The Best Travel Destinations for Every Month and Why You Should Visit
Cynthia Amin • February 22, 2021
My clients frequently ask me “When is the best time to travel to my destination?” It’s usually one of the first questions and probably one of the important questions we want to know when we are planning a trip.
Highlighted below are a few of the top destinations that are recommended to visit in that month. I also hope the information below serves not only as a guide, but as travel inspiration for when you are ready to travel again. Read on to discover some of the best places to travel by month.
Where to Go in January: Thailand
January is high season in Thailand. The weather is warm and consistently sunny in all regions of the country. In January, Chiang Mai hosts the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival, a three-day celebration of colorful parasols, with fantastic photo ops.
You may want to consider Ko Samui, which is not as crowded as Phuket, but you can still party all night long on Chaweng Beach, if you so desire. Another option is Koh Phangan which is a perfect place to view mountains, jungles, and waterfalls, and it also hosts the Full Moon Party.
If you do not want to travel that far, another suggestion for January is Costa Rica where you will experience green foliage and clear skies. If you are looking for a trip to the Middle East you may try Oman for great weather and the Muscat Festival, which is a month-long celebration of culture and history.
Where to Go in February: Colombia
Colombia is a tropical country that has only has two seasons, dry and rainy. February is part of the warm, sunny dry season which is found in most of the country. Colombia’s average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with even cooler temperatures in high-altitude cities such as Medellin and Bogota. In February (sometimes early March) you can celebrate Carnaval de Barranquilla in Atlantico.
Another place you may want to visit in February is Trinidad and Tobago for the Carnival celebrations. Belize is also great in February because of its balmy weather and little chance of rain.
Where to Go in March: Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are full of wildlife and during your visit you will spend plenty of time outdoors. The islands are located over 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean and are home to not only wildlife but a variety of different flora and fauna.
During March you have the chance to see several species nesting, including sea turtles, iguanas (both marine and land), tortoises, and even penguins. Be prepared for intense sun but the temperature is prime for underwater visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Another suggestion is New Zealand where you will experience pleasant autumn weather. Washington, D.C., is a great place to visit late March or April for the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
Where to Go in April: Morocco
In Morocco, the summers can be unbearably hot, and winters can be cold. That’s why April is a great time to visit. You’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures and magnificent scenery. During your visit pay close attention to the fruit trees that blossom in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.
Another suggestion is to visit Spain, to avoid the summer heat and crowds. The flowers at the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris are beautiful in April, and in Amsterdam, you will see the tulips in Keukenhof in full bloom.
Where to Go in May: Peru
Winter in Peru starts in May, but it is a different kind of winter that we are used to in the United States. During their winter, the climate is dry, and the temperature can climb into the 80s which is especially enjoyable in the highlands. It is also the best time to visit the famous Machu Picchu, because the crowds will be gone.
It is also a good time to South Africa because you will find warm, dry weather which is good for game viewing. If you are interested in whale shark season, May, is also a good time to visit Western Australia.
Where to Go in June: Iceland
Iceland is a great choice for June because you can take advantage of the long days which is commonly known as the midnight sun. If you are there on June 21, the sun sets just after midnight and then rises again around 3:00 a.m. in Reykjavik. The highland roads in the mountains are also open during this time. The roads are closed over the colder months.
Other suggestions are Norway, for its mild weather and long hours of sunlight. Malaysia has great snorkeling conditions during June, and Hungary has a lot of summer festivals during that time.
Where to Go in July: French Polynesia
French Polynesia has two seasons winter and summer. The best time to visit is winter, which takes place between May and October. July is a good time to visit because of its low humidity and temperatures which average in the 80s. If you are a diver, you will experience and enjoy excellent visibility. Travel to French Polynesia can be expensive all year round, but many resorts offer package deals including resorts with overwater bungalows.
Other suggestions are Botswana, for dry weather and prime wildlife sightings and Barbados for Crop Over, which is the sugar cane harvest celebration.
Where to Go in August: Indonesia
August is a great time to visit if you are looking for perfect weather just about anywhere in Indonesia. Visit the coastline in Bali for temperatures in the 70s or climb up to the volcanoes. If you go climbing, make sure you bring a jacket because the highlands and mountains can be chilly in August.
Other places to visit in August are Edinburgh for the summer festivals and Slovenia for hiking in the Julian Alps and swimming in turquoise lakes.
Where to Go in September: Alaska
Alaska is a bucket-list destination for many reasons. Alaska sees most of its visitors in June, July, and August, and that is why a trip to Alaska in September is a good idea. The weather is pleasant, and the long days are perfect for exploring the fall foliage in Denali National Park, fishing for salmon, and even trying to spot the aurora borealis.
Other suggestions are Argentina, for hiking in the spring and sunshine. In Nova Scotia, you will see less crowds and fresh lobster.
Where to Go in October: Italy
Italy is busy with tourists all year round, but October is considered shoulder season. This means that you may see slightly smaller crowds than you would see in the busy summer months. In October you will also enjoy the beautiful fall foliage in places like Tuscany, and cool weather on the beaches along the Amalfi Coast. Alba’s International White Truffle Fair starts in October where you can visit and sample the aromatic tuber and other delicacies, including wine.
Other suggestions are South Korea for its pleasant temperatures and colorful fall foliage, and Greece, for moderate weather and smaller crowds.
Where to Go in November: Vietnam
If you plan to visit the north and south of Vietnam, November is a good time to visit the country. You’ll find lots of history and culture in the north, and plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach in the south.
Other suggestions for November is Morocco and Japan. Morocco is a country full of culture and life and is a great place to visit in November, as well as Japan for its colorful fall foliage.
Where to Go in December: Germany
If you visit Germany in December, you can visit the famed Christmas markets (weihnachtsmarkts). There are pop-up events that feature beautiful light displays, music, handmade gifts, and mulled wine to sip as you shop. Most German cities offer markets, but the mother of them all is Nuremberg’s—one of the country’s oldest.
Other suggestions for December are Austria, for its own impressive holiday markets; the U.S. Virgin Islands, for prime weather and water sports; and New York City, for holiday displays and ice skating at Rockefeller Center. Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada is also a great winter destination this time of the year.
Final Thoughts
The world is more accessible than ever before which gives you the opportunity to easily travel to almost anywhere in the world. Whether it’s a honeymoon, an adventure trip, or a relaxing cultural getaway, it is important to know the best times of year to visit a destination.
But, with so many options available, it can be hard choosing the best destination for your next trip. So, if you need help deciding on “where to next”, contact Colesville Travel at 301-989-1654
or email us at cindy@colesvilletravel.com.
Until then stay inspired,
Cindy
Blog
If you've ever wondered, "Why should I use a travel advisor when I can book everything online?" you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions I hear, and it's a fair one. The internet has made travel look incredibly simple. In just a few minutes, you can book a flight, reserve a hotel, and purchase a tour. It feels easy. It feels convenient. But here's what many travelers don't realize until something goes wrong: Booking travel and planning a successful trip are two very different things. Anyone Can Book a Trip. Not Everyone Can Design an Experience. Booking online is like buying ingredients at the grocery store. Working with a travel advisor is like having a professional chef prepare the meal. Both start with the same ingredients, but the outcome can be dramatically different. When I work with my clients, my goal isn't simply to book a vacation. My goal is to create an experience that fits who they are, how they like to travel, and what memories they want to bring home. That's something a search engine simply can't do. What Are You Really Paying For? Many people assume they're paying a travel advisor just to click "Book." In reality, you're investing in years of experience, industry relationships, destination knowledge, and professional guidance. You're paying for someone who asks questions you may not have even considered. Questions like : Is this hotel in a safe neighborhood? Is it walkable? Will the room category you've chosen meet your needs? Is this itinerary too rushed? Are there hidden resort fees? Will you need visas or vaccinations? Is there a better flight connection that gives you more time at your destination? These details can make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. Online Booking Sites Don't Know You Travel websites are designed to sell inventory. They don't know that you love small boutique hotels instead of giant resorts. They don't know you have mobility concerns. They don't know you're celebrating a milestone anniversary or traveling with three generations of family. They don't know that avoiding a six-hour layover is worth paying a little more. As your travel advisor, I get to know you. The more we work together, the better I understand your travel style, your priorities, and your expectations. That means every trip becomes more personalized than the last. The Cheapest Price Isn't Always the Best Value This is one of the biggest misconceptions in travel. The lowest advertised price often leaves out important details. That "great deal" may include: Basic airfare with expensive baggage fees Non-refundable reservations Long airport layovers Poor hotel locations Limited customer service No flexibility if plans change Sometimes spending a little more upfront saves hundreds—or even thousands—later. Value isn't about paying the least. It's about getting the most for your money. When Things Go Wrong, Who Has Your Back? Travel is unpredictable. Flights get canceled. Weather changes. Hotels overbook. Luggage gets delayed. Tours get canceled. When you book online, you're often left navigating automated phone systems, chatbots, or spending hours on hold trying to fix the problem yourself. When you work with a travel advisor, you have someone in your corner. Someone who can advocate for you, help find solutions, and guide you through unexpected situations. That peace of mind is something you can't put a price on. Your Time Is Valuable Planning a trip can easily take 15 to 30 hours—or more. Researching destinations. Comparing hotels. Reading hundreds of reviews. Checking airline schedules. Looking at maps. Trying to figure out which information is actually reliable. Your time has value. Many of my clients would rather spend their evenings looking forward to their vacation than spending weeks trying to plan it. That's where I come in. Experience Matters I've spent more than 30 years helping travelers explore the world. I've learned which hotels consistently deliver exceptional service. I know which excursions are worth your time—and which ones aren't. I understand the details that many travelers don't discover until they're already at their destination. Experience helps prevent costly mistakes before they happen. Travel Should Feel Exciting—Not Stressful The best vacations begin long before you leave home. They begin with confidence. Confidence that everything has been thoughtfully planned. Confidence that someone has considered the details. Confidence that if something unexpected happens, you're not handling it alone. That's the real value of working with a travel advisor. Not because you can't book online, ut because you deserve more than a reservation. You deserve a well-planned travel experience designed around you. Final Thoughts The internet is an excellent tool for gathering information. But information alone isn't expertise. When you work with a trusted travel advisor, you're gaining an advocate, a planner, a problem solver, and someone who genuinely wants your vacation to be everything you've dreamed it would be. After all, travel isn't just about getting from one place to another. It's about creating memories that last a lifetime. When you are ready to book that long deserved vacation contact Colesville Travel at 301-989-1654 or send an email to cindy@colesvilletravel.com . Until then, Stay inspired, Cindy #TravelAdvisor #TravelAgent #TravelPlanning #VacationPlanning #TravelExpert #TravelTips #LuxuryTravel #GroupTravel #CustomTravel #TravelSmarter #TravelBetter #TravelWithConfidence #ColesvilleTravel #TravelWithCindy #ExperienceMakesTheDifference
Travel is supposed to feel exciting. But for many people, planning a vacation can also bring stress, nervousness, and overwhelm. If you’ve ever worried about flying, airports, safety, delays, or simply being far from home, you are not alone. Travel anxiety is more common than people realize. This is felt even among experienced travelers. The good news? Travel does not have to feel stressful. With proper planning, realistic expectations, and the right support, you can reduce travel anxiety and actually enjoy the experience again. What Is Travel Anxiety? Travel anxiety is the stress, fear, or nervousness people experience before or during a trip. It can happen whether you are traveling domestically or internationally. Some travelers experience mild nervousness, while others feel intense stress leading up to departure day. Common forms of travel anxiety include: • Fear of flying • Anxiety about airports • Stress over travel documents • Fear of getting lost • Worry about international travel • Anxiety about safety and unfamiliar places • Stress from crowded airports and long flights • Fear of travel delays or cancellations Even luxury travelers and seasoned travelers can experience travel stress. Why Travel Feels More Stressful Today Modern travel has become more complicated than it used to be. Travelers now navigate: • Airline delays and cancellations • Entry requirements and passport rules • Crowded airports • Long security lines • Flight changes • Overpacked itineraries • Constant travel updates online Social media can also create pressure for vacations to look “perfect,” which adds another layer of stress. Sometimes travelers become so focused on planning every detail that they forget to enjoy the journey itself. Signs You May Be Experiencing Travel Anxiety You may be dealing with travel anxiety if you: • Feel overwhelmed before a trip • Constantly check flight details • Overpack “just in case” • Avoid booking trips altogether • Feel nervous days before departure • Worry excessively about things going wrong • Struggle to relax while traveling Recognizing travel anxiety is important because once you understand it, you can take steps to manage it. How to Reduce Travel Anxiety 1. Plan Ahead One of the easiest ways to reduce travel stress is to avoid last-minute planning. Organizing flights, transportation, travel insurance, and important documents early create peace of mind. 2. Keep Your Itinerary Balanced Trying to do too much can make travel exhausting. Leave room for downtime, relaxation, and flexibility. Some of the best moments of travel happen unexpectedly. 3. Work With a Travel Advisor Many travelers feel less anxious when they have professional support before and during their trip. A travel advisor can help manage: • Flights • Hotels • Transportation • Destination guidance • Travel requirements • Emergency assistance Having expert support allows travelers to feel more confident and prepared. 4. Arrive Early for Flights Rushing through an airport increases stress immediately. Giving yourself extra time can make the travel experience feel calmer and more manageable. 5. Focus on the Experience — Not Perfection No trip is perfect. Delays happen. Weather changes. Plans shift. Travel becomes much more enjoyable when you focus on meaningful experiences instead of perfect schedules. Can Travel Anxiety Ever Be Helpful? Surprisingly, a small amount of travel anxiety is normal. Traveling pushes people outside of their routines and comfort zones. That nervous energy often comes from stepping into something new. Travel builds: • Confidence • Adaptability • Independence • Cultural awareness • Personal growth Many travelers return home feeling stronger and more empowered than before they left. Final Thoughts on Travel Anxiety Travel anxiety is real, but it should not stop you from seeing the world. The key is learning how to travel in a way that feels comfortable, supported, and enjoyable for you personally. The world is still full of incredible experiences waiting to be explored, sometimes you just need the right preparation and support to enjoy them fully. Call us at 301-989-1654 to stay connected or visit our website https://www.colesvilletravel.com Stay inspired! Cindy #TravelAnxiety #TravelTips #WomenWhoTravel #LuxuryTravel #TravelStress #TravelPlanning #TravelAdvisor #GroupTravel #TravelWell #MindfulTravel #TravelWithCindy #ColesvilleTravel #InternationalTravel #TravelLifestyle
Discover the best time to visit Alaska, including summer cruises, winter Northern Lights adventures, scenic Alaska Railroad journeys, and unforgettable Alaska cruisetours.
International travel to the United States may be slowing as global travelers rethink costs, entry concerns, and travel experiences ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Discover luxury domestic travel in the USA, from national parks to Hawaii. Explore curated, upscale trips designed for comfort, culture, and ease.
Learn how to enjoy your vacation even in bad weather with smart travel tips, flexible planning, and expert advice for stress-free travel experiences.
Discover why cultural context matters more than ever in travel and how understanding local history and customs creates deeper, meaningful journeys.
Beyond Flamenco: Discovering Black History in Spain’s Most Iconic Cities
Are you passionate about exploring the world and love sharing adventures with your friends? Travel is most meaningful when it’s shared with the people you enjoy most. If you love exploring the world and bringing friends together, there’s a well-designed, effortless way to do just that. With expert support from Colesville Travel, every detail is thoughtfully arranged whether you prefer a fully escorted experience or a relaxed journey at your own pace. Through our Adventure Ambassador Program , you can enjoy beautifully curated group travel while receiving exclusive benefits along the way. If you’re ready to travel well with your circle, we invite you to explore the Adventure Ambassador experience. 1. Become the Trusted Curator for Your Travel Circle Many people dream of traveling but are hesitant because of the details involved such as selecting the right destination, choosing accommodations, and coordinating experiences. By bringing your circle together with the support of Colesville Travel, you offer them a beautifully curated trip where every segment of your travel is thoughtfully arranged, making group travel feel effortless, refined, and truly enjoyable. 2. Take the Stress Out of Group Travel Bringing a group together doesn’t mean managing every detail yourself. Colesville Travel takes care of all the arrangements in advance, so you don’t have to worry about coordinating the details. Colesville Travel handles all trip arrangements, ensuring a seamless experience so your group can travel with ease, comfort, and confidence from start to finish. Everything will be organized for maximum fun and minimal hassle. 3. Inspire Your Friends to Explore Traveling together invites your friends to enjoy experiences they may not have chosen on their own - beautifully curated and effortlessly enjoyed. From private wine tastings in Italy and refined beach retreats in the Caribbean to unforgettable safaris in Africa, immersive food experiences in Bangkok, or exclusive museum visits in France, every detail is thoughtfully arranged to reflect the destination at its very best. With the support of the Adventure Ambassador Program and the expertise of Colesville Travel, you and your guests simply arrive, relax, and savor the journey. 4. Enjoy Meaningful Rewards While Traveling Well One of the most rewarding aspects of traveling with your circle is the added benefits that come with it. Through the Adventure Ambassador Program , thoughtfully curated group travel can include exclusive savings, preferred amenities, and in some cases, complimentary travel opportunities. With Colesville Travel handling every detail, your passion for exploring the world is enhanced with meaningful rewards, without compromising comfort, quality, or experience. 5. Create Lifelong Memories and Connections Travel is about more than where you go, it’s about how it makes you feel and who you are sharing it with. Traveling with your friends allows you to create moments that linger long after the trip ends: elegant dinners with unforgettable views, enriching guided experiences, and shared discoveries in beautiful destinations. With every trip carefully arranged, these trips naturally become cherished memories and lasting connections. Final Thoughts Travel is at its most rewarding when it’s shared. If there’s a destination you’ve been dreaming about, this is your opportunity to experience it alongside friends in a way that feels effortless, refined, and thoughtfully curated. With expert planning and personalized support from Colesville Travel, you and your circle can enjoy the journey from the very first idea to the final memory, beautifully arranged, and entirely your own. Contact Colesville Travel at 301-989-1654 to learn more or click Adventure Ambassador Program for more information. Until then, stay inspired Cindy #TravelWithFriends #GroupTravelMadeEasy #MatureWomenTravel #TravelLeadership #AdventureAmbassador #SharedAdventures #GirlsGetaway #TravelCommunity #LuxuryTravelWithFriends #TravelTogether
Travel is changing and, in many ways, it’s getting better. As someone who’s been planning trips for decades and traveling the world firsthand, I can tell you this with confidence that 2026 is shaping up to be a fantastic year to travel, especially for travelers who value comfort, culture, and meaningful experiences over rushing from place to place. If you’re thinking about traveling in 2026, whether it’s a bucket-list destination, a long-awaited celebration, or simply time to enjoy the world again I hope this guide will help you understand what’s coming, where to go, and how to prepare so your trip feels exciting instead of overwhelming. What’s Trending in Travel for 2026 One of the biggest shifts I’m seeing is that people are traveling with more intention. Travelers aren’t just asking where they want to go but they are asking how they want to feel while they’re there. From my research here is what’s stands out for 2026: Fewer Trips, Better Experiences Instead of packing in multiple destinations, travelers are slowing down. Travelers are staying longer, making deeper connections, and are taking the time to actually enjoy the destination. These items are becoming the priority. Comfort Matters More Than Ever Premium economy, business class upgrades, smaller group tours, private transfers, and well-located hotels are no longer “extras” but are part of traveling well. Meaningful & Cultural Travel People want experiences that feel personal: food tours, local guides, heritage travel, music, art, wine, and history and not just photo stops. Small Group & Hosted Travel Travelers love knowing someone else has handled the details. Small group journeys, escorted trips, and curated itineraries are especially popular heading into 2026. Where to Go in 2026 While the classics will always be popular, 2026 is the perfect year to explore destinations that offer rich culture without the chaos. Here are a few standouts travelers are gravitating toward: Europe—Beyond the Obvious Think Portugal, Southern Italy, France beyond Paris, river cruising, and train-based itineraries. These allow you to see more without constantly unpacking. Africa & Heritage Travel Countries like Ghana, South Africa, and Morocco continue to grow in popularity, especially for travelers seeking history, connection, and powerful experiences. Alaska & Expedition-Style Cruising Alaska remains a favorite, especially for travelers who want nature, wildlife, and comfort all in one trip without flying overseas. Caribbean with Purpose Instead of just beach time, travelers are choosing islands that offer culture, food, rum tastings, sailing, and local experiences alongside relaxation. How to Prepare for Travel in 2026 (Start Now) Here’s something I say often and it’s more important than ever: The best trips are planned early. Waiting until the last minute usually means fewer choices and higher prices. Travelers who start preparing for their trip early, enjoy better flight options, better hotels, and far less stress. Here’s what I recommend doing now: Check Your Passport Many countries require passports to be valid at least six months beyond your return date. This is one of the most common and preventable travel issues. Start to Think About Timing Popular destinations and cruises are already filling up for 2026. Flexibility helps, but early planning helps even more. Decide How You Want to Travel Do you want independent travel, small group experiences, or a fully escorted trip? Knowing how you want to travel makes planning smoother and more enjoyable. Working with a Professional Travel today involves more moving parts than it used to. Having someone who understands the destination, the logistics, and your personal travel style makes all the difference. Why 2026 Is a Year to Travel Well If there’s one thing experience has taught me, it’s this: travel should enrich your life, not exhaust you. 2026 is the perfect opportunity to travel smarter, to choose destinations that inspire you, choose experiences that matter, and travel at a pace that allows you to truly enjoy the journey. Whether you’re dreaming about Europe, Africa, cruising, or something completely new, now is the time to start the conversation. Final Thoughts Are you ready to start planning? If you’re thinking about traveling in 2026, I’d love to help you shape a trip that fits you, I will take into consideration your comfort level, interests, and travel goals. The earlier we begin, the better your options will be. Travel is an investment in yourself. Let’s make it a great one. Contact Cindy at Colesville Travel today at 301-989-1654 or email cindy@colesvilletravel.com and let us help you start planning for 2026. Stay inspired, Cindy #ColesvilleTravel #TravelwithCindy #Travel2026 #TravelTrends2026 #FutureTravel #TravelPlanning #TravelSmart #IntentionalTravel #MeaningfulTravel #LuxuryTravel #SlowTravel #SoftAdventure