Don't be surprised if you hear more about “destination dupes” in 2024. Overcrowded and overpriced exchanges vacation spots as equally fascinating facsimiles are a travel trend that is becoming increasingly popular with adventurers looking for new experiences at reasonable prices.
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“Consumers are increasingly eager to try new destinations, which pushes them to discover less crowded and more affordable places,” said Brett Keller, managing director of online agency Priceline.
Avoiding “overtouristed” places can take several forms. Yet American travelers are increasingly up for the challenge by choosing duped destinations, money-saving alternatives, off-season and shoulder surprises, and targeted excursions.
Destination Dupes
Already trending on TikTok, travel influencers are recommending vacationers look to lesser-known, more budget-friendly options that offer similar experiences without the costs and crowds. The world's most popular destinations are beautiful, but true travelers know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Whether you stay in the countryside (Bordeaux instead of Paris) or travel 3,500 miles in the opposite direction from your original destination (Quebec instead of Geneva), you'll find that there are many “sister” cities across the world that offer an equally enjoyable trip for a lot less loot. Taking on a different adventure doesn't mean you let yourself be fooled.
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Study what is surprisingly similar
No two places are the same, but a little research can help you reflect the vibe you're looking for on your vacation. For example, London has everything, including imperfect prices and crowds. It may be bigger, but Liverpool matches London culturally in many ways and rewards the boldest with an equally wonderful travel experience.
Croatia has become a travel mecca over the past decade. Most people determined to visit this Adriatic gem choose Dubrovnik (mainly thanks to “Game of Thrones”), but Split is absolutely stunning, as is neighboring Bosnia. Sarajevo will offer memories that will last a lifetime and simply cannot be missed by travel enthusiasts.
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Exchange Rate Offers
When the US dollar is strong, it pays to travel where it extends the most. Changes in the U.S. economy do not significantly influence local prices in foreign countries, so a strong dollar can buy more when converted to the local currency.
Mexico has always been a cheap alternative to expensive beach resorts, but diving further inland reveals world-class museums, natural monuments, historic ruins and culinary delights. According to Frommer's, Poland, Vietnam, Portugal, Egypt, and Indonesia are all fantastic destinations and tend to offer Americans better value for their money.
Off-season travel
People all over the world spend years saving for once-in-a-lifetime trips. So, getting to your dream destination without breaking the bank is a bonus. Embarking on new adventures in the off-season is not only a matter of budget, but can also be an equally wonderful experience.
Of course, braving tropical storms instead of taking a calm beach vacation is something most people would want to avoid. But some places are unmissable all year round. For example, many visitors flock to New York in winter for unforgettable trips. Many beach destinations are less crowded and more comfortable when the weather is in the 50s and 60s than in the 90s.
Embrace the shoulder season
Although times vary by destination, “shoulder season is the travel period that falls exactly between the peak travel season, also known as the traditional summer months of June through August (for the northern hemisphere ), and the low season, which is generally in the middle of winter (January to early March, in the northern hemisphere),” according to AFAR.
Just like planning an off-season flight, you'll need to be wary of weather changes when booking a shoulder season trip, but if you're willing to think off the beaten path, you'll find more affordable flights and lower hotel rates. and less congestion.
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Go off the beaten track
Of course, if you really want to catch Olympic fever in Paris this summer, a dupe destination like Bordeaux or Montreal won't replace your goal of seeing the athletes in action. And sometimes, finding the most specific destination defeats the purpose of travel: to open your mind to other worlds and possibilities.
Following existing or new interests can also work in your favor. As the New York Times reports, wilderness getaways and snorkeling, as well as wellness and eco-travel retreats can be arranged for much less than a vacation in a popular megacity, offering a memorable activity of a lifetime.
This article was originally published on GOBankingRates.com: 5 ways to travel cheaply with “Destination Dupes”
