Season 3 of The White Lotus premieres tomorrow, prompting many to converge on Koh Samui, Thailand, the show's setting, to indulge in their vacation fantasies. This surge in visitors will likely result in skyrocketing hotel prices, increased crowds at popular attractions, and a departure from the serene experience one might have anticipated.

Southeast Asia offers numerous beach destinations that serve as relaxing alternatives. However, what about comparable locations for other heavily trafficked holiday spots? We consulted knowledgeable travel editors and writers, including Joanna Lobo, Kiran Mehta, Salil Deshpande, and Sudipta Basu, to identify which destinations they would recommend as substitutes and their reasoning. Mehta acknowledges, “Each place possesses its own culture, customs, history, and atmosphere. As long as one maintains a realistic perspective on the similarities and differences, a substitute can be effective.”

Swap Alaska for Tasmania

The island state of Tasmania in Australia serves as an excellent location for witnessing the Southern Lights, particularly for those unable to travel to the United States or Nordic countries to see the Northern Lights. According to Mehta, Tasmania benefits from low air pollution levels, resulting in clearer skies. Frequent visitors who are knowledgeable about the phenomenon often report that the lights appear more vibrant. Additionally, obtaining visas for travel to Tasmania is generally a straightforward process.

Swap Copenhagen for Helsinki

Both cities possess their own unique charm; however, Helsinki stands out as a more affordable, smaller, and less congested option. It boasts impressive museums, historical landmarks, and a Nordic culinary scene that prioritizes fresh, local ingredients, particularly highlighting a notable fondness for fresh herring. As Lobo remarks, "In contrast to India, where the finest products are often exported, in Helsinki, the locals actually consume the best offerings."

Moreover, while Copenhagen is characterized by its fast-paced lifestyle, Helsinki encourages a more leisurely pace. The city is pedestrian-friendly and features an excellent public transportation system. In 2024, it was recognized as the world's most sustainable travel destination by the Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index. Additionally, the thrift stores remain relatively untouched by avid bargain hunters. "It’s a worthy dupe," Lobo notes.

Swap NYC for Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers thinner crowds, a reduced presence of scammers, more affordable prices, a vibrant art scene, a striking skyline, and a rich tapestry of American history. Basu suggests that Philadelphia should be the initial destination for travellers arriving in the United States, as flights typically arrive punctually and the immigration process is expedited. While New York City boasts landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Philadelphia is home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Museum of the American Revolution. The city also features some of the finest street art globally, alongside the Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation. In contrast to the hustle of New York, where catcalling and pickpocketing are common, Philadelphia presents open streets, a well-organized grid layout, and safer neighbourhoods.

Swap the Great Barrier Reef for the Belize Barrier Reef

The natural wonders of Australia have faced significant overexploitation due to tourism activities. The delicate ecological balance is increasingly jeopardized by the ongoing climate crisis. Mehta suggests considering Belize, located in Central America, as an alternative destination for snorkelling. Belize is reputed for its robust coral reefs and a rich variety of marine species, including nurse sharks. It is advisable to avoid disturbing any vulnerable or endemic ecosystems.

Swap Bali for Nusa Lembongan

A 45-minute ferry journey from Bali leads to one of Indonesia's smallest and least frequented islands. The coastline is easily accessible on foot, allowing visitors to explore the area and discover remarkable locations throughout. "It’s where I experienced the finest cuisine in Indonesia," remarks Lobo, highlighting the local culinary offerings and the community's consideration for dietary preferences. Additionally, there are various water activities available, including surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. Furthermore, the island boasts stunning beaches, perfect for capturing memorable photographs.

Swap Kyoto for Tohoku

Tohoku, located a three-hour train journey from Tokyo, offers a serene atmosphere and is renowned for its ancient temples, devoid of the incessant influx of tourists enamored with geisha culture. The region boasts a splendid cherry blossom season, attracting bloom enthusiasts to Hirosaki Park rather than the bustling Arashiyama in Kyoto. Additionally, Tohoku features tranquil hot springs, excellent skiing resorts, and Zen gardens, as noted by Basu.

Swap London for Oxfordshire

While it may not be classified as a major metropolis, this location offers a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing for enjoyment without the constant pressure of haste or vigilance. The area boasts remarkable museums and churches, picturesque countryside, quaint villages, expansive pastures, and a sparse population. Notable literary figures such as Rudyard Kipling, Lewis Carroll, and J.R.R. Tolkien found inspiration for their works in this region. Additionally, certain scenes from the Harry Potter films were filmed here. Turf Tavern was a favoured dating spot for Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. According to Lobo, the local bar scene presents a more appealing ambience compared to that of London. As a university town, it is also home to excellent libraries and bookstores.

Tread lightly

Exercise caution regarding imitations just as you would with the original sites, advises Deshpande. Lesser-known, tranquil locations frequently lack the capacity to manage a sudden surge of popularity and may falter under the pressure of numerous demanding tourists. “This leads us back to the same discussion, seeking a substitute for a substitute.”

Therefore, it is often more advantageous to stick with your initial choice while opting for off-peak travel. Consider Europe during the winter or autumn months, or Japan just before or after the cherry blossom season. Prices are lower, the atmosphere is more laid-back, and the experience is enjoyable—qualities that define an ideal vacation.

Read Also: Maha Kumbh 2025: Why Driving There is a Bad Idea

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