The idea of traveling abroad may still be in the idea phase. Perhaps you don’t have your passport, you are not ready for international travel, or your bank account just won’t allow it – whatever your reason, today is your lucky day. There are a ton of places to visit in the United States that will allow you to feel as though you are traveling the world.
Sure, you may know where you are – but to those seeing your pictures? You are a world traveler! See what it feels like to travel to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations without leaving your own country. We’ve put together a list of the look-alike cities for you. All you need to do is get there!
Central America
Miami, Florida city is an incredible melting pot. Initially comprised of primarily Cuban immigrants, you will now find residents from all over South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and beyond. Many of these residents are living the American dream by opening stores and restaurants which means you have to go no further than Miami to indulge yourself.
You will find Cuban restaurants, Peruvian restaurants, Jamaican restaurants, and West Indies restaurants just to name a few. In addition to local shops and special baked treats. Mix all of this with the palm trees, the bright blue beaches, and the incredible Latin nightlife and you will feel like you are no longer in the United States.
Stay at the Barefoot’n Resort in Kissimmee and enjoy the same beautiful, tropical weather that you would find in Central America.
London, England
If you are wanting to get to London, but you aren’t sure that you ever will – or maybe you just don’t have the time, then take a trip to Boston, Massachusetts. This city’s structure was built by Europeans. In fact, this layout and street system is the closest city in the United States to that of London. Architecturally speaking, as well, Boston boasts historical buildings similar to that in London.
Here is the catch. The streets of London are generally packed. And the vibe is that of a hustle and bustle – which is something you don’t necessarily find in Boston. However, you can hop on a train for a short ride into New York City and be immersed in the busy streets and the life here. It will allow you to feel as though you are in London! Well, without the accents, of course!
Stay at the Great Wolf Lodge for a fun family getaway featuring America’s largest indoor water park.
Southern Spain
If you feel like getting whisked away to southern Spain, then go no further than Santa Barbara, California. The architecture alone – white stucco buildings with red roofs – built in a Spanish style make you feel like you have switched over to another country. Place these buildings next to the beautiful blue ocean with mountains in the backdrop and you’ve got yourself a trip to Southern Spain.
Santa Barbara has:
- Strong, Spanish-speaking neighborhoods.
- Spanish street names.
- A Fiesta Festival* every summer to celebrate its Spanish heritage and culture.
This is a much closer to the home version of what you will find in Spain. Enjoy it!
The Caribbean Islands
If you are looking for a tropical island getaway, you must visit the U.S. Virgin Islands. You don’t need a passport to visit and you are able to soak up all things the Caribbean while here. There are three islands – St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John – which means you have choices and makes this a 3-in-1 vacation destination!
The U.S. Virgin Islands have so much to do that you will forget where you are! Here you can:
- Enjoy the blue ocean waters and white sandy beaches. Soak in the sun and relax with a good book. Or, hit the waves with a surfboard or snorkel the day away!
- Try your hand at fishing.
- Eat some local seafood and shop at local stores and markets. Many of these locations offer unique, handmade items.
- Or, believe it or not, you can go horseback riding throughout the island.
France
If you are looking for a little French, go no further than New Orleans, Louisiana. This city and its oldest neighborhood – the French Quarter* (or Vieux Carré as it is also known) – have a lot to offer a soon-to-be world traveler. Everything about this place is inspired by the French (Spanish and Creole, too). Here you will many street names in French, as well as many restaurants and shops, and the Creole cottages with street balconies are all reminiscent of France.
If you come to New Orleans, you are not going to want to miss anything. Check these out:
- Café Du Monde* is where you will find the world-famous beignet (or sweet French doughnut).
- Visit museums, such as New Orleans Museum of Art, Backstreet Cultural Museum, Mardi Gras Museum.
- City Park.
- Frenchmen Street and the Garden District.
- St Louis Cathedral*.
- Swamp tours and cemetery tours are also very popular here.
- And, at last, don’t miss out on the Cajun, French, or Creole food that is so popular in this city.
The Chilean Desert
The desert in Chile* is not someplace you can get to quickly. It is definitely something you plan on in advance. However, if you have some time and want to experience the desert without ever leaving the U.S., then you will want to visit Sedona, Arizona.
This destination is full of canyons, hiking trails, red rocks, and all – just as you would find in Chile (or many other deserts in South America). You can explore Sedona on foot or on horseback. It’s relaxing and it is the perfect getaway – far away from any busy city street.
Dubbed as the Most Beautiful Place on Earth, Sedona locals work to make sure their visitors see all of Sedona’s most beautiful and breathtaking spots. It is a place to explore and get lost in. You will forget that you never left the country when you are among the spectacular desert views.
No one ever said you have to travel far to experience great things. And that includes traveling abroad. There are amazing places in the U.S. that can make you feel like you are worlds away – without ever leaving here.
* Link to third party site
