Top 10 Travel Destinations That Are Completely Fake
Thames Town, China
In the heart of China, lies a curious anomaly that might make you do a double-take. Thames Town, located in the Songjiang District of Shanghai, is a replica of a quintessential English town.
Walking through its streets, you might feel as if you've been transported to a quaint English village with its cobbled streets, red phone booths, and even a church that resembles the one in Clifton, Bristol. Designed initially as a commuter town, Thames Town has become a popular spot for wedding photography.
Though it boasts of European architecture, the town often feels eerily empty, as it doesn't function as a typical bustling town. It's a fascinating blend of cultures, where the East meets the West in the most unexpected manner.
The charm of Thames Town is undeniable, yet its artificiality is just as evident.
The Venetian, Las Vegas
Las Vegas is known for its glitz, glamour, and ability to transport visitors to far-off lands without ever leaving the United States. Among its many attractions, The Venetian stands out as a marvel of replication.
This luxury hotel and casino complex is designed to mimic the romantic allure of Venice, Italy. From its intricate canals complete with gondola rides to replicas of iconic landmarks like the Rialto Bridge and St.
Mark's Campanile, The Venetian immerses visitors in an Italian dream. However, unlike the original, you won't have to worry about flooding or pigeons.
The atmosphere is carefully controlled, offering a sanitized version of Venice that is more about fantasy than reality. It's a place where visitors can experience a slice of Italy, albeit an idealized one, in the heart of the Nevada desert.
Colmar Tropicale, Malaysia
Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Malaysia, Colmar Tropicale is a surprising sight. This resort is modeled after the medieval town of Colmar in France, known for its colorful timber-framed buildings.
As you wander through the streets, you might feel like you've been transported to Alsace, with its vibrant facades and quaint alleyways. The resort offers a unique experience, providing guests with a chance to enjoy French culture and cuisine without leaving Southeast Asia.
Despite its charm, the artificiality of Colmar Tropicale is evident, as everything from the cobblestone streets to the picturesque fountain has been meticulously crafted to evoke a specific European ambiance. It's a delightful escape, offering a taste of Europe in a tropical setting.
Epcot's World Showcase, USA
Located in Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Epcot's World Showcase is a global adventure condensed into a single park. It features pavilions representing eleven different countries, each offering a slice of culture, cuisine, and architecture.
From the Eiffel Tower in France to the pagodas of Japan, visitors can explore the world in just a few hours. The authenticity of these pavilions is impressive, with attention to detail in every aspect, from the architecture to the costumes of the staff.
However, it's important to remember that this is a theme park, and the experiences are curated and controlled. Epcot's World Showcase is a celebration of global culture, providing an opportunity for education and entertainment, even if it is within the confines of a fictional world.
Hallstatt, China
In the Guangdong province of China, a small village pays homage to the picturesque town of Hallstatt in Austria. This replica is a testament to China's passion for recreating iconic global landmarks.
The Chinese Hallstatt mirrors its Austrian counterpart with precision, from the charming lakeside setting to the alpine architecture. While it offers a unique experience for those who may never visit the original, the replica lacks the historical depth and cultural richness of the real Hallstatt.
It's a surreal experience for visitors, who find themselves in a place that feels familiar yet distinctly different. The Chinese Hallstatt is a fascinating exploration of cultural appreciation and imitation.
Tianducheng, China
Tianducheng is another of China's ambitious projects, offering a slice of Paris in Zhejiang Province. The centerpiece of this residential development is a 354-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower, surrounded by French-style architecture and gardens.
Initially intended as a luxury housing development, Tianducheng has struggled to attract residents, resulting in an eerie, ghost-town atmosphere. Despite its challenges, Tianducheng remains a testament to China's fascination with Western architecture and culture.
The town offers a curious juxtaposition, where the romance of Paris meets the realities of urban planning in China. It's a place where visitors can experience the grandeur of Paris, albeit in a distinctly Chinese context.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
Fisherman's Wharf is one of San Francisco's most famous tourist destinations, known for its seafood, waterfront views, and bustling atmosphere. However, much of what visitors experience here is curated for tourism.
The area has evolved from a historic fishing hub to a commercialized attraction, with themed restaurants, souvenir shops, and entertainment venues. Despite its transformation, Fisherman's Wharf retains elements of its original charm, with working docks and fresh seafood markets.
It's a place where the line between authenticity and tourism blurs, offering a taste of San Francisco's maritime history amidst modern attractions. Fisherman's Wharf continues to captivate visitors, providing a quintessential San Francisco experience.
Dubai’s Floating Venice, UAE
Dubai is renowned for its architectural marvels and ambitious projects, and the Floating Venice is no exception. This luxury resort aims to bring the romance of Venice to the Arabian Gulf, complete with canals, gondolas, and Venetian-style architecture.
The project promises an immersive experience, with underwater suites, boutique shops, and authentic Italian dining. While the Floating Venice is still under development, it represents Dubai's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and luxury.
It's an ambitious vision that seeks to recreate the magic of Venice in a new, modern context. Visitors will be able to enjoy the splendor of Venice, surrounded by the opulence and grandeur of Dubai.
The Fake Terracotta Army, China
In the city of Xi'an, China's famous Terracotta Army draws tourists from around the world. However, not far from the original site, a fake Terracotta Army has been created for those who want a more accessible experience.
This replica features life-sized statues similar to the originals, set in an exhibition space that mimics the real site. While it offers an opportunity to see the Terracotta Warriors without the crowds, it lacks the historical significance and authenticity of the genuine article.
The fake Terracotta Army is a curious attraction, offering a glimpse into China's rich history, albeit through a modern lens. It's a place where history and imitation converge, providing an intriguing alternative to the real thing.
The New York-New York Hotel, Las Vegas
Las Vegas is no stranger to extravagant recreations, and the New York-New York Hotel is a prime example. This themed hotel and casino complex captures the essence of New York City, with replicas of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.
The architecture mimics the city's skyline, offering a whimsical take on the Big Apple. Inside, visitors can experience the energy and excitement of New York, from the bustling casino floor to the themed eateries.
While it provides a taste of New York's vibrancy, the experience is carefully curated, offering a sanitized version of the city that never sleeps. The New York-New York Hotel is a testament to Las Vegas's ability to transport visitors to distant places, even if only for a moment.
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