The new year is off and running and, like me, you may be thinking about your upcoming travel plans. Of course, there is more to consider than just the places we want to see. We have to consider factors such as what we can afford, whether we want to deal with the crowds during peak seasons, and the time and effort involved, just to name a few. One of the biggest travel trends of 2024 is finding dupes for popular hotspots around the world.
There is no question that there are amazing things to see and do in this state, but here is something you may not have thought about. If you have dreams of a European vacation but would like to go somewhere less expensive, less crowded, and more accessible, we have some incredibly charming destination dupes in Southern California. Check out just a few of my favorites:
Strolling through the historic Danish town of Solvang is like entering a gingerbread village. The town’s name means “sunny fields” in Danish and was founded by Danish Americans in 1911. At every turn, you will enjoy charming shops, traditional windmills, authentic bakeries (I highly recommend Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe!), wineries, chocolatiers, lovely hotels, and wonderfully friendly people.
You can even take a horse-drawn trolley or carriage around town or see an outstanding performance at the outdoor theater.
If you have always wanted to stroll along the canals and footbridges of Venice, Italy, but can’t quite make the trip this year, head to the Venice Canal Historic District, built in 1905 to bring a bit of Italy to the Golden State.
Venice Beach is widely known as a bustling, eclectic boardwalk, but away from the shore, this tranquil neighborhood is filled with colorful houses, charming bridges, and canoe tours and rentals reminiscent of old-world gondola rides.
The gorgeous vineyards, lemon orchards, rolling green hills, striking olive trees, and Spanish-influence architecture of many of the buildings whisk visitors to Temecula Valley off to the Mediterranean. It’s easy to feel as if you are in the Andalusia region in Southern Spain or the Tuscan countryside in Italy.
Take in stunning views of the entire area with a sunrise hot air balloon ride or visit Europa Village - like three European villages in one - where you can sample wines, enjoy tapas and pasta, and even stay the night in a charming casita.
Lake Arrowhead Village is reminiscent of Switzerland’s lake town of Interlaken and the old-world charm of Swiss chalets.
Under a blanket of snow in winter, you may forget where you are and feel like you are vacationing in the Swiss Alps enjoying world-class skiing, tree-covered mountains, and cozy accommodations.
There is nothing quite like Italy’s Amalfi Coast… or is there? The hillside homes and mountains surrounding the colorful little town of Avalon on Catalina Island make this a worthy alternative to the Italian coast.
Enjoy sidewalk cafes, endless views of turquoise waters, and clear sunny days in this picturesque island town.
Have you visited each of these European-style towns? What other Southern California destination dupes would you add to this list? We would love to hear your ideas in the comments. Wherever you choose to go this year, we wish you safe travels and epic adventures!
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