Don't fly to Maldives or Bali - travel agents say hidden gem destinations are cheaper

Travel agents have shared four popular that they think travellers should ditch and swap for these similar hidden gems, which boast fewer tourists and cheaper prices.

We are all too familiar with that craving for a getaway - be it from workplace woes, personal troubles, or simply being overwhelmed by an overflowing social schedule, we can all use an escape now and again. And with summer around the corner, many of us are planning trips abroad. Yet, amid soaring expenses and the steep , indulging in an extravagant retreat can feel like a pipedream for most.

Often, when we do get the chance to get away, we want to tick off our . However, many of us have a lot of the same dream hotspots on our lists, which not only means you could end up being in a busy tourist spot, but prices are also likely to be more .

A group of travel agents at Cassidy Travel in Dublin, Ireland, have shared the location they would recommend visiting instead of the usual hotspots. They imparted their wisdom in a viral video, which has raked in more than 62,000 views on TikTok at the time of writing.

Maldives in the Mediterrean

First up, one travel agent surprisingly said not to travel to the Maldives. While this idyllic location is beautiful, it is not cheap to travel to - and if you want to stop in a resort or one of the famous beach huts, it is sure to burn a hole in your wallet.

Instead, the agent suggests to visit the southern coast of Albania. South Ablania is home to some incredible beaches with clear, bright blue waters, and white beaches that don't look dissimilar to those in the Maldives. However, it is significantly cheaper.

Visit the likes of Berat, Gjirokastr, Korc, Fier, and Vlor counties, which each have something different to offer. Ksamil is said to be one of the most beautiful spots to visit, having been .

One travel booking website says that Ksamil holidays "offer a serene escape into nature's embrace". It says the resort, which is pronounced 'Sameel' - is "renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and secluded islets."

"From lounging under the sun to tasting the freshest seafood right by the water, Ksamil holidays encapsulate the essence of a Mediterranean paradise," says .

Ditch golfing trips in Portugal

Portugal is renowned for its amazing golf courses, where temperatures are always warm and people can enjoy the stunning scenary and amenities. Algarve and Lisbon are popular spots to start a golfing holiday, and many of these courses are internationally recognised, .

And while Portugal is great for golfing, it can be expensive due to high demand. Instead, a travel agent suggests travelling to turkey for a golf trip, and in particular the town of Belek. There are a range of courses to suit all handicaps.

Cassidy Travel explains why it is a must for a golfing adventure, saying: "With its world-class golf courses, breathtaking landscapes, and historical treasures, Turkey offers a unique and unforgettable golf vacation. A golf holiday in Turkey seamlessly blends world-class golfing with the allure of ancient history and vibrant culture."

The main courses in Belek include the National Golf Club, Montgomerie Golf Club, Lykia Links Golf,and Gloria Golf Course.

Swap Bali for Palawan

Another Cassidy Travel agent suggests ditching Bali. She said: "Bali is out...way too many influencers, but Palawan is in, it's so much cheaper."

Known as the 'Island of the Gods' it is not difficult to see why so many people pop Bali on their bucket lists. With its beautiful lanscape of mountains and coastlines, hiking trails, crystal waters, and delicious food, the island truly has it all. While Bali is affordable once you get there, flights and accommodation can be significant expenses. Plus, the island's popularity means that you are bound to see crowds.

Alternatively, Cassidy Travel suggest visiting Palawan in the Philippines. Much like Bali, it is home to incredible views and beaches, as well as great resorts. However the beaches are a lot less crowded than those in Bali, and more serene.

The island offers the opportunity to see a diverse array of wildlife. Plus, you will also find some parts of Palawan, like El Nido and Puerto Pincesa, boast great nightlife and restaurants.

Ditch casinos for cowboy boots

Another agent at Cassidy Travel said recommends Nashvill over Las Vegas for a party in the USA. According to Skyscanner, the price flights from the UK are comparable to each city, and costs while you are there are likely to be similar, however Nashville is the up-and-coming party spot that Brits are getting excited about.

Las Vegas will always be know as the hedonistic entertainment capital, but is known for drawing more of a tourist crowd than Nashville. In this vibrant city, you will find a fantastic nightlife scene, great music, delicious food, interesting museums, plus it is family-friendly. You will find plenty of live music in the city and family friendly activities.

The New York Times recently included the city on its list of "52 Places to Go". If you are looking to do it on the cheap, it is also catered to the likes of backpackers, with a few hostels around the town - a perk that is hard to find in Las Vegas.