Destination Dupes: The TikTok Trend Influencing Travel Right Now

In the ever-evolving landscape of tourism, social media has consistently played a pivotal role in shaping our travel decisions.  Among the latest trends making waves on platforms like TikTok is the concept of “destination dupes.”  Much like the idea of finding affordable alternatives to high-end fashion, destination dupes offer savvy travelers the chance to experience similar beauty and charm as their dream destinations, but without the crowds or the hefty price tags.  This trend is not only transforming the way we plan our getaways but also highlighting hidden gems across the globe.

2024 Travel Trends: The Rise of Destination Dupes

The rise of destination dupes can be attributed to a combination of factors. They include the increasing cost of air travel, overtourism, and a growing desire for unique and authentic experiences.  TikTok, with its vast user base and influential content creators, has become the perfect platform for sharing these hidden treasures.  Short, engaging videos showcasing lesser-known destinations that mirror the allure of popular hotspots are resonating with millions of users seeking new experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Similar: Taking an Early Look at 2024 Travel Trends – And How to Explore Them in Belize

For instance, instead of flocking to the over-touristed beaches of Bali, travelers are discovering the equally stunning shores of the Philippines for a fraction of the price.  Similarly, North Americans who dream of exploring the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss Alps are finding comparable beauty closer to home in the Southern Appalachians such as the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia. 

Dive the Belize Barrier Reef for memorable adventures. Photo by the Belize Tourism Board

Destination dupes offer a similar experience at potentially significant savings, as popular tourist spots often come with inflated prices. But the most appealing benefit of choosing a lesser-known travel alternative is the more intimate and immersive experience you can enjoy on your journey.  Destination dupes may even help to mitigate the negative impacts of overtourism. That’s because, as we know, overcrowded destinations can suffer from environmental degradation, loss of cultural heritage, and strained local resources.  By exploring less-frequented areas, travelers can contribute to more sustainable tourism practices and help preserve the integrity of these places.

It’s Not the Maldives, It’s Belize!

Snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef. Photo courtesy Duarte Dellarole Photography

Belize is emerging as a prime example of a destination dupe that offers all the allure of more famous locales without the drawbacks.  This Central American gem boasts crystal-clear Caribbean water, rich cultural heritage, and a plethora of outdoor activities. These make it a compelling alternative to several well-known destinations. 

Similar: Business Insider Goes Inside Thatch Caye’s Luxury Overwater Bungalows

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is renowned for its breathtaking underwater scenery, but it’s also heavily trafficked and faces significant environmental threats.  Belize’s Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest, offers comparable underwater beauty with abundant marine life and colorful coral formations.  Snorkeling and diving in Belize can provide travelers from the Americas an experience to rival Australia without the long-haul flight to the Eastern Hemisphere.

The Benefits of Traveling Off the Beaten Path

Thatch Caye in Belize offers dreamy overwater bungalows with half the cost and travel time of the Maldives. Photo courtesy of Muy’Ono.

Popular tourist destinations can sometimes feel commercialized, losing their unique charm and local culture in the process.  Lesser-known or smaller destinations are more likely to retain their authenticity and offer visitors a chance to connect more deeply with the local community.  Mexico is famed for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and ancient ruins.  It also, however, faces challenges with overcrowded tourist spots. 

Belize offers a more intimate alternative to the over-developed Cancun or Playa del Carmen.  In Belize, you will not find a Senor Frogs, a Walmart, or a McDonalds.  You will find mom-and-pop restaurants, small hotels, quaint bed-and-breakfasts, and independent shops. While Mexico’s Maya sites such as the temple complexes at Chichen Itza or Tulum are awe-inspiring, they are also over-crowded with sightseers.  Belize’s archeological sites, on the other hand, receive far fewer visitors- you may just have them completely to yourself. And while they may not be as well excavated as some of Mexico’s ruins, their unpolished state enhances the Indian-Jones-vibe of adventure and discovery. 

Similar: Tired of Tulum? Come to Belize!

For decades the charming streets, clear waters, and lively nightlife of Key West have drawn countless visitors to Florida’s southernmost town. This has led to crowded attractions and high prices.  The laid-back atmosphere that initially captivated tourists and snowbirds has been compromised. Now, travelers are finding that Belize provides a more tranquil and affordable alternative.  The town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye offers a lively, yet laid-back ambiance. Its cute streets and vibrant local bars are reminiscent of famous Key West watering holes but with plenty of elbow room. Here, there’s no need to wait in line for a barstool.  One of the newest additions to the island is Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville Resort so you can still get your cheeseburger in paradise.

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Photo by the Belize Tourism Board

It is undeniable that the TikTok trend of destination dupes is reshaping the travel industry by highlighting the beauty and potential of lesser-known locales. Belize is a prime example of a great dupe. The country offers the natural splendor and excitement of more notorious destinations but with a more authentic and less crowded experience.  As travelers continue to seek unique and meaningful adventures, destination dupes like Belize are going to appear on more vacationers’ radars.

Featured Photo courtesy of Thatch Caye, a Muy’Ono Resort