As travel to the United States faces tightening restrictions and evolving policies, many international travellers are reconsidering their plans to visit the land of the free. With updated travel advisories from countries like Canada, the UK, and Germany, concerns around entry rules and border experiences are rising. But if you’re longing for the iconic energy, landscapes, and cultural vibe of the US, where else can you find a similar experience — without the hassle? From bustling metropolitan hubs to vast wilderness and vibrant nightlife, these international alternatives offer the spirit of the US with their own unique twist.
If you love New York City… try Toronto
New York City has an undeniable allure — the towering skyline, the cultural buzz, and iconic landmarks that have inspired countless films and TV shows. Yet if you want a taste of the Big Apple without crossing the border, Toronto has long been a worthy stand-in. Its eclectic architecture, vibrant neighbourhoods, and cultural diversity have made it a favourite filming location, doubling for Manhattan in many productions, including the recent film The Apprentice.
Toronto’s charm lies in both its similarities and its differences. While you won’t find the Yankees playing baseball here, the Toronto Blue Jays bring their own local spirit to the game. The city’s culinary scene favours poutine over pizza, yet its 400-acre High Park evokes the green respite of Central Park, and the CN Tower offers sweeping views rivaling the Empire State Building. “Toronto is New York run by the Swiss,” quips Lydia Devereaux, international marketing director at Destination Ontario. The city’s world-class museums, diverse population, and walkable neighbourhoods capture the metropolitan vibe that New York lovers crave, all with a slightly more relaxed pace.
If you crave cowboy culture… try Argentina
The recent surge in ‘cowboy core’ culture, inspired by TV shows like Yellowstone and major cultural moments like Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter world tour, has many travellers seeking authentic ranch experiences. While Montana and Wyoming remain popular cowboy destinations in the US, Argentina offers a uniquely genuine alternative rooted in centuries-old traditions.
Here, the gauchos — Argentina’s iconic horsemen — uphold a heritage of horsemanship, cattle herding, and rustic living that rivals the American West. Estancias, or traditional ranches, invite visitors to immerse themselves in the slow rhythms of country life, with horseback riding, asado barbecues, and mate tea ceremonies forming the heart of the experience. Kevin Begg, owner of Estancia Los Potreros, highlights the authenticity of Argentine cowboy culture: “Our guests become part of our family, participating in daily life rather than ticking off activities from a list.” For those seeking a deep connection to cowboy history and culture, Argentina’s pampas offer an unforgettable journey beyond US borders.
If the Grand Canyon amazes you… try the Tara River Gorge in Montenegro
Few natural wonders match the sheer scale and drama of the Grand Canyon. Spanning 278 miles in length and plunging to depths of a mile, it captivates millions each year. But for travellers looking to avoid crowds while soaking in similar grandeur, Europe’s Tara River Gorge provides a breathtaking alternative.
Nestled within Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, the Tara Gorge cuts a spectacular turquoise ribbon through jagged cliffs. The area offers whitewater rafting, hiking, and moments of raw, isolated beauty that echo the profound sense of wonder felt at the Grand Canyon’s edge. Stefanie Schmudde, senior vice president of global product strategy at Abercrombie & Kent, praises Tara for its “immense scale” and “visceral connection to nature” in a setting still largely undiscovered by mass tourism.
On another continent, South Africa’s Cape Town channels some of the US’s coastal charm. Its fog-laden shores and rich cultural history recall San Francisco’s vibe, while Robben Island — once Nelson Mandela’s prison — mirrors Alcatraz with its shark-guarded waters. Cape Town offers a mix of world-class wineries, coastal hiking, vibrant food scenes, and significant historical sites, ensuring travellers can enjoy a dynamic urban and natural experience reminiscent of the US West Coast.
If Las Vegas dazzles you… try Macau
When it comes to bright lights, entertainment, and world-class casinos, few places rival Las Vegas. But for those seeking a similar thrill with an Asian twist, Macau stands out as the “Vegas of Asia.” This former trading port blends Portuguese colonial heritage with Chinese culture, resulting in a uniquely rich backdrop to its glitzy casino resorts.
Macau features spectacular shows, luxurious hotels, and high-stakes gaming just like Vegas. But it also offers distinct cultural depth. Andy Eastham of Wendy Wu Tours notes, “For fans of Vegas, there’s plenty that will feel familiar, but where Macau really stands apart is in its cultural depth.” Visitors might sip cocktails in sky-high bars one moment and stroll cobbled streets lined with pastel colonial buildings the next, or watch traditional dragon dancers outside Taoist temples. Highlights include the world’s first Karl Lagerfeld-designed hotel and replicas of Venice’s Grand Canal and Paris’s Eiffel Tower on the Cotai Strip. For travellers craving Vegas excitement with a fascinating cultural mix, Macau is a dazzling alternative.
New adventures beyond the US
While recent travel advisories and policy shifts have cast a shadow over US-bound journeys, these global destinations offer compelling reasons to explore beyond American borders. Whether it’s the urban sophistication of Toronto, the authentic cowboy life of Argentina, the natural wonders of Montenegro and South Africa, or the glitzy nightlife of Macau, travellers can find their own version of iconic US experiences — often with fewer crowds, more local flavour, and fresh perspectives. So if your US trip is on hold, consider one of these destination dupes that capture the spirit and excitement of the Land of the Free, while offering their own unique stories to discover.
