When considering holiday destinations, there are few things to keep in mind: bucket list, attractions, does it fit your vibe? But another great consideration is how busy it is! We’re all fans of Euro Summer and visiting stunning areas to feed the ‘gram – but sometimes when you’re in among loads of big crowds of people who had the same idea as you, , that can be a lot.
Have you considered destination dupes? Holiday spots around the world that are underrated but give you those same same but different perfect vibes. Not only that, but a lot of these destinations are suuuuper underrated, making them more affordable, and you’ll also be supporting underrepresented areas with your tourism dollars. Win win for everyone – here are some of our faves.
In line with Contiki’s sustainability Goal 8 to achieve a 20% increase of itineraries visiting developing regions; in 2024 Contiki added 7 new itineraries visiting developing regions including some of the destination dupes mentioned here! Read more about it in our Impact Report.
1. French Riviera | Albanian Riviera
If you want to swim in crystal waters, enjoy rugged coasts and lots of sailing, all for a more affordable price than glitzy Monaco or adorable Menton, then Albania is going to be the best place for you! The French Riviera is gorgeous and beloved for many reasons, but it can burn a hole through your wallet faster than you can snag a billionaire for yourself. Albania is a perfect dupe.
Vlorë is a city along what is known as the Albanian Riviera and it will not disappoint. Turquoise waters and beach clubs with those pretty parasols lining the pristine sand, a vibrant city with great nightlife, and all the cheap and cheerful seafood you can eat. It’s basically a dream come true.
Image source:Contiki
2. Thailand | Philippines
Now, listen, we’re not knocking Thailand. Thailand is a lifelong love of ours. But if you want to see something new and just as magical, the Philippines will be the destination dupe for you. Just a little less popular than Thailand, the Philippines still boasts incredible beaches and sunny weather promising a golden glow. Fresh fruit to make your mouth water for days, and lots of friendly locals to meet.
In fact, the countries are quite close to each other, so depending on your holiday vibe, you could just get the best of both worlds and stack them together in one go, then play a fun game of spot the difference in your camera roll.
3. Stockholm | Torgås
If Sweden isn’t on your travel bucket list, get it there. And specifically Torgås – a gorgeous rural area near the border of Norway. It’s tucked away in the heart of the country and it is surrounded by thick forests that hold all the magic of Swedish folklore (keep an eye out for trolls!). The air is fresher than fresh and if you head over in the summer, maybe for Midsummer, you’ll get some spectacular weather. If you want a taste of authentic Swedish life, visit Torgåsgarden (or, better yet, do it with Contiki) for the real deal.
Image source:Nils Söderman / unsplash
4. Mexico | Peru
If you like Mexico for the incredible history and the gorgeous views of ancient ruins and temples dotting the country all over, then you’re going to love Peru. Obviously, Peru is famous for Machu Picchu, a historic attraction worth the hike to see it, but there’s so much more as well. Head to Huaraz for some deep cultural immersion and day trips to the jaw-dropping Laguna 69 and Pastoruri Glacier. There’s also a world of tradition to discover the Sacred Valley – including weaving and textiles – and Peruvian food is as unique and delicious as Mexican.
5. Bali | Flores & Komodo
The great thing about Indonesia is that you can easily island hop the whole place and see every gorgeous nook and cranny. But if you’re short on time and funds, why not give Flores and Komodo a chance instead of Bali? These islands are incredibly unique with the same glittering seas and lush landscapes as their sister, Bali, but with fewer tourists and more untouched lands. The pink sand beaches are a show-stopper and you’ll basically get the whole paradise to yourself. Not to mention the many wildlife viewings you could have.
Image source:Contiki
6. Morocco | Namibia
Looking for some desert but been to Morocco before? Namibia, on Africa’s southern coast, is perfect and perhaps one of the most gorgeous destinations in Africa. Namibia’s deserts are vast, but they also flank the ocean creating a harsh divide between two completely opposite worlds. Not only that, but Namibia is perfect for noctourism holidays and stargazing because of the very low light pollution, and the salt flats are a once in a lifetime kind of landscape to witness.
7. Scotland | England
Not that Scotland is that underrated, but when people head to the UK, they tend to stick with London and forget about the northern parts of the UK. Where England is filled with vibrant cities throughout, Scotland has a much more rugged countryside vibe. Don’t get us wrong, Edinburgh and Glasgow pack a punch when it comes to UK nightlife, but the Highlands and the castles and ruins, and the fluffy cows and that feeling of magic is what makes people stay.
If you’ve never been to Scotland before, consider this your sign!
Image source:Contiki
8. South Africa | Kenya
Safari holidays are often synonymous with South Africa, famous for Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, and the Garden Route. But you know where else has incredible safaris? Kenya! You can spot the big 5 and bake under the sun and also eat some incredibly hearty local food. What’s more, by travelling to Kenya with Contiki, you’ll be giving back to local communities and children in need via the Mirror of Hope initiative.
9. Hawaii | Okinawa
Often referred to as the ‘Hawaii of Japan’, Okinawa is a naturally stunning location off the shores of the mainland. It offers coastlines, sunny beaches, and all those classic Japanese temples and shrines that give you a hefty dose of culture. On a good day, you might even spot whale sharks!
There’s so much to do and see in Japan, it can be easy to confine your trip to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. So visiting Okinawa is a great destination dupe to consider if you want to return to Japan and get some island vibes at the same time.
Image source:Samuel Berner / unsplash
10. Switzerland | Georgia
Switzerland is a shining emerald of Europe, made up of gorgeous mountains and rolling hills that are alive with the sound of music (or maybe that’s Austria…). But Switzerland is often notoriously on the expensive side, so if you want to get the same fresh air filling your lungs and all those hikes in, Georgia is a perfect choice!
Not only is Georgia much more affordable, but the countryside is just as jaw-dropping, and you’ll also be able to venture into vibrant cities and grasp the local culture – which is incredibly rich and eye-opening. While you’re there, make sure you try the Khachapuri, a sort of Georgian pizza style that is to die for!!!
