Samantha Brown Says This May Just Be The Best Month Of The Entire Year For Traveling
Timing plays a crucial role when planning a vacation. You may have time off work at a particular point in the year, but if that coincides with everyone else's time off, you could encounter long lines and crowded attractions. That's undoubtedly true for trips in April when kids leave school for spring break, the height of summer vacation, or around the end of the year holidays. You also have to factor in the weather, which can affect which activities you can comfortably take part in.
Travel Channel host and expert Samantha Brown recommended the best month of the year for traveling on her website. She identified May as the prime time to explore the world, writing, "The weather is warming up, the days are long, the sun is shining, and the flowers are out. Plus – it's part of the shoulder season so crowds are still fairly low around the world."
Shoulder season falls between peak summer excursions and the winter off-season (outside of the holidays). In another post, Brown called it her favorite time to travel, saying that people should "zero in on time between spring break and Memorial Day weekend." While some schools let out earlier, many summer breaks don't kick off until June. Several destinations also enjoy lovely weather during May.
May destinations in the United States
Brown recommended a May trip to Nantucket, Massachusetts, before it goes from 10,000 residents to around 80,000 in the summer. A delight during this time of year, Nantucket enjoys average highs of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and lows in the high 40s. Brown suggested wandering the beaches, which are quieter than in the summer, or taking your bicycle around the less-crowded streets. She said it's worth stopping at Bartlett's Farm, the area's oldest and largest family-owned farm. Brown added, "Seven generations of Bartletts have farmed this land. Visit their market for super-fresh produce, meat, cheese, wine, prepared foods and gifts."
Long Island is another great place to visit in the off-season. With highs around 66 degrees Fahrenheit and lows in the high 40s, it's the perfect time to check out the famous Hamptons on the South Fork or tour some wineries on the North Fork. Then, you can hit Central Park in Manhattan, which is lovely in May, and rent a rowboat from the Boathouse for a leisurely float across the lake.
Brown also suggested a trip to Nashville, Tennessee, with its live music and incredible food. It's perfect in May because, as Brown said, "It's right before the humidity skyrockets, and school lets out. I call that a win-win." With average highs hitting almost 80 degrees Fahrenheit and lows in the 60s, it's a great time to wander down the famous Music Row in short sleeves and grab some hot chicken at Hattie B's.
May destinations around the world
Brown noted that Nice and other cities in the French Riviera are packed in the summer. However, she said, "The French Riviera is practically synonymous with summer, but what if I told you it's just as warm and sunny in May without all the crowds? Just avoid the Grand Prix Monaco and Cannes Film Festival, and it'll almost feel like you have the whole place to yourself." Brown recommended Castle Nice for beautiful views and grabbing food at the Cours Saleya Market to snack on while sitting on a beach.
The gorgeous Greek island of Alonissos, less crowded than the more well-known Santorini, is also an excellent place to visit. May highs are in the low 70s Fahrenheit, and lows are in the mid-50s. You'll find no less than 18 beaches to lounge on and 14 scenic hiking trails, ideal during May weather. Plus, there's the National Marine Park for divers and adorable monk seals to observe.
Brown mentioned visiting Bologna, Italy, in May when it's not too hot yet. She suggested the MAMbo Museum for its contemporary art and sampling the excellent food in Bologna. It's also easy to visit other popular cities from there. She explained, "Bologna is so close to many of Italy's most notable destinations. Staying here puts you within an easy train ride of Florence, Venice, Milan and more." If you're traveling by plane, Samantha Brown has the best tip for getting a canceled flight rebooked as fast as possible.