Have you heard of Meghalaya’s iconic living root bridge in Mawlynnong? Not only does that marvel require a long trek of about 3,000 steps, but it can also get crowded. However, we decided to tap into the world of ‘destination dupes’ and explore a hidden gem nearby: another beautiful root bridge, similar in design but offering a less crowded experience and a relatively easy trek. Keep reading to learn more about the intriguing concept of destination dupes, also considered the most picturesque and Instagrammable alternatives to the world’s most iconic tourist hubs.
What are ‘destination dupes’ and why is it trending?
Travellers often flock to iconic destinations for their exceptional beauty or popularity, leading to overtourism. Popularity translates to higher prices, making these destinations expensive and less accessible for budget travellers. Fortunately, the world is home to incredible “dupes” for these crowd-favourite destinations, offering takers a chance to explore similar beauty in a less crowded and more affordable setting.
For instance, if a trip to California’s Napa Valley is out of reach, consider South Africa’s Western Cape for breathtaking views and a world-renowned wine scene offering a comparable experience. Similarly, Indian travellers seeking a serene mountain escape may opt for Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh instead of the more crowded Leh in Ladakh.
A recent study by 1st Move International, a UK-based independent overseas moving company for shipping household goods, analysed Instagram posts to identify the top destination dupes. According to their findings, Baku takes the crown as the most picturesque alternative to Dubai, followed closely by Medellin for Chiang Mai and Valencia for Barcelona. While Seattle offers a taste of Vancouver at rank 4 and Montreal provides a glimpse of both Paris and New York at rank 5. Bangalore takes the 6th spot to stand in for Silicon Valley, while Kuala Lumpur is a great dupe for Singapore at #7. Rounding out the top ten are Taipei as a substitute for Tokyo or Seoul, Puglia for Santorini, and Perth for Sydney.
For more insights into the study conducted by 1st Move International, click here.
Top 10 most Instagrammable destination dupes in the world
Baku, Azerbaijan (dupe destination for Dubai)
With over 34.8 million Instagram posts, Baku takes the crown! Offering a myriad of historically and culturally rich experiences, the capital of Azerbaijan offers a glimpse of Dubai’s architectural wonders at a more budget-friendly price tag.
Key attractions: Explore iconic landmarks like the Flame Towers, Baku Boulevard, Fountain Square, Atashgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple and Heydar Aliyev Centre
Best time to visit: April to October
How to reach: Heydar Aliyev International Airport is approximately 25 km from central Baku.
Book your stay at JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel on Booking.com
Medellin, Colombia (dupe destination for Chiang Mai)
Both Medellin and Chiang Mai exude an old-world charm, beckoning architecture enthusiasts from around the world. Medellin, with its 33.4 million Instagram posts, is popular as a less-crowded destination dupe for Thailand’s Chiang Mai, allowing you to truly immerse in its beautiful scenes and sights.
Key attractions: Explore Guatapé (Pueblo de Zócalos), Pueblito Paisa, Santa Fe de Antioquia, Medellín Planetarium (Planetario de Medellín) and Antioquia Museum (Museo de Antioquia)
Best time to visit: January and April to May
How to reach: José María Córdova Airport is approximately 22 km from central Medellin.
Book your stay at Elcielo Hotel & Restaurant on Booking.com
Valencia, Spain (dupe for Barcelona)
Valencia’s popularity as a Barcelona alternative has skyrocketed, with Google searches increasing by 25 percent from 2022 to 2023, and 29.6 million Instagram posts. Two of the most beautiful destinations in Spain, roughly 348 km apart, both cities boast stunning Spanish architecture and offer a wealth of historical attractions.
Key attractions: National Ceramic Museum, Plaza de Ayuntamiento, Valencia Cathedral, L’Oceanografic Aquarium, Palau de las Artes Reina Sofia, Principe Felipe Museum and Albufera Natural Park
Best time to visit: April to May and September to October
How to reach: Valencia Airport is approximately 9 km from the city centre.
Book your stay at MYR Palacio Vallier on Booking.com
Seattle, USA (dupe destination for Vancouver, Canada)
Despite being separated by only 228 km and nestled amidst stunning mountains, Seattle, with its 24 million Instagram posts, offers a budget-friendly alternative to Vancouver for North American explorers. Both cities cater to the adventurous spirit, offering opportunities for skiing, hiking, and soaking in the natural beauty. If you’re already exploring the USA, consider Seattle for a taste of Vancouver’s charm without crossing the border.
Key attractions: Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Museum of Flight, Kerry Park and Mount Rainier
Best time to visit: July to October
How to reach: Seattle–Tacoma International Airport is approximately 21 km from downtown Seattle.
Book your stay at Grand Hyatt Seattle on Booking.com
Montreal, Canada (dupe for Paris and New York)
Montreal, the largest city in Quebec, offers a unique blend of European and North American vibes. This French-influenced city boasts architectural styles reminiscent of Paris, evident in landmarks like the Notre Dame Basilica. Additionally, Montreal’s dynamic energy mirrors the bustling spirit of New York City. With its 21.4 million Instagram posts, it’s no wonder Montreal is a popular dupe for both iconic destinations.
Key attractions: Jacques-Cartier Bridge, Habitat 67, Parc Jean-Drapeau, Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, Biodome and Botanical Gardens
Best time to visit: April to May and September to November
How to reach: Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport is approximately 19 km from the city centre.
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal on Booking.com
Bengaluru, India (dupe destination for Silicon Valley)
Nicknamed the ‘Silicon Valley of India’, Bengaluru (formerly known as Bangalore), with its 18.8 million Instagram posts, is the most budget-friendly and popular destination dupe for tech enthusiasts seeking a taste of the San Francisco Bay Area’s innovation hub. Both cities boast high-tech companies and impressive office spaces, making the comparison understandable despite the geographical distance. While Bangalore thrives on its cutting-edge scene, it also offers a unique cultural experience not found in the US.
Key attractions: Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Sri Chamarajendra Park (Cubbon Park), Wonderla Amusement Park, ISKCON Temple Bangalore and Bangalore Palace
Best time to visit: October to February
How to reach: Kempegowda International Airport is approximately 34 km from central Bangalore.
Book your stay at ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bengaluru on Booking.com
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (dupe for Singapore)
While both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur are popular Southeast Asian destinations, Kuala Lumpur offers a slightly more budget-friendly option for travellers seeking a dazzling cityscape. With a spectacular skyline and a blend of modern skyscrapers and natural beauty, Kuala Lumpur is a captivating tourist destination boasting 16 million Instagram posts.
Key attractions: Petronas Twin Towers, King’s Palace (Istana Negara), National Mosque of Malaysia (Masjid Negara), Kuala Lumpur Tower (KL Tower) and Batu Caves
Best time to visit: December to January and June to August
How to reach: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport is approximately 42 km from central Kuala Lumpur.
Book your stay at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur on Booking.com
Taipei, Taiwan (dupe destination for Tokyo/Seoul)
Accomplishing the highest surge (57 percent) in Google’s search interest between 2022-23, a glimpse of Taipei’s cityscape reveals its similarities to Tokyo and Seoul. All three cities offer a vibrant mix of modern architecture and natural beauty, nestled against stunning mountain backdrops. Taipei, with 15.7 million Instagram posts, is a compelling alternative for travellers seeking a vibrant Asian metropolis with a slightly more relaxed atmosphere compared to its bustling neighbours. Additionally, all three cities offer breathtaking fall foliage vistas during autumn.
Key attractions: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, National Palace Museum, Hobe Fort, Elephant Mountain, Longshan Temple and Miramar Ferris Wheel
Best time to visit: March to May and August to October
How to reach: Taipei Songshan Airport is approximately 3 km from the city centre.
Book your stay at Grand Hyatt Taipei on Booking.com
Puglia, Italy (dupe for Santorini)
If you are craving a relaxing vacation with gorgeous vistas of whitewashed houses and turquoise sea waters but want to avoid the Santorini crowds, look no further than Puglia (Apulia) in Italy. Puglia is the best dupe destination in the world, offering strikingly similar landscapes and vibes to the popular Greek island, boasting 14.8 million Instagram posts. Wander through Puglia’s rustic lanes lined with pretty houses, each exuding an old-world charm.
Key attractions: Lecce Basilica of Santa Croce (Basilica Di Santa Croce), Swabian Castle (Castello Svevo), Trulli of Alberobello World Heritage Site, Castel del Monte and Church of Saint Irene (Chiesa di Sant’Irene)
Best time to visit: April to June and September to October
How to reach: Florence Airport is approximately 65 km from Puglia.
Book your stay at B&B Suite Carafa 61 on Booking.com
Perth, Australia (destination dupe for Sydney)
Planning a trip to Western Australia and want to skip the Sydney crowds? With 12.4 million Instagram posts, Perth offers a fantastic alternative within the same country! Despite being hundreds of miles apart, both Perth and Sydney share striking similarities, boasting stunning beaches, artistic monuments, and pristine natural wonders. Explore Perth’s vibrant scene and discover hidden gems like Rottnest Island and the Pinnacles Desert.
Key attractions: Swan River, Rottnest Island, Pinnacles Desert, Round House, Perth Bell Tower and Elizabeth Quay
Best time to visit: September to November
How to reach: Perth International Airport is approximately 18 km from the city centre.
Book your stay at Crown Towers Perth on Booking.com
(Feature image credit: Serenity-H/Shutterstock)
Related: Beat The Tourist Trap: Discover Better Alternatives To Overrated Attractions
