Enjoy all the charm and none of the hassle when you choose a lesser-known alternative to a popular destination.
Looking for a big-name getaway without the big crowds or price tag? Try a “destination dupe,” an easy-to-reach alternative that delivers a similar experience to its famous counterpart–with less stress and lower costs.
Here are three destination dupes (also known as “travel twins”) you can easily reach with a one-stop flight from RST.
Amalfi Coast, Italy. View of Positano town and the seaside at sunset. Credit SCStock.
Instead of Italy’s Amalfi Coast → Naples, Florida
Italy’s Amalfi Coast is world-famous for its coastal luxury, breathtaking views and scrumptious cuisine, but it also comes with long flights, high prices and plenty of crowds. For a taste of that sun-drenched sophistication, head to Naples, Florida, a Gulf Coast gem with European-style elegance and sunny beaches located on the aptly-named “Paradise Coast.”
Travel itinerary: Get to Naples in about 6 hours. You’ll fly from RST to Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers with a layover in Minneapolis or Chicago, then drive 50 minutes to Naples.
What to do in Naples:
- Stroll Fifth Avenue South for boutique shopping and al fresco dining.
- Enjoy a picture-perfect beach day at the 10-mile, white-sand Naples Beach.
- Indulge in fresh seafood at The Turtle Club or upscale Italian at Campiello.
- Board a sunset boat cruise to experience a vivid, painted sky over the sparkling ocean waters.
- Explore the Everglades on a guided airboat adventure.
One thing Naples offers that the Amalfi Coast doesn’t: World class golf. Pack your clubs if you love to play.
Eureka Springs is a city in Carroll County, Arkansas. It is located in the Ozark Mountains. Credit: Denis Tangeny Jr.
Instead of Savannah, Georgia → Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Savannah’s oak-shaded squares and cobblestone streets have timeless appeal, but they also draw big crowds. Eureka Springs, Arkansas offers a quirkier, small-town version of that Southern romance. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, the town is filled with Victorian homes, natural springs and winding streets that feel like a step back in time.
Travel itinerary: Get to Eureka Springs in about 6 hours. You’ll fly from RST to Northwest Arkansas National Airport in Bentonville, AR with a layover in Minneapolis or Chicago, then drive just over an hour to Eureka Springs.
What to do in Eureka Springs:
- Explore the thriving, historic downtown with its art galleries, boutiques, cafés, live music and street performers.
- Ride the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway for a vintage rail trip.
- Visit Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural wonder of glass and wood.
- Attend local festivals, from the May Festival of the Arts to fall craft fairs.
- Kayak, canoe, hike, bike, fish, swim or paddleboard in the surrounding woodsy wonderland which features two rivers and three lakes.
One thing Eureka Springs offers that Savannah doesn’t: A long tradition of natural healing springs, still celebrated today at local spas and retreats.
Memphis: Blues Clubs on historic Beale Street at twilight. Credit Sean Pavone.
Instead of Nashville, Tennessee → Memphis, Tennessee
Nashville has become the ultimate country music capital. But with bachelor and bachelorette parties, rising prices and nonstop crowds, it can feel overwhelming. Memphis offers the same musical heart, with a blues- and soul-filled atmosphere that’s every bit as magical.
Travel itinerary: Get to Memphis in about 4 hours. You’ll fly from RST to Memphis International Airport with a layover in Minneapolis or Chicago.
What to Do in Memphis:
- Walk Beale Street to hear live blues every day and night.
- Tour Graceland, Elvis Presley’s legendary home.
- Visit Sun Studio, where Elvis and Johnny Cash recorded their hits.
- Take in amazing views as you walk one mile across the Mississippi River’s longest pedestrian bridge.
- Indulge in the city’s legendary barbecue, including traditional “wet” and “dry” pork ribs and pulled pork.
One thing Memphis offers that Nashville doesn’t: The National Civil Rights Museum, where you can explore five centuries of history through interactive exhibits and powerful storytelling.
Destination dupes allow you to save money, skip the crowds and travel smarter. Book your flight from RST today!
