Dupe travel destinations: Hidden gems worth exploring around the world
Enjoy all the perks of the world’s top destinations but with a fraction of the crowds in these alternative destinations.
By Jessica Poitevien | April 24, 2025
Jessica Poitevien
Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller with more than a decade of experience in writing and editing. Born in New York, she caught the travel bug throughout multiple moves that brought her to California, Spain, Colombia, and her current home base in South Florida. She has visited over 40 countries (and counting!), including several solo trips. When she's not traveling, Jessica enjoys making social media content, trying new food, and acting as a travel agent for friends and family.
Whether you’ve already been to some of the most popular destinations or you’re simply looking to go on vacation without all the crowds, the dupe travel trend is for you. Unlike other fads, this one encourages globe-trotters to look beyond the usual tourist hot spots and swap them for equally alluring alternatives. From European escapes and music-filled urban getaways to jaunts on a pristine Caribbean beach, these are some of our favorite destination dupes.
Sicily, Italy
Going beyond the well-trodden paths of Rome and Venice comes with great rewards when you set your sights on Sicily. Soak up ancient history at the Valley of the Temples, hike Europe’s tallest volcano on a trip to Mount Etna, then sample Italian foodie favorites that originated in Sicily, like cannoli, a sweet, ricotta-filled pastry. Terradamari Resort & Spa Marina di Modica, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is an ideally located home base just steps away from the Marina di Modica beach. Spend the day strolling through golden sand and taking dips in the Mediterranean Sea before sinking even deeper into relaxation with a full body massage or facial at the hotel’s Ciatu Spa. Be sure to try the Sicilian wine and cuisine at the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar, too.
Willemstad, Curacao
Curacao is a top pick for an alternative destination in the Caribbean with all of the perks of its more popular counterparts. Head to the capital city of Willemstad to admire the pastel-colored Dutch architecture, walk across the floating Queen Emma Bridge, and take a guided tour of the Hato Caves. The white-sand beaches are a big draw, so book your stay at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, where you can enjoy exclusive access to a private stretch of sand and sea. Snorkel nearby for a glimpse of colorful fish, or go to the resort’s PADI Dive Center for scuba lessons and excursions. With four pools and an aqua park, there are plenty of ways to cool off and unwind at this all-inclusive resort. When hunger strikes, choose from six signature restaurants serving island cuisine alongside international fare.
Memphis, Tennessee
Move over, Nashville. Memphis is another Tennessee city with a vibrant music scene, plenty of foodie fun, and all the trappings of a great urban getaway — from top-notch museums to a family-friendly zoo. Memphis is especially exciting for music lovers who enjoy all genres. Visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home; explore the Stax Museum of American Soul Music; and learn about the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll at Sun Studio. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Memphis Downtown is just two blocks from Beale Street, where live blues performances are a nightly occurrence. Sumptuous Southern cuisine is never too far away thanks to the hotel’s on-site restaurant, King & Union Bar Grocery, serving classics like chicken and waffles, fried green tomatoes, and catfish po’boys.
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