As travel trends evolve, a new concept is making waves in the industry: travel twins. Introduced by Mastercard in its 2025 outlook, this idea is an extension of the well-known “destination dupes.” While destination dupes are places that offer a similar vibe or atmosphere to more famous hotspots at a fraction of the cost, travel twins focus on destinations that mirror the attractions, experiences, and ambiance of popular tourist spots—only with lower prices and fewer crowds.
The Concept of Travel Twins
Unlike destination dupes, which might be hidden gems in less-visited areas, travel twins are usually more recognized locations that offer a similar experience to famous, pricey destinations but without the hefty price tag or overwhelming number of tourists. Think of them as parallel destinations—destinations that offer the same “feel” but without the same level of commercialization or crowding.
For example:
Instead of visiting the expensive and crowded Amalfi Coast in Italy, travelers might opt for a lesser-known coastal town in Spain with beautiful beaches and a similar Mediterranean charm.
If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to the well-known beaches of Bali, you might consider a quieter Indonesian island with stunning landscapes but fewer tourists.
Mastercard’s research shows that the average growth in hotel transactions for these “travel twins” is 9 percentage points higher than for their more famous counterparts, indicating that more travelers are beginning to embrace these affordable alternatives.
Why Are Travel Twins Gaining Popularity?
The trend toward travel twins is driven by several key factors:
Affordability: With inflation affecting travel prices, many consumers are seeking ways to stretch their travel budgets without sacrificing the quality of the experience. Travel twins allow vacationers to enjoy similar attractions for a much lower cost.
Smaller Crowds: Popular tourist destinations often come with the downside of overcrowding, which can detract from the experience. Travel twins, while still offering similar attractions, tend to be less crowded, providing a more relaxed and intimate experience.
Post-Pandemic Travel Trends: The aftermath of the pandemic has changed the way people think about travel, with many preferring to avoid tourist hotspots in favor of quieter, more serene destinations.
Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing global tensions have made some destinations less appealing due to concerns over safety or accessibility. Travel twins offer a way to visit similar places without the geopolitical concerns tied to the original destinations.
A Practical Way to Travel Smarter
Mastercard’s findings highlight that, despite the growing popularity of these alternative destinations, they still offer a high-quality vacation experience. For example, travelers might explore regions that offer the same culture, activities, and natural beauty as a major tourist hub but at a fraction of the cost. These “twins” are not hidden gems in the traditional sense but are emerging as viable, smarter alternatives.
For travelers who want to enjoy an enriching vacation without breaking the bank or facing massive crowds, travel twins present an exciting new option. By choosing to visit these lesser-known counterparts, vacationers can still enjoy all the joys of travel—cultural exploration, adventure, relaxation, and more—while keeping expenses down.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As travel dynamics continue to shift in 2025, especially with the rising costs and ongoing global uncertainties, the concept of travel twins will likely become even more relevant. As travelers seek to balance experience and affordability, these twin destinations offer the perfect solution. By opting for these alternatives, people can enjoy meaningful travel experiences without the stress of overcrowded tourist hotspots or sky-high prices.