As we approach the last few months of 2024, it’s time to begin thinking about your travel plans for spring and summer 2025. It can be tempting to tell yourself, “I’ll wait until the new year” to start thinking about travel plans, but let me urge you to start planning now.
Because here’s the truth: while last-minute travel planning can be done, it’s not recommended. Here’s why:
For one, last minute booking means the last pick of the availability… meaning the best rooms, rates,
and more are poof gone.
And just like hotel rooms, the most desirable tours and activities often book up well in advance, especially for high-demand destinations or must-do, tourist hot spots.
Pricing and availability aside, planning ahead reduces the stress of the last-minute scramble – for you and your travel advisor. With ample time to plan, we’re able to craft an itinerary that checks all your boxes.
But no worries – it’s my job as a travel advisor to be thinking and planning ahead… way ahead.
Wondering how far in the future you should be planning? The ideal window is 6 to 9 months for most trips (though more complex itineraries may require more time!).
With that timeline in mind, we’re looking ahead to April, May, and June 2025! Flip the calendar forward and keep reading to see what you should be thinking about now:
April is a fabulous time to travel to a lot of places. It’s usually after Spring Break, but before
the busy summer season, and the weather is ideal in many places around the world. Here are
my recommendations for places you might consider for an early spring itinerary!
U.S. Getaway:
Island of Kauai: April marks the end of the rainy season on Kauai, but don’t let a few
sprinkles deter you—the rain is what makes this island so lush and vibrant. With fewer
crowds, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of Waimea Canyon and peaceful sunsets from Poipu
Beach.
International Itinerary:
Champagne, France: If your travels aren’t complete without a celebratory toast, the
Champagne region of France is the perfect spring escape. Imagine yourself soaking in the
crisp April air, a glass of bubbly in hand, overlooking the rolling vineyards.
Honorable Mention:
Istanbul, Turkey: Holland’s not the only one with tulips! April is a lovely time to visit the
largest city in Turkey, where over 30 million tulips are scattered throughout the city, many of
them concentrated in Sultanahmet Square.
May opens the door to so many delightful choices across the globe, as the weather
warms and crowds just start to creep in. As we round the corner to summer 2025, here are
the destinations you could consider for a May getaway.
U.S. Getaway:
Wine Country, California: From the tried-and-true Napa to Sonoma or even
Healdsburg, wine lovers will find no shortage of options for a perfect escape. Sip, shop,
and stroll through these charming wine country hotspots—and don’t forget to book early
if the Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience is on your wish list!
International Itinerary:
Sicily, Italy: Want to avoid standing shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists at the Trevi
Fountain? Skip the usual suspects in Italy and head south to Sicily. By May, you’ll enjoy
the perks of the shoulder season—fewer crowds and stunning weather on this
Mediterranean island.
Honorable Mention:
Machu Picchu, Peru: May marks the start of the dry season in Peru, making it the perfect time for adventurous travelers to tackle the Inca Trail.
Ah, June. The first true month of summertime—when the crowds start to ramp up. But
fear not: while June tends to kick off the busy summer travel season, there are still
destinations that aren’t yet in full swing! Here are our picks for a June vacation.
U.S. Getaway:
Cape Cod, Massachusetts: Lobster bakes…without baking on the beach. Cape Cod in
early June strikes a perfect balance between “quintessential summer getaway” and “get
away from me” hot and sweaty summer crowds.
International Itinerary:
Istria, Croatia: For foodies who have already explored Tuscany or want to skip the
Jubilee crowds in Italy in 2025, the Istria Peninsula of Croatia is a fantastic alternative.
With its abundance of truffles, wines, and rolling vineyards, you’ll feel like you’re in
Tuscany.
Honorable Mention:
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: June is one of the best months for Rwanda’s most
sought-after activity—gorilla trekking. Boutique safari lodges provide the perfect base for
rest and relaxation between spotting these majestic creatures in the park!
P.S. If you’re wondering why Spring Break isn’t on this list, it’s because you should be
planning that (checks notes) yesterday! Reach out ASAP for Spring Break and beyond!
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