(That is, right now.)
By Natalie B. Compton, Condé Nast
Summer may be the obvious time to go on your epic, no-holds-barred trip of the year, but there can be perks to waiting for shoulder season to go big. During these in-between seasons—fall and summer, that is—you’re side-stepping the price gouging that comes in the summertime. Secondly, hotels, tour companies, and airlines don’t want to suffer through slow seasons, and often offer incentives to (smart) travelers (like you) vacationing in the off-peak. Here are five destinations to check off your bucket list this shoulder season.
Zambia
Safari dreams can come true at a discount in October, Zambia’s shoulder, or “Emerald” season. The beginning of rainy season means more verdant scenery and deals on safaris, like at The Bushcamp Company in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. Another perk: This is one of the only times of the year that you might see elephants walk through the camp’s reception, thanks to a mango tree that ripens from October to December.
Fiji
September marks the end of Fiji’s peak season. The water may be a little cooler, but you’ll still have an excellent time in the South Pacific. Stay at one of the world’s best diving properties, the 5-star eco-friendly Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort overlooking Savusavu Bay. Those not diving will also enjoy the snorkeling, fishing, tennis, and glass bottom boat tours. Keep your eyes peeled; this is the time of year to spot migrating humpback whales.
Rome
Summer crowd insanity cools down with the weather in Italy’s capital city, making September-October a primo time to visit (and eat a lot of pasta). As with most European capitals, Rome can overwhelm with all its attractions (ruins! museums! gelato! more pasta!), so it's a good idea to book a tour with Access Italy. Highlights include seeing the hidden sides of the Vatican, located beyond Swiss Guard protected-gates to see the Pope’s Mosaic Studio, the Vatican Mosaic Laboratory, the papal private studio, and more.
Hawaii
You know you've been meaning to make it to Hawaii for the beaches and the surfing and the spam musubi. And if you've been nervous to go this year due to volcanic activity and hurricanes, worry not—everything is fine. Tourism dropped after the bad lava-related press, meaning more room for you and hotel deals to match. Support the tourism-driven economy and take your dream vacation to Hawaii’s Big Island, particularly the Kohala Coast. Stay at the idyllic Four Seasons Resort Hualalai where you can snorkel with a marine biologist, horseback ride through the Waipi'o Valley, and Instagram sunsets to your heart's desire.
Niagara
Niagara Falls is one of those North American treasures everyone’s supposed to see, and if you haven’t yet, plan on heading there after the summer rush. With kids back in school, lines won’t be as crazy to hop on a Hornblower Cruise and get your poncho selfie in front of the rushing water. Don’t just pop over to the American side of the rushing natural wonder—spend a weekend in Canada at Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of the most quintessentially charming small towns surrounded by rolling grassy lawns and a hot new (as of the ‘70s) wine scene.
