TikTok is a hotbed for trends that reimagine our approach to normal and everyday things to save money, and making the most of holidays is not exempt from this. With more than a quarter of UK residents planning to reduce their holidays or even completely scrap their travel plans, the TikTok trend of ‘dupe’ holidays could be the answer for where to travel on your breaks.
But what are dupe holidays? This is the concept of swapping a popular location for a similar city at a much more affordable price point that is likely not to be as busy in peak seasons. It also means that you’ll likely save a lot of money on travel and accommodation.
And with so many holidaymakers in the UK not looking to travel abroad in 2024, where could their best option be for a getaway closer to home? We’ll look to answer this with four of the best dupe options in the UK.
The city culture of Amsterdam for Manchester and Liverpool
Amsterdam’s poetic canals, cycling culture and buzzing nightlife have drawn so many tourists recently that the city has launched campaigns to dissuade the badly behaved from visiting. So, why not ditch the ferry or flight and jump on a train or coach to Manchester or Liverpool instead?
Manchester, an overlooked city in the North of England, is an energetic, hip destination to rival Amsterdam, with its own peaceful canal walks weaving through the city. Nightlife lovers can find some of the best afterhours venues in the UK and innovative cocktail bars in the Northern Quarter. Liverpool similarly boasts a huge variety of things to do and a unique history as an important port city.
Ben Mercer of Leisure Lakes Bikes, a leading provider of mountain bikes in the North West, has sung his praises for the region as a tourist destination: “Between Manchester and Liverpool alone, there’s so much in the way of culture to engage within the North West. Both are deeply entrenched in the music scene of the UK, as well as in industry, history, and nightlife. Plus, with them being so traversable by bike, you can cover a lot of ground in a single day.”
History and nightlife – Prague for Durham and the North East
With over 3.6 billion views under the TikTok hashtag, Prague attracts a lot of interest on TikTok for good reason. The Czech city has long lured visitors with its mixture of heritage and modernity, thriving creative scene and historic streets to explore.
If you’re looking for a destination in the UK with a similar balance, head to the city of Durham, where you’ll find streets lined with beautiful boutiques and plenty of cosy bars. The city’s star attraction is the majestic Durham Castle and Cathedral, designed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986, dating from the late 11th and early 12th centuries.
Plus, it’s only a short journey from Newcastle upon Tyne on a train or bus, which is a destination for nightlife lovers and those looking for a riverside city escape alike.
The Art and Cuisine of Paris for Edinburgh
Paris is a global hub for art, culture, and culinary delights, but Edinburgh offers a compelling dupe right in the heart of Scotland. Edinburgh’s rich history, stunning architecture, and thriving arts scene provide a unique charm akin to the City of Lights. The Scottish capital is home to numerous galleries, theatres, and festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Culinary enthusiasts can explore a variety of restaurants and cafes serving everything from traditional Scottish dishes to international cuisine, with Scotland Visitor Survey 2023 finding that 46% of visitors participated in a food and drink experience while visiting the city. Additionally, the historic Edinburgh Castle and the scenic Royal Mile add to the city’s allure, making it a perfect substitute for a Parisian escape.
The Scenic Beauty of Tuscany for the Cotswolds
Tuscany is celebrated for its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque countryside, but the Cotswolds in England offer a similarly enchanting experience. Known for its charming villages, stone cottages, and beautiful landscapes, the Cotswolds provide an idyllic setting for a peaceful getaway.
Towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Chipping Campden boast quaint shops, cosy pubs, and stunning gardens. The region’s scenic beauty is perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, and exploring historic sites. For those seeking the serene and picturesque charm of Tuscany without travel, the Cotswolds is an ideal alternative.
Travel dupes offer a wonderful opportunity to explore new destinations without the high costs and crowds of more famous locales. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural hubs of Manchester and Liverpool, the historical richness of Durham and Newcastle, the artistic vibe of Edinburgh, or the scenic beauty of the Cotswolds, these UK alternatives provide memorable and budget-friendly adventures. Embrace the trend and discover the hidden gems right on your doorstep.
