Dream Destinations at Home: Luxe Holiday Dupes
Dreaming of Bora Bora but don’t have the dollars to spare? Pack your bags and jet set to one of these destination dupes.
When the warmer months roll around, and you start dreaming of a tropical escape, why not begin in our very own backyard? We’ve discovered the destination dupes that will transport you to scenes of White Lotus bliss, without the price tag (and all the drama).
Throughout Queensland, you can head north to discover the Maui-like energy of Port Douglas or the Atherton Tablelands for sights reminiscent of Croatian lakes.
Instead of Bora Bora… visit Lizard Island
Bora Bora is beloved for its sparkling white sands, turquoise ocean and friendly turtles to snorkel with, but we’ve got all of that and more just a short flight away to Lizard Island.
Located on the Heritage-listed and world-famous Great Barrier Reef, which will soon become your playground as you settle into your holiday escape. Book into the Lizard Island Resort for some seriously stellar service, beachfront villas and absolute serenity.
The only luxury resort situated atop the Reef, staying here is a true bucket list item that you’ll treasure memories from for years to come.
(Image credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)
Instead of Maui… visit Port Douglas
Stretch your Aussie dollars further, rather than competing with the US exchange rate and book a holiday at Port Douglas. While Maui boasts large resorts, you can experience luxury on another level with boutique accommodation with a laid-back feel.
Port Douglas matches Maui’s diverse landscape and cultural aspect with its access to two of the world’s most incredible natural wonders – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
You can spend your days taking guided tours through the forest with a traditional owner, snorkelling with colourful wildlife or scuba diving to explore the reef further. Port Douglas is a popular destination for a romantic week away or a family trip with all of the kids in tow.
(Image credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)
Instead of Colombo… visit Kuranda
Colombo is Sri Lanka’s capital and the departure destination for a train ride into the Hill Country, making it top of many a travel wishlist. But if a scenic train ride through rolling green bushland and up a mountain is what you’re dreaming of, hop aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway for an otherworldly escape like no other.
Book yourself in a VIP carriage to enjoy drinks and snacks on your journey, and enjoy the stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest sights from your window, as well as the lookout point at Barron Falls the train stops at halfway up to Kuranda.
Once you arrive, explore the famous markets and Butterfly Sanctuary amongst the various other pleasures this beautiful little tropical North Queensland town offers.
(Image credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)
Instead of Plitvice Lakes… visit Atherton Tablelands
Croatia is a destination featured heavily on the Instagram stories of almost anyone who ventures over on a Euro Summer tour, but don’t go thinking it’s the only spot to chase stunning waterfalls. The Plitvice Lakes and National Park area are popular tourist destinations, thanks to the turquoise water of the lake juxtaposed against lush green surrounds.
But, what if we told you that you could discover something similar right here in Queensland? Head to the Atherton Tablelands and you’ll discover a tropical oasis worth writing home about!
Swap out busy waterfall destinations for intimate spots like Millaa Millaa Falls or Zillie Falls.
Instead of Namibia… visit Cooktown and Cape York
Whilst not a desert, Cooktown and Cape York make an excellent dupe destination for an escape to Namibia. The vast plains of outback terrain, rugged beauty and arid bushlands provide an Australian twist on the sweeping desert plains that make Namibia a sought-after travel destination.
Aussie adventurers can spend their time here four-wheel driving, fishing, bushwalking and exploring.
There is a rich history to dive into here with the traditional landowners, so book in a guided tour or history experience to understand this underrated travel destination even better.
(Image credit: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)
Now that you’re up to speed on Queensland’s best dupe destinations, why not keep holiday planning? Explore our guide to staying in the Daintree or Port Douglas here.
