Discover lesser-known destinations with big city vibes

In an article published on its website, Travel + Leisure unveils that travelers are increasingly seeking out destinations that offer the same experiences as popular hotspots, but at a fraction of the cost. 

Certain destinations remain popular year after year, attracting travelers for their rich history, exceptional food, art, and top-notch hotels. Cities like Rome, Paris, Tokyo, and Copenhagen are known for their shopping, cultural landmarks, and Michelin-starred dining. However, sometimes travelers are looking for a similar experience at a more affordable price. This is where "travel twins" come in.

You may have heard of "travel dupes," which are lesser-known spots that resemble their more famous counterparts. In its annual outlook report, released today, the Mastercard Economics Institute introduced the term "travel twins." These are destinations that offer similar attractions and experiences but at lower costs or with fewer crowds.

The report highlights how rising prices have influenced consumer spending, including how people budget for travel.

"For products and services with varied price and quality levels available, we may see a trend of 'trading down,' where consumers opt for more affordable versions," the report noted.

"Travel twin" destinations allow travelers to make lateral swaps rather than "trading down" — and many are already embracing this trend. Mastercard's analysis revealed that "the average year-to-date growth in hotel transactions across duplicate destinations [are] nine percentage points higher compared to their more well-known counterparts."

In Europe, for example, travelers are opting for stays in Copenhagen over Amsterdam, as both cities offer "picturesque canals and a bike-friendly atmosphere," according to the Mastercard report. In Mexico, visitors are discovering that Bacalar's "crystal-clear waters and lush greenery rival the beauty of Tulum," while in Southeast Asia, "Lombok's stunning beaches and serene landscapes offer an alternative to the bustling crowds of Bali," the report notes.

The report also highlighted several other great "travel twins," including Fukuoka in southern Japan as a fantastic alternative to Tokyo, Dublin as a substitute for London, and Athens instead of a Roman holiday. So, next time you're looking to travel on a budget, consider choosing a travel twin — because "trading down just isn't good enough for your vacation."

By Naila Huseynova