DESTINATION DUPES DELIVERING THE SAME MAGIC

From Slovenia's canal-side calm to Taiwan's neon-lit nights, these under-the-radar destination dupes offer the same wow-factor, space to breathe and sustainable appeal

- Words SHWETA SUNNY Photographs SHUTTERSTOCK

There's a buzzy thrill in visiting the world's most iconic places.

But sometimes, queues, tourist traps and sky-high prices can steal the joy of it. Fortunately, there are hidden gems, now termed as destination dupes, that conjure much of the same beauty, culture and heart, usually at a far less cost and with a far more breathing space. It also doubles up in the eco and slow travel space as less mass tourism means the environmental footprint can be lower while benefitting local economies more directly. For the traveller that wants something different, fresh, yet magical, here are ten alternatives to popular destinations that might just redefine your next vacation.

LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA FOR VENICE, ITALY

While Venice might offer charming canals, baroque architecture, cafes on riversides and pastel-coloured facades, Ljubljana, Slovenia, offers it all without the crush. For the quieter soul, nothing beats the Ljubljanica river winding under the graceful bridges and the intimate Old Town, which is bicycle-friendly and almost fairytale-like. Venetian gondolas are replaced by colourful rowing boats, peppermint gelatos by local wines and hearty Slovenian fare.

TAIPEI, TAIWAN FOR TOKYO, JAPAN