Head to the islands in the fall when the weather is still warm but the crowds have mostly dispersed.
Summer may be winding down, but that doesn't mean it's too late to plan your dream vacation.
Late September through early November is considered “shoulder season” in many travelers' favorite destinations, as it sits after the peak of the summer but before holiday tourists arrive.
Travelers can look forward to shorter lines at the Louvre in Paris, and less crowded beaches in Fiji or Tahiti. Fewer visitors also means it's often find easier to find great deals on flights, hotels, and more.
And U.S. residents don’t need to travel far to score an awesome vacation at a tempting price. Whether you prefer beaches or museums, city or country, here are several ideas for taking advantage of shoulder season.
Paris, France
October and early November tend to be slow for the City of Light, making it the perfect time to visit the Louvre or snag a spot at your favorite restaurant.
Vancouver Island, Canada
Quaint fishing villages and vast opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking make this island the perfect getaway from daily life.
Montreal, Canada
Sampling poutine and enjoying this French Canadian city are great in late September and early October — after the summer rush but before the cold sets in.
Fiji
With the nation made up of some 332 islands, visitors should make sure to visit more than just one.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
This cosmopolitan city has everything from glitzy skyscrapers to sprawling shopping malls and man-made islands.
Rome, Italy
With the high season in Europe spiking over the summer, early fall is a great moment to visit the Italian capital.
Crete
This Mediterranean island is famous for more than just its beautiful beaches. Amateur historians can enjoy archeological museums and ruins from the Roman, Greek, and Minoan civilizations.
Hawaii, U.S.
Head to the islands in the fall when the weather is still warm but the crowds have mostly dispersed.
Greece
From fishing villages, to ancient ruins, to beaches, Greece has just about everything a traveler could want.
Cape Cod, U.S.
This New England peninsula (the arm of Massachusetts) is a favorite summer getaway for Bostonians. Come check it out in late September or early October to enjoy the seafood shacks and beaches without the crowds.
Vermont, U.S.
By visiting Vermont before the leaves turn, travelers can avoid the throng of foliage fans while still enjoying the rugged nature and craft breweries that the state has to offer.
Tahiti, French Polynesia
Escape to your own island paradise where famed artist Paul Gauguin once found inspiration.
Caribbean Islands
Planning a Caribbean getaway during hurricane season (June through November) can often lead to great deals on flights and hotels. If you plan the right way — as one Travel + Leisure contributor did — you can still stay safe.
New Zealand
Explore the country's diverse landscape or follow in the footsteps of characters from "Lord of the Rings" trilogy movies.
Arizona, U.S.
See one of the most recognizable natural U.S. landmarks when you visit the Grand Canyon.
Morocco
This North African country has a variety of activities for all kinds of travelers: surfing, shopping at local markets, or visiting a traditional hammam.
