Falling For Travel
From summer getaways collapsing into autumn escapes, the shift in seasons doesn’t mean travel has to stop for the wanderlusters of the world. For many cities and countries across the map, fall is the best time of year to relish in everything the destination has to offer. Starting with Jackson Hole all the way to one of the new seven wonders of the world Petra, there are many wonderful vacation getaways to explore in the fall for cooler temperatures and less crowds.
The atmosphere and ambience of fall intrigues travelers to spend the season outdoors, it is a perfect time to embrace the cool weather and watch as the fall foliage begins to unfold. The U.S. is a great choice for a fall road trip to see stunning scenery, hikes and roasting marshmallows by a cozy campfire. When you think of fall foliage the northern coast comes to mind but head south and find yourself in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia engulfed by trees in shades of autumn and just the right temperatures. Rhode Island may be the smallest U.S. state but it is packed with fall activities, from railroads to historic mansions and Rhode Island’s Brewery Trail with dozens of watering holes on its outskirts, this is a great road trip destination. The winding road of Blue Ridge Parkway, which is a 470 mile connection between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is giving mid-october fall getaway. The local farms, mountain meadows and scenic overlooks is the perfect setting for your autumn escape, offering all the beauty of the season and activities to enjoy. When you think of fall in the U.S. you immediately think north and rightfully so, locations like The Berkshires, Massachusetts and Burlington, Vermont have hues of orange, red and yellow scattered across these cities. In the charming towns of Lenox, Stockbridge and Pittsfield in Massachusetts you can find yourself sipping a coffee in 18th and 19th century renovated inns and drives from town to town peering through the window of fall’s splendor. The changing leaves of Vermont has marked it as one of the best U.S. fall destinations, there are numerous nearby orchards for apple picking, pumpkin patches to enjoy and local breweries for all the beer drinkers out there. If you really want to revel in the beauty of autumn, these U.S. cities offer the perfect package of stunning fall foliage, hikes and scenic routes.
Courtesy of Pinterest (Left to Right: Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, Jackson Hole)
The end of summer vacations doesn’t mean adding more stamps to your passport necessarily has to come to a halt, locations like Iceland, Kyoto and Cape Town offer the best experiences in the fall. Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, clears out bigger crowds during this time of year with temperatures in the high 50s and an increase in chance of seeing the northern lights later in the season. Fall is one of the busiest seasons for Kyoto, Japan as the city buzzes with travelers near and far, you can enjoy cultural sites and the breathtaking views of autumn’s crimson maples. Mid-November is a prime time for sights of fall foliage and cooler temperatures but early in the season is best to avoid fuller crowds. Travel U.S. News marked Cape Town, South Africa as number nine on the best places to visit in fall 2024. Cape Town leaps into spring in September bringing the perfect mix of weather and minimal rain, visitors can embrace the wildflowers of the city, drive the Stellenbosch wine region and book a whale watching cruise for the beginning of southern right whales calving season. If the European summer bug hasn’t left your system yet then take a trip to the Greek island of Crete in September. Crete offers the essence of summer even as the leaves begin to change elsewhere, you can lounge on the beach and embrace balmy temps before the island resorts begin to close in mid-October — due to a drop in tourism. Buenos Aires, another vibrant city that springs into action as others begin to fall into pumpkins, scarves and cardigans. Buenos Aires, Argentina spring shoulder season begins throughout September and October and is when the Argentinian city comes to life — filled with art exhibits, outdoor markets, al fresco dining and festivals. Although spring is Buenos Aires’ wettest season, it is what makes the city bloom offering a contagious atmosphere for travelers to delight in.
Courtesy of Pinterest (Left to Right: Reykjavik, Kyoto, Crete)
The crisp, cool air of fall is invigorating and filled with endless peaceful spots to enjoy the beauty of the season. Fewer crowds, the low sun casting a warm golden light that enhances the scenery and a charming breeze that makes outdoor exploration more inviting can make your travel experience even more joyful. Fall travel feels both refreshing and comforting, blending the thrill of exploration with the serenity of the changing season.
Article by Leah Williams, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Bradley Duley, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
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