Spring Forward to These Destinations Before the Summer Crowds
Last minute “deals” might sound great, but you know how that old saying goes… “you get what you pay for." That definitely applies to those too-good-to-be-true last minute travel deals offered by those online travel agencies.
Because here's the truth: while last-minute travel planning can be done, it's not recommended. Here's why:
Ⅰ. Last minute booking means last pick of the availability… meaning the best rooms, rates, and more are *poof* gone.
Ⅱ. Just like hotel rooms, the most desirable tours and activities often book up well in advance, especially for high-demand destinations or must-do, tourist hot spots.
Ⅲ. Pricing and availability aside, planning ahead reduces the stress of the last-minute scramble – for you and your travel advisor. With ample time to plan, we're able to craft an itinerary that checks all your boxes.
But no worries – it's my job as a travel advisor to be thinking and planning ahead… way ahead. Wondering how far in the future you should be planning? The ideal window is 6 to 9 months for most trips (though more complex itineraries may require more time!).
With that timeline in mind, let’s look ahead to April, May and June 2025! Flip the calendar forward and scroll on to see what you should be thinking about now…
April 2025
ICEBERGS, VINEYARDS, AND TULIPS
April is a fabulous time to travel to a lot of places. It's usually after Spring Break, but before the busy summer season, and the weather is ideal in many places around the world. Here are my recommendations for places you might consider for an early spring itinerary!
Canadian Getaway:
St. John's, Newfoundland: Imagine standing in awe of towering icebergs, their colours ranging from snow-white to deep aquamarine. That's the magic of Iceberg Alley in spring! With milder temperatures, it's the perfect time to explore the rugged coastline and see these ancient glacial giants up close. Join a tour and prepare to be amazed.
International Itinerary:
Champagne, France: If your travels aren’t complete without a celebratory toast, the Champagne region of France is the perfect spring escape. Imagine yourself soaking in the crisp April air, glass of bubbly in hand, overlooking the rolling vineyards.
Honorable Mention:
Istanbul, Turkey: Holland's not the only one with tulips! April is a lovely time to visit the largest city in Turkey, where over 30 million tulips are scattered throughout the city, many of them concentrated in Sultanahmet Square.
May 2025
ISLAND CITY AND BEYOND
May opens the door to so many delightful choices across the globe, as the weather warms and crowds just start to creep in. As we round the corner to summer 2025, here are the destinations you could consider for a May getaway.
Canadian Getaway:
Victoria, British Columbia: Named after Queen Victoria, is a charming city nestled on Vancouver Island. Visit in May to enjoy mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. Explore historic sites, stroll through vibrant gardens, and experience the local culture before the summer rush begins.
International Itinerary:
Sicily, Italy: Want to avoid standing shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists at the Trevi Fountain? Skip the usual suspects in Italy and head south to Sicily. By May, you’ll enjoy the perks of the shoulder season—fewer crowds and stunning weather on this Mediterranean island.
Honorable Mention:
Machu Picchu, Peru: May marks the start of the dry season in Peru, making it the perfect time for adventurous travellers to tackle the Inca Trail.
June 2025
JAZZ, TRUFFLES, AND GORILLAS
Ah, June. The first true month of summertime—when the crowds start to ramp up. But fear not: while June tends to kick off the busy summer travel season, there are still destinations that aren’t yet in full swing! Here are our picks for a June vacation.
Canadian Getaway:
Ottawa, Ontario: Canada's capital city, is a great destination in June. Enjoy sunny days, explore historic sites and immerse yourself in the city's lively culture. From the Parliament buildings to TD Ottawa Jazz Festival and iconic Rideau Canal, Ottawa offers a wide range of activities and experiences.
International Itinerary:
Istria, Croatia: For foodies who have already explored Tuscany or want to skip the Jubilee crowds in Italy in 2025, the Istria Peninsula of Croatia is a fantastic alternative. With its abundance of truffles, wines, and rolling vineyards, you’ll feel like you’re in Tuscany.
Honorable Mention:
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: June is one of the best months for Rwanda’s most sought-after activity—gorilla trekking. Boutique safari lodges provide the perfect base for rest and relaxation between spotting these majestic creatures in the park!
The World is Your Oyster
As you can see, the world is your oyster when it comes to planning your 2025 getaway. Whether you're craving adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there is a destination out there that is perfect for you.
By planning ahead, you can secure the best deals, avoid the crowds, and create a truly unforgettable experience. Start dreaming and let your travel advisor help you turn those dreams into reality.
