No need to head to Europe: These budget-friendly alternatives are under 7 hours away

If you’re looking to travel to: the Swiss Alps

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1/5

Consider: The Himalayas.

Specifically the northern regions of India and Nepal. While the Swiss Alps are known for their stunning mountain landscapes, the Himalayas offer a similar breathtaking mountain experience.

Here are some key points to consider:

Himalayan Range: The Himalayas, which include regions like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand in India, as well as Nepal, boast some of the world's most magnificent peaks, including Mount Everest. The snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and pristine alpine scenery provide a comparable awe-inspiring experience to the Swiss Alps.

Adventure Activities: Just like the Swiss Alps, the Himalayas offer a wide range of adventure activities. You can go trekking, mountaineering, skiing, and paragliding in both regions.

Cultural Richness: Switzerland and the Himalayas are culturally diverse regions. While Switzerland has its charming Swiss culture, the Himalayan regions offer a rich tapestry of cultures, including Tibetan, Indian, and Nepalese influences. You can explore ancient temples, monasteries, and vibrant local traditions.

Affordability: Travelling to the Himalayas from Singapore is generally more budget-friendly than a trip to the Swiss Alps. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are often lower in the Himalayan regions.

Accessibility: The Himalayas can be reached from Singapore with relatively short flights. You can fly to major cities in India or Nepal, such as Delhi, Kathmandu, or Bagdogra, and then continue your journey to the mountainous areas.

If you’re looking to travel to: London

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2/5

Consider: Melbourne.

While London and Melbourne have their own distinct characteristics, Melbourne offers a cosmopolitan and culturally rich urban experience that shares some similarities with London.

Here are some points to consider:

Art and Museums: London is home to world-class museums like the British Museum and Tate Modern. Melbourne boasts renowned cultural institutions like the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), offering a rich art and museum scene.

Theatre and Performances: London's West End is famous for its theatre productions. Melbourne, with its iconic Princess Theatre and vibrant theatre district, offers a dynamic performing arts scene, making it a great place for enjoying live performances.

Parks and Green Spaces: London has its beautiful parks like Hyde Park and Regent's Park. Melbourne has stunning green spaces, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and Fitzroy Gardens, which are perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.

Shopping and Markets: Both cities offer a variety of shopping experiences. London's famous shopping districts include Oxford Street and Portobello Road Market. Melbourne features the Queen Victoria Market and the trendy shops along Chapel Street for shopping enthusiasts.

Historical Architecture: London's historic architecture is iconic, but Melbourne boasts a mix of old and modern architectural marvels. You can explore historic laneways, colonial-era buildings, and contemporary skyscrapers.

Café Culture: Melbourne is renowned for its café culture, with an abundance of stylish coffee shops and laneway eateries, similar to London's vibrant cafe scene.

If you’re looking to travel to: Santorini

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3/5

Consider: Phuket.

While not in Greece, the island of Phuket in Thailand also offers a beautiful coastal experience with some similarities to Santorini.

Here are some reasons why Phuket can be a good alternative:

Tropical Beauty: Phuket boasts stunning beaches with powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a lush tropical paradise atmosphere that shares characteristics with the coastal beauty of Santorini. The island's landscapes, complete with palm-fringed shores, provide a serene and picturesque setting for beach lovers and sun-seekers.

Cultural Experiences: Thailand has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that you can explore during your visit to Phuket. From ancient temples adorned with intricate details to bustling local markets, you can immerse yourself in Thai culture. Traditional festivals and events offer opportunities to witness and participate in local traditions.

Culinary Delights: Thai cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its bold flavours, creative use of fresh ingredients, and the perfect balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements. While it offers a different culinary experience from the culinary delights of Santorini, Thai food is equally as flavourful. From savoury Pad Thai to aromatic green curries, your taste buds will be treated to a delightful culinary journey.

Adventure Activities: Phuket is not just about lazing on the beach; it's an adventure enthusiast's paradise. The island offers a wide range of water sports, including snorkelling, scuba diving, and jet-skiing. Additionally, you can embark on island-hopping adventures to explore nearby isles, each with its own unique charm, reminiscent of the island-hopping experiences of Santorini.

Warm Climate: Like Santorini, Phuket enjoys a warm and sunny climate for most of the year. Whether you visit during the dry season or the wet season, you'll be greeted by the warmth of the sun and the refreshing sea breeze, making it an ideal choice for those seeking sunny and pleasant weather.

If you’re looking to travel to: Paris

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4/5

Consider: Hoi An.

You can find charming and romantic cities in Vietnam that offer their unique appeal and a romantic atmosphere, and Hoi An is often considered one of the most romantic cities in Vietnam. It doesn't replicate Paris, but it has its own charm and appeal that can make it a romantic travel destination.

Here are some reasons why Hoi An can be a romantic alternative:

Historical Beauty: Much like the historical charm of Paris, Hoi An's Ancient Town offers a different but equally captivating historical beauty. The well-preserved streets of Hoi An resemble the romantic aesthetics of European towns, complete with centuries-old buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. The town's architectural grace and colourful lanterns create an ambiance reminiscent of the romantic streets of Paris.

Cultural Experiences: Hoi An, like Paris, provides an array of cultural experiences. While Paris is celebrated for its art, fashion, and culinary scene, Hoi An offers its own cultural tapestry. Traditional Vietnamese music and dance performances in Hoi An can be compared to the artistic and musical offerings of Paris. Exploring local markets in both cities provides insights into daily life, and savouring Vietnamese cuisine is a culinary adventure akin to Paris' gourmet reputation.

Riverfront Romance: Hoi An's Thu Bon River serves as a romantic focal point, much like the Seine River in Paris. Both riverside settings offer the perfect backdrop for romantic experiences, with boat rides on the Seine in Paris or the Thu Bon in Hoi An creating memorable moments. Riverside dining options in both cities provide the opportunity for intimate meals with scenic views.

Tailor-Made Clothing: Hoi An's renowned tailor shops and custom clothing experiences parallel Paris's reputation for fashion and style. Both cities offer the chance to create lasting memories, whether you're getting fitted for a unique outfit in Hoi An or exploring the chic boutiques of Paris.

Lantern Festival: The Full Moon Lantern Festival in Hoi An brings a magical atmosphere to the town, similar to the enchantment of Paris illuminated by city lights. Strolling through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An during the festival is reminiscent of the romantic nocturnal walks in Paris, adding a touch of magic to your stay.

If you’re looking to travel to: Rome

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5/5

Consider: Xi’an.

While it's challenging to find an exact travel dupe for Rome in China due to the distinctive historical and architectural characteristics of Rome, you can visit Xi'an in China, which offers a unique historical and cultural experience that can be an intriguing alternative.

Here are some reasons why Xi'an can be a noteworthy alternative:

Ancient History: Xi'an is known as one of the oldest cities in China and served as the capital for numerous Chinese dynasties. It boasts a rich historical heritage, including the famous Terracotta Army, which is often compared to Rome's ancient ruins. The ancient city wall, which encircles the old town, is another remarkable feature.

Cultural Significance: Xi'an is recognised as the eastern terminus of the Silk Road, making it a cultural melting pot with influences from various civilizations. The city's diverse culture, art, and traditions can be compared to Rome's cultural richness.

Historical Monuments: In addition to the Terracotta Army, Xi'an features a wealth of historical monuments, including the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Great Mosque. These landmarks reflect China's historical and architectural depth, similar to Rome's historical sites.

Night Markets: Xi'an's vibrant night markets, such as the Muslim Quarter, provide an exciting and bustling atmosphere in the evenings, similar to the lively street scenes in Rome.