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USA Today
06-04-2025
- USA Today
Spring into savings: Why now is the best time to book your dream international trip
Spring into savings: Why now is the best time to book your dream international trip Show Caption Hide Caption Aribnb breaks down the hottest travel trends this spring break Airbnb has revealed the most popular spring travel destinations and the reasoning behind the surge. Spring shoulder season, which falls between April and May, offers lower prices and fewer crowds at popular international destinations. Travelers can save up to 30% on airfare by booking during the spring shoulder season instead of waiting for the peak summer months. Popular destinations like Tokyo, London, Paris, and Seoul offer significant savings on airfare during April and May. The weeks between spring break and summer can feel like a lull to many travelers, but it's actually one of the best times to go on that big international trip. Spring shoulder season, arriving in April and May, brings lower prices and fewer crowds before the peak summer rush sets in. Travelers can enjoy cheap airfare along with a more relaxed atmosphere at some of the top destinations. (For many places, you'll also score temperate weather as the sweltering summer heat has yet to hit.) This year, spring shoulder season could save travelers up to 30%, with price drops between $250 and $380 to popular international destinations, according to Kayla Inserra DeLoache, KAYAK's consumer travel trends expert. Stretch your dollar: 5 international destinations where US money goes further Here's another bonus of traveling during the off-season: it also makes you a more sustainable traveler. Going when there are no crowds means you won't be joining the hordes of summer tourists overwhelming a destination that may already be dealing with overtourism. 'For any travelers looking to book that summer trip and facing some sticker shock from popular destinations, I recommend widening your travel dates to spring or fall," said Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner. "The shoulder season can be a great way to stretch your budget and get amazing deals. Flexibility in travel booking, whether it's travel dates, destinations, airports, or airlines will always yield the best deals." In recent years, Skyscanner has seen more travelers book summer vacations before peak season to beat the crowds. Here are the best shoulder season deals, according to some of the top travel platforms. Tokyo This year, Japan is stealing the hearts of travelers who want to explore its ancient temples, delicious cuisine and tranquil onsens. (The favorable conversion rate for Americans doesn't hurt either.) Spring is an ideal time to visit, with a round trip flight from the U.S. costing $1,194, about 13% less than in June and July this year, according to Hopper. London London, during the spring, offers cooler temperatures and cheaper flights for travelers. Last year, the average airfare to London in April cost $581 and shot up to $718 in July, Skyscanner found. This year, travelers can save up to 18% if they go during April or May instead of June and July, according to Hopper. Paris The City of Lights is one of the most romantic perennial destinations with endless gastronomy, history and art. Last April, the average flight cost to Paris was $518 in April but rose to $803 in July – an increase of 55%, according to Skyscanner. Flights to Paris this April and May go for $768 compared to $939 during June and July, for a savings of 18%, according to Hopper. Seoul Seoul is another emerging destination for American travelers, with a 25% increase in lodging searches this spring, according to Expedia. Travelers can score up to 17% in flight savings if they book in April or May for flight costs of $1,326. In June and July, prices go up to $1,605, according to Hopper. Rome The Eternal City has been struggling with overtourism and crowding at its most popular destinations, prompting it to consider fixed time slots at sites like the Trevi Fountain. Visiting during shoulder season not only helps you avoid those peak summer crowds but leaves more money in your bank account. Last April, the average airfare to Rome was $658 and shot up to $982 in June, according to Skyscanner. Hopper data shows that a round trip flight during April and May costs around $813, about 18% cheaper than the $988 airfare in June and July. Athens Spring travelers to Athens can roam ancient ruins and indulge in fresh Mediterranean cuisine, all without breaking the bank. Last April, flights to Athens went for $869 on average, and reached $1,131 by June, according to Skyscanner. Round trip airfare in April and May costs $861 for a savings of 21% compared to the summer, according to Hopper. Taipei Ancient temples, affordable street food, and modern skyscrapers comprise the bustling capital of Taiwan, and spring is one of the best times to visit. Travelers can score big savings during this shoulder season – a whopping 29% with airfare for April and May costing $971, Hopper data found. Helsinki The coastal capital of Finland seamlessly blends together modern architecture, sustainable living and historic landmarks, like the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fortress Suomenlinna. According to KAYAK airfare between March and May, airfare is $793 on average, about 32% cheaper than in June to August. Glasgow Scotland's Glasgow is the ideal destination for travelers seeking out a vibrant arts and culture scene along with eye-catching gothic architecture. Although spring will be a bit chillier than summer, a visit before peak season can save travelers up to 32% on airfare, according to KAYAK. Flights between March and May are priced at $854 on average before rising to $1,129 from June to August. Bali Known for its beaches and spiritual atmosphere, Bali has long been enchanting travelers looking for solace. Spring shoulder season offers cheaper airfare without contributing to overtourism at the Indonesian destination. KAYAK data shows flights between March and May costing $1,335 on average, about 29% less than the $1,719 price tag for June to August airfare.
USA Today
18-03-2025
- USA Today
Southern hidden gem: What to know about Florida's 30A scenic highway
Southern hidden gem: What to know about Florida's 30A scenic highway Show Caption Hide Caption Aribnb breaks down the hottest travel trends this spring break Airbnb has revealed the most popular spring travel destinations and the reasoning behind the surge. 30A is a 24-mile scenic corridor in Florida, offering beaches, state parks, and charming towns. Rosemary Beach, Seaside, and Alys Beach are some of the popular towns known for their unique architecture and attractions. The best time to visit is May-October for warm weather, but winter offers fewer crowds and lower prices. As vacationers drive onto Florida's 30A scenic highway from the East, they'll soon approach the scrub oak trees and European-style architecture of Rosemary Beach. The community on Northwest Florida's Panhandle was established in 1995 but has the feel of a much older beach town, modeled on colonial structures in the Dutch West Indies, St. Augustine and New Orleans. 'It usually captivates people as soon as they pull onto 30A and they're like, 'Wow, Rosemary,' ' said Coco Gilliam, an independent travel agent with Magic on Main Travel who lives in the area. There are cobblestone streets, shops and restaurants steps from the white-sand beach. The town was among Vrbo's hottest vacation destinations for 2025 during spring break and Memorial Day, according to a January news release. Rosemary is just one of many seaside communities on 30A, each with its own look and feel. Travelers from the Southeast may be familiar with the popular destination, but here's what new visitors should know. What is 30A? 30A is a 24-mile corridor located between Panama City Beach and Destin. The area is home to state parks, coastal dune lakes and more than 10 distinct communities. 'You can go to the beach, but it's the towns that, for me, just bring it to a full vacation,' said Gilliam. Most feature vacation rental homes, but some also have hotels. Visitors can easily ride bikes between them; some houses and resorts provide them, but visitors can also find rentals in each town, according to Gilliam. What other beach towns are on 30A? Along with Rosemary Beach, the area's communities include: Seaside : 'That's usually the first town people go to because they recognize it from 'The Truman Show,' ' said Gilliam. Seaside's cottages and main square served as the backdrop for much of the 1998 film starring Jim Carrey. The area is highly walkable and kid-friendly, she added, with beloved restaurants like Bud & Alley's, which overlooks the gulf, and activities from live music in the amphitheater to farmers' markets. : 'That's usually the first town people go to because they recognize it from 'The Truman Show,' ' said Gilliam. Seaside's cottages and main square served as the backdrop for much of the 1998 film starring Jim Carrey. The area is highly walkable and kid-friendly, she added, with beloved restaurants like Bud & Alley's, which overlooks the gulf, and activities from live music in the amphitheater to farmers' markets. Seagrove : Gilliam described Seagrove as a "quieter spot' next to Seaside. While still close enough to walk between the two, the area's location offers 'slightly' more affordable prices, she added. : Gilliam described Seagrove as a "quieter spot' next to Seaside. While still close enough to walk between the two, the area's location offers 'slightly' more affordable prices, she added. Alys Beach : Alys' 158 acres feature white houses, including villas and courtyard homes that draw on the architecture of islands like Bermuda and Antigua. Visitors will find a 20-acre nature preserve, along with shops and restaurants, including The Citizen, a coastal tavern. The community also hosts activities like the Digital Graffiti Festival, where artwork is projected onto its white walls. : Alys' 158 acres feature white houses, including villas and courtyard homes that draw on the architecture of islands like Bermuda and Antigua. Visitors will find a 20-acre nature preserve, along with shops and restaurants, including The Citizen, a coastal tavern. The community also hosts activities like the Digital Graffiti Festival, where artwork is projected onto its white walls. Grayton Beach : Grayton Beach is 'more of an artsy area,' Gilliam said. Tourists can check out local institutions like The Red Bar, which is located in an old general store and hosts live jazz and other music, and explore Grayton Beach State Park. Guests will find hiking, fishing, campgrounds and more on the park's nearly 2,000 acres. : Grayton Beach is 'more of an artsy area,' Gilliam said. Tourists can check out local institutions like The Red Bar, which is located in an old general store and hosts live jazz and other music, and explore Grayton Beach State Park. Guests will find hiking, fishing, campgrounds and more on the park's nearly 2,000 acres. Blue Mountain Beach: Blue Mountain is less well-known among tourists than some other nearby communities, Gilliam said. Located closer to 30A's western entrance, she noted that the area is more affordable and the more laid-back vibe has its perks. 'The beaches are going to be less crowded over there because you don't have as many houses built up in that area,' Gilliam said. Travelers can find a full map of 30A by clicking here. When is the best time to visit 30A? Gilliam said the area is 'becoming a year-round destination,' but the most popular season runs from May through October when the water is warm. However, the winter months can mean fewer crowds. 'If you're OK not getting in the water and swimming but enjoying what there is to experience in all the beach towns, the off-season is a great time to come,' she said. Cheap flights and top destinations: You can still score a deal for spring break How do you get to 30A? Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City is the most convenient airport, according to Gilliam. The airport is located roughly a half-hour drive from 30A. Travelers can also fly into the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) or Pensacola International Airport (PNS), but those are about an hour and an hour-and-a-half drive away, respectively. Gilliam recommended renting a car to explore the area more easily. Driving in is another option. 30A is less than a day-long road trip away from many cities, including Birmingham, Alabama (roughly four-and-a-half hours); Atlanta, Georgia (a little over five hours); and even Nashville, Tennessee. (about seven hours). How expensive is 30A? There isn't one price point for the area, as rates can vary depending on where guests stay and the type of accommodations they choose. For example, nightly rates at The Lodge 30A – billed as an 'affordable stay' – start at $176 in early September, according to its website. The Pearl Hotel, a luxury property in Rosemary Beach, starts at $555 per night for the same dates. If travelers rent a six-bedroom house, however, they're going to be looking at 'way more,' Gilliam said. 'Especially depending on the time of year you visit, the price range can also vary,' she added. Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@
USA Today
17-03-2025
- USA Today
Stretch your dollar: 5 international destinations where US money goes further
Stretch your dollar: 5 international destinations where US money goes further Show Caption Hide Caption Aribnb breaks down the hottest travel trends this spring break Airbnb has revealed the most popular spring travel destinations and the reasoning behind the surge. A strong dollar means American travelers can get more value for their money in certain countries. The best time to book spring travel is between three months to three weeks before your departure date. As the cost of travel goes up, one way to avoid breaking the bank is to go somewhere with a favorable conversion rate. A higher exchange rate means your dollar has more purchasing power abroad, giving American travelers a better value on their international travel expenses. Seeing your dollar go further in another destination is always a nice perk, especially amid inflation, offering more wiggle room to spend on all the eating, drinking, activities and shopping you desire – without as much guilt. This spring, compared to last, more Americans are seeking out international destinations where there's a higher exchange rate, according to Expedia Spring Travel Outlook. "The U.S. dollar is strong, so Americans are seizing the opportunity to maximize their travel budgets when exploring overseas getaways," said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations, to USA TODAY. Is it too late for spring break travel? Here's how to score cheap flights and accommodations this spring If you want to cross borders this spring, you'll need to act fast. The best deals are found between three months to three weeks before your departure date, with the lowest prices this year in late April to early May, according to the outlook. Here are five international destinations where U.S. travelers can win with a higher exchange rate. 1. Japan Japan is quickly emerging as one of the most popular spring break destinations this year, with searches for lodging in and flights to Osaka and Tokyo spiking by 50%, according to Expedia. Over the last few years, the yen has fallen substantially, offering a favorable exchange rate of about 148 yen to the dollar. This has made Japan more accessible to American travelers compared to previous years. Besides the stunning cherry blossom season, Japan blends modern conveniences with ancient history, from robots serving food to ancient tea gardens, so there's always something to do. 2. Mexico The current exchange rate from the dollar to the Mexican peso is slightly above average, with about 20 pesos to the dollar, so it's a good time to book that warm-weather escape. While Cancun, Mexico City and San Jose del Cabo remain the most popular spring break destinations in Mexico, travelers looking to get off the beaten path can also check out smaller Mexican beach towns away from the crowds like Sayulita. 3. South Korea The U.S. dollar to the Korean won exchange rate is slightly above average this spring at about 1,455 won to the dollar, prompting travelers to consider a visit to Seoul. Last December, the won fell to its weakest against the dollar for the first time in 15 years. This spring, Expedia has seen a 25% increase in lodging searches to the Korean capital, where travelers can indulge in cheap but delicious street food and explore grand palaces, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Changdeokgung. 4. Australia At about $1.59 AUD to the U.S. dollar, the exchange rate for American travelers is strong in Australia, making it the perfect time to visit. When it's spring in the U.S., the Land Down Under is experiencing autumn – which is also shoulder season – so travelers can score with milder temperatures, cheaper prices and less crowds. While you could stay in popular areas like Sydney or Melbourne, other parts of Australia like Tasmania and the Gold Coast offer even more adventures with incredible nature and cuisine. 5. Spain In 2022, the euro weakened against the dollar for the first time in two decades and the current exchange rate remains strong – with the dollar being about €0.92. U.S. travelers are taking advantage of the conversion by booking that Eurotrip, and the top international flight searches this spring are to Barcelona and Madrid, according to Expedia. In the spring, these two Spanish destinations offer temperate weather ideal for outdoor activities like biking, walking around historic sites like the Sagrada Familia and dining al fresco, of course.
