Kiwis hoping for a holiday that doesn’t break the budget are jumping on board the ‘destination dupes’ or ‘travel dupes’ trend – swapping popular tourist hotspots for lesser-known alternatives that offer a similar experience.
A survey of 4,050 adults from New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Canada and the United Kingdom found that 85% of Generation Z and Millennials still plan to vacation in 2024 despite the high cost of living, according to the agent of travel Flight Center.
Flight Center chief executive Heidi Walker said Kiwi travelers were adapting their plans to be more cost-effective, looking for exclusive deals and exploring local destinations rather than those further abroad.
“Dupe destinations are similar alternatives to popular tourist spots that offer comparable experiences, but at a fraction of the cost,” Walker said.
The idea took off on social media platforms like Tik Tok, with influencers sharing their favorite destinations that offer similar experiences without the big crowds — or high prices.
Examples include going to Slovenia instead of Italy, Quebec City instead of Geneva or Liverpool instead of London.
Walker said dupe destinations offer great value for money and could be more accessible for Kiwis hoping to enjoy unforgettable and relaxing experiences without causing financial stress.
She told 1News that it can be a little more difficult to find tourist attractions when you choose a “lesser known destination”.
“Of course, travelers should be realistic about what to expect when visiting dupe destinations. While these places may offer similarities to the most iconic places, they also have their own distinct character and attraction to discover,” he said.
These are Walker’s top picks for “target dupes.”
Instead of Hawaii – Gold Coast
Walker said the Gold Coast provided an excellent destination for travelers who wanted the golden sand beaches, surf spots and lively entertainment districts reminiscent of Honolulu.
“Accommodation and hospitality will be cheaper than Honolulu, with a more favorable exchange rate and no tipping requirement like in the United States,” he said.
Instead of Bora Bora – Fiji
Travelers looking for overwater bungalows and tropical scenery similar to Bora Bora should look to Fiji for a cheaper price closer to home, Walker said.
“Indulge in world-class snorkeling, cultural experiences and romantic sunsets, all while enjoying the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the Fijian islands,” he said.
Instead of Santorini – the Whitsundays
Walker said people who wanted sailing adventures and safe harbors could do so from the Whitsundays, rather than the Greek Islands of Santorini.
Instead of Switzerland – the Southern Lakes of New Zealand
With the snow-capped mountains of Queenstown and Wanaka and the unspoiled Southern Lake District, Walker said you’d be forgiven for thinking the picturesque landscape was the Swiss Alps.
She said the Kiwi garden can offer a world-class mix of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities at a more wallet-friendly price.
