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We dont give little old Europe enough credit. Packed into a
comparably small space to that of the rest of the world, it has pretty
much got everything covered. From beaches to glaciers, our little
continent has plenty to offer those unable to trot across the globe. So
for every iconic picture you see of some Caribbean coastline or
Himalayan mountain range, just remember that there might be an
equally bucket list worthy alternative right on your doorstep (or indeed
a budget airline flight away).

1. Mexicos beaches vs. Greeces beaches
Many people dream of visiting one of Mexicos beaches, to drink Mojitos and soak up the sun, but if youre not
able to make the 10 hour flight then a great alternative has to be Greece one of the best countries for a full-
proof beach holiday. Some of the most spectacular have to be in Zante, their white sands and clear waters make
them a popular sun-bathing spot.

9 european alternatives to the world's
top travel must-sees
Thursday, 14 August 2014
From island paradises
to active volcanoes-
you don't have to
travel half-way
around the world to
complete your travel
bucket list.
Author: kirsten mccroskrie
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Gosto
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More: 10 of the world's best beaches: in pictures

2. Australias coastline vs. Portugals Algarve
Many wish to visit Mexico's idyllic playas.
Zante's beaches are equally stunning don't you think?
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Australias Twelve Apostles limestone stacks in Victoria are incredible, but Portugals Praia da Marinha also
packs a punch. The famous Algarve beach is surrounded by crooked rocks and cliffs and has many coves and
caves to explore.


More: Australia: in pictures
Australia's 12 Apostles along the Victoria coastline.
Algarve's Praia da Marinha is world famous.
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3. Mongolian Desert vs. Gran Canaria
The Gobi desert is a fascinating place - there really is something romantic about the idea of setting forth into the
wilderness to experience the isolation of this inhospitable environment, with only a camel as your companion.
However, you can still experience a desert adventure while on your holidays in the Spanish island of Gran
Canaria. Lying on the same latitude as the Sahara, its no surprise that the south of the island has some
impressive sand dunes and yes, you can still visit them by camel.

Is exploring the Gobi desert on your to-do list?
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4. Chiles glaciers vs. Icelands glaciers
Ok, on this occasion, if this is something on your bucket list, maybe think about saving up for it sooner rather
than later. Patagonias San Rafael Glacier is melting fast and experts estimate that it will have completely
disappeared by 2030. BUT, if you dont make it across the world in time, Iceland has some of the worlds most
incredible ice structures its in the name I guess. Glacier walks are a popular day trip for many tourists
(Icelandic Mountain Guides offer a variety of tours) and chances are you might get to tick seeing the Northern
Lights off your list too.

Gran Canaria has impressive sand dunes due to its geographical location.
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More: Not just the Northern Lights: top things to do in Iceland

5. Thai islands vs, Italian islands
Many head to Thailand to island hop around some of Southeast Asias most beautiful islands. However, in
Be quick! Chile's glaciers are melting fast!
There are also many ice glaciers in.. erm.. Iceland.
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Europe there are plenty of opportunities to do the same. If you dont fancy going so far away, Italy has many
islands from large, popular ones such as Sardinia and Sicily to many more remote ones such as the Pelagi
islands, two of which are completely unpopulated. You will still be able to enjoy fantastic weather and gorgeous
scenery - without the long-haul flight.

Thailand has many beautiful islands.
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6. Thai lakes vs. Croatian lakes
The likes of Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park are enough to make anyone hop on a plane to Thailand
but Croatias Plitvice Lakes rushing waterfalls and lush surrounding forests make it an equally popular place to
visit and justifiably so.

Spot the difference - Italy also has some amazing islands.
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More: Top 10 things to do in Thailand: Tigers, Temples and Muay Thai

Thailand is also famed for its crystal clear lakes.
Croatia's Plitvice Lakes are simply paradise.
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7. New Zealands mountain ranges vs. Italian mountain ranges
New Zealand is the ultimate adventure destination. Its sprawling mountain ranges make it top of many avid
hikers travel wish-list, wishing to tackle one of the nine Great Hikes and witness some spectacular scenery at
the same time. If your budget doesnt allow you an around the world ticket, Italys Alps, Dolomites and
Appennino mountain ranges still allow the trepid explorer to lace up their hiking boots and explore the rocky
terrain.

Are you wanting to complete the 'Great Hikes'?
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8. Nepals Mountains vs. Swiss Alps
Ok. Nepal has Everest. And seven other mountains that are among the top ten in the world. Fair enough. Keep
them on your to do list. Europes mountains may not be able to compete in height, but they certainly can in
scenery. The snow covered Swiss Alps for example, are unbelievably beautiful and are a rewarding hike for
anyone willing and able to tackle them.

Italy's mountain ranges also have great hiking routes.
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9. Indonesias volcanoes vs. Canary Islands' volcanoes
Many travel to Indonesia to stand face to face with some of the earths most violent and active volcanos. There
are over 120 here that frequently erupt, making Indonesia the most geographically unstable country in the world.
If you fancy your tumultuous volcanic activity in a slightly smaller, and closer to home scale, the Canary Islands
Nepal is home to the world's highest mountains.
Switzerland is home to some of the world's most beautiful mountain scenery.
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have a chain of seven across the islands. Mount Teide in Tenerife boasts the title of being the highest peak in
Spain and the third biggest volcano on earth. Surely thats worth a visit?


Do you think Europe can compete with these amazing bucket-list destinations? Let us
know in the comments!
Do you want to come face-to-face with an active volcano in Indonesia?
Mount Teide is the third largest volcano on earth.
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Adrian Bialkowski 24 days ago
Spot on the Greece beaches part. I went to Elafonissi in Crete and I had something in
my head like 'damn, it feels like Cancun or something very similar'. Amazing place

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Skyscanner1 24 days ago Mod > Adrian Bialkowski
Thanks for your comment Adrian, Crete has some absolutely amazing beaches!

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