations that could be great dupes.
5. Look at Local Reviews and Travel Forums
- Websites like TripAdvisor, Reddit’s r/travel, and Lonely Planet forums often feature discussions on underrated destinations.
6. Find Places with Similar Cultural Vibes
- If you’re interested in culture, festivals, or local traditions, check if there’s a lesser-known place with a similar heritage.
Planning a Destination Dupe Trip
Once you’ve chosen a destination, here’s how to plan your trip effectively:
1. Book Flights and Accommodation Early
- Even though destination dupes are often cheaper, booking in advance helps save even more.
2. Learn About Local Customs & Culture
- Research traditions, etiquette, and local phrases to make your trip smoother and more immersive.
3. Check Visa Requirements and Safety
- Some less-touristy destinations may have different visa regulations or safety considerations.
4. Plan Activities & Itineraries
- Make a list of things to do that mirror the experiences you would have had at the famous counterpart.
5. Capture and Share Your Experience
- Help others discover hidden gems by sharing your experiences on social media, blogs, or travel forums.
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Dupe Over the Original
✅ Pros
✔ More Affordable – Save on flights, hotels, and dining.
✔ Fewer Crowds – Enjoy attractions without long lines.
✔ Authentic Experience – Interact with locals instead of just tourists.
✔ Sustainable Travel – Reduces strain on overvisited destinations.
❌ Cons
✖ May Lack Iconic Landmarks – No Eiffel Tower or Taj Mahal equivalent.
✖ Less Tourist Infrastructure – Fewer guided tours or luxury resorts.
✖ Harder to Reach – Some dupes require extra travel effort.
Conclusion
By offering less expensive, more genuine, and less crowded substitutes for well-known tourist destinations, destination dupes are changing how tourists experience the world. Destination dupes give you the opportunity to see the world freshly and fascinatingly, whether your goal is to avoid overtourism, save money, or find unusual places.
You can find amazing places that have the same charm as their well-known counterparts, but without the drawbacks, if you do a little research and keep an open mind. Think outside of the typical tourist destinations the next time you’re planning a trip, and appreciate the charms of lesser-known travel destinations!
For instance, Bengaluru (also known as the Silicon Valley of India) has been identified as a photogenic destination with 18.8 million Instagram posts, similar in photos to the famous Silicon Valley in California. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider exploring these delightful alternatives!
Overall, destination duping is a smart way for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a less crowded experience to explore new places and cultures.
Would You Try a Destination Dupe?
Let us know in the comments which dupe you’d love to visit!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A. Destination Dupe refers to the practice of intentionally replicating the aesthetic, experiences, or overall vibe of a popular travel destination in a different, often more accessible or budget-friendly location. These “dupes” allow travelers to enjoy a similar feel without the cost, crowds, or distance of the original destination.
A. Yes, examples of destination dupes include:
Udaipur, India, is a dupe for Venice, Italy, with its lakes and palaces.
Hallstatt, China, is a near-identical replica of Hallstatt, Austria.
Cappadocia-inspired camps in Rajasthan that replicate the hot air balloon and unique landscape experience.
A. Destination Dupes are gaining popularity due to:
Affordability: They often provide similar experiences at a fraction of the cost.
Accessibility: They are located closer to travelers, reducing travel time and expenses.
Sustainability: Visiting dupes can ease over-tourism at the original destinations.
A. Travelers should consider:
Visual Similarity: The dupe should closely resemble the original.
Experience Matching: Activities and cultural elements should align with the original.
Local Reviews: Check feedback from visitors to ensure authenticity and quality.
A. While Destination Dupes may not fully replicate the historical or cultural depth of the original, they offer a unique charm of their own. For many travelers, they provide an enjoyable and budget-friendly alternative, while still offering memorable experiences.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!