When's the best time to vacation?

​The first day of summer is about a month away and while most are enjoying the warm sun and longer days, it’s time to start thinking about your next vacation. That’s right, it’s never too early to start thinking about another trip away from work, exploring a new place and time away from home. Here’s some advice, take advantage of the slightly cooler weather, lower airfare and discounted room rates during the off-season. Knowing these facts may bring an added spring to your step as you realize the summer travelers will have returned home, the kids will be back in school and the best local experiences are ready to shine come autumn. Imagine the beaches, the surf, the museums, the hikes and all the other experiences you can enjoy without having to pay those summer rates. 
The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau agrees that summer is a great time to vacation and is also the most popular, but they also offer this top secret tip for those looking to visit Hawaii away from the peak travel period. “Ahh summer. Everyone has their memories of summer travel. Exploring, going on little adventures, finding ways to get to that ‘secret spot’ before everyone else does. Well here’s a little insider knowledge, this fall it’ll still be summer in Hawaii - except for the crowds and the peak-season rates.  The weather will be the same. The activities will be more available, same for the restaurants, and it’s a great time to upgrade to that oceanfront room, too. Hawaii. This fall may be the best time to visit, tell your friends, but otherwise let’s keep it our little secret,” said HVCB chief marketing officer, Jay Talwar. 
Typically, weather, school schedules and public holidays dictate the high and low seasons of travel. In Hawaii, we are lucky to have beautiful weather year-round, but we do have high and low seasons too. Trip Advisor reports there are tradeoffs to booking during low season windows, which include saving money and avoiding the crowds. But, just because summer is over doesn’t mean the fun is over.

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If you really take the time to carefully plan your trip, and do some research, you could really have a grand ol’ time. Here are a few helpful tips when it comes to booking your off peak/low-season adventure.

1. Be flexible when searching for travel dates to score the best rates. Research your destination using the local visitor, or tourist/convention, bureau website. 
2. Book direct with the hotel, car rental agency and air carrier as most of the time you can nab better deals than through a third party. Most companies strive to remain competitive, some may even offer price matching, added incentives and special rates if you book direct. 
3. Explore the option of going on a cruise. Both ships big and small tend to have better deals when it’s not peak travel/vacation time. 

4.   Visit National Parks and Theme Parks without having to wait in those ridiculously long lines. 
5. Research the local paper, and online event websites, to find out what the locals are doing and what sort of street, culture and ethnic festivals are taking place. Experience the destination the way the local community does with authentic food, dance, music and more. 
​Happy travels!

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