Am I traveling this summer? I am not. I do not like crowds. I do not like unbearably hot weather. And the two together? Just no.
Instead, I’m getting lots of writing work done in my lovely air-conditioned home in Knoxville. After I finish the second draft of my current novel-in-progress, it will be cooler and much less crowded in Europe. In other words, time to travel!!!
Why Travel During the Hottest Months?
Why do people travel in the summer if they don’t have to? I know that people with children in school pretty much have to travel during the summer. If you’re a teacher, same thing. Your long vacation breaks are in the summer, so that’s your travel time.
But for those of us who are empty nesters and of a “certain age,” we can travel whenever we want! If you love blistering temperatures—104 degrees in Paris last month—and standing in line in the heat for hours to see famous sites, go for it.
For moi: merci, non.
Discover the Joy of Shoulder-Season Travel
Instead, use this time to plan for what the travel industry calls the “shoulder seasons.” I call them “pleasant times to visit wonderful places.”
Think April in Paris, which was six shades of magnificent this year. Chestnut trees in bloom all over the city! Cool air with a perfect breeze! Sweater weather as you check out all the gorgeous flowers at Monet’s Garden in Giverny! Long, pleasant walks through the gardens of Versailles!
Europe Can Be Wonderful in Early Winter
Even southern Mediterranean cities can be divine in early winter. Last year, I visited Madrid and Sevilla in early December and had the best time of my life. The Christmas decorations were up, but I barely needed a coat.
In Sevilla, flowers were still in bloom, and I enjoyed many pleasant hours simply wandering the ancient streets—most of them pedestrian-only. Did I experience a few cool days? Sure, but throw on a pullover sweater and a pair of tights, and you’re fine.
And did I mention there were no crowds of any kind? No lines, either. Want to visit the Alcázar or the cathedral? Pick a time on your phone and show up.
The Best Time to Visit Florida
Florida, the Sunshine State? Summer in Florida is hotter than the surface of the sun.
As a part-time Florida resident, I can say: Come to Florida in the fall! Fall in Florida is still plenty warm enough to get a tan, walk on the beach, and swim in the pool.
My beach condo is in St. Augustine, in northeast Florida, and I can tell you that the best weather is from September through December. My condo is booked with guests every July, but it is usually available—and for much lower rates—in the fall.
Y’all are missing out on the most pleasant time to cruise down A1A with the sunroof open, while palm trees and hibiscus blossoms remind you that not everywhere in the United States is brown and possibly cold already.
Travel at the Best Time for You
If your time is flexible now, you can travel during the “best” times—not necessarily the “most popular with families” times of the year!
Bon voyage,
Cindy
Cynthia Coe is the author of several novels and non-fiction books. Travel with her through time by reading her novels “Knitting Through Time” and “Knitting Under the Orange Trees.” To view her complete list of books, please visit her Amazon Author Page at this link.
Planning a Fall Visit to St. Augustine?
My own beach condo in St. Augustine is professionally managed by an excellent local property manager and is often available at lower rates during the fall. It’s a comfortable home base for beach walks, historic sightseeing, and leisurely drives along A1A.
You can see photos, check availability, and book your stay here at this link.
This is the view from my condo!
Travels With Cindy 