Off Season Travel Plans: Think About the Region You Visit

People who work may schedule and plan trips in January for the year. Many workers only take one trip a year and want to ensure every detail is what they really want to do.  Other people may schedule the time away in advance and then make last minute plans as they go.

This month's travel tip: remember to ask about the region and things like the weather, attractions, and events you may find. 

Bundled up and playing in the surf, Santa Cruz, CA by DW

Some travelers take advantage of off season travel with less crowds and lower prices.  Be flexible during the off season as there may not be the same opportunities.  When I wrote about my three favorite trips during the off season in 2010 – I included some of challenges I encountered. 

An example is the fabulous idea of visiting Victoria, Canada in December.  I found really low hotel room rates at The Fairmont Empress Hotel by going before the holidays in December.  One of my friends mentioned the idea of flying a seaplane from Seattle to Victoria.  It is a fun to do - in clear weather!

I did my research and found a reliable company providing this service and made reservations.  After arriving at Sea-Tac Airport I had to transfer from Sea-Tac Airport to where they took off in downtown Seattle.  I quickly discovered because of the dense visibility (fog and rain) there was a chance the seaplanes might not depart. Oh no, now what?  

We boarded the plane and took off, only to return ten minutes later. I changed my plans and took a ferry the next day.   I enjoyed the rest of the trip with an English Tea at The Empress, winter holiday lights at Buchart Gardens, museums, and shopping in downtown Victoria.

Do you think this is probably common sense?  It is so easy to forget this as you get caught up in making other travel plans. This is when a travel consultant will help guide you with recommendations. 

Yes, there are dog friendly beaches in Santa Cruz CA by DW

My insider secret ~ one of my favorite off season trips is through northern California in the winter – if you come, do bring a raincoat or umbrella with your sunglasses ~~ The Fun Tour Guru

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 Go San Francisco 49ers!  Super Bowl 2013

I Remember ... My Favorite Trips to Other Local Regions During Off Season

It is the one-off in the moment interactions I discover with people in other local regions which create my best memories.  Sometimes going to a favorite region during off seasons will bring more of these unusual experiences. 

I think about my super past year moments and look forward to more future adventures! I love all my new friends from around the world that I meet through this blog, twitter, other social networks, and trips. Everyone has a story. We read these stories, laugh, share ... together online and on trips.


Check our these amazing discoveries in other regions which I found during December holidays in previous years with some planning and flexibility. My favorite four adventures:

Victoria, Canada

After flying to Seattle, I planned to take a sea plane from Seattle to Victoria. Unfortunately, because of the weather and fog, I had to adjust my plans during the trip. Arriving by Horizon Air the next day I created my Canadian adventure.

Red & White Flag Flying? Must be in Canada

 

 My stay at the distinguished Empress Hotel right before Christmas in Victoria, Canada was affordable and memorable and I found several attractions to keep active around the island – even in wintertime.  

 

What fog?

My favorite find was the Buchart Gardens at night.  Sipping hot chocolate while meandering through this fantasy land of lights and magical wonderland in these gardens made for a perfect holiday evening.

St. Maarten or St. Martin 

My friend’s wedding on New Year’s Eve is what brought me to  discover this island during the December holiday week. We stayed in town on the Dutch side of the island.  Three activities I recommend and what we did: rent a car and drive around the island, shop on the French side, and snorkeling in the clear waters of the bay.

Photo taken by ME

My finale day was a gorgeous sunset on New Year’s Eve during the wedding ceremony.  I will never forget my frequent daily walks on the beach!

Photo Taken by ME

My return flight brought a challenge because of the east coast (USA) snowstorms. Returning flights into Miami, FL were delayed, had missed connections, and it met an additional overnight stay in Miami for me. I barely remember this part – with the Caribbean sunset in my mind.

Country Club Plaza, Kansas City, Missouri

Many people ask me, why is Kansas City, Missouri on your holiday adventure list?  It is because of the historical Country Club Plaza. This is the one of the first USA outdoor shopping districts and is famous for their spectacular holiday lights every year. 

Courtesy of Kansas City CVB

A bonus, depending on the weather, is to experience their “White Christmas” with horse-lead carriages, steaming hot chocolate, and walking around the snowy sidewalks while shopping in the midst of their wonderful holiday ceremonies. Best hometown feeling!

 

Courtesy of Kansas City CVB

A Miner's Christmas in California

From my holiday post last year, don't forget our historical gold rush towns in California are always fun with holiday adventures like in Columbia, CA. 

 
Remember about these unusual adventures a favorite region might bring during the off season.    

These are my favorite places to return in the off season.  Do you need more ideas?   

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Share your favorites in the comments below !  The Fun Tour Guru