This content was created by Girlboss in partnership with Hilton Hotels.
Sure, you could follow all the other girlies and drop $3K on a trip to Europe this summer—or you could stick closer to home, earn some cool points and save major coin instead. How do you do this? Enter “destination dupes” a.k.a. spots in Canada and the US that deliver all the same vibes you’d find in a hyped destination… without the hefty price tag or the crowds. Here are five of our favorites. And for ultimate lazy-girl convenience, we’ve paired them with a property from Hilton Hotels, your travel bestie in making all kinds of memories, wherever your adventures take you.
The Original: Paris
The Dupe: Savannah
Eat your heart out, Eiffel Tower. If it’s true romance you’re looking for in your holiday destination, Savannah serves it big time. Think: Gorgeous squares where you can meet the love of your life underneath Spanish moss-hung trees, carriage rides through historic streets and just a touch of gothic spookiness (it’s famously haunted!).
The Stay: The Drayton Hotel Savannah, Curio Collection by Hilton
When you stay at the 19th century Drayton Hotel, you’ll be in the heart of its deeply atmospheric historic district, and walking distance from some of its most swoon worthy attractions, like Forsyth Park and the Riverfront.
The Must Dos: Send shivers up your spine with a Savannah Ghost Tour, a walking excursion that takes in 300 years of the city’s history—and spirits. Recuperate with a sugar rush afterward at the iconic, old-school Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlour, named in the top ten in the world!
The Original: Melbourne
The Dupe: Montreal
Melbourne is famous for three things: It’s incredible coffee, its graffit-ed laneways, and its lively arts and culture scene. It’s also a *very* long plane ride away. Much closer to home—and equally as cool—you’ll find Montreal, a charming city that ticks all the same boxes as its Aussie counterpart. And they speak French!
The Stay: Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton
Located at the best address in town—the “Golden Square Mile” is That Girl™ of Montreal streets. This chic hotel is literal footsteps from all the action, whether you’re going luxury shopping on Crescent Street or taking in some culture at the many nearby museums.
The Must Dos: This spring, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is opening up rarely-or-never-been-seen parts of its impressive pop art collection, including works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Chase with a visit to Magpie Magique, a trendy speakeasy accessed through an unassuming shopfront.
The Original: Maldives
The Dupe: Florida Keys
Crystal-clear turquoise water, swaying palm trees, a tropical breeze tickling your cheeks: all things you’ll find in the Maldives—and in the Florida Keys! The only difference? One is an expensive long-haul journey away, while the other is close enough that you can hop down there for a long weekend.
The Stay: Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton
Oozing “Old Key West” style—think Deco, think Ernest Hemingway—this highly Instagrammable property also boasts the largest private beachfront in the Keys.
The Must Dos: After you’ve visited the pillar marking the southernmost point of the United States, visit Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden, a parrot sanctuary that’s like a slice of the jungle right in the middle of the city. And then, grab a bite at laid-back joint Blue Heaven, famous for its “Mile High” key lime pie.
The Original: Glasgow
The Dupe: Halifax
If you’re craving Gaelic charm but not the hassle and expense of crossing an ocean, might we suggest a jaunt to Halifax? Settled by folks with roots in Scotland and Ireland, it's still got that same Glaswegian flavor—including in the historic architecture and ruggedly beautiful landscape—plus proximity to refreshing ocean breezes and lobster rolls.
The Stay: The Hollis Halifax - a DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel
They had us at “warm DoubleTree cookie when you check-in.” Make this funky hotel your home-away-from-home in Halifax, taking full advantage of its central location to hit up all the local sites, like the Maritime Museum and the waterfront with its shopping and restaurants.
The Must Dos: Get your paddle in the water with a kayaking tour of the city’s harbor, courtesy of Harbour Watercraft. (Keep an eye out for sea lions!) Back on land, spend an afternoon strolling through the adorable eateries and shops of the quaint Hydrostone Market.
The Original: Iceland
The Dupe: The Pacific Northwest
While there’s no substitute for the Blue Lagoon, if you’re looking for an outdoors-y escape that’s heavy on the magical scenery, you’ll very easily dupe those Icelandic vibes with a trip to the Pacific Northwest in British Columbia, famous for its awe-inspiring forests and stunning coastline.
The Stay: The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham, Curio Collection by Hilton
Speaking of that stunning coastline: The Chrysalis Inn & Spa is perched on the edge of Bellingham Bay, home to epic sunsets and rugged cliffs. There are trails galore nearby, and immaculate spa facilities—including steam baths—where you can rejuvenate when you’re back at the hotel.
The Must Dos: You’re here to immerse yourself in the great outdoors—and that doesn’t get more epic than with a hike in Whatcom Falls Park, conveniently right in the heart of Bellingham. (You can actually do the falls in less than 15 minutes, but we recommend hanging around and checking out the other 241 acres of pristine nature.) A short drive away in the Skagit Valley, pop by Willowbrook Farm for a charming “Tea and Tour,” where you’re treated to tea and scones before a bike tour of the historic villages nearby.
Ready for an adventure of a lifetime (without breaking the bank)? If you sign up to become a Hilton Honors Member, you can receive up to 17% off the Best Available Rate when you book your next stay at least 7 days in advance. Bon voyage, bbs!
