James Clendenin

10 Budget-Friendly Travel Dupes That Feel Just Like Europe (But Cost a Lot Less)

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You can get that old-world charm without the jet lag or the price tag.

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A trip to Europe is a bucket-list dream for many, but the reality of expensive flights, high accommodation costs, and an unfavorable exchange rate can keep that dream out of reach. The good news is that you don’t have to cross the Atlantic to find cobblestone streets, stunning mountain vistas, or a vibrant, foreign-feeling culture. North America is full of incredible “dupes” for popular European destinations.

These places offer a similar vibe for a fraction of the cost and travel time, proving a memorable trip is closer than you think.

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9 Countries Still Getting Rich Off American Tourists

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The American dollar is a powerful force in these global hotspots.

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American travelers have returned to the world stage with a vengeance, armed with passports, a strong dollar, and a pent-up demand for new experiences. This collective wanderlust is more than just a social trend; it’s a powerful economic engine that is fueling the economies of countries around the globe. For a select group of nations, the steady stream of American tourists is a vital source of revenue.

These are the destinations that have mastered the art of attracting and capitalizing on the lucrative American travel market in 2025.

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Cruise Port Day: 10 Things To Pack and Bring Ashore

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A little preparation in your day bag goes a long way.

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The thrill of waking up in a new port is one of the best parts of any cruise, a chance to explore a new piece of the world for a day. But a fantastic day ashore can be quickly derailed by a dead phone, a bad sunburn, or the frantic realization you don’t know what time you need to be back.

Packing a smart day bag with a few key essentials is the secret to a stress-free and memorable excursion.

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8 Vacation Destinations the Government Does Not Want You to Visit

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These beautiful countries come with a stern official warning.

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The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for a reason, acting as a crucial guide to the safety and security landscape of a given country. For a handful of destinations, that advice is the stark and unambiguous “Level 4: Do Not Travel.” This isn’t a suggestion; it’s the government’s strongest possible warning, reserved for places where the risk of arbitrary detention, armed conflict, or other dangers is unacceptably high.

While these countries may hold a certain allure for adventurous travelers, they are places where your passport offers little protection and the U.S. government has extremely limited ability to help you.

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8 Travel Behaviors That Make You Look a Hillbilly Abroad

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Your passport doesn’t grant you a license to be clueless.

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Traveling abroad is an incredible opportunity to broaden your horizons, but it’s also a chance to make a terrible impression if you’re not careful. Certain behaviors that might be normal or acceptable back home can come across as rude, ignorant, or just plain uncouth in a different cultural context. These are the tell-tale signs of an inexperienced and clueless tourist.

Avoiding these common blunders is the key to being a respectful and welcomed guest, rather than becoming a walking stereotype that makes the locals cringe.

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