TIP: Even if you don’t find a “low season” rate listed, it never hurts to inquire — when tourism is low, most companies will be willing to offer a discount if you simply ask.
3) Prettiest Landscapes.
Many governments around the world are making an attempt to “re-brand” their rainy seasons as “green season.” And for good reason. Seasons of rain bring out the the most beautiful scenery: trees are greener, more flowers are in bloom, lakes and waterfalls are most alive. From my experience, rainy season is the best time to travel if you’re looking for the most breathtaking displays of tropical scenery. Even if there’s a little rain or mist, I find that that only adds to the magic and really brings out the colors of nature.
TIP: My recommendation is to visit toward the end of rainy season, when everything is in its fullest bloom! At the beginning and even middle of the season, trees might still be bare and flowers may not yet have bloomed. There’s usually about a two-week “transition” time before dry season begins when you’ll probably avoid most of the rain while also avoiding most of the tourists.
4) The Locals Will Thank You.
The tourism industry can be rough. Especially in places with distinct “good” and “bad” tourist seasons, income for those in the industry can be extremely inconsistent. And this is even worse in developing countries where business owners, staff, or the woman who makes a living standing on the side of the road offering unofficial tours simply don’t get paid if they don’t get tourists.
I’ve consistently been welcomed by locals with extra appreciation when I bring in my tourist dollars during a season when most other travelers are deterred. So along with having an amazing trip, you can feel good knowing you’re contributing to a more stable income for the millions of people employed in the tourist industry in tropical areas.
TIP: Although this depends on your budget, and there is no need to approach the industry as a charitable cause, when possible do your best to contribute back to the place you’re visiting by actually using their tourism services. Whether that’s hiring a guide to walk you around a landmark, or offering a tip to a driver that goes out of his way to accommodate you, or putting some cash in a donation box at an otherwise free entry site — there are little ways that you can make sure your money is helping a struggling tourism industry.
@thewayfaress
Do you prefer to travel off-season?