Want a cheaper vacation? Try bluffing the destination and cutting your travel costs in half

Are you looking for a way to save money on your next vacation? A beguiling destination may be just what you and your family are looking for.

Scam destinations are lesser-known and more affordable travel destinations. They have all the charm and attractions of the big, well-known tourist attractions without the exorbitant prices.

If this sounds attractive to you, you’re not alone. According to a study by the Bank of America Institute, 92% of travelers surveyed are open to visiting a destination destination. Millennials in particular prefer a more off-the-beaten-path destination experience, with 62% saying they would definitely choose a less expensive option than more popular travel destinations.

By choosing destination dupes, Viola Sender – Co-Founder of Away to the citya city-focused travel blog — can increase the amount of travel they can do each year.

“My husband and I travel about three to four months a year, and the beguiling destination is one of the main reasons we’re able to do this,” she said. “It’s not so much about the name of the city as it is about the feeling it gives you – whether that’s the walkable streets, the good food, or the relaxed atmosphere. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get the same kind of experience.”

While lower costs are a big draw to the off-the-beaten-path destination, those interested in these destinations also want to escape the crowds and tourist traps, have a more relaxing vacation, and find hidden gems, according to the study.

7 affordable tourist destinations in popular cities

Are you ready to plan your next vacation? We reached out to a travel expert who helped share some of the most affordable dupes for these popular travel destinations.

For New York City

What could be an alternative to the city that never sleeps?

“I always recommend Chicago or Mexico City,” said Taima Ramzi, travel expert and founder of the company. Poor man in a private plane. “Chicago offers skyline views, great food, and distinctive architecture, but it’s more budget-friendly and more manageable. Mexico City feels like New York City with its nonstop energy, creative scene, and great restaurants, but your money goes so much further.”

For London

For Americans who are drawn to London, there is a city much closer to home and much less expensive.

“For London, Boston is my recommendation,” Ramsey said. “You still have the history, the walkable neighborhoods, and the charming academic feel. But you’ll spend less, you’ll still be central, and you’ll enjoy the same amount of character.”

For Paris

What could match the romance of Paris? Head to the American South and Savannah, Georgia.

“I would love to recommend Savannah. It’s romantic, walkable, full of character, and has the same combination of beauty and soul but with a Southern twist. You can wander the tree-lined streets, sip wine in cozy cafes, and everything seems easy,” Ramsey said.

For Rome

If you’re traveling to Italy, skip the more expensive city of Rome and head to Verona.

“For Rome, I always recommend Verona,” Ramsey said. “When I visited Verona, the square immediately reminded me of the Colosseum. The city has the same timeless charm, but it’s quieter, more affordable, and, frankly, easier to fall in love with.”

For Tokyo

When you visit Asia, avoid the crowds and expense of Tokyo and visit Taipei, Taiwan instead.

“With Tokyo and Japan in general seeing record tourist numbers right now, prices and crowds are rising dramatically,” Sender said. “Taipei gives you a similar city buzz, great food, and cultural depth, but it’s much less expensive and much less dense.”

For Amsterdam

For an alternative to picturesque Amsterdam in the Netherlands, try Ghent in Belgium.

“If you like Amsterdam’s canals, pretty medieval streets, and walkable neighborhoods, Ghent is a good alternative. It still has a mix of beauty and character, but it feels more relaxed, less commercial, and much easier on the wallet,” said Sender.

for San Francisco

Instead of heading west to San Francisco, California, head east to Lisbon, Portugal.

“This bluff actually looks like you’re in San Francisco. It has San Francisco’s famous streetcars, steep streets, and even the Golden Gate Bridge! “Plus, you’ll trade the jazz clubs (in San Francisco) for fado, get a glimpse into Portuguese culture, and get some fresh seafood at prices we haven’t seen in the Bay Area in decades,” said Diana Yu, travel expert at Just Wanderlust.

Bottom line

Going on vacation to popular cities like New York and London can be expensive and crowded. If you’re looking for ways to save on your travel expenses, consider offbeat destinations, which can have much lower prices and fewer crowds, and still provide opportunities to explore unique and vibrant cultures.