peak tourist meaning

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What Is The Peak Tourist Season In Italy?

Published: November 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Faye Riordan

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Italy, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, is a top travel destination for tourists from around the world. The country offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins in Rome to enjoying picturesque coastal towns on the Amalfi Coast, sampling delicious cuisine, and touring the romantic countryside of Tuscany. However, when planning a trip to Italy, it’s essential to consider the peak tourist season, as it can greatly impact your travel experience.

Italy’s peak tourist season refers to the time of the year when the country sees the highest influx of visitors. During this period, popular tourist destinations are bustling with activity, attractions are crowded, and prices for accommodations and flights tend to be higher. The peak season in Italy is influenced by several factors, including weather and climate, festivals and events, school holidays and vacations, and the popularity of specific tourist destinations.

Understanding the dynamics of the peak season can help you make informed decisions about when to plan your visit. Whether you prefer to embrace the lively atmosphere or avoid the crowds, this article will delve into the various factors that contribute to Italy’s peak tourist season, along with some tips to help you navigate your trip during these busy periods.

Factors Influencing the Peak Tourist Season in Italy

Several key factors contribute to the peak tourist season in Italy. Understanding these factors can help you plan your visit accordingly and make the most of your experience. The main influencers are weather and climate, festivals and events, school holidays and vacations, and the popularity of specific tourist destinations.

Weather and climate play a significant role in determining the peak tourist season in Italy. The country experiences Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The summer months of June, July, and August attract a massive number of tourists due to the warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for beach vacations. Coastal regions such as the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Sardinia are particularly popular during this time. On the other hand, the winter months of December, January, and February see fewer visitors, except for the ski resorts in the Italian Alps.

Festivals and events also influence the peak tourist season in Italy. The country is renowned for its vibrant celebrations and cultural events, which often attract visitors from all over the world. Events like the Carnival of Venice in February, the Palio horse race in Siena in July and August, and the historic regatta in Venice in September are just a few examples. If you are interested in experiencing the lively atmosphere of these events, it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.

School holidays and vacations have a significant impact on the peak tourist season in Italy. The summer months and major holidays like Easter and Christmas result in an influx of visitors, as families take advantage of vacation time to travel. During these periods, popular destinations, including Rome, Florence, and Venice, can be crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider planning your visit during shoulder seasons, such as spring or autumn.

Finally, the popularity of specific tourist destinations contributes to the peak season. Iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Vatican City, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa draw tourists year-round, but they are particularly crowded during the summer months. Alternatively, lesser-known destinations like the Cinque Terre or the Dolomites may offer a more peaceful experience during the peak season.

Weather and Climate

The weather and climate in Italy significantly impact the peak tourist season, as they dictate the ideal conditions for various types of activities and attract visitors accordingly. Italy experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The weather patterns greatly influence the choice of destinations and the timing of travel for tourists.

Summer months in Italy, particularly June, July, and August, are considered the peak tourist season due to the warm temperatures and long daylight hours. Coastal regions like the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Sardinia are especially popular during this time, as tourists flock to the beaches to soak up the sun and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. The cities also see a surge in visitors, with Rome, Florence, and Venice being top choices.

However, it’s important to note that summer can be scorching hot, especially in southern regions, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F). This high heat, coupled with the crowds, can make sightseeing and exploring crowded tourist attractions quite challenging. If you are planning to visit during this time, it’s essential to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan your activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day.

On the other hand, the winter months in Italy, particularly December, January, and February, are considered the low season for tourism, except for the ski resorts in the Italian Alps. The temperatures are cooler, ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F) in most regions, and rainfall is more frequent. However, the advantage of traveling during this time is the reduced number of tourists, which means fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodations and flights.

The shoulder seasons, including spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offer a pleasant climate and are excellent times to visit Italy. The temperatures are milder, ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. These seasons are also less crowded, allowing you to explore popular attractions at a more relaxed pace.

Overall, understanding the weather and climate patterns in Italy can help you choose the most suitable time to visit, whether you seek sunny beach days, snow-covered slopes, or pleasant sightseeing conditions. It’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Festivals and Events

Italy is famous for its vibrant festivals and events, which attract tourists from all around the world. These celebrations play a significant role in determining the peak tourist season and offer unique opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the country. From historical reenactments to religious processions and culinary showcases, Italy offers a diverse calendar of events throughout the year.

One of the most famous events in Italy is the Venice Carnival. Taking place in February, this extravagant celebration showcases elaborate masks, costumes, and parades as participants embrace the spirit of the Renaissance. The city’s canals and historic squares become a stage for breathtaking performances and lively festivities, making it an unforgettable experience.

Another iconic event is the Palio di Siena, held in the Tuscan city of Siena on July 2nd and August 16th every year. This historic horse race dates back to the 17th century and takes place in the city’s main square, Piazza del Campo. The race is fiercely competitive, with jockeys representing different districts of Siena, and it is accompanied by processions, medieval pageantry, and cultural performances.

For art enthusiasts, the Biennale di Venezia is a must-visit event. This international art exhibition takes place every two years in Venice and attracts artists, curators, and art lovers from around the world. The event showcases contemporary art in various forms, including paintings, sculptures, performances, and installations, providing a platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue.

Additionally, Italy is renowned for its culinary events, such as the white truffle festival in Alba, the Gelato Festival in Florence, and the Bologna Food Festival. These events celebrate the rich gastronomic heritage of Italy, allowing visitors to sample regional specialties, attend cooking demonstrations, and participate in food-related activities.

When planning your trip to Italy, it’s worth considering the dates of these festivals and events to enhance your experience. While they create a vibrant and lively atmosphere, they also attract large crowds, so it’s advisable to book accommodations well in advance. Attending these events allows you to delve deeper into Italian culture and witness firsthand the passion and creativity of its people.

School Holidays and Vacations

School holidays and vacations play a significant role in determining the peak tourist season in Italy. Families often plan their trips during these periods, resulting in increased demand for accommodations, flights, and popular tourist attractions. It’s important to consider these factors when deciding the best time to visit Italy, especially if you prefer to avoid crowded places and higher prices.

The summer months of June, July, and August coincide with school vacations in most countries, making them the busiest time for tourism in Italy. Families use this opportunity to explore the country’s iconic cities, historical sites, and coastal regions. As a result, popular tourist destinations such as Rome, Florence, and Venice can be quite crowded during this period. It’s recommended to book accommodations and attractions well in advance if you plan to visit during the summer.

Additionally, major holidays like Easter and Christmas also attract a significant number of tourists to Italy. These periods are considered peak tourist seasons, as many people take advantage of their time off to travel and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. It’s important to note that during these times, attractions and museums may have restricted hours or be closed on certain days, so it’s advisable to check the schedules and plan accordingly.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower prices, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide pleasant weather and still offer ample opportunities to explore the beauty of Italy. These times are ideal for discovering the historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities, and immersing yourself in the local culture without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.

It’s worth noting that Italy’s school vacations may vary slightly depending on the region. Each region has its own specific calendar for school breaks, so it’s important to consider the specific dates of schools in the areas you plan to visit. By doing so, you can better gauge the potential crowds and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Understanding the school holidays and vacation periods in Italy can help you make informed decisions about when to visit, ensuring a more enjoyable and seamless travel experience. Whether you choose to embrace the buzz of peak season or prefer a quieter visit, planning ahead will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful country.

Popular Tourist Destinations

Italy offers a wealth of stunning destinations that attract tourists from all over the world. From historical landmarks to picturesque coastal towns and charming countryside, there is something to suit every traveler’s taste. However, popularity also means that some destinations can be crowded during the peak tourist season. Here are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy.

• Rome: Known as the Eternal City, Rome is home to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City. It offers a perfect blend of history, art, and culture.
• Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is renowned for its magnificent art and architecture, including the famous Uffizi Gallery and the stunning Duomo.
• Venice: With its romantic canals and historic buildings, Venice is truly unique. Stroll through the narrow streets, take a gondola ride, and visit the magnificent St. Mark’s Square.
• Cinque Terre: This cluster of five small coastal villages along the Italian Riviera offers breathtaking views of colorful houses perched on cliffs and cascading vineyards.
• Amalfi Coast: With its dramatic cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and charming towns like Positano and Ravello, the Amalfi Coast is a picture-perfect slice of paradise.
• Tuscany: Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns, Tuscany offers a picturesque countryside and the chance to explore gems like Florence, Siena, and Pisa.
• Sicily: The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily showcases a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient Greek temples to stunning beaches, it has it all.

These destinations, among others, draw large numbers of tourists throughout the year. During the peak tourist season, particularly in summer, these locations can become quite crowded. However, there are ways to make the most of your visit by planning ahead, booking tickets in advance, and visiting popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times.

If you prefer to explore lesser-known destinations or enjoy a more tranquil experience, consider visiting smaller towns and regions in Italy. Places like Bologna, Perugia, the Dolomites, and the Italian Lakes offer their own unique charm, beautiful landscapes, and fewer crowds.

Ultimately, whether you choose to visit popular tourist destinations or venture off the beaten path, Italy has a wealth of experiences to offer. It’s wise to balance your itinerary with a mix of well-known sites and lesser-known gems to make your trip truly unforgettable.

Tips for Traveling During Peak Season

Traveling to Italy during the peak tourist season can be exciting but also challenging due to the larger crowds and higher prices. However, with a little extra planning and preparation, you can still have a fantastic trip. Here are some tips to help you navigate your travel during peak season.

• Book in advance: To secure the best accommodations, flights, and tickets to popular attractions, it’s essential to book in advance. This will help you avoid last-minute disappointments and ensure that you can fully enjoy your chosen activities.
• Plan your itinerary: It’s important to have a well-planned itinerary to make the most of your time during peak season. Research the opening hours of attractions, consider pre-booking skip-the-line tickets or guided tours to save time, and keep in mind that some places may have restricted access due to large crowds.
• Be flexible with your schedule: During peak season, crowds can be overwhelming at popular tourist attractions. Consider adjusting your schedule to visit popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds tend to be smaller. This will allow you to explore at a more relaxed pace and avoid the busiest times.
• Explore off-the-beaten-path: While popular destinations are a must-visit, consider adding some lesser-known towns and regions to your itinerary. These places offer a more authentic experience, fewer crowds, and often lower prices. Exploring the hidden gems can provide a refreshing and unique perspective on Italy.
• Stay outside city centers: Consider staying in accommodations outside the city centers, which tend to be less expensive and quieter. Use public transportation or opt for accommodations that provide easy access to transportation links to reach the main attractions conveniently.
• Try local cuisine: Discovering authentic local cuisine is a vital part of the Italian experience. During peak season, popular restaurants can be crowded, so consider exploring smaller eateries or tasting local street food for a more genuine culinary adventure.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks: Summers in Italy can be hot, so it’s important to stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you. Take breaks in shaded areas, especially during the hottest parts of the day, to avoid exhaustion and heat-related issues.

By following these tips, you can maximize your enjoyment while traveling in Italy during peak season. Embrace the lively atmosphere, plan in advance, and be prepared to adapt your itinerary to make the most of your visit to this beautiful country.

Italy’s peak tourist season is influenced by various factors such as weather, festivals, school holidays, and the popularity of specific destinations. Understanding these factors can help you plan your trip effectively and make the most of your visit to this fascinating country. Whether you choose to embrace the buzz of popular tourist destinations or explore off-the-beaten-path locations, there are ample opportunities to experience the rich history, culture, and natural beauty that Italy has to offer.

When considering the peak tourist season, it’s important to take into account the weather and climate, as this will impact your activities and the type of experience you want to have. Additionally, being aware of festivals and events can allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness unique traditions. School holidays and vacations may result in larger crowds, so planning your visit during shoulder seasons or exploring lesser-known towns and regions can provide a more relaxed and authentic experience.

By following tips such as booking in advance, planning your itinerary, being flexible with your schedule, and exploring local cuisine, you can navigate your trip during peak season more effectively. Remember to stay hydrated, take breaks, and make the most of your time in Italy.

Whether you choose to visit the historic ruins of Rome, admire the art in Florence, explore the canals of Venice, or relax on the stunning Amalfi Coast, Italy has something for everyone. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, your journey during peak season can be truly memorable, allowing you to create lifelong memories in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

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Meaning of peak season in English

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Examples of peak season

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the highest point of a mountain

Keeping up appearances (Talking about how things seem)

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Tourist Seasons in Italy: High, Low, & Shoulders

Anyone who has read enough travel writing – on this site or otherwise – has likely seen phrases like “high season” and “low season” before. The words “high” and “low” refer to tourist numbers, when a place is most popular with visitors (and therefore most crowded). Tourist seasons often correspond roughly to the calendar seasons of spring, summer, winter, and fall, but in Italy it’s a little more complicated than that.

Tourist Seasons

Tourists in the Florence Duomo || creative commons photo by Seth Sawyers

As mentioned, there are “high” and “low” tourist seasons in Italy, but in between those are what are referred to as “shoulder seasons.” These are transitory seasons, meaning the weather can be iffy, but there are some definite perks to traveling during the shoulder seasons. I’ll go into more detail below about the boundaries of the various tourist seasons in Italy.

Keep in mind that unlike calendar seasons, tourist seasons are a bit more fluid. There are months today that are firmly in the high season category that were once really shoulder seasons. Tourist seasons also vary depending on where you go in the country – less-visited places won’t necessarily be as crowded or expensive during the high season as cities like Rome or Florence are even during the shoulder seasons. In a country as popular as Italy, however, even the low seasons aren’t completely devoid of tourists.

Further reading:

• Holidays & Festivals in Italy
• Weather in Italy

High Seasons in Italy

Crowds in Venice during Carnevale || creative commons photo by mararie

The main high season in Italy is summer, but it’s not as simple as June-August. These days, the summer high season begins in May, covers June and July, skips August, and finishes around the end of September.

There are other brief spikes into high season territory during otherwise non-high seasons. These center around major events and holidays in Italy, for which lots of people travel to see – both Italian and foreign.

Easter is a big one, particularly in Rome because of the events in and around Vatican City , as well as in Florence with its explosive Easter traditions . The Carnevale celebrations in Venice are another mini-high season that’s localized to Venice. Easter and Carnival are on the liturgical calendar, so their dates change every year. Even if you’re not planning a trip specifically around one of those holidays, it’s a good idea to consult the calendar to see if you’ll benefit from adjusting travel plans to avoid (or seek out) those festivities.

Christmas isn’t as big of a deal in Italy as you might think – the Epiphany on January 6th is the more important religious holiday – but there is a mini-spike into a bit of a high tourist season around Christmas and into the new year .

You’ll find a host of smaller local festivals and events that bring about high season prices and crowds no matter when they occur – EuroChocolate in Perugia, the White Truffle Festival in Alba, and the Palio in Siena all being prime examples. Again, consulting the calendar as you’re planning your Italy trip is always a good idea.

• Summer in Italy

Low Seasons in Italy

Still crowded at the Trevi Fountain in December || creative commons photo by Benson Kua

Italy’s low tourist season is the one that most closely resembles a calendar season – it’s basically winter. I’d even suggest it begins in late November, continuing more or less through February, except for the high season spikes noted above.

The big exception to winter being the low tourist season is, of course, any mountain area known for winter sports. Skiing, snowboarding, winter mountain hiking – all of that means that in the mountains where there is snow, winter is the high tourist season.

• Winter in Italy

Shoulder Seasons in Italy

St. Peter’s Square in April || creative commons photo by Diliff

Shoulder seasons are usually my favorite seasons in which to travel, and that’s true in Italy, too. The shoulder seasons used to essentially be spring and autumn, but Italy’s popularity has meant the expansion of the high season into its neighboring shoulder seasons. Consequently, finding the shoulder season sweet spots is a little more tricky than it used to be.

I contend that spring is really the last true shoulder season in Italy, but it’s only two months long – March and April. Fall has become increasingly popular over the years, so that not only has September been absorbed into the high season, but early October as well. In some areas, high season prices don’t come down until the very end of October. The autumn shoulder season is, therefore, really only late October and most of November.

August, as mentioned earlier, isn’t included in the high summer season mainly because it’s when most Italians high-tail it out of the cities to escape the worst of the summer heat and humidity. Prices on things like airfare and hotel rooms may still be at high season levels, but crowds in the cities are noticeably smaller. At the beaches, however, crowds are at their peak – since that’s where all the Italians go to cool off.

• Spring in Italy
• Fall in Italy

17 responses to “Tourist Seasons in Italy: High, Low, & Shoulders”

Great site. Very good information for me as I am planning to travel to Italy within the next twelve months.

Thanks, Kerry, I’m glad this is helpful. 🙂

helpful post, thanks for sharing it 🙂

Thanks, Very useful and detailed.

Very nice and well written article.I suffer high temperatures so I chose September for my holiday in Italy. I went to Tuscany where I rented a house and from there I could visit all the most important places all around, cities like Florence, Siena,Volterra, but also Monteriggioni, Casole, San Gimignano. Amazing. Wishing to come back soon.

John, We are staying in Tuscany as well… question for you, when you went to Florence, did you have a long wait in line to see the Statue of David? We are going the first few weeks of October, and I’m wondering if buying the “skip the line” tours is worth it, that time of year.

Patty, when I was last in Florence it wasn’t high season yet but there was already a more-than-hour-long wait outside the Accademia Gallery. If you’re intent on seeing the original David, I think skip-the-line tours are a good idea – unless you’re prepared to get up early and try to be near the front of the line when the museum opens. I think skip-the-line tours are a must at the Uffizi, though.

Hi! Very concise and nice article. If I may suggest, a high-level information on the weather/temperature during these seasons would be greatly appreciated by 1st-time travellers to Italy like me. 🙂 More power!

I’ve already got a whole page about the weather, Aejay, linked at the top of this article – and every one of the seasonal links above has weather information in it, too. Happy researching! 🙂

I went to Italy in January 2016 on the 21st-27th. The locals say that January is the slowest season when it comes to tourist, and they were 100% right. I went with my mom and best friend and it was amazing! We felt like the only tourist there. There were no lines to the monuments, exhibits, churches, restaurants, shops and bathrooms. It was AWESOME! The only negative thing that sucked, was the weather. It was cold; like around 40 degrees, it did lightly drizzle from time to time but wasn’t too bad. Just make sure to bring lots of warm clothing and you’ll be fine. Both my mom and friend have been to Italy before, but they went in the summer during high peak season and shared their experiences with me about how they had to wait in line for hours just to see one attraction. Overall, my first trip to Italy was amazing and I’ll never forget it. GO IN JANUARY!

I agree, Nicole! I love winter travel in Italy for all the reasons you listed. And as long as you’re prepared for the weather, it’s not so bad. 😉

I always travel to Italy in January/Feb, it’s the best time of year especially if you hate crowds and want to save money!

Yeah, winter in Italy is pretty fabulous for that! 🙂

My wife and I are planning a 14 day trip to Northern Italy, making a circular train ride with overnight stays in Milan to Turin, Genova, Pisa, Bologna and Vi Goito. Any suggestions for traveling on a mid-level budget?

I’ve got some budget tips in my article about creating a budget for Italy travel . Hope it’s helpful!

Planning a two week visit to northern Italy in the next 9 to 12 months. Wondering the best central location to stay in order to easily travel from place to place. Possible itinerary Cinque Terre, Florence, Siena, Venice and possibly the Lake Como area. The trip is still a work in progress, all suggestions welcome.

I think my article on how to create an Italy itinerary is your best place to start. It’ll help give you an idea of what’s realistic in the timeframe you’re talking about being there, especially in terms of distances between places and the time it takes to get from one to the other.

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Your Travelling Mentor

How To Prepare For The Peak Season For Tourists – A Expert Guideline

Summertime is synonymous with happiness, relaxation, and of course – tourists! But as the summer season slowly approaches, many wonders – what is the peak season for tourists?

And which destinations are best suited for such a season? In this blog, we will answer these questions and more.

We will also discuss the definition of the peak season for tourists and the benefits of having a peak season. Last but not least, we will Prepare For The Peak Season For Tourists and knowing when it’s time to start gearing up. So read on to learn all you need to know about tourist peak season.

Table of Contents

Tips For The Peak Season For Tourist

The peak season for tourism usually falls between May and October, with the best time to visit depending on the location. Different destinations have different seasons , so it’s important to consult travel information before booking a trip. Peak season tips for tourists:

• Plan your trip early – The earlier you plan your trip, the easier it will be to book tickets and find accommodation. This means you can avoid long queues at popular tourist destinations in the high season.
• Avoid Crowds – It’s best not to go to popular tourist destinations when they’re packed. Not only will this be a frustrating experience, but it’s also risky – crowds can be dangerous.
• Bring food and drinks with you – This will help you save money on food while at the destination and keep you happy and hydrated in the hot weather.
• Book your tour early – Many popular tourist destinations offer special offers or deals for peak-season visitors. By booking your tour early, you can get the best deal possible!
• Get Travel Insurance and Tips – No trip is too big or small for travel insurance – whether you travel to big cities or go out.

What Is The Peak Season For Tourists?

It is no secret that the peak season for tourists is usually from May to October. This is the time of the year when major destinations worldwide. Ensure your website, social media presence, and advertising is up to date to accommodate this influx of tourists. Prepare for increase customer service requests and inquiries

The Peak Season For Tourists In Which Places?

The peak season for tourists is typically in spring and fall, but it can vary depending on the location. As a business owner, it’s important to be prepared for the influx of people. You can do a few things to make the most of the season and increase your chances of success.

Alter your landscape to make it more hospitable for tourists. Additionally, increase security measures and plan ahead. Make sure you’re well-prepared by scheduling regular maintenance checks and keeping an updated inventory of supplies. Your business will be booming with tourists this year if all goes as planned.

Definition Of The Peak Season For Tourist

The peak season for tourists is the time of year when the majority of people visit a location. This can mean a lot of extra traffic and business for your business. To prepare, it’s important to understand the definition of the peak season and what factors influence it.

Keep an eye on traffic patterns and trends to be able to adjust as needed. Additionally, be prepared to accommodate all the tourists by keeping your business running smoothly. Here are a few tips to help:

• Make sure your premises are well-maintained and clean
• Keep your parking lot clear and organized – Make it easy for customers to find what they’re looking for
• Stay up-to-date with the latest tourist information so you can offer the best service possible.

What Are The Benefits Of Having A Peak Season For Tourists?

Tourism is one of the most important and lucrative industries in the world. It not only brings in a lot of money but also creates many jobs and provides additional income for residents of the area. In order to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit for tourists, it’s important to have a peak season. Here are some of the benefits of having a peak season for tourists:

• Increased revenue : peak season attracts more tourists, which in turn leads to an increase in revenue.
• More jobs : peak season typically leads to an increase in the number of jobs available, as businesses geared towards the tourist industry need to be operational at all times.
• More fun for everyone : having a peak season for Tourist means that everyone is having fun, regardless of age or interests. This is great news for residents, as it means less noise and congestion.

How To Plan For The Peak Season For Tourists ?

The peak season for tourists can be a lot of fun, but it’s also important to be prepared for the crowds. Try booking your flights and hotels well in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. Additionally, have a list of attractions that are popular during the peak season and plan your trip around them.

Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreens, water bottles, and snacks in case you get hungry or thirsty on the go. And of course, don’t forget your camera! The peak season for tourists is a great time to make some new friends, so don’t hesitate to reach out to other travelers.

How To Know When The Peak Season For Tourists Is Approaching?

The peak season for tourists is approaching, and it’s important to be prepared. There are a few signs that you can look for to determine when the peak season is coming – more visitors in general, an increase in hotel reservations, and more social media posts about your area.

If you’re looking to attract tourists, it’s important to keep up with trends and make sure your website looks professional. Ensure all signage is updated and accurate. And plan special events or offers that coincide with popular tourist times. For example, make sure to put up festive displays or have special offers around Christmas or New Year’s Eve.

Having read through this blog, you now know everything you need to know about the peak season for tourists. By understanding when the peak season for tourists is approaching in different parts of the world, you can plan your travel accordingly and enjoy all the benefits of it. Don’t wait any longer. Start planning your dream trip today and enjoy the peak season for tourists in style.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can i make my home more appealing to tourists.

There are a few different ways to make your home more attractive to tourists. First, you can dust off and apply some fresh paint. Hang colorful prints or artwork that will attract the attention of travelers. Make sure your floor is clean and vacuumed.

How Can I Reduce My Travel Expenses During The Peak Tourist Season?

Here are some tips to help reduce travel costs during peak tourist season: Use online travel calculators to see which destinations are the cheapest. Try to book your flight and accommodation simultaneously to get a discount.

What Are Some Of The Things That I Should Do To Prepare For The Peak Tourist Season?

You can do a few things to prepare for peak tourist season. Have a travel insurance plan. Make sure to pack the right clothing and gear for the weather conditions. You should save enough money in case of emergencies or unexpected expenses.

What Should I Do When Traveling To A Destination During The Peak Season?

If you’re traveling to a popular tourist destination in the summer, prepare for long queues and crowds at attractions. Pack sunscreen, food, and water, so you don’t get too thirsty or tired during your trip.

What Are The Best Times Of Year To Visit Different Tourist Destinations?

Popular destinations like Spain and France usually experience a high flow of tourists during the summer months. Other countries, such as Thailand and Greece, have a high season from January to April. So, research when the busiest tourist times are in your destination and plan your trip accordingly.

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Tourism Seasonality

Most tourist destinations in the world are affected by the phenomenon of seasonality. Destinations with high fluctuations in seasonality often face various challenges, such as overcrowding, high prices, inadequate infrastructure in peak seasons, as well as a lack of services and job opportunities in shoulder and low seasons. Seasonality is a measurable feature with significant economic and social impacts. 

Understanding the main characteristics can help to modify its occurrence. Causes can be natural such as the seasons and related climate conditions, or institutional such as public and school holidays. Consequently, seasonality is regular and consistent and can be predictable and anticipated. This makes it more possible to mitigate. 

To measure the degree of seasonality, destinations can use specific indicators, ranging from tourist arrivals to occupancy rates. There are also indicators regarding initiatives to strengthen shoulder and low season periods, as well as measuring the level of effort designed to reduce seasonality. As seasonality is a factor in unemployment, seasonal employment and turnover of staff, indicators regarding the effects of seasonality on employment are important tools to monitor its social impact.

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The ultimate tips for peak season travel

Nov 22, 2012 • 4 min read

Making a last-minute getaway in peak holiday season is not for the faint of heart. Prices are steep, train seats are scarce, and airports are chaotic as hordes of travellers scurry around to a soundtrack of piped-in Christmas music. But when my longing for sunshine outweighed my craving for Thanksgiving turkey and pies, I booked a quick four-day escape to Miami .

On my tightly packed airplane winging its way to South Beach, I had some time to ponder the joys and pitfalls of spontaneous holiday travel. Here's a short primer on how to travel gracefully over the holidays - whether it’s a last-minute package deal to Mexico or the standard trip home via train, bus, or three connecting flights.

Think outside the box

There are last-minute deals to be had. But when it comes to peak travel seasons, you have to be flexible about your destination. You’re less likely to stumble across a bargain-priced Christmas trip to Switzerland , for example: snowboarding in the Alps is generally enjoyed by people who make advance plans (or have plenty of expendable income). But if you’re open to a getaway to Costa Rica , New Orleans or the Irish countryside, you’ll discover a variety of last-minute options using the resources below.

Make the system work for you

The internet is rife with travel planning tools, but they’re not worth much if you don’t know how to set them up and tailor them to your preferences. If you’re interested in a vacation, log onto Travelzoo ( www.travelzoo.com ), where last-minute packages are listed by departure city. Catering to European travellers, Lastminute.com ( www.lastminute.com ) offers similar packages, but more popular destinations book out early. If you have time to spare, sign up for e-mail bulletins advertising deeply discounted travel packages, including Travelzoo’s Top 20 ( www.travelzoo.com/top20 ). Then log on to Twitter and follow travel magazines and websites like Condé Nast Traveler ( @CNTraveler ) and Budget Travel ( @BudgetTravel ) - both offer frequently updated travel deals and promotions you won’t see elsewhere.

If you don’t have plane tickets yet but your holiday destination is set - if you’re expected for New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles or Christmas in London , for instance - enter Kayak ( www.kayak.com ) and set up a flight alert. This user-friendly tool automatically keeps you posted if the airfare on your desired route changes: if the fare suddenly drops $80, you can pounce on it. Of course, your chances of scoring a decently priced flight increase dramatically if you enter several different combinations of airports, dates and travel times. Another site to try is Hotwire ( www.hotwire.com/deals ), particularly the ‘Deals’ section, where a sidebar allows you to see the cheapest fares from your departure city for upcoming weekends.

Streamline your itinerary

It’s worth considering paying more for a non-stop flight over an itinerary with multiple connections. Why? Most airlines do not offer compensation or accommodation assistance if your flight is delayed or cancelled due to wintry weather. So if freezing rain is falling at your layover airport, you’re stuck - and you might end up spending your hard-earned cash on a dingy airport motel room. If you book a non-stop flight, the worst-case scenario is that you’re stuck at home or at your final destination. Another choice airport tip from Condé Nast’s travel expert Wendy Perrin: to avoid getting bumped from an overbooked holiday flight, make sure you get a seat assignment ahead of time (read more here ).

Airports: do your homework

There’s no way around it. Moving through LaGuardia or Heathrow during the holiday rush just isn’t pleasant - the best you can do is pack light, arrive early (at least two hours ahead for domestic flights and three for international), maintain a Zen-like expression at the security line and indulge in a well-deserved cocktail at the bar by your departure gate. But if you do have any flexibility in your flight plans, opt for smaller travel hubs over major airports like Chicago O’Hare and Los Angeles International, identified by Orbitz as the two busiest airports in the US over the current Thanksgiving holiday.

Consider ground transportation

If you’re travelling last-minute, you’ll have better luck with bus and train tickets than airfares - and your trip is less likely to be cancelled due to weather. What, an eight-hour journey sounds excessive? Just remember how long the lines are at the airport.

Anticipate problems

Expect the unexpected, and leave some space in your budget accordingly. Even if you don’t have much cash to spare, be kind to yourself - when it’s snowing and there are one hundred people waiting in line for the public bus, $20 is a small price to pay for a taxi ride. When you’re facing an unexpected seven-hour delay at the airport, splash out and buy yourself a day pass to an airport lounge stocked with food and drinks, comfortable couches and wi-fi. Just consider it a holiday present to yourself.

For last-minute travel tips, hotel hacks and expert advice, snap up Lonely Planet's Best Ever Travel Tips .

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Travelling Without a Passport

Your Ultimate Off-Season Travel Calendar

Everybody loves a summer holiday, but more often than not, traveling during the peak tourist season can be a bit of a drag. Here’s our guide to your off-season gems to discover.

Summer may be the best time to travel when it comes to the weather, especially in Europe. However… the flights you want to book are overpriced, the places you want to stay at are more expensive, and the attractions you want to visit are flooded with tourists. In the off-season, you don’t have to worry about dealing with any of those downsides. Sure, you won’t get the best weather, but booking your trip in the low season comes with a bevy of benefits: cheaper airfare, wallet-friendly hotel rates, and fewer crowds.

If you’re ready to jump on the off-peak travel bandwagon, the only question left to answer is: where should I go in the off-season? That’s where this guide comes in! We’ve curated a list of some of the most popular travel destinations and their corresponding low-season periods so you can start planning your off-peak adventure for 2023 and beyond!

North America

South america.

See Also: Iceland Off-Season: Your Complete Guide

For the most part, Europe’s off-season runs between November and March .

Of course, temperatures and weather conditions will vary by region; if you visit in, say, December, you may have to contend with freezing temperatures and snow flurries in Northern Europe, while Mediterranean countries like Greece offer a fair amount of sunshine and relatively mild temperatures. 

No matter what destinations you choose to visit (aside from ski resorts), you’re guaranteed to find fewer crowds and bargain-worthy prices when traveling to Europe during the winter months.

Here are a few great cities, countries, and regions to choose from for off-season travel — those places where you’ll get the most bang for your buck and have a fantastic overall experience:

• All of the continent’s most popular and iconic cities (e.g., Venice, Paris, Rome, Barcelona, or Amsterdam)
• Finnish Lapland

See Also: What to do in Greece in December (Updated 2022)

Southeast Asia – June to October

As you can imagine, Southeast Asia plays host to several climates to match its incredibly diverse landscapes. Many travelers avoid the off-season in this region completely, but — with a little extra planning and preparation — it can actually be a fantastic time to travel here.

Just remember: the off-season months typically coincide with the rainy season. Monsoon rains usually occur between June and October in most parts of Southeast Asia, but weather patterns can vary drastically depending on the destination. 

During this time, your trip can be disrupted by torrential downpours, or you might get lucky with sunshine and short-lived periods of rain — it’s a chance you take traveling during the low season!

Here are the off-season months for some of Southeast Asia’s top hotspots:

• Bali – April to June
• Bangkok and Northern Thailand – May to October
• Thai Islands (Gulf of Thailand) – Gulf of Thailand October to December and the Andaman Sea June to October
• Vietnam – May to September
• Cambodia – July to September

Japan / China / Taiwan – November to March

The best time to escape the crowds in China , Japan , and Taiwan is during the winter months, as long as you’re not traveling to wintry destinations or ski towns like Harbin and Hokkaido. As these destinations are pretty far north, it can get quite cold, however, so for trips to Tokyo, Seoul, or Beijing, your best bet is to dress for the occasion and check the weather reports thoroughly.

India & Sri Lanka – May to August/September

India and Sri Lanka experience varied weather conditions, with certain regions (such as Goa, for example) being dominated by rainfall at any given time of the year. 

With the exception of tropical states like Florida and Hawaii, the low season in Canada and the USA falls between the winter months of November and March/April. 

Los Angeles, Vancouver, and other West Coast destinations offer milder temperatures throughout this season, while cities in the northeast (New York, Toronto, Boston) transform into real-life winter wonderlands.

Prices skyrocket during winter holidays and school holiday periods, so it’s best to avoid Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Spring Break if you don’t want to deal with inflated hotel rates and crowded attractions.

In Mexico and the Caribbean , the off-season period begins shortly after Easter and lasts until the middle of December, just before the holiday season is in full swing.

• United States – November to March
• Hawaii – April to early June and September to mid-December
• Canada – November to April
• Mexico – May to mid-December
• The Caribbean – May to mid-December

See Also: Low Season USA Travel: 11 Adventures in Your Backyard

Given its gargantuan size, it should come as no surprise that there’s a whole host of varying climates and microclimates occurring on this vast continent throughout the year.

Generally speaking, South America can be divided into two regions, the first being Chile , Argentina , Uruguay , and southern Brazil, where the low season falls during the chilly winter months. Please be aware that here, it’s winter from May to August! The other region is Colombia , Peru , Ecuador , and Bolivia , where the weather patterns are dictated by wet and dry seasons rather than significant temperature changes. In Brazil, for example, there may be temperatures as low as ° C 15.8 / ° F 60.4 in Foz do Iguaçu, in the south in July, while Salvador, Bahia up north will still have approx. ° C 23.7 / ° F 74.7 degrees.

If you don’t mind packing a few extra layers and waterproof gear, you’ll love traveling outside of peak season here.

• Colombia / Peru / Ecuador / Bolivia – December to March
• Mach u Picchu – October to February (The Inca Trail closes every February for essential maintenance.)
• The Galapagos Islands – May to June and September and October
• Brazil – May to September
• Chile and Argentina (excluding Patagonia) – June to August

In many African destinations (especially safari hotspots), low-season travel comes with loads of perks: the Kalahari Desert offers fantastic game viewing during the off-season; the low season in Kenya means better deals and cheaper international airfare; and Tanzania’s birthing period falls during the off-peak months, so you’re more likely to see lion cubs and other baby animals.

Plus, you’ll get great value for money, you won’t have to compete for space at wildlife sightings, and the rainy season brings lush landscapes — which makes for excellent photo opportunities. 

It may be wetter during the low season, but if you can bear a bit of rain, there are a number of fantastic benefits that come with off-peak travel on this continent.

North Africa

• Morocco – November to February
• Egypt – June to August

Central/East Africa

• Kenya & Tanzania – March to June and October to December
• Ugand a – April and May
• Rwanda – April, May, and November

Southern Africa

• South Africa – April to September
• Namibia & Botswana – December to April 
• Moz ambique – March to June

Australia – June to August

Most people want to experience summer Down Under, but visiting during Australia’s winter (June to August) will save you cash on everything from your airfare to tours and bucket list activities.

And, since the weather is still pleasant and warm in many places around the country, choosing to travel during the off-season comes with some serious advantages.

New Zealand – June to August

The off-peak winter season is similar in New Zealand : you’ll find far fewer crowds at all the popular tourist spots (besides the ski resorts dotted around the country, of course).

Prices go down; hotel rates drop, and, in some destinations, you might feel as though you have the whole place to yourself.

Things to consider when booking an off-season holiday

Not every destination is suited to off-season travel; you definitely don’t want to be trekking in the Himalayas in a foot of snow or sweltering in Northern Australia in 45-degree heat. 

You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons and do some additional research before you travel to any particular destination during the low season. Weather, seasonal closures, and safety are three of the main things to keep in mind while you’re planning your trip.

Ashley Nitransky

Ashley is a Content Editor at TourRadar. When she’s not writing, travelling, or obsessively checking flight prices on Skyscanner, you can find her attempting to fine-tune her photography skills or watching a shark documentary.

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Peak Season vs. Off-Season Travel: What Are the Differences in Costs?

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While there’s still plenty of trepidation in America and beyond, the travel industry is open for business once again — and it’s high time. The world is overdue for a vacation. 

The virus has changed nearly everything about travel, from where you can go and how big your group can be to what you can pack and the mask on your face.

One thing, however, will never change: the law of supply and demand. 

When you travel in the peak season — when everyone else wants to travel — demand, and therefore prices, are high. In the off-season, planes take off with empty seats, hotels are filled with empty beds and the travel industry as a collective lowers prices to increase demand.  

When Is the Off-Season? That Depends on You

Generally, it’s cheaper to travel in the off-season when demand and prices are low. So, when is peak season and when is off-season? Well, that depends on a whole lot of variables including where you’re going, when and why. If you’re traveling to the Poconos in Pennsylvania to go skiing, for example, winter is peak season. If you’re going to the Poconos to enjoy the area’s many lakes and water activities, summer is peak season.

But it also depends on things like whether or not school is in session and whether or not you’re traveling during holidays — that includes holidays both in your country and wherever it is you’re headed. Which hemisphere you’ll be visiting plays into the equation, too, as does the all-important variable of weather.

The Great Peak Season/Off-Season Travel Trade-Off

In virtually all cases, off-season discounts come with a compromise. There’s a reason that Vermont and New Hampshire are packed during the beautiful fall foliage season and empty during the region’s notoriously brutal winters. You’d be lucky to find a hotel room in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, and if you do, you’ll pay much, much more than you would for the same room any other time of year.

Generally, if you’re willing to pay more and tolerate crowds, you can visit places when the weather is better, when there’s more to do and when it’s the best time of year to enjoy whatever it is that makes the place you’re going to special. 

If you’re willing to sacrifice things like primo weather and scheduling, on the other hand, you can expect to pay much less and have the run of the place when you get there.

Planning Involves Lots of Moving Parts

Here’s a brief synopsis, according to Columbus Travel, on how off-season travel deals tend to play out in real life. It’s important to reiterate that these patterns are pre-COVID-19. Neither Columbus Travel nor anyone else can say for sure if the old rules will still apply in 2021 and beyond now that the dam is bursting on a year of pent-up demand.

• If you’re traveling to Mexico or the Caribbean, particularly the Bahamas, booking a cruise between June 1 and Nov. 30 can save you between 40% and 60%. Also keep in mind, however, that the reason for the discount is that those are the months of the region’s hurricane season. 
• Prices for travel to Mexico usually drop by 20%-50% between the Monday after Easter and the middle of December. 
• In the winter, airfare, hotels and travel packages are cheaper for those headed to Europe. 
• On the other side of the calendar in June and August is when prices drop for travel to South America — that, after all, is their winter. The same holds true for Australia and South Africa, where winter starts in June and summer starts at the end of December. 
• If you’re considering Hawaii, prices are lowest and crowds are thinnest from September to mid-December and from mid-April to mid-June.
• For those planning a trip to California, fall and winter travel from November to February is when off-peak savings are most likely. 
• On the other coast is Florida, where travelers can visit for much less between June and September. Anyone who has been to Florida in the summer, however, can testify to the trade-off — crushing heat, suffocating humidity and insects that look like they belong in dinosaur times. That includes voracious mosquitos and what Floridians call “palmetto bugs.” They’re giant flying cockroaches. 
• Southeast Asia’s rainy season — “rainy” is a nicer way to say “monsoon” — lasts from June to October. You can save big money by traveling then but definitely pack an umbrella.  
• Finally, there’s the wildcard of school. When school is out, prices rise. That’s partly because families can’t travel when class is in session, but also because kids are out of school during holidays and in the summer, when travel prices generally rise anyway. Prices tend to drop from August through November and January through May when kids are in school and family travel is light — except for beach destinations like Hawaii and Mexico, which are packed at those times. The peak time for school vacations, on the other hand, is during March because of spring break and during Christmastime for the winter holidays.

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What Is Shoulder Season and How Can It Help You Save on Travel?

Shoulder season is a prime time to travel for great deals and fewer crowds. Here's how to maximize your trip.

George Rose/Getty Images

The summer vacation season may have come and gone, but that doesn’t mean travel needs to end with it. In fact, now is our favorite time to hit the road: shoulder season.

"Just as there's a downward dip from the top of your head to your shoulder, 'shoulder season' refers to a dip in tourism," Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going , shares with Travel + Leisure . "Unlike busy peak seasons, shoulder seasons are periods when places see fewer tourists, yet are not quite as sleepy as off-seasons; [it's] more so the time period between the two.”

As Nastro further explains, the specifics can vary based on location, but it usually falls around the change of seasons. "In general, we mostly see shoulder seasons as being the autumn and spring months," she says. "Not quite peak summer, nor winter holidays, but still more lively than the doldrums of winter."

Depending on the location, having a solid transitional weather pack list can be the best way to prepare for travel during these times of the year.

For example, the shoulder seasons for travel throughout New England land in the spring (April to early June) and late fall (October to November). Both periods come with their own perks, like gorgeous spring flowers and vibrant fall foliage. It’s also a time replete with festivals, including the Connecticut Garlic & Harvest Festival and the Freeport Fall Festival .

Or, over the same time frame, you can head to Florida, which also experiences its shoulder seasons in the spring and early fall. The weather is still warm, with temperatures hovering in the 70s, but there are far fewer crowds than typical school vacation times. 

Looking for a far-flung getaway? Head to Europe, which, for the most part, experiences similar shoulder seasons. It’s especially true for hot spots like the Greek islands , with many hotels offering fantastic deals during April and May, as well as September through October.   

Getty Images

Beyond seeing fewer fellow tourists in typically high-demand areas, what else makes shoulder season so attractive? The best and most important answer is that you can expect to pay a lot less for your trip. 

According to a 2021 NerdWallet analysis , which analyzed more than 100 of America’s most popular flight routes, on average, airfare was 23 percent cheaper during shoulder season than peak travel times. The analysis noted the biggest gap in pricing came around the holiday shoulder season, when flights were, on average, 50 percent cheaper when booked for Monday, Jan. 10, rather than Monday, Dec. 27. Additionally, 2022 data by Hotels.com showed that traveling just prior to or right after major holidays provided the best pricing on hotels. The brand found the average hotel rates between July through January on its app and pinpointed the best times to travel for a great deal was the weekend before Christmas (Dec. 15 - 20) or right after the New Year holiday (Jan. 3 - 8).

Igor Tsarev/Getty Images

Beyond snagging a great deal, traveling during the shoulder season comes with the added benefit of more bargains at restaurants and excursions without having to fight off fellow travelers or worry about off-season closures.

To make the most of your trip, simply search for your intended destination's "shoulder season," which, again, usually falls right before or after its typical high season. You can also use resources like Kayak's Best Time to Travel tool to search for the best deals year-round and find the ideal time to book. Or, simply read up on the latest data for prime booking days , as well as how many days out you should book airline tickets to various destinations around the globe.

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tourist season

Definition of tourist season

Examples of tourist season in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'tourist season.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Dictionary Entries Near tourist season

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“Tourist season.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tourist%20season. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

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What is Peak Season?

Travel glossary.

Peak season or high season  is  the opposite of   low season  and is  used to indicate the time of the year in which the majority of travel occurs to any specific destination. Similarly, the phrase  is often used as an indicator of how expensive a particular flight may cost. 

The general rule of thumb is that flight prices are higher during peak season and lower during low season.

International flights experience the most variation in seasonal changes while domestic flights experience less temporal price variation. 

Searching for other travel related terms? Check out out the full Firefly List Travel Glossary.

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Peak Season and Low Season of Tourism in the Philippines

Other questions & answers.

There would usually be 3 tourism periods or “seasons” identified in the Philippines: Lean, High and Peak (or Super Peak).

Each season would have different tourist volumes present in the country, rates of flights and accommodations. Terms and conditions of tourism services change accordingly, too.

Lean Season of the Philippines (June to October)

The Lean Season would be from the months of June to October , which is the “wet” season and brings about quite a bit of occasional rain with warm temperatures . We would still have tourists going to different places around the Philippines but fewer in numbers. This season is ideal for travellers who want more peace and quiet, who’d want to avoid crowds and queues in their desired destinations. Hotel and flight rates would have more availability and also be cheaper during these months. At the same time, keep in mind that you should depart with extra adaptability!

High Season of the Philippines (November to May)

Months from November to May are those of the High Season. These months are our “dry” season (locals call it “summer”) when humidity drops along with the perceived temperature - though the weather is still tropically warm. These stretches of months are the favourite time of tourist to visit the Philippines not just because of the ideal local climate , but also because these same months are cold in most countries. People from Europe, the US or in other northern hemispheric places escape the winter and get warmed and tanned in this side of the globe.

Super Peak Tourist Periods

Then there are the Peak Periods with identified days per year. These are:

Holy Week/Easter , this falls usually on March or April

Chinese Lunar New Year which is a week on the month of either January or February

On December 20th until around the 5th of January the following year is the Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations

On a destination-specific local level, a peak period could be the week of the city or town’s fiesta. See some of the most popular ones here .

Tips on Planning your Trip to the Philippines during Peak Periods:

During peak periods, the demand for services obviously increases. Generally speaking, tourist destinations do not become exaggeratedly crowded, though it’s suggested to book your tour of the Philippines  quite in advance to secure reservations for your activities, transportation, services and accommodations. This way, you will avoid much higher rates or shortage of services.

A positive and interesting thing about this season to look forward to is that tourism establishments would be conducting special activities for guests to enjoy. Even city and provincial local governments organize activities and special merrymakings for the constituents to enjoy and they will be more than happy to welcome guests to join them! Filipinos love to celebrate! You will be able to witness how locals party and have their own unique ways to revel festivities.

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SEASONALITY IN TOURISM – causes, implications and strategies

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The role of seasonality in the sustainability of tourism is multiple and complex. The connection between seasonality and sustainability is even more complex when it comes to protected areas. This connection was investigated on the examples of selected protected mountain areas in Serbia ‒ Kopaonik and Tara National Parks, and Stara planina and Zlatibor Nature Parks. The Gini index was used to measure seasonality, and to show the imbalance in the monthly distribution of the number of tourist overnight stays in the mentioned destinations, in the period 2013‒2021. The research results show that the analyzed protected mountain areas in Serbia have different values of the Gini index, which is conditioned by their natural predispositions for tourism development (e.g. altitude and duration of snow cover), and at the same time the levels of tourist development of the area. In order to reduce the effects of seasonality, in each of the destinations that are the subject of this paper, alternati...

ravinder jangra

Tourism has become an important factor in the recent growing economy to trade with international dimensions. Mountain destinations offers inter alia, a wide range of possibilities such as unique cultural attractions, hiking, skiing, rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, bungee jumping, and paragliding. that attracts mass tourism with temporal imbalance in number of tourist arrivals. Kinnaur, is also referred to as the 'Land of god' and is 235 Km from Shimla in India. The area is known for its serenity and beauty and opulent green and rocky mountain-scape. It has the Satluj, Baspa and Spiti rivers meandering through it. The main purpose of study is to provide a pattern of tourist statistics and determine the peak season of tourist attractions in Kinnaur. The study is based on secondary data. To achieve the objectives an annual growth rate (AGR) and compound annual growth rate (CAGR) were calculated. The most frequently used simple average method was considered to...

Cogent Business & Management

Jinghua Xie

Dr. PRAVEEN RIZAL

3rd International Thematic Monograph - Thematic Proceedings: Modern Management Tools and Economy of Tourism Sector in Present Era

Biljana Petrevska

Journal of the Knowledge Economy

Thomas Krabokoukis , Serafeim Polyzos

The seasonality of tourism is a global, complex phenomenon with temporal, geographical, and socioeconomic dimensions. The study presents the phenomenon in Mediterranean countries, identifying similarities and differences. The study aims to provide a holistic theoretical approach to tourism seasonality, examine the temporal and spatial patterns of the phenomenon, and formulate distinct seasonal profiles that facilitate tourism policy and development. The study applies available data on overnight stays in tourist accommodations (hotels and similar accommodations) per month for the years from 2000 to 2019. The analysis reveals groups of seasonality with different characteristics. Overall, the analysis emerges a 3D conceptualization of tourism seasonality (tourism demand, time, period) and promotes the comparative study of the phenomenon in competitive countries and countries with high tourism dependence.

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Shoulder Season Meaning: Understanding the Travel Industry’s Off-Peak Periods

Shoulder season is a term used by travel enthusiasts to describe the period between peak and off-peak seasons. This period is characterized by fewer crowds, lower prices, and more temperate weather conditions. Shoulder season is an excellent time to travel for those who want to avoid the high costs and crowds of peak season while still enjoying favorable weather conditions.

Understanding shoulder season is essential for travelers who want to make the most of their trips. The timing of shoulder season varies depending on the destination, but it generally falls between peak and off-peak seasons. Shoulder season offers a unique travel experience as it provides a balance between the advantages of peak and off-peak seasons. Travelers can enjoy lower prices, fewer crowds, and favorable weather conditions during this period.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Shoulder season is the period between peak and off-peak seasons, characterized by fewer crowds, lower prices, and more temperate weather conditions.
• Understanding shoulder season is essential for travelers who want to make the most of their trips.
• Shoulder season offers a unique travel experience as it provides a balance between the advantages of peak and off-peak seasons.

Understanding Shoulder Season

Shoulder season refers to the period between high/peak season and low/off-season. It is the time when tourism activities are not at their peak, and prices are relatively lower compared to peak season. Shoulder season is also the time when weather conditions are usually favorable, and crowds are fewer.

The exact dates of shoulder season vary depending on the destination, but it is usually characterized by a decrease in visitor numbers, hotel rates, and airfares. Shoulder season is an excellent time for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the destination’s attractions without the high costs associated with peak season.

In some destinations, shoulder season may coincide with the head season, which is the period when the weather is at its best, and the destination is not yet crowded. Head season is an excellent time to visit a destination as it offers the best of both worlds – favorable weather and fewer crowds.

In contrast, high/peak season is the period when tourism activities are at their peak, and prices are at their highest. This is usually the time when the weather is at its best, and the destination is crowded with tourists. High/peak season is a great time for travelers who want to experience the destination’s vibrant atmosphere and enjoy its attractions to the fullest.

Low/off-season, on the other hand, is the period when tourism activities are at their lowest, and prices are at their lowest. This is usually the time when the weather is not favorable, and the destination is least crowded. Low/off-season is an excellent time for travelers who want to save money and avoid the crowds.

In conclusion, understanding shoulder season is crucial for travelers who want to plan their trips effectively. It is a time when prices are relatively lower, and crowds are fewer, making it an ideal time to visit a destination.

Weather Conditions During Shoulder Season

Shoulder season is the period between peak season and off-season, when the weather is usually milder, and the crowds are thinner. The weather conditions during shoulder season can vary widely depending on the location and the time of year.

In general, shoulder season in spring and fall is characterized by cooler temperatures and less precipitation than the summer months. In winter, shoulder season can mean snow is starting to melt and temperatures are rising, but it can also mean colder temperatures and more snowfall.

During shoulder season in autumn, the weather can be unpredictable, with warm and sunny days followed by cooler and wetter weather. Temperatures can range from the high 50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius), with occasional snowfall in higher elevations.

In spring, shoulder season can mean a mix of rain and sunshine, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (around 5 to 20 degrees Celsius). Snow can still be present in higher elevations, but it is usually melting.

In winter, shoulder season can mean colder temperatures and more snowfall, especially at higher elevations. However, in some locations, such as coastal areas, shoulder season can mean milder temperatures and less snow.

Overall, the weather conditions during shoulder season can be variable and unpredictable, but they often offer a pleasant balance between the extremes of peak season and off-season.

Traveling During Shoulder Season

Traveling during shoulder season can be a great option for those looking to save money while still enjoying a great vacation. Shoulder season is the period between the high and low seasons, when the weather is still good but the crowds have thinned out. This means that you can enjoy lower prices, shorter lines, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

One of the benefits of traveling during shoulder season is that you can often find great deals on flights and accommodations. Many airlines and hotels offer special rates during this time to attract more visitors. This can make it much more affordable to take a trip, especially if you are on a budget.

Another advantage of traveling during shoulder season is that you can avoid the crowds. This means that you can enjoy popular tourist attractions without having to deal with long lines or large crowds. You can also enjoy a more authentic experience, as you will be able to interact with locals and experience the culture in a more meaningful way.

When planning a trip during shoulder season, it is important to keep in mind that the weather may not be as predictable as it is during the high season. However, this can also be an advantage, as you may be able to enjoy more pleasant weather than you would during the peak season. It is also important to research the destination you are visiting to find out what activities and attractions are available during the shoulder season.

Overall, traveling during shoulder season can be a great option for those looking to save money and avoid the crowds. With a little research and planning, you can have a great vacation without breaking the bank.

Geographical Variations in Shoulder Season

Shoulder season refers to the period between peak and off-peak seasons. The duration of shoulder season varies depending on the location. In Europe, shoulder season generally falls between April and June and from September to November. In the United States, shoulder season varies by region, but it is generally from September to November and from March to May.

In the northern hemisphere, shoulder season is typically during the spring and fall months. During this time, the weather is milder, and the crowds are smaller, making it an ideal time to travel. In the Caribbean, shoulder season is from mid-April to mid-December, when the weather is warm, and the crowds are smaller.

Geographical variations in shoulder season can affect the availability and pricing of accommodation, tours, and activities. In Europe, for example, the shoulder season is the best time to visit popular destinations like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller, making it easier to explore the city’s attractions.

In the United States, shoulder season varies by region. In the Northeast, for example, fall is the best time to visit, with the leaves changing colors and the weather being mild. In the Southwest, spring is the best time to visit, with the wildflowers in bloom and the temperatures being comfortable.

In the Caribbean, shoulder season is an ideal time to visit because the weather is warm, and the crowds are smaller. During this time, visitors can enjoy the beaches, water sports, and other outdoor activities without the crowds.

Overall, geographical variations in shoulder season can provide travelers with a unique experience, depending on the location they choose to visit. Travelers should consider the weather, crowds, and availability of activities when planning their trip.

Shoulder Season and Accommodation

During shoulder season, travelers can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to travel. However, finding suitable accommodation during this time can be challenging, especially for those who prefer luxury stays.

Hotels and accommodations during shoulder season may offer discounts or special rates to attract visitors. However, it’s important to note that not all hotels and accommodations may be open during this time. Some may close down for the season, while others may have limited availability.

Travelers looking for luxury accommodations during shoulder season may need to do some research and planning in advance. Some luxury hotels may offer reduced rates during this time, but it’s important to book early as availability may be limited.

For those on a budget, shoulder season can be an excellent time to find affordable accommodations. Hostels and budget hotels may offer even lower rates during this time, making it an ideal time for backpackers and budget travelers.

Overall, finding suitable accommodations during shoulder season requires some planning and research. However, with the right preparation, travelers can enjoy a comfortable and affordable stay during this time.

Air Travel in Shoulder Season

Air travel during shoulder season can be less expensive than peak season travel. Airlines may offer lower airfares and fares to attract more customers during this time. However, it is important to note that prices can vary depending on the destination and the time of year.

During shoulder season, airlines may also reduce the number of flights to certain destinations. This can result in fewer options for travelers and may require more planning ahead of time. It is recommended to book flights in advance to secure the best fares and avoid last-minute price increases.

Travelers should also be aware of potential weather-related delays during shoulder season. As shoulder season falls between peak and off-peak seasons, weather conditions can be unpredictable. It is important to check weather forecasts and plan accordingly to avoid any potential disruptions to travel plans.

Overall, air travel during shoulder season can offer cost savings and fewer crowds, but it is important to research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Shoulder Season and Holidays

Shoulder season refers to the period between peak and off-peak travel seasons. It is usually characterized by fewer crowds, lower prices, and more moderate weather conditions. Shoulder season can be a great time to travel, especially for those who prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money.

During shoulder season, holidays can have a significant impact on travel. For instance, March and April are popular months for spring break, which can lead to higher prices and more crowds in popular destinations. Similarly, September and October can be busy due to fall foliage and harvest festivals.

Easter is another holiday that can affect travel during shoulder season. It falls in either March or April and can lead to increased crowds and higher prices in popular destinations. Christmas is also a popular holiday that can impact travel during shoulder season, especially in December.

Overall, travelers should be aware of holidays and events when planning their shoulder season travels. While they can provide unique experiences, they can also lead to higher prices and more crowds. By planning ahead and being flexible with travel dates, travelers can make the most of shoulder season and enjoy a more relaxed and affordable vacation.

Shoulder Season and Parks

Shoulder season refers to the period between peak and off-peak seasons, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. This is an ideal time to visit parks and attractions, as visitors can enjoy the benefits of both peak and off-peak seasons.

During shoulder season, visitors can enjoy the beauty of parks without the crowds and long lines. They can also take advantage of lower prices on accommodations, transportation, and activities. Shoulder season is a great time to explore parks and attractions that are typically crowded during peak season.

Many parks offer special events and activities during shoulder season, such as guided hikes, wildlife tours, and fall foliage tours. Visitors can also take advantage of the cooler weather to hike, bike, or kayak without the heat and humidity of summer.

Some parks are particularly beautiful during shoulder season. For example, Yellowstone National Park is stunning in the fall, with its changing leaves and fewer visitors. Acadia National Park in Maine is also beautiful in the fall, with its colorful foliage and cooler temperatures.

Overall, shoulder season is a great time to visit parks and attractions. Visitors can enjoy the beauty and activities of peak season without the crowds and high prices.

Shoulder Season and Nightlife

Shoulder season is the period between the peak and off-peak seasons, where the number of tourists is lower, and the prices are more affordable. While most people associate shoulder season with fewer crowds and lower prices, it’s also an excellent time to experience the local nightlife and festivals.

Nightlife during shoulder season can be a unique experience as it’s less crowded, and the locals are more relaxed. You can enjoy a more intimate atmosphere in bars and nightclubs, and you might even get a chance to chat with the locals and learn more about their culture. Most of the popular tourist destinations have a vibrant nightlife scene, and during shoulder season, you can experience it without the overwhelming crowds.

Festivals are also a significant part of the shoulder season, and they can provide a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. During shoulder season, you can attend festivals without the long lines and overcrowded venues. You can enjoy the local food, music, and art without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

In conclusion, shoulder season is an excellent time to experience the local nightlife and festivals. You can enjoy a more intimate atmosphere, learn more about the local culture, and avoid the overwhelming crowds. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure, shoulder season has something to offer for everyone.

Shoulder Season and College Students

Shoulder season is an ideal time for college students to travel due to several reasons. Firstly, it is a time when the tourist crowds have dispersed, making it easier to get around and explore new places. Secondly, the weather is often mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Finally, prices for flights, accommodations, and activities are often significantly lower than during peak season, making it a more affordable time to travel.

For college students who are on a tight budget, shoulder season can be the perfect time to visit popular destinations without breaking the bank. Many airlines and hotels offer special discounts during this time, making it easier for students to afford their travel expenses. Additionally, with fewer tourists around, it is easier to find good deals on local activities and attractions.

Another benefit of traveling during shoulder season is that it is often less crowded, allowing students to explore popular destinations without the crowds. This makes it easier to get around and see more of the sights, without having to deal with long lines or wait times.

However, it is important for college students to keep in mind that shoulder season can vary depending on the destination. For example, some destinations may have shoulder season during the fall months, while others may have it during the spring months. It is important to do research and plan accordingly to ensure that they are traveling during the most affordable and comfortable time for their destination.

In summary, shoulder season can be an ideal time for college students to travel due to lower prices, fewer crowds, and mild weather. However, it is important to research the destination and plan accordingly to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.

Shoulder Season and Crowds

Shoulder season is the time of year between peak and off-peak seasons, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds have thinned out. This is a great time to travel for those who want to avoid the high prices and large crowds of peak season, but still want to enjoy good weather and fewer crowds.

One of the biggest advantages of traveling during shoulder season is the reduced crowds. This means that visitors can enjoy popular attractions without the hassle of long lines and overcrowding. In addition, accommodations and flights are often cheaper during this time, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers.

However, it is important to note that shoulder season can vary depending on the destination. For example, some places may have a shoulder season during the rainy season, which may not be ideal for some travelers. It is important to do research on the destination’s climate and tourism trends before planning a trip during shoulder season.

Overall, shoulder season provides a great opportunity for travelers to enjoy a destination without the crowds and high prices of peak season. By doing research and planning ahead, travelers can make the most of their trip during this time.

Shoulder Season and Riding

Shoulder season refers to the time between peak season and off-season, typically characterized by fewer crowds, lower prices, and more favorable weather conditions. For riders, shoulder season can be an excellent time to hit the road and explore new destinations without the hassles of peak season.

During shoulder season, riders can enjoy more comfortable temperatures, less traffic, and better deals on accommodations and activities. Many popular riding destinations, such as mountainous areas or coastal regions, are more enjoyable to explore during shoulder season when the weather is milder and more pleasant.

Riders who choose to travel during shoulder season should be prepared for some potential challenges, such as unexpected weather conditions or limited availability of services and attractions. However, with some careful planning and flexibility, riders can make the most of their shoulder season adventures.

Some tips for riding during shoulder season include:

• Checking weather forecasts and packing appropriate gear for changing conditions
• Being aware of potential road closures or limited access to certain areas
• Making reservations in advance for accommodations and activities
• Being flexible and willing to adjust plans if necessary

Overall, shoulder season can be an excellent time for riders to explore new destinations and enjoy the freedom of the open road without the crowds and high costs of peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best shoulder season destinations.

The best shoulder season destinations vary depending on personal preferences and interests. Some popular options include European cities such as Paris, Rome, and Barcelona, as well as national parks in the United States like Yosemite and Zion. Beach destinations like Hawaii and the Caribbean can also be great options during shoulder season.

What are the shoulder season months?

Shoulder season typically refers to the months between peak and off-peak travel seasons. In general, shoulder season falls in the months of April, May, September, and October, but this can vary depending on the destination.

What is shoulder season also called?

Shoulder season is also commonly referred to as “off-peak season” or “low season.”

Why is shoulder season a good time for hiking?

Shoulder season can be a great time for hiking because the weather is often mild and the crowds are smaller. Trails are typically less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.

What are some recommended shoulder season travel destinations in Europe?

Some recommended shoulder season travel destinations in Europe include Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Prague. These cities offer mild weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices during shoulder season.

Where can I go for shoulder season hunting?

Shoulder season hunting destinations vary depending on the type of game you are looking to hunt and the location. Some popular options include Colorado, Montana, and Alaska for big game hunting, and Texas and Georgia for bird hunting. It’s important to research the hunting regulations and seasons for your desired destination before planning your trip.

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The Fantasy of Heritage Tourism

The first generation of immigrants wants to survive, the second wants to assimilate, and the third wants to remember, the sociologist Marcus Lee Hansen wrote in 1938. The fourth, fifth, and sixth? Apparently they now want to go on a luxury vacation to visit the Welsh coal mines their ancestors crossed an ocean to escape.

So-called heritage tourism has grown into its own travel category, like skiing and whale watching. In 2019, an Airbnb survey found that the share of people traveling to “trace their roots” worldwide had increased by 500 percent since 2014; the company announced that it was teaming up with 23andMe, the DNA-testing service, to meet this demand, offering trips to clients’ ancestral homelands. Ancestry, the company behind the family-search website, has partnered with a travel agency. The governments of Germany and Scotland have websites devoted to heritage tourism. Conde Nast Traveller is all over this trend . In Dublin, the Shelbourne Hotel’s “genealogy butler” can research your Irish side, if you so please. The Conte Club, a boutique travel service known for its focus on privacy and members-only jet rentals, will take you and your partner on a week-long “ DNA-mapped journey ” starting at $35,000 (flights not included). Should you wish to go very far back in time, the agency can make that happen. Rebecca Fielding, the CEO, told me about one client who was obsessed with the idea that he had descended from Genghis Khan. DNA tests can’t possibly prove a connection that old, Fielding said, but the Conte Club was happy to arrange his trip to Mongolia.

Kyle Betit, the genealogist who runs Ancestry’s travel business, told me that his clients experience something much more “personal” and “deep” than what’s available to “the typical tourist.” Ancestry genealogists can create bespoke itineraries tailored to a family’s history, down to the villages or even the streets where they once lived. The company’s most popular destinations were Italy and Ireland. In 2023, it took 44 individual clients or groups on such voyages. This year, it’s offering two genealogy cruises .

[ Read: What can you do with the world’s largest family tree? ]

Who takes such a trip? According to the Airbnb survey, Americans top the list, followed by Canadians and Australians. Those most likely to go are between the ages of 60 and 90—mainly retirees with cash to spare. Dave Richard Meyrick, whom Ancestry put me in touch with, is a representative example.

Meyrick is 73 and lives in Las Vegas, where he worked at the MGM Grand hotel and casino until his retirement. He recently came into a small fortune—not at the poker table, but after winning a lawsuit against the U.S. military. The Agent Orange that the Army sprayed over Vietnam when he was fighting there caused Meyrick to lose most of his eyesight years after he returned. The newly enriched man has no wife and no kids—“that I know of,” he told me, with a chuckle—so indulging in a decadent vacation was the logical course of action. The question was where to go.

He had recently been on an unremarkable cruise through the Gulf of Mexico when a free trial for Ancestry.com appeared on his screen in spring 2020. He learned that he was ninth in a line of Richard Meyricks. He found his paternal grandfather—who was born in Wales and fought for Canada in World War I—in mustard-gas records that might explain his grandpa’s weird cough. Meyrick had always assumed that his paternal grandmother’s ancestors were also from Wales; actually, they were German, from the medieval city of Heidelberg and the Alpine region of Bavaria.

Soon he got a promotional email from Ancestry: If he wanted to see where his father’s parents came from, the company was there to help. He replied, intrigued. Betit scheduled a video call. The team helped him book a trip to Germany, where his father’s ancestors were innkeepers on the grounds of a princely castle. The inn has been renovated, and is now the chic office of a finance firm. During a stop in Munich, Meyrick drank beer at Oktoberfest. He then went to Wales, where another branch of his father’s ancestors worked the mines and steel mills in a village that dates back to the 1600s.

He told me that the deterioration of his eyesight had changed his perception of traveling. He couldn’t see the sites or landscapes very well, but his genealogy helped him feel connected to the places he visited. At the Welsh church where his ancestors had been baptized, married, and buried, Meyrick met a local history buff, who told him a story. In the early 1700s, a villager with a habit of hiding behind stagecoaches to rob the wealthy messed with the wrong rich man, a big landowner, and was hanged. The historian was convinced that the unfortunate thief was among Meyrick’s ancestors. Could this fabulous connection be true? Ancestry’s genealogists weren’t able to confirm it, and Meyrick said that his source had seemed a little senile. Still, he assured me, the $50,000 trip was “money well spent.”

This year, he plans to do his mother’s side.

Heritage tourism may only be catching on among Americans now, but governments have been pushing it for decades.

After World War II, tourism was considered a major component of diplomacy. Marshall Plan funds were earmarked to build not just roads and city centers but also ski slopes and airports. The Eisenhower administration created the People-to-People Program, promoting international pen-pal networks and sporting events in hopes of uniting countries against the Soviet Union.

Europe welcomed America’s tourists, and tried to encourage more to come. Some hosted “homecomings”—festivals meant to lure the children and grandchildren of emigrants back to visit. Greece held one in 1951; Lebanon, in 1955; Sweden, in 1965–66. Ireland hosted annual homecomings starting in 1953. These campaigns were, in the words of the Swedish historian Adam Hjorthén, “the earliest coordinated attempts at adopting ancestry in the promotion of mass tourism.”

They were also a failure, as people didn’t go. The Irish homecoming— called An Tóstal , or “a gathering,” and sponsored by the founder of Pan Am Airways—went on for six years before a tourist-board report admitted that the word fiasco didn’t sufficiently convey how badly the effort had flopped.   

For heritage tourism to take off, a few changes had to occur. First, plane tickets needed to get a lot cheaper. As the Pan Am founder, of all people, should have known, transatlantic flights then cost a lot of money—airfare from New York to London in 1950 was about $8,700 in today’s dollars . That year, only about one in 250 Americans went overseas at all. In 2019, at the pre-pandemic peak of traveling, this number was one in three .   

Even if they had the money, travelers might not have chosen to spend it on connecting with their homelands. For a long time, genealogy struck many people in the United States as elitist. Most European settlers, the historian Russell Bidlack wrote , “had escaped from a society where the traditions of inheritance and caste had denied them opportunity for a better life.” Genealogy was for people obsessed with nobility, or for WASPs living off borrowed glory.  

This began to change in the 1970s and ’80s, when genealogy became cool. The publication of Roots , Alex Haley’s 1976 novel about a seven-generation lineage, starting with a man sold into slavery in Gambia and ending with an American descendant not unlike the author, was a turning point. The book topped the New York Times best-seller list for more than five months and inspired two TV adaptations and eventually a whole genre of trace-your-ancestry reality shows. Genealogy was no longer just a hobby for pedigree-loving Europeans but became a tool for everyone, including marginalized groups, to understand their past.

Still, genealogy was hard work, at least until the advent of the internet in the 1990s made public records accessible and searchable. Infobases, a seller of floppy disks with genealogy databases catering to Mormons, who have a particular interest in the subject for theological reasons, purchased Ancestry, then a local publisher and magazine specializing in genealogy. Ancestry.com went online in 1996. By the mid-2010s, DNA testing was mainstream—packaged, commoditized. The tests convinced people that the connection they felt to the place of their ancestors was “really real,” as Naomi Leite, an anthropologist at SOAS University of London, put it to me. An American could now possess hard evidence that he was 12.5 percent Greek.

But when that American goes on a vacation to Santorini, what exactly is he hoping to find?

[ From the June 2016 issue: The false promise of DNA testing ]

Heritage is the name Americans give to the past when they realize they’ve already lost it. They want to claim it back. And when they finally go to these places where they had never been, travelers say they are “returning.”

This mode of traveling across space and time is ultimately a journey into the self—the reconstruction of a grand story that started long ago and ends with you. It provides order and meaning to travel that might otherwise seem arbitrary, while still providing plenty of choices: After all, the further you go into your family tree, the more branches you may have to pick from. Solène Prince, who studies heritage travel in Sweden, told me that people tend to focus on the lineage that they view as most “socially desirable”: “Americans and Canadians like to be Swedish,” she said. “It’s progressive.”

A segment of this industry targets Black Americans. Ghana, from which many enslaved Africans were sent to the New World, had its own homecoming— a “Year of Return”— for Africans in the diaspora in 2019. One and a half million people visited the continent that year, Ghana’s tourism department reported. But most heritage tourism tacitly serves white Americans. (Ancestry mentions Ghana in a list of possible Personal Heritage Journeys, but when I asked if anyone had taken advantage of that trip, a company spokesperson said not yet.)

Genealogy may be the product of painstaking research, but it’s also a fantasy, about who we are and who we’d like to be. Many Americans want to be something else: “Time and again, I have heard genealogists be very disappointed to learn that, in fact, they’re all white,” Jackie Hogan, the author of Roots Quest: Inside America’s Genealogy Boom , noted once in an interview . “If America is a melting pot, this is people wanting to unmelt it and find what makes them special,” Leite, the anthropologist, told me.

[ From the July/August 2018 issue: The weird, ever-evolving story of DNA ]

But even if white Americans think they want to be something other than white, when it comes time to travel, they mostly want to go to Europe. Fielding, of the Conte Club, told me that the top destinations for its DNA trips were all in Europe. Even when a DNA test uncovers ancestry outside this part of the world, clients tend to ignore it and “put their money where their comfort zone is”—meaning travel to the places they might have gone to anyway.

Reading testimonials from Ancestry travelers online, I got the impression that a big appeal of a heritage trip is marveling at how bad struggles were in remote places compared with the safety and comfort of present-day America. “I am grateful for them leaving and everything they went through, so we could have the life we have,” one traveler said after visiting the Italian sulfur mines where their grandparents once worked. “I think it made me appreciate not only them, but the sacrifices they had to go through so I could live comfortably here in the United States,” said another one who went to Ireland. There’s a hint of smug pride behind this gratitude exercise.

But at least one traveler came away with a more disquieting narrative, according to Joe Buggy, one of Ancestry’s genealogists. He had an American client who learned, while visiting his ancestors’ quaint little village, that everyone in town believed his grandfather had committed a murder there. They all thought he’d fled to Australia. Maybe that’s why Grandpa never talked about Ireland.

Money blog: Beach-goers threatened with £1,000 fine

Beach-goers in Cumbria have been warned they could face a fine of up to £1,000 if they remove pebbles or shells across the area. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog below, and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Wednesday 29 May 2024 13:43, UK

• Spotify launches cheaper deals - but there's a catch
• Top five subjects parents think should be taught in schools - with personal finance above maths
• Beach-goers warned they face £1,000 fine if they take pebbles
• UK has highest diesel prices in Europe

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• Head chef at UK's number one gastropub shares favourite cheap pasta recipe
• Women in Business : 'A truck unloaded a £600 car that her son bought on eBay thinking it was a toy' - the schoolgate stories that led to GoHenry
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Manchester United staff have reportedly been given a week to decide whether to resign under Sir Jim Ratcliffe's plans to end working from home.

The club's non-football staff were invited to take redundancy by next Wednesday in an email sent on Tuesday, The Daily Telegraph reports .

Sir Jim has taken over the day-to-day running of the club and is making it compulsory for staff to work from their offices in Manchester or London from 1 June, the paper says.

Staff who do not wish to do so can quit and are being offered early payment of an annual bonus, it added.

A United spokesman told The Daily Telegraph the move "isn't a voluntary redundancy programme". 

They added: "The club recognises that not everyone wants to work from the office full-time so has provided options for staff who don't wish to return to the office to step away now."

Sky News has contacted Manchester United for comment.

Junior doctors in England are set to strike for five days starting next month - part of a long-running dispute over pay.

The strike is set to run from 7am on 27 June to 2 July.

It means the dispute clash with the  general election campaign, with polling day on 4 July.

Read the full story here ...

Parents see personal finance as a more important life skill than maths for schoolchildren, according to new research.

A poll by Nationwide suggests the majority (89%) of parents of children aged eight to 13 think finance education would help their kids understand the value of money.

The survey of 2,000 UK adults found that personal finance even ranked above maths, digital skills and cooking as vital skills for children - coming second only to literacy.

More than eight in 10 parents (84%) said their child hadn't had any finance education at school, despite the vast majority saying it was important for children to understand money.

The top subjects parents value at school are:

• Literacy (66%)
• Personal finance (59%)
• Maths (51%)
• Cooking (41%)
• Digital skills (26%)

Personal finance was deemed the most important subject for children and young people among parents polled in Brighton, Belfast and Newcastle. 

Amanda Beech, director of retail services at Nationwide, said financial education can "help young people get to grips with the world of money". 

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

One of the big gainers on the stock market this morning is International Distributions Services, the owner of Royal Mail.

Shares in the company are up more than 3% on the FTSE 250 index after the company's board announced it had agreed to a takeover by "Czech Sphinx" Daniel Kretinsky.

Read more on that here...

While the deal is yet to be approved by shareholders and regulators, investors are clearly excited at the prospect of the £3.6bn agreement.

At the other end of the scale, online delivery firm Ocado has plunged more than 6% in early trading.

It comes after reports that it is a leading candidate to be relegated from the FTSE 100 - along with asset manager St James's Place, which is down 1.6%.

The FTSE 100 overall is down 0.2% this morning amid ongoing uncertainty over interest rate cuts in the US.

Gainers include mining firm Fresnillo and water firm United Utilities, which are both up more than 2.4%.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.27 US or €1.17 - similar to yesterday.

A barrel of benchmark Brent crude has climbed to almost $85 (£66.60) this morning, a rise of nearly 1%.

Spotify subscribers have the chance to nab a slightly cheaper deal after it quietly launched new plans - but you'll have to be willing to give up one thing.

If you pay for an individual, duo or family subscription, you can save up to £24 a year by switching to one of the music platform's new "basic" plans, according to Money Saving Expert .

The catch, though, is that you'll lose audiobooks. All the other benefits such as no ads, song downloads and higher-quality audio will remain for existing subscribers.

The "basic" plans are the same price as Spotify's premium options used to be before it hiked prices last month. Most of the premium plans include 15 hours a month of audiobook listening time.

Only existing Spotify subscribers can get the new basic option for now - there's no date set for when they'll become available to everyone, Money Saving Expert said.

Every Wednesday we ask Michelin chefs to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live and when they cook at home. This week we speak to Dave Wall, head chef at the UK's number one ranked gastropub, The Unruly Pig in Suffolk.

Hi Dave , c an you tell us your favourite places in Suffolk  where you can get a meal for two for less than £40?

Honey + Harvey . A cracking spot for breakfast, brunch or lunch. They have the most delicious coffee and a cracking full English, the vibe is super-chilled and laidback and I always feel so relaxed there.

Lark . A beautiful little independent restaurant in Bury St Edmunds with the most incredible selection of small plates and top-drawer cooking. Admittedly, I find myself spending a fair bit more than £40 at Lark because I love James Carn's cooking so much that I end up going way over the top and ordering far too many dishes.

What's your go-to cheap meal at home?

Anchovy pasta is one. I get that anchovy is often considered a Marmite ingredient. I love them, but if you are in the "hate" camp, then please bear with me, as I want to persuade you to give these versatile little wonders a second look (and perhaps not tar all anchovies with the same brush).

My recipe below uses both brown and brined anchovies. It is an easier but still utterly delicious version of the dish I've served at The Unruly Pig (which also comes with an oyster velouté). This is comfort food at its best. Buon appetito!

• 250g butter
• 70g brown anchovies (ideally Cantabrian)
• 1 clove garlic
• 30g double cream
• 25g of brined anchovies

Add all the ingredients to a pan. Bring to a slow simmer on a low heat. Once the mixture starts to boil, remove, and transfer to blender. Blend for two minutes until the mixture is well emulsified. Set aside.

Pangrattato

Three bread slices, crusts removed (staler the better)

• 1 garlic clove
• 1 lemon zest
• Pinch salt & pepper

Blend all the ingredients in food processor, making sure the crumb is fine. On a low heat, gently toast the crumbs until they become golden.

• 125 g of fresh spaghetti per person
• Grated Parmesan, brined anchovy, celery leaf to garnish 

Gently the cook the pasta in simmering boiling water, add plenty of salt to the pasta water so it tastes like sea water. Cook for 1-2 minutes - or to instructions if using dried.

Bring it all together

Meanwhile, gently heat the anchovy pasta sauce in a large pan so it becomes warm. Be careful not to boil. Once the pasta is cooked, gently remove and put it straight in to the warmed anchovy sauce. Add a splash of the pasta water to retain some of the starch (as this will help thicken your sauce).

Gently cook the pasta in the anchovy sauce until it becomes thick and creamy, and the sauce coats the pasta. Serve into a bowl and add the Parmesan, fresh anchovies and celery leaf on top.

Generously sprinkle the pasta with the golden pangrattato to add a wonderful texture and crunch.

We've spoken to lots of top chefs and bloggers - check out their cheap eats from around the country here...

Beach-goers in Cumbria have been warned they could face a fine of up to £1,000 if they remove pebbles or shells across the area.

Cumberland Council has told visitors it is unlawful to take natural materials such as sand, shells and pebbles from the beach under the Coast Protection Act.

Cumberland councillor Bob Kelly said it was important to "ensure that our beaches remain vibrant and intact for future generations".

"I understand people's reluctance to follow this guidance, as I have been a collector of shells myself. But taking a pebble or a shell from a beach can in fact damage the environment," he said.

"Pebbles and other natural matter act as a natural sea defence against coastal erosion, natural flood defences and wildlife habitats, which many experts warn has become even more of an issue due to climate change."

People are spending more on holiday than they were two years ago, the latest data from ABTA Travel Money has shown. 

On average, UK travellers are spending £369 each during a short break abroad - up more than £59 since 2022. 

For a longer break, the typical amount rises to £660, which is up £231 a person since 2022. 

Families with children over five are likely to spend the most while on a short holiday, totalling £431.

But the highest spend comes from travellers aged 55-64, who spend an average of £721.  

"People are spending more while on holiday overseas and that can't just be put down to inflation," Graeme Buck, director of communications for ABTA Travel Money, said. 

"Over the past two years, UK prices have risen by a total of 9.3% whereas overseas holiday spend is up by 54% for a longer holiday.

"Add in more favourable exchange rates for many holiday destinations, we see over the last few years that there has been a clear shift towards people spending the spare money they may have on holidays and creating memories that will last a lifetime." 

Visitors to all Euro currency destinations this summer will see a little more for their money, as the pound has increased against the Euro (up 2.1%). 

The UK has the highest diesel prices in Europe, according to new analysis.

The RAC, which carried out the research, found the average price of a litre of diesel at UK forecourts is 155p - 5p more than Ireland and Belgium.

Although duty on both petrol and diesel was cut from 57.95p to 52.95p in spring 2022, the UK still has the highest rate of duty on diesel in Europe alongside Italy, but Italy's average pump price is 7p per litre cheaper at 148p.

France's duty rate is the equivalent of just 1p per litre lower than in the UK, but its average price for diesel is 9p per litre cheaper at 146p.

The analysis is based on figures from the European Commission and the UK's Competition and Markets Authority.

Simon Williams, fuel spokesman for the RAC, said: "Having the most expensive diesel in Europe despite the current 5p duty cut is a very dubious honour."

Despite the RAC bringing the issue to the attention of energy secretary Claire Coutinho in a letter just over a week ago, he said, "the price of diesel at the pump has barely fallen".

"We can see no good reason why retailers in Great Britain aren't cutting their prices at the pumps," he added.

Thieves are targeting electric car charging cables in the latest spate of car crimes.

Data from Instavolt, the UK's largest operator of rapid chargers, found gangs had targeted 27 sites in Yorkshire and the Midlands since last November and stolen 174 cables.

With each cable costing at least £1,000, the operator, which runs Osprey Charging and BP Pulse, said this was affecting electric vehicle drivers.

It also risked deterring prospective drivers who wanted to make the move to electric cars, they said.

The company is now introducing a range of measures at charging stations to deter thieves, including installing extra CCTV, security patrols, using SmartWater to tag property and tracking devices.

Instavolt CEO Delvin Lane told Autocar : "These thefts are extremely frustrating for our customers and for us."

He also noted that it was a "misconception" that the copper in chargers brought real financial gain. 

"The value of any metal stolen is insignificant. The thefts just cause disruption to EV drivers - including those in the emergency services - looking to charge their vehicles," he said.

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Disneyland’s ‘Fantasmic!’ returns after fire — without a dragon. Here’s a first look

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For more than three decades, Disneyland’s nighttime show “Fantasmic!” has lighted up the Anaheim park’s Rivers of America. A story about our dreams and nightmares centered heavily on Disney’s animated works, “Fantasmic!” has long boasted an assortment of projections, pyrotechnics and fireworks.

In 2023, however, a key portion of the show caught fire. A climactic battle between Mickey Mouse and Maleficent in her 45-foot, fire-breathing dragon form brought the show to a halt when the latter became engulfed in flames. Viral video propelled the story to national news, and “Fantasmic!” was placed on an indefinite hiatus while Disney’s live entertainment team re-imagined the show.

Watch as fire-breathing dragon bursts into flames during Disneyland’s Fantasmic show

A fire erupted Saturday night during Disneyland’s Fantasmic fireworks and light show, forcing throngs of stunned fans to evacuate the area.

April 23, 2023

“Fantasmic!” returns Friday. It will feature a few key changes, including the return of an extended segment focused on “Peter Pan.” It also won’t have a dragon.

Yet the apex of the “Fantasmic!” will still revolve around a battle between Mickey and Maleficent, who in images is seen towering over the star of the show, her figure conjuring an array of lighting, projection and pyrotechnic effects. Maleficent, with scepter in hand, will ascend to a height of 35 feet. Firework effects will appear to shoot from Mickey’s hands, and Maleficent will set the river ablaze.

“The whole theme of the show — good versus evil, and Mickey’s magic and imagination overpowering the evil — it’s important to have that peak in the show,” says Disney Live Entertainment’s Tobi Longo, who has been working on “Fantasmic!” for nearly all of its three-plus decades. It’s Disney’s longest-running so-called nighttime spectacular.

“Maleficent is still going to be spectacular,” Longo says. “She’s on the stage longer than she used to be. We’ve added new pyro effects, with really cool projections and lasers. The river is still going to light on fire. ... As much as we miss the dragon right now, it’s still going to be a spectacular scene.”

“Fantasmic!” is a key piece of Disneyland’s live entertainment, which the park this summer has been leaning heavily upon.

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With new droids at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and some of the most lifelike characters ever created at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Disney is looking to wow guests.

April 4, 2024

With key attractions such as the Haunted Mansion down for refurbishment and the opening of log flume ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure not expected for a few months yet, Disneyland has sought ways to turn the park into more of a theatrical experience. To wit: A new parade featuring Pixar’s recent films has launched in Disney California Adventure as part of Pixar Fest.

It joins the contemporary Magic Happens parade in Disneyland, which currently houses a nighttime fireworks show based on Pixar. Fireworks fans also have additional ways to take in the evening illuminations, as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has become a prime viewing spot thanks to the addition of music and a light storyline that feeds into the lore of the land.

The return of “Fantasmic!,” however, will further the impression that all of Disneyland is a stage, a place where not only guests can play at heightened versions of themselves but the park can also spring to life and envelop us in stories. “Fantasmic!” makes use not just of the Rivers of America and its centerpiece island but also such large-scale attractions as the Mark Twain Riverboat and the Sailing Ship Columbia.

Longo, currently the show director for “Fantasmic!,” says the team began workshopping the new scenes in mid-December, meaning she’s been on an overnight work schedule for the last five months. In an industry where live productions can have relatively short — or repeatedly on and off runs — Longo was asked how “Fantasmic!” has endured.

“I think it reflects the wonderful combination of theatrical technology and classic Disney,” Longo says. “We’ve used elements that back in 1992 nobody had ever seen — mist screens, projection on water, lasers and lighting a river on fire. All of that was so new. It’s amazing to me that 30 years later, those elements are still as shocking and exciting as they were in 1992. It combines the charm of classic Disney, live performance and spectacular technology. And we have to remember that probably 75% of the guests at Disneyland have never seen a live entertainment show.

“I’ve done a lot of shows, performing at Disney as a choreographer and a director. And I’ve done a lot of shows on the outside. I don’t think I’ve done anything that combines all of those elements.”

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April 17, 2024

Of course, big universal themes don’t hurt, either, and “Fantasmic!” in about 25 minutes touches on the power of imagination, romantic idealism and inner demons. Characters are presented in different guises throughout — large-scale projections give way to more serene, waltz-like moments on individual boats.

And that says nothing of nostalgia.

Take, for instance, the afternoon parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration.” Colorful floats that nod to recent films like “Luca” and “Turning Red,” the latter complete with a larger-than-life Red Panda Mei, are contrasted with smaller, more playful units that touch on “Toy Story” and “Monsters, Inc.” There’s an underlying theme of friendship, and show director Robin Trowbridge argues that parades — and the theme park approach to live entertainment in general — have a unifying power.

“It’s such a great channel to take people in other worlds and just let them live in fantasy for a while,” Trowbridge says. “The parade itself — there is such a level of anticipation. You see a parade for 25 or 30 minutes, and you are being taken in and out of different stories. You get to relive your youth, or you get to share your stories.”

“Fantasmic!” serves a similar role, weaving in and out of the history of Walt Disney Animation, especially now that “Peter Pan” has once again returned and has replaced a scene referencing “Pirates of the Caribbean.” With the Lost Boys in tow, Peter and Wendy will take on Captain Hook, climaxing with a swashbuckling battle.

And while the dragon may be missed, Longo offers a hint that we haven’t seen the last of Maleficent in her fire-breathing form.

“We’re excited for something to come back, and we’re in the works and working on it,” Longo says. “But I think what I’ve done with that scene — that good versus evil and that battle between Maleficent and Mickey — is so spectacular. We all loved the dragon, and we’ll keep working on things, but there’s not much I can say about it.”

Theme park theatrical productions, as “Peter Pan” is evidence, are always available for tinkering.

More to Read

Column: Disneyland has already turned my hometown into a giant tourist trap. What’s next?

May 8, 2024

Column: Disneyland just promised electric cars at Autopia. Gas will be gone by 2026

April 19, 2024

‘The fairy dust fades away’: Why the people who play Disneyland’s costumed characters are unionizing

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