This Fall: Ideal Time To Travel

Fall is, in many ways, the best time of the year to travel.

Just think about it: If you took a summer vacation, it was probably very hot and very crowded. The flights and hotels were full, and if you didn't make restaurant reservations, you probably had to wait for a table.

However, after Labor Day, it's like a breath of fresh air: Everything opens up again, and you can appreciate where you are instead of worrying about the logistics.

Travel expert Laura McKenzie says she's always considered September and October the best months of the year to take a trip. The weather is absolutely perfect, crowds are gone, and prices are often lower.

But, instead of traditional fall trips such as taking a drive in the Northeast in October to see the trees change color, or visiting family members for Thanksgiving, McKenzie suggests that you consider some other places that may not come to mind right away.

DOMESTICS DESTINATIONS

California's best season is in the fall, especially San Francisco. If you go to San Francisco in June or early July, it's cold and foggy. However, the city's "summer" is August, September and October. It's clear, dry, and warm during the day, and cool at night. Same goes for Los Angeles. It has "June Gloom" every year, which clears in July, then it's hot in August. The best months there are coming up.

As far as resort destinations go, Hawaii is a good choice due to its weather, but it's also good because the summer crowds are gone. And if you take the kids for a few days, most hotels there, as well as in Orlando, let them stay free in the same room as their parents.

INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS

Europe has always been a favorite destination for many. Try going in the fall when the weather is perfect. You can see the sights and museums, and take the photos you want without the crowds in your way. Hotels and restaurants are easier to come by, and it's just an incredible time to visit.

Any of the countries that aren't on the Euro (type of currency) are going to be your best value, especially the eastern European countries. For instance, Romania: Less than 20 years out of communism, it's beautiful with castles, great food, good hotels and great people. And the province of "Transylvania" in Romania is a great spot for Halloween. The town of Brasov has Dracula's castle, and there are some fun Halloween tours that are fun and just spooky enough!

For a great trip at bargain prices, consider New Zealand or Vietnam.

New Zealand is absolutely gorgeous. Remember, it's spring there, since the seasons are reversed, and it's not called the "adventure destination" for nothing. You can recreate the America's Cup in a sailboat race in Auckland or in Queenstown, take a jet boat, repel down into a cave, or go bungee jumping off the bridge where it was invented. And the exchange rate is fantastic.

Vietnam is another great destination. Ho Chi Min City (the former Saigon) is like a little Paris. You can take an air conditioned taxi anywhere in the downtown zone for 75 cents, and the best French restaurant is about $12 a person. Most of the population is under 40, and they love Americans. And the shopping is fantastic. Take an extra bag!

CRUISES

Many cruise lines are having big sales now. Buy a cruise before Aug. 31 and cruise at rock bottom prices between Sept. 2 and Dec. 31. There's one week left to buy!

TIPS FOR FALL TRAVEL DEALS

Remember that city hotels have their bargains on the weekends, when the business travelers go home, and resorts do their deals on weekdays.

With airlines, watch the Internet. Book ahead, and travel Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday to get the best prices.