Cash-strapped Brits can swap popular beach destinations for these 3 lesser-known and cheaper spots
POPULAR destinations usually have one big downside: they’re very expensive, even during the off-peak season.
Not to worry, though, as 2024 has been dubbed the ‘year of destination dupes’ - which are just as nice but way less expensive.
The research comes from , as it witnessed an increasing demand for less popular holiday destinations.
In 2023, had a notable rise in reservations made to these alternative locations, such as Malta (+29%), Bulgaria (+33%), Montenegro (+67%), and Albania (+95%).
The online travel agency has shared its top recommendations for destination dupes in 2024 based on affordability, shorter flight times and ‘comparison of culture and aesthetics’.
Swap Greek Islands for Montenegro
Being more reasonably priced than adjacent Croatia and the well-known Greek islands, Montenegro is a great spot to explore rich cultural history and unspoiled scenery.
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It has fantastic scenery with stunning mountains and lakes along the Adriatic coastline.
Montenegro is also ideal for adventurers, as in Budva, you can climb or bike through the mountains or take a boat to visit many islands while admiring the coastline views from the summit of Mount Toplis.
There’s also a waterpark that is appealing to kids and adults alike, the Aqua Park Budva, and it costs €29 (£25) for a day's entry.
Elsewhere, the fjord-like surroundings of the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are often described as ‘spectacular’.
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Travellers can also discover hidden gems like the beaches of Sveti Stefan or the mediaeval village of Perast.
Overall, Montenegro is an option that lets holidaymakers experience luxury at a small portion of the price of the equally beautiful Greek Islands.
- Five-night holidays in Montenegro are available
Swap Cyprus for Albania
Many of Albania’s beaches are often described as quieter than others in Europe but just as beautiful.
And, recently, the coastal regions of Albania have been dubbed as the affordable ‘Cyprus dupe’.
There are many options for different types of holidays here, from family-friendly destinations to partying hotspots.
Ksamil is great for anyone looking to party on the Mediterranean, as accommodation, food, and nightlife costs are lower than anywhere else on the coast, especially during busy summer.
Dhrmi in Albania has been compared to Ayia Napa in Cyprus, as they’re both popular destinations for music fans and festivals.
Some Albanian beach resorts offer ‘two-for-one deals’ because the quickest way to reach Albania’s beaches is to fly to Corfu and then take a 30-minute boat over the sea to Sarandë.
- Five-night holidays in Albania are available
Swap Magaluf for Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
Sunny Beach in Bulgaria, one of Europe’s cheapest beach holiday resorts, is known for its nightlife and is a decent bargain alternative to Magaluf in Spain.
However, Sunny Beach is also a great destination for families and is even home to the country’s largest waterpark, the Aqua Paradise.
The region has also evolved over the previous decade, attracting visitors to local vineyards, hiking trails and the UNESCO site Old Nessebar.
Aside from the Black Sea’s pristine beaches, you’ll have to visit the Stone Forest and the Kamchia Biosphere Reserve.
Sunny Beach was also number three on this year’s Post Office .
The average cost of eight items was used to establish the average cost of holidays at the destination.
This year’s selection was a three-course meal for two with wine, a cup of coffee, a bottle of local beer, a can of cola, a glass of wine, a bottle
of still water, suncream and insect repellent, and the total came to £58.30.
- Five-night holidays in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, are available
We’ve also found the short-haul island destination with 300 days of sunshine and holidays for under £150.
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And how to book Royal Caribbean cruises to Spain and Portugal with £0 deposit and low monthly payments.
Meanwhile, easyJet holidays released new free child places in Greece, Spain and Turkey.
