Best time to Travel for best values and more

When is shoulder season?  You've heard of "high" and "low", well shoulder season is right between.   

Just about the time that vacation crowds are scurrying home, THAT'S THE TIME for best values and wide open spaces.  Availability is better, locals can appreciate travelers more, air and hotel rates drop and just before everything shuts down for the season, and sometimes receive a few more amenities.  

Snapshot:  What's the best time of year to visit _______?  If you're looking for value, slower pace, light crowds and good weather, that time is ______. 

There is a different answer for each destination.  Here's the scoop . . .

I don't know about you, but I like to create my own crowd, group vacations with our friends, or our family, etc.   I digress (more on that next week)

I T A L Y
Because all discussions begin with . . . Italy.  The best time to sip cappuccino or vino with the backdrops of Pantheon or Forum or Arno River . . . would be Autumn  (late October to November) or Spring (March/April) but this is constantly changing with the popularity of this beautiful country.   Personally, I love Italy so much, it doesn't matter to me which month if the opportunity arises, I'm there.  There are caveats to this rule, so be sure to discuss more in depth with your travel consultant.  

C A N A D A

National Parks (Banff, Lake Louise & Jasper) has a short shoulder season first two weeks of June and last two weeks of August.   Weather can vary from one coast to the other in Canada, but fall attracts travelers seeking the beautiful auburn hues and may be the perfect time to experience the viewing of a spot bull moose or wolf howl.   Thanksgiving is a great time for a short visit because it isn't a holiday for Canada.

P A R I S
Although Paris is an amazing experience almost any time of the year,    the best values to be had are during spring and fall, but don't forget the umbrella.  Paris can be very expensive and lining up shoulder to shoulder for every museum is not my idea of charming.  And charming IS the feeling you want to experience while in Paris.  It can be fun getting lost while wandering the beautiful streets of Paris, but enlist the help of a travel professional for the best tips on savoring the culture, history, food and romance of this charming city of lights. 

C A R I B B E A N

Who can resist blissful days with beautiful weather year-round, sandy beaches, colorful sunsets, umbrella drinks and sparkling crystal clear waters?  Most people are surprised to learn that peak season is mid December -  late April when weather is warm and sunny while most of the world is snowy and chilly.  Best values to the Caribbean are during hurricane season, but don't forget to purchase travel insurance.   Another great time is late April to June.

As with everything in life, being flexible is a must if you want to take advantage of shoulder seasons.  For me, the trade off has always been well worth it.   Make a point to discuss all your "must experiences" with your travel professional to see if this is your best option.