Generation Z has long been a proponent of “dupes,” dedicating entire TikTok accounts to finding alternative versions of popular products. They may be cheaper, less known or simply deserve some attention.
And now smart travelers are also jumping on the bandwagon.
Expedia’s Travel Report 2024 announced “destination dupes” as a new trend for next year, describing them as “places that are somewhat unexpected, sometimes more affordable and just as charming as the tried-and-tested destinations travelers love.”
Crucially, you’ll also learn about a new culture in a new place, one you’ve probably never visited or heard much about.
According to data from Expedia, searches for these ‘fake’ holiday destinations will more than double by 2023. For example, searches for Taipei, an alternative to Seoul, saw a 2,786% increase globally, while Paros, a copy of Santorini, rose 193%. .
Like the sound of an intended impostor? We asked travel experts for their best tips…
Calabria, Italy
If Puglia is in Italy’s heel, Calabria would be at the top. This southern region has beautiful sandy (and rocky) beaches along its rugged coastline. Although it is a popular holiday destination among Italians, it is largely unknown to people outside the country.
Traces of the region’s history can be found throughout the region, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries in the Zungri Caves, a settlement made up of caves dug into the sandstone and natural springs.
The city also has Britain’s largest number of museums and galleries outside London, including the Tate Liverpool and the International Slavery Museum.
And since London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can stay for two nights in a three-star hotel in Liverpool for just €162 (based on a room for two people in January).
Chiang Dao, Thailand
Let’s start with the fact that Perth is the only Australian destination you can reach from the UK by direct flight. Although it seems smaller than Sydney, Perth is just as beautiful. Cottesloe Beach competes with Sydney’s Bondi.
Perth’s cultural center includes the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. For nature lovers, Nambung National Park is a must to visit the Pinnacles: limestone formations that may have been formed as early as 500,000 years ago. It’s no surprise that searches increased by 109%.
Vlora, Albania
When you fancy a Spanish city break you probably think of Barcelona, but why not try Palma?
The two have a lot in common: Palma is also a Catalan seaside resort and offers you the best of both: a place to explore and relax. The Spanish tapas are just as delicious and there is even some Guadi architecture to see.
Mallorca’s cathedral fell into disrepair in the 19th century until Gaudi arrived. You don’t have to queue to get in and admission only costs €9 (unlike tickets to the Sagrada Familia which cost €26).
Curacao, Caribbean
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Source: Metro
Source: Metro
I, Ronald Payne, am a journalist and author who dedicated his life to telling the stories that need to be said. I have over 7 years of experience as a reporter and editor, covering everything from politics to business to crime.