Travel During the Shoulder Season for the Best... Everything!

Shoulder Season is a concept that only the most experienced travelers are aware of.  It is the period between High Season, when everywhere you'd like to go is filled with tourists, airports are packed, and lines to attractions are super long; and Low Season, the period when the weather where you'd like to go is too terrible to actually go there, the airports are packed because the weather has caused closures and cancellations, and lines to get into attractions are short because no one in their right mind is visiting during this time period.  Shoulder Season, however, is the period that is quietly tucked in between the two when the experienced travel is basking in deals, nice weather, and short lines.


The important thing to remember is that Shoulder Season is not the same time of year everywhere.  For example, March in British Columbia is still tourist High Season, because the snow skiing is still good.  But in places like Hawaii, where resorts have lower prices after winter beach-goers have vacated, and Ireland, where the weather is just starting to warm up and the flowers have begun to bloom, March is the perfect time to visit and get a great deal. 

While outdoor cafe culture is picking back up by April, it's best to visit Europe before June, when temperatures warm and tourists begin to flood in.  But, while April may be a great time to visit Europe, it's Cherry Blossom Season in Japan, and tourism is at a high point.  It's better to visit during Japan's Shoulder Season, in May, when hotel rates come down, but the humidity has yet to kick-in.

September may not be the best time to visit the Caribbean, as hurricane season is at full peak, but prices in South Africa are at a low during this time of year when the foliage is less dense.  Don't worry though, less greenery only makes it easier to spot the Big Five.  Visit the Mediterranean in October and Mexico and the Caribbean in November, before the holiday rush.  If you schedule your vacation immediately after, or just before a High Season, the main difference you'll notice will be in your pocket book, as rates drop dramatically.  You'll find more room availability, and there will be fewer tourists, allowing more ability to mix with the locals.