Ditching the USA: As Tourists Flee, Discover 8 Stellar Alternatives

June 15, 2025 Post a Comment

Not interested in going to the US in the current geopolitical climate? Consider these alternatives to some of the country's most popular attractions

If you're reluctant to visit the United States in these uncertain times, you're not alone. International visits fell 12 per cent year on year in March, according to Oxford Economics. But the good news is that many of the adventures you might seek in the US can be found elsewhere. From epic road trips and national parks to world-class cities, here are a few stand-ins that offer a similar experience.

1. Copper Canyon, Mexico

More than 5 million people visit the Grand Canyon each year, to hike, camp and take in those panoramic views. Rock layers reveal nearly 2 billion years of Earth's history and at sunrise and sunset, its walls glow in rich shades of crimson. However, for an equally impressive yawning chasm, look south, to Mexico's Copper Canyon.

Copper Canyons covers over a quarter of Chihuahua, which is the largest state in the country, and it’s approximately four times larger than its American equivalent. While the grandeur of the Grand Canyon can be attributed to the Colorado River, Mexico's marvel was shaped by six powerful rivers instead. These natural wonders both provide excellent hiking opportunities—remote routes used by the Havasupai people wind through the Arizona canyon, and similar ancient pathways remain part of daily life for the native Tarahumara in Copper Canyon. Each location offers train access; however, unlike the U.S. route where trains halt at the edge, El Chepe—the railway serving Copper Canyon—plunges directly down into the gorge, allowing travelers breathtaking views of steep cliffs, deep ravines, and secluded settlements along their journey.

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2. Patagonia

Alaska boasts some of the most breathtaking vistas in North America, featuring majestic mountains, slow-moving glaciers, and an array of wildlife from grizzly bears to whales. Both cruise enthusiasts and trekkers find this area appealing due to its harsh yet captivating terrain. On the opposite side of the United States lies Patagonia, the thinly inhabited territory spanning across South America. Chile and Argentina .

Featuring rugged mountains, historic ice fields, and paths that seem to stretch to the ends of the earth, some of Patagonia’s most spectacular attractions encompass Chile's Torres del Paine National Park, Argentina's Mount Fitz Roy, and voyages by boat to brilliantly azure glaciers. Keep an eye out for guanacos rather than moose, and spot condors instead of eagles, yet anticipate feeling equally awestruck.

3. Rotorua, New Zealand

With gushing geysers, rainbow-coloured hot springs and roaming bison, Yellowstone National Park has earned its place on many a bucket list. Spanning three US states and perched on a simmering supervolcano, Yellowstone is a land of steaming rivers and gurgling mudpots. Old Faithful is the star of the show, erupting on cue, sending plumes of scalding water skywards. But if you're waiting for the dust to settle regarding the future of US tourism, the city of Rotorua, on New Zealand 's North Island, offers a sulphurous substitute.

The Pohutu geyser propels scalding water up to 30 meters high, and the town buzzes with therapeutic steam vents, minerals-enriched pools, and extremely heated creeks. Although Yellowstone boasts expansive wilderness, Rotorua maintains a stronger bond with its community. Indigenous Māori groups have utilized geothermal power for cooking and bathing purposes for generations. Tourists too can immerse themselves in these warm waters and savor a "hangi," which involves food slowly cooked underground using age-old techniques.

4. Montreal, Canada

New Orleans is renowned for its nightlife, jazz-filled bars and the annual Mardi Gras celebration, which transforms the city with pulsating parades, flamboyant costumes and pounding street rhythms. The city's blend of cultures gives it a unique character, with year-round events and a relentless energy. Although it may not have a Mardi Gras equivalent, Montreal also knows how to throw a party.

The Canadian city's festivals and music scene rival the best of New Orleans' French Quarter with a Gallic flair of their own, Montreal being in French-speaking Quebec. From rooftop bars and underground clubs, Montreal's vibrant atmosphere spills onto the streets, especially during Carifiesta, a colourful expression of Caribbean culture held each July. Another highlight is FEte des Neiges, a January shindig featuring live music, winter sports, ice sculptures and other cold-weather activities.

5. Bollywood, Mumbai, India

Hollywood attracts millions of tourists through its various offerings, ranging from studio visits and the enormous Hollywood sign to the gleaming stars embedded in the Walk of Fame pavement. Should fortune smile upon you, you could catch sight of a starlet. However, for an alternative deceptive attraction, consider Mumbai 'Bollywood, where drama, music, song, and dance come together in magnificent fashion.'

Explore active studios, observe live shootings, or perhaps even join as an extra. Later, enjoy a walk alongside the sea on Marine Drive, where Mumbai's top-tier residents can enjoy hopping a ferry to the historic Elephanta Caves or engaging in lively bargaining at bustling markets like Chor Bazaar. While Hollywood leads internationally, Bollywood captures attention with its more vibrant and striking style of entertainment.

6. The Garden Route, located in South Africa

Route 66 The iconic Main Street of America extends approximately 4,000 kilometers, running from Chicago all the way to Santa Monica. Launched in 1926, this route came to represent liberty and exploration, traversing quaint hamlets, bustling metropolises, and expansive vistas alike. Celebrated in music and cinema, it provides an evocative trip deep into the American cultural soul.

While perhaps less renowned, South Africa’s Garden Route is equally captivating. Unlike Route 66, which captures classic Americana vibes, the Garden Route exudes a sense of wilderness, lushness, and grandeur. Spanning approximately 300 kilometers along the coastline from Mossel Bay to Storms River, this route offers an array of attractions including pristine beaches, dense forests, abundant wildlife, and towering mountain passes. Plan to dedicate at least one week to explore thoroughly, taking detours onto numerous hidden forest paths and scenic overlooks accessible via minor roads.

While you’re exploring the Cape Town region, you could also visit Robben Island, located just north of the city. This place functioned as a prison where Nelson Mandela and other political activists were held during the apartheid period; today, it stands as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a museum. In the United States, they have their own well-known island-prison turned tourist attraction—San Francisco’s Alcatraz. Recently, President Donald Trump proposed reopening this facility as a correctional institution once again.

7. Verbier, Switzerland

In Colorado’s Aspen, where rustic elegance blends with Hollywood glitz, you’ll find a place once known for mining silver but now celebrated as an upscale winter getaway. Famous for its fluffy powder snow and vibrant après-ski culture, this mountain haven lures countless celebrities with its charming red-brick Victorian structures converted into high-end boutiques, snug log cabins nestled amidst pine trees dusted with snow, and modern chalets featuring crackling fireplaces.

Europe also has resorts that combine top-tier skiing and sophistication, one of the chicest being Verbier. Set in Switzerland's Four Valleys ski area, it serves up sweeping Alpine views, exhilarating descents and a village vibe that blends rustic elegance with cosmopolitan flair. Winter sports fans spotted on the impeccably manicured pistes have included Britain's Prince William, Leonardo DiCaprio and Madonna.

8. Sentosa, Singapore

Renowned for its amusement parks, particularly Walt Disney World And at the Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando stands as one of Florida’s top attractions. Besides the thrilling rides and magical figures, tourists are drawn to its golf courses, outlet malls, water parks, and the opportunity for airboat excursions into the nearby wetlands.

If you're looking for a family-oriented escape nearer to your place, Sentosa offers an excellent choice. This island in Singapore seamlessly combines urban amenities with coastal enjoyment. Small enough yet entirely secure and straightforward to get around, Sentosa connects easily to the main land via various modes like cable cars, monorails, and walkways. Here, you will discover lush shores, top-tier accommodations, and popular sites including Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium—the latter being one of the biggest artificial oceanic environments globally. Adrenaline junkies might enjoy zipping across the treetops at Mega Adventure Park, whereas avid golfers could play their hearts out at Sentosa Golf Club—recognized internationally as having some of the most environmentally friendly facilities worldwide. For those who prefer tranquility, strolling sockless along Tanjong Beach or relaxing in a resort’s spa awaits them.

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