As wanderlust continues to inspire travellers worldwide, the rising costs of long-haul travel often mean that many bucket-list destinations remain just that – dreams.
The travel experts at SkyParkSecure have shared dupes to long-haul destinations, to help travellers explore the world without breaking the bank.
Luckily, there are many ‘destination dupes’ available; these are alternatives for people who long to experience iconic places but are constrained by budget limitations. Whether it’s finding a taste of Thailand in Portugal or mimicking Morocco’s desert landscapes in Spain, the travel experts at SkyParkSecure have uncovered hidden gems to make dream holidays more accessible.
1. Replace Patagonia with the Tatra mountains, Poland & Slovakia
Nearest Airport: Poprad-Tatry Airport (TAT) in Slovakia.
Flight Time: Direct flights from London Luton (LTN) to Poprad-Tatry take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
For adventure seekers yearning to explore rugged landscapes and dramatic peaks, the Tatra Mountains provide breath taking scenery and hiking opportunities—minus the high cost of South American expeditions.
The Tatra Mountains are dotted with glacial lakes that rival Patagonia’s iconic lakes in beauty. One of the most popular is Morskie Oko (Eye of the Sea), often compared to the shimmering lakes of southern Chile and Argentina, surrounded by towering granite peaks.
2. Swap the Maldives for the Azores, Portugal
Nearest Airport: Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) on São Miguel Island.
Flight Time: Direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Ponta Delgada take about 4 hours and 10 minutes.
The crystal-clear waters, volcanic landscapes, and lush greenery of the Azores archipelago offer a tropical island feel reminiscent of the Maldives. Plus, with direct flights from many European cities, travellers can enjoy a serene island escape without the long-haul trek.
Much like exploring the atolls of the Maldives, visitors can hop between nine distinct islands in the Azores, each offering unique landscapes and attractions.
3. Visit the Albania, Balkan Peninsula instead of Columbia
Nearest Airport: Tirana International Airport (TIA)
Flight Time: Direct flights from London to Tirana typically take around 3 hours.
Both Albania and Colombia are known for their breath taking natural diversity, offering a mix of mountains, beaches, and lush countryside.
Albania boasts the Albanian Alps, ideal for trekking and adventure seekers, and a stunning Adriatic and Ionian coastline along the Albanian Riviera. Destinations like Sarandë, Ksamil, and Dhërmi feature crystal-clear waters reminiscent of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
4. Experience Cappadocia, Turkey’s magic in Meteora, Greece
Nearest Airport: Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) or Athens International Airport (ATH), followed by a domestic flight or ground transportation to Kalambaka.
Flight Time: Direct flights from London to Thessaloniki or Athens take approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.
For those fascinated by Cappadocia’s surreal rock formations and monasteries, Meteora in northern Greece offers a strikingly similar experience. Explore ancient monasteries perched atop giant rock pillars while staying closer to home.
Although not as widely known as Cappadocia’s balloons, Meteora also offers hot-air balloon experiences, providing spectacular views of the valley and rock formations at sunrise.
5. Choose Andalusia, Spain over Morocco
Nearest Airports: Seville Airport (SVQ), Málaga Airport (AGP), and Granada Airport (GRX).
Flight Time: Direct flights from London to Andalusian cities range from 2.5 to 3 hours.
Andalusia’s Moorish architecture, vibrant markets, and golden deserts make it an ideal alternative to Morocco. Cities like Granada and Seville offer a blend of history, culture, and cuisine with the added convenience of European travel.
Andalusia adds a unique twist to the cultural experience with its flamenco dancing, lively festivals, and mouth-watering tapas, offering travellers an unforgettable blend of history and modern charm.
6. Find a Thai Island vibe in Sardinia, Italy
Nearest Airports: Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB), and Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO).
Flight Time: Direct flights from London to Sardinia typically take around 2.5 to 3 hours.
The beaches of Sardinia, with their turquoise waters and secluded coves, rival the tropical beauty of Thailand’s famous islands. With its laid-back atmosphere and mouth-watering cuisine, Sardinia offers a European take on paradise.
The beaches of Sardinia, such as Cala Goloritzé and La Pelosa, are renowned for their turquoise waters and white sand, evoking the beauty of Thailand’s famous beaches like Maya Bay.
You don’t need to travel across the globe to find the experiences you’re looking for. Hidden treasures are closer than you might think! For hassle-free travel when visiting your chosen destination dupe, secure affordable and convenient airport parking through SkyParkSecure, ensuring a smooth start to your next European adventure.