"Same blue water, with actual pasta"
World Famous
Maldives
Maldives
Crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and overwater bungalows. The dream tropical beach destination.
European Alternative
Sardinia (Costa Smeralda)
Italy
Impossibly turquoise waters rivaling any tropical island. White sand coves, granite boulders, and Italian food. The Caribbean of Europe, minus the 12-hour flight.
Why These Two?
Both offer crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white beaches that look almost straight out of a screensaver.
Maldives
Sardinia (Costa Smeralda)
Photo · Unsplash
Photo · Unsplash
The True Cost
Average prices from London
World
Maldives
flight
Europe
Sardinia (Costa Smeralda)
train
€570
True price saved
True price reflects hidden social and ecological costs such as CO₂ and air pollution.
1.6t
Less CO₂
98%
Emission reduction
Prices are market averages, not lowest fares. Hidden costs based on CE Delft external-cost factors.
Ready to go?
Estimates from London, adjusted for current fuel prices
Maldives
by flight · 8,583km
Sardinia (Costa Smeralda)
by train · 1,380km
from €180
Save 1.6t CO₂ vs flying
Search trains & buses →via Trenitalia
Or travel further on one pass
Interrail Pass from €283 youth / €369 adult
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