Many people stay put most of November in anticipation of the money and time they’ll spend on the impending Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas holidays. But you may want to rethink that idea.
Because it’s off or “shoulder” season for numerous destinations, there are plenty of deals to be had and discounted flight and hotel rates to enjoy. Also, the Southern Hemisphere is starting to warm up in November, as it enters late spring, while the Northern Hemisphere is cooling off in temperature and travel intensity.
If you can get away in November, either before or during the holiday, you’ll find plenty of moderate weather, thinning crowds and bargain prices.
November is the beginning of high season in the hottest big city in the USA. But because the season is just starting up, you’ll likely get some relief from the peak prices in winter while still escaping the heat of peak summer temps.
Let’s look at some outdoor options since the summer furnace is off. (Heads up: You’ll likely need a jacket at nights — deserts can get quite cold, too):
— Camelback Mountain: You can partake in an inspiring mountain hike here, just 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix. Just be warned: Its two trails are considered quite difficult. Echo Canyon trail is the steeper one, and you’ll need to use hand rails and pull yourself over boulders. (N. Echo Canyon Pkwy, Phoenix, Arizona). Cholla Trail is the longer one. (6131 E. Cholla Lane, Phoenix, Arizona 85253).
November in Rome marks the beginning of the off season. The days (and lines) are shorter, a bit chillier and possibly wet.
If you plan accordingly, this can be a lovely time to visit, though: As temperatures drop, so do flight and hotel prices, and if the weather is not the most pleasant, there are plenty of indoor activities to partake in with a lot fewer people. A few rainy-day ideas:
While it’s great that peak tourist season has come to an end in November, what’s more important is that wild boar hunting and truffle season has begun. Which means menus throughout Rome will showcase these two delicacies. Not much of a wild boar hunter? Take a day trip from Rome to Umbria for a truffle hunt instead.
