2torial #0715:
Learn2 Avoid Tourist Traps (continued)

Decide when to go

Timing can have everything to do with whether a destination is swarming with tourists or not. If it's your wish to avoid crowds, find out (from books, travel agents, or travel sites and chat rooms on the web) when the busy season is, and don't travel then. In addition to being less crowded, the off-season frequently has lower prices and, sometimes, more pleasant weather. For instance, the Greek Isles are packed in August, when everyone in Europe goes on holiday, but the weather is milder in October--and hardly any tourists are there.

Occasionally, your travel will be restricted to the peak season, either by weather or by your own circumstances. For instance, Antarctica is accessible to tourists only during its mid-summer, which is around January. Or, you may really want to visit the French Riviera, but are only able to travel during the summer. If the latter is the case, you should prepare yourself mentally for crowds--or consider going someplace else this time and saving the Riviera for later.