Destination dupes: Discover the path less travelled

Do you ever feel like the world’s most famous destinations are bursting at the seams? Places like Santorini, Machu Picchu or the Great Barrier Reef are breathtaking, but they can sometimes feel a little overwhelming with the crowds, the queues and the endless tour buses. This is where destination dupes come in.

A destination dupe is simply an alternative to the big-name hotspot. You still get the wow factor and all the magic, but in a place that is quieter, often more affordable, and usually far more authentic. Instead of being one tourist among thousands, you get the chance to connect with local life, explore at your own pace and maybe even feel like you have discovered something special.

It is no surprise this trend has grown so quickly. More and more travellers are looking for sustainable tourism, meaningful experiences and a way to avoid the stress that can come with the busiest places. The beauty of destination dupes is that they tick all those boxes.

Here are some reasons why you might want to consider a destination dupe for your next trip.

• You avoid the crowds and enjoy a calmer experience.

• You often save money as lesser-known destinations tend to be cheaper for both accommodation and activities.

• You help support sustainable travel by easing pressure on the most visited sites.

• You gain a richer connection to local culture, because you are not just following the tourist trail.

So if you are ready to swap the mainstream for something extraordinary, here are a few of my favourite destination dupes that could completely transform your next adventure.

Jordan instead of Egypt

Egypt’s pyramids and temples are world famous, and of course they are worth seeing, but Jordan is every bit as captivating and has fewer crowds. Petra is the star here, the ancient rose-red city carved into rock, and it is every bit as breathtaking in real life as the photos suggest. Petra by night is truly magical, with the whole site glowing under the light of hundreds of candles.

Jordan also gives you the chance to float in the Dead Sea, which is such a fun and unique experience, and to explore Wadi Rum’s endless desert landscapes that feel like something from another planet. Amman is buzzing with life and markets, while Jerash offers incredible Roman ruins that rival anything in Europe. For something quieter, Ajloun Castle and Shobak Castle are often missed by visitors but are full of history.

Bolivia instead of Peru

Most people think of Machu Picchu when they think of South America, but Bolivia is a hidden gem. The Uyuni salt flats are out of this world, stretching for miles like a giant shimmering mirror in the rainy season. It is one of those sights that make you feel tiny and amazed all at once.

La Paz is one of the highest capital cities in the world, packed with colourful markets and lively streets. Sucre is a beautiful colonial city with whitewashed buildings and a calmer feel. If you are adventurous, you can cycle the famous Death Road with its jaw-dropping scenery, or head to the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve with its flamingo-filled lagoons and surreal rock formations. Bolivia is less polished than Peru, but that's what makes it so special.

Greenland instead of Iceland

Iceland has become one of Europe’s busiest destinations in recent years, but Greenland gives you the same sense of wild landscapes with hardly any crowds. Ilulissat icefjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where vast glaciers calve into the sea in a spectacular show of nature. You can take a boat trip among icebergs the size of cathedrals, or go kayaking through fjords so still and quiet that you can hear every drip of water.

Summer brings the midnight sun, so you can hike late into the evening, while winter gives you the Northern Lights without the busloads of tourists. Nuuk, the colourful capital, has an interesting mix of traditional Greenlandic culture and modern life, and the smaller towns feel like stepping into another world. It is remote, raw and unforgettable.

The Azores instead of Hawaii

If you dream of Hawaii but not the long flight or the crowds, the Azores in Portugal are a brilliant alternative. This group of nine islands is packed with volcanic craters, lush green trails, hot springs and natural ocean pools. São Miguel is the largest island, home to the famous Sete Cidades twin lakes, which are picture perfect.

Pico Island is a paradise for wine lovers and home to Portugal’s highest peak. The vineyards here are UNESCO listed and the stargazing is some of the best in the world. Whale watching is another highlight and happens year round, so you have a great chance of spotting these giants of the ocean. The Azores feel wild and unspoilt, yet you still have cosy towns, great food and a warm welcome.

Ningaloo Reef instead of the Great Barrier Reef

Everyone knows the Great Barrier Reef, but few people have heard of Ningaloo. Located off the coast of Western Australia, this reef is easier to access and much less crowded. It is also one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks, which is a bucket list experience for many travellers.

The snorkelling is incredible with coral gardens full of tropical fish, turtles and manta rays. If you are up for adventure, night dives reveal glowing corals and nocturnal sea creatures. On land you can explore the rugged coastline, spot emus and kangaroos, and enjoy some of Australia’s most pristine beaches without the tourist rush.

Ras al Khaimah instead of Dubai

Dubai is famous for its glitz and glamour, but Ras al Khaimah offers a much more authentic taste of the UAE. You still have lovely beaches and luxury resorts, but the vibe is calmer and more connected to the country’s heritage. You can explore ancient forts and desert villages, hike in the dramatic Hajar Mountains, or take on the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais.

A desert safari here feels special, with dinner under the stars and traditional Emirati hospitality. RAK is also becoming known for its eco-friendly resorts and adventure activities, so it is a great choice if you want something a bit different.

Ready to try something new? That is the beauty of destination dupes. They give you the chance to see the world in a different way. You still get the wow moments and bucket list experiences, but you also get calmer days, more authentic encounters and often a more affordable trip too.

If this sounds like your kind of holiday, I would love to help you plan your very own destination dupe escape. Together we can find the perfect place that gives you everything you are looking for, but with a little less stress and a lot more magic.