Twin there, done that: most wishlisted stays in ‘destination dupes’
Key Takeaways
- ‘Destination dupes’ are the latest travel trend taking the world by storm - as wanderlust-seekers swap popular tourist destinations for budget-friendly alternatives
- From trading in Cotswolds for Tewkesbury, to swapping Venice’s ‘floating city’ for Genoa’s winding canals, Airbnb rounds up the most wishlisted stays in destination dupes across the world
- It comes as global Airbnb data shows a surge in popularity for trending dupe locations - with searches for Lake Maggiore, ‘dupe’ for Lake Como, increasing by over 200%*
Key Takeaways
- ‘Destination dupes’ are the latest travel trend taking the world by storm - as wanderlust-seekers swap popular tourist destinations for budget-friendly alternatives
- From trading in Cotswolds for Tewkesbury, to swapping Venice’s ‘floating city’ for Genoa’s winding canals, Airbnb rounds up the most wishlisted stays in destination dupes across the world
- It comes as global Airbnb data shows a surge in popularity for trending dupe locations - with searches for Lake Maggiore, ‘dupe’ for Lake Como, increasing by over 200%*
Generating over 1.1 million views on TikTok, there’s no denying that #DestinationDupes are one of 2024’s most popular travel trends.
Offering a more affordable alternative to typical tourist hotspots, ‘destination dupes’ share similar qualities to their doppelganger location, but are usually lesser known. ‘Destination Dupes’ often provide a quieter ambience for strolling the streets, but are just as trip-worthy as their tried-and-tested twin destinations – allowing travellers to broaden their horizons.
New global data from Airbnb shows a spike in searches for stays in trending ‘destination dupe’ locations. The likes of Lake Maggiore in Italy (224%*), Pattaya in Thailand (56%*), and Cavtat in Croatia (39%*) are rising in popularity for trips away this summer – as travellers seek out that same appeal of must-visit destinations, with less pressure on pursestrings.
“With the ‘Destination dupes’ trend growing in popularity on social media, it’s great to see guests on Airbnb broadening their travel horizons, often finding stays at a more affordable price. In almost every corner of the world, there are Airbnb hosts opening up their doors to guests, so travellers can delve into different cultures and discover new destinations.”
Amanda Cupples, General Manager for the Ireland and Northern Europe at Airbnb
To provide bargain-hunting travellers with ultimate inspiration, Airbnb has curated a list of its most wishlisted stays in trending destination dupes around the world below.
Airbnb’s top Guest Favourite stays in ‘Destination Dupes’ from across the world
Lake Maggiore, Italy (Dupe for Lake Como, Italy)
Villa Petra overlooks the wonderful Borromean Islands. Situated in Lake Maggiore, it offers similar views of Italy’s lakes as Lake Como, but with fewer tourists than its popular twin. With a stunning exterior and interior, this luxury villa even comes with an infinity pool.
Isola Bella Apartments, Via della Posta
This impressive apartment is located in an old fisherman village of Isola Bella, perfect for soaking up the breathtaking surrounding views of Lake Maggiore.
Pattaya City, Thailand (Dupe for Bangkok, Thailand)
Entire rental unit in Pattaya City, Thailand
Hailed as the ‘budget-friendly’ Bangkok, Pattaya City has the same standard of beaches, nightlife and culture that you will find in its popular alternative. This beautiful condo is no more than 300 metres from the beach. With exclusive access to the jacuzzi, infinity pool and the Sky Lounge – it offers the perfect stay for your Thai excursion.
Entire rental unit in Pattaya, Thailand
An impressive corner condo set to give you all the Bangkok feels. Located close to the beach, this stay is equipped with a beautiful balcony offering striking ocean views.
Cavtat, Croatia (Dupe for Amalfi Coast, Italy)
Entire rental unit in Cavtat, Croatia
Cavtat presents an endearing Mediterranean view, a place known for its delicious seafood, without the hustle and bustle of Amalfi Coast. This charming apartment will provide you with stunning views of Dubrovnik, and is just a short distance from the Old Town and the beach.
This beautiful four-bedroom villa escape is equipped with an infinity pool, beach access, and a large outdoor space, perfect for family BBQs. Its picturesque design makes for the ideal Croatian retreat.
Montenegro (Dupe for Croatia)
One Bedroom Apartment with Balcony and Sea View
With both Croatia and Montenegro sharing the Adriatic Coast, Montenegro offers more mountainous coastline scenery than its neighbour. Why not stay in this incredible Airbnb for your next visit? Just a stone’s throw away from a secluded pebbly beach, this apartment is only a short distance from the Kotor Old Town.
This waterfront-facing Airbnb stay has historical ties, having been built in the 19th century and just a short drive from the old town. This house is fitted with a beautiful balcony, perfect for sunbathing and taking in all Montenegro has to offer.
Tewkesbury, UK (Dupe for the Cotswolds, UK)
Entire cottage in Winchcombe, United Kingdom
Winchcombe is a quaint Saxon market town, in the heart of Tewkesbury – with all the makings of a perfect dupe for the Cotswolds. This beautifully restored and luxuriously furnished Grade II listed cottage set over three floors provides the perfect base for exploring the area.
A converted bakehouse sitting on the edge of the historic Hamlet of Hailes. Equipped with an ensuite and an expansive garden, this cottage has the makings of an ideal countryside escape.
Genoa, Italy (Dupe for Venice, Italy)
This impressive top floor apartment located in the heart of Genova, is ideal for those who want to explore a lesser visited corner of Italy. Just a short distance away from popular amenities, you’ll be glad to arrive back at its doors for a well-earned rest.
This newly renovated apartment is located in a stunning Liberty-style dome designed in 1906 that stands on the main street of the city. Just a 5 minute walk from Brignole station and 10 minutes away from Piazza De Ferrari, its panoramic views make it the perfect stay.
Paros, Greece (Dupe for Santorini, Greece)
The Olive House – Sunset, Countryside, Sea Views
With its seaside villages, volcanic beaches and ancient ruins to explore, Paros is a perfect dupe for ever-popular Santorini. This beautiful sea view house is just under 10 miles from the main town of Paros. It sits only a few minutes away from the main beaches of Aliki and Voutakas and Farangas.
Villa Aktaia, 4 br & private pool close to Parikia
This stunning villa is situated on a hill looking over Parikia bay, fitted with four ensuite bedrooms. Villa Aktaia is just over a mile from the main city of Paros, so get ready to explore.
For guests who are booking their travel plans this year and need help finding the cream of the crop, Airbnb has launched Guest Favourites, a collection of the 2 million most-loved homes on Airbnb based on ratings, reviews, and reliability.