As UK travellers gear up for the summer season, a new index from global eSIM provider Holafly is steering attention toward lesser-known destinations that promise the charm of popular hotspots without the crowds or the price tag. The Travel Dupe Index, released this week, highlights ten alternatives that offer similar aesthetics and experiences to iconic locations, with accommodation savings reaching as high as 83%.
Among the standout recommendations, the index suggests replacing Venice with Ghent, Belgium, where medieval canals and historic architecture provide a comparable atmosphere minus the congestion. For those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene, Budva in Montenegro is positioned as a cost-effective stand-in for Ibiza, delivering a lively party vibe at a fraction of the cost. Meanwhile, Cascais in Portugal offers a slice of Riviera glamour that rivals Saint-Tropez, without the hefty price tag.
Selection criteria and savings
Holafly's team curated the list based on visual and cultural similarities, accommodation affordability, and accessibility, particularly for short-haul flights from the UK. The index aims to help travellers stretch their budgets while still enjoying a high-quality holiday experience. According to the company, the savings on lodging alone can be substantial, making these alternatives increasingly attractive in a climate of rising travel costs.
Other notable swaps include Banff in Canada as a luxurious alpine alternative to Aspen in the US, and Jeonju in South Korea, which offers a rich cultural immersion similar to Kyoto in Japan. For a serene retreat, Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia is suggested over the often-crowded Lake Como in Italy.
Rachel Santa Cruz, Senior Account Manager at Holafly, emphasised the appeal of these alternatives: “The index provides a genuinely new experience, maintaining the exact same aesthetic appeal, with significant savings.” Her comments underscore a growing trend among travellers to seek out off-the-beaten-path destinations that deliver value without compromising on experience.
The release of the Travel Dupe Index comes at a time when the travel industry is seeing a shift toward more sustainable and less overtouristed locations. This aligns with broader consumer behaviour, as highlighted in a recent report on UK travellers flocking to offbeat US events, indicating a wider appetite for unique and less conventional travel experiences.
For travel professionals, the index offers a useful tool for advising clients who are looking to avoid the typical tourist traps. It also reflects a growing demand for destinations that provide both authenticity and affordability, a trend that tour operators and agents can capitalise on by expanding their offerings to include these emerging alternatives.
Holafly, known primarily for its eSIM technology, has positioned itself as a resource for travellers seeking connectivity and now, destination intelligence. The company's move into travel insights underscores the increasing convergence of travel technology and destination marketing, a space where data-driven recommendations are becoming more prevalent.
As the summer travel season approaches, the Travel Dupe Index serves as a timely reminder that the world is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For UK tourists, these alternatives not only offer a chance to escape the crowds but also to experience something new and memorable, all while keeping costs in check.
