Scheduling holidays during off-peak seasons for optimal tranquility
Exploring the world during the shoulder season offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. This period, sandwiched between peak and low travel seasons, is a golden opportunity for those seeking affordability, fewer crowds, and a chance to connect deeply with destinations.
According to seasoned traveler and writer Zuzana Paar, co-founder of Food Drink Life, popular shoulder season destinations include the Canary Islands (MarchโMay and SeptemberโNovember) and Southeast Asia โ Thailand, Vietnam, or Bali (mid-November to mid-December). These months are recommended for their pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and moderate prices.
To plan your shoulder season journey, consider using travel-planning apps like TripIt or Hopper. These tools can help track airfare fluctuations, peak-season trends, and local event calendars, ensuring you make the most of your travel time.
Dressing appropriately is key to staying comfortable during shoulder season. Layered clothing is recommended to accommodate colder temperatures in the mornings and warmer afternoons, as well as shifting climates.
The slower pace of shoulder season travel allows for a more intimate connection with the destination. Engaging in community events and visiting smaller markets helps travelers immerse themselves in the local culture. With fewer visitors, locals often have more time to share stories, traditions, and insights that aren't in the guidebooks.
Zuzana Paar, who has explored 62 countries and lived in various places including St. Lucia, Dubai, Vienna, Doha, and Slovakia, shares these insights and more to help others experience the world in a meaningful way.
Exploring destinations without crowds allows travelers to build personal connections with these places. As Paar notes, "Guests have realized that when traveling in shoulder season, they are often able to enjoy mild weather without the extreme crowds, allowing them more access to the destination."
Shoulder season often coincides with spring or autumn in many destinations, but exact timing depends on the region's tourism patterns. For instance, an August 2024 analysis found that Christmas week flights averaged 57% more than those in late August, a classic shoulder season window.
During shoulder season, travelers can linger in cafes, take unplanned detours, and enjoy sights without the constant shuffle of other tourists. This lighter crowd allows for a more authentic experience, with slower-moving streets, warmer interactions, and a chance to breathe in the destination's true essence.
So, if you're looking for a unique and memorable travel experience, consider exploring during the shoulder season. With a bit of planning and an open mind, you'll find that the world opens up in ways you never imagined.
