8 Destination Dupes for the Budget-Conscious Traveller

This post was originally posted on Planner Bee.

Travelling to famous destinations can often be expensive, but if you have a passion for exploring on a budget, destination dupes offer a fantastic alternative.

A “destination dupe” is a location that provides an experience similar to a more famous and often more expensive place. These alternatives allow travellers to enjoy comparable sights, culture, and experiences without breaking the bank.

Here are eight great destination dupes for budget-conscious travellers.

1. Liverpool instead of London

London, with its iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace, is undoubtedly a must-visit for many. However, it’s also one of the priciest cities in the world.

Enter Liverpool – a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment. Known as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool offers a vibrant music scene, world-class museums like the Tate Liverpool, and stunning waterfront views. Additionally, it’s significantly more affordable than the bustling English capital.

2. Buenos Aires instead of Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is synonymous with romance, fashion, and cuisine. But it comes with a steep price.

Buenos Aires, the Paris of South America, offers a similar charm with its European-style architecture, vibrant cafe culture, and artistic ambiance. Stroll down the cobblestone streets of San Telmo, enjoy a tango show, and indulge in delicious Argentine cuisine — all at a fraction of the cost of a Parisian getaway.

3. Chicago instead of New York City

New York City’s skyline, cultural landmarks, and vibrant neighbourhoods make it a top travel destination, but it’s also notoriously expensive.

Chicago provides a comparable experience without the sky-high prices. The Windy City has impressive architecture, diverse neighbourhoods, and a rich cultural scene. Visit Millennium Park, explore the Art Institute of Chicago, and take a scenic boat tour along the Chicago River for a memorable trip that won’t drain your wallet.

4. Western Colorado instead of Iceland

Iceland is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including waterfalls, geysers, and volcanoes, along with the chance to witness the Northern Lights. However, travelling to Iceland is not the most straightforward and can chalk up to quite a bill.

Western Colorado in the United States offers a similar experience with its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit the Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning mountain vistas, hike through the Great Sand Dunes National Park, and soak in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs. In the winter, experience skiing and snowboarding in world-class resorts like Aspen and Vail. While you may not see the Northern Lights, the rugged beauty and variety of activities in Western Colorado make it an excellent and more affordable alternative to Iceland.

5. Tasmania instead of Scandinavia

Scandinavia, encompassing countries like Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant cultural scenes. But it comes at a cost.

For a more budget-friendly alternative that offers similar natural beauty and unique experiences, consider Tasmania, Australia’s island state. Tasmania boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged coastlines and dense forests to pristine beaches and picturesque mountains.

Much like Scandinavia, Tasmania is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the breathtaking Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, hike through the ancient rainforests of the Tarkine, or relax on the white sands of Wineglass Bay. The island’s compact size makes it easy to travel between its diverse attractions.

That’s not all – Tasmania is arguably one of the best places for you to catch a glimpse of the elusive Southern lights!

6. Taiwan instead of Seoul

Seoul is a bustling metropolis known for its cutting-edge technology, rich history, and vibrant street markets.

Taiwan, just a stone’s throw away, offers a similar blend of modernity and tradition, often at a lower cost. Explore the night markets of Taipei, soak in the hot springs of Beitou, and visit the stunning Taroko Gorge. Taiwan’s efficient public transportation and affordable accommodations make it an excellent alternative for travellers seeking the allure of east Asia.

7. Borobudur instead of Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat in Cambodia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a bucket-list destination for many.

However, the costs associated with visiting can add up. Borobudur in Indonesia, another UNESCO site, offers an equally awe-inspiring experience. This 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple is the world’s largest Buddhist temple compound and features intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views. The entrance fees and overall travel costs are generally lower than those for Angkor Wat, making it a budget-friendly alternative.

8. Pattaya instead of Bangkok

Bangkok, with its bustling street life, ornate temples, and vibrant nightlife, is a favourite among travellers.

Located just a short drive from Bangkok, Pattaya offers similar attractions with a more relaxed vibe and often at lower prices. Enjoy beautiful beaches, visit the Sanctuary of Truth, and experience the lively Walking Street nightlife. Pattaya’s affordability and variety of activities make it a great dupe for those wanting the essence of Bangkok without the crowds and higher costs.

Plan a vacation without breaking the bank

Travel doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. By choosing destination dupes, budget-conscious travellers can experience the excitement and beauty of world-renowned locations while keeping their finances in check.

Whether you’re exploring the musical heritage of Liverpool or soaking in the hot springs of Taiwan, these alternatives provide enriching experiences that won’t break the bank.

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