SANDRA ZO AWODELE | COITRAVELER
Sometimes you want to go to Bali on a random Tuesday in May, but your budget’s giving more “Groupon travel deals.” I’ve been there.
That’s where destination dupes come in. Travel swaps that still give you the beauty, the activities, and the vibes, but at a way better price and without the chaos.
- Instead of Bali, Go to Siquijor, Philippines
- Instead of Paris, Go to Montreal, Canada
- Instead of Santorini, Go to Ksamil, Albania
- Instead of Tulum, Go to Puerto Escondido, Mexico
- Instead of Dubai, Go to Doha, Qatar
- Instead of Venice, Go to Annecy, France
- Instead of Maui, Go to Isla Holbox, Mexico
- Instead of the Maldives, Go to Bocas del Toro, Panama
- Instead of Tokyo, Go to Taipei, Taiwan
- Instead of Switzerland (Interlaken), Go to the Kazbegi Region, Georgia
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Here are 10 swaps I’m super excited to share with you (and the places you can actually stay, because I always got you!).
Key Takeaways
- Destination dupes are budget-friendly alternatives to popular (and often pricey) travel hotspots.
- You can enjoy similar experiences, whether you’re into beaches, history, nature, or city life.
- Every dupe listed includes direct accommodation booking links to help you plan your stay.
Instead of Bali, Go to Siquijor, Philippines
Bali who?! Siquijor is like that girl who doesn’t overshare on Instagram. It’s all waterfalls, fireflies, hidden beaches, and peaceful energy without the Bali burnout. If you’re into yoga and oceanfront healing without the crowds, this is your moment.
Where to stay
Instead of Paris, Go to Montreal, Canada
Montreal is essentially Paris, where you can wear leggings to brunch and won’t be charged $12 for an espresso. Same French feels, cute streets, and café culture, but the vibe is more laid-back, and your wallet will thank you.
Where to stay
Instead of Santorini, Go to Ksamil, Albania
Ksamil is the Albanian beach town that looks like Santorini and Mykonos had a baby, with better prices and quieter beaches. The water is so clear that it seems filtered in real life. And yes, you can still live your best white-cliff fantasy here.
Where to stay
Instead of Tulum, Go to Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Tulum is cute, but Puerto Escondido is her effortlessly cool sister who doesn’t care about being cool. You still get oceanfront yoga, surf lessons, and jungle bungalows, minus the $35 smoothie bowl and $30 minimum Uber rides anywhere. Oh, and it’s way more relaxed.
Where to stay
Instead of Dubai, Go to Doha, Qatar
Doha is like Dubai with less chaos and more breathing room. There are luxe hotels, skyline views, amazing architecture, and desert safaris, but without the crowds and constant car honking. It’s where luxury meets a little peace and quiet.
Where to stay
Instead of Venice, Go to Annecy, France
Annecy is the kind of place that makes you say “Wow, this is a real town?” every five minutes. Imagine canals, flower-covered bridges, and old-world charm, but with mountain views and fresh pastries you didn’t overpay for.
Where to stay
Instead of Maui, Go to Isla Holbox, Mexico
Holbox is where beach dreams live. No cars, just golf carts, salty breezes, and one of the best places to unplug. It’s giving “I quit my job and moved here” energy, minus the stress of an actual career change.
Where to stay
Instead of the Maldives, Go to Bocas del Toro, Panama
Don’t sleep on Bocas. You’ve got overwater bungalows, island hopping, and that “I’m totally on a honeymoon” vibe, without flying 15+ hours or spending three months’ rent. It’s a laid-back paradise with a passport stamp that flexes.
Where to stay
Instead of Tokyo, Go to Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is Tokyo’s cool little sibling who’s obsessed with food markets, has a great sense of humor, and doesn’t require a month-long trip budget. You’ll get the neon lights, temples, tech, and night noodles for way less.
Where to stay
Instead of Switzerland (Interlaken), Go to the Kazbegi Region, Georgia
Kazbegi is like Interlaken if she listened to indie playlists and wore wool socks year-round. You’ll get snowy peaks, dramatic valleys, and cozy fire-lit hotels, just with a fraction of the cost and none of the tourist rush.
Where to stay
Make sure you do your research before visiting any of these locations, in case they don’t match your aesthetics. Some places can be more costly than others, but most of these are affordable, replacements, and great for the major and more touristy locations.
