We crunched the numbers and pinpointed the least expensive months to visit the most traveled-to CheapTickets destinations in 2008.
To calculate the savings for each location, we compared the lowest and highest monthly 3-star hotel rates between December 2006 and November 2007. Here’s the month-by-month breakdown:
JANUARY: 68% savings in Athens, Greece
Athens is best known for such historic sites as the Acropolis and Poseidon’s Temple, but January travelers will be pleasantly surprised by the downhill and cross-country skiing accessible during an adventures day-trip outside the city. Athens hotels
FEBRUARY: 47% savings in Napa-Sonoma, CA
Nothing says romance like a trip to the scenic Northern California wine country. The regions rolling hills are lush and green and the dormant vineyards offer a striking vista. Unlike the busy summer and fall, February travelers will find wine tasting a breeze with fewer crowds and more personal attention from the vintners. For those less wine-enthused, Sonoma’s Olive Festival is a perfect alternative, as locals and visitors celebrate the fruit in first-class style. Napa Valley hotels
MARCH: 40% savings in Montreal, Canada
In this French-speaking city, travelers can indulge their cultural side during Montreal’s world-famous celebration of film and art held in March. And with hotels offering significant savings of up to 40% during March compared to peak rates, visitors can feel equally inspired by the money still in their pocket. Montreal hotels
APRIL: 32% savings in Greensboro-High Point-Winston Salem, NC
Discover the world of science in North Carolina this April. The area’s renowned centers of science offer kids and kids at heart unique hands-on experiences that will please all generations. If a trip through history sounds more intriguing, check out the Museum of Anthropology at Wake Forest University for a time-traveling retreat. Greensboro hotels
MAY: 22% savings in Hawaii
April showers bring May flowers. Travel to Hawaii this May and help KAHEA, the Hawaiian-Environmental Alliance, protect the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands … and their flowers. Travelers can lend a hand in protecting the sacred summit of Mauna Kea and preventing ocean pollution. These and other volunteer opportunities are available through The United Way of America at volunteer.cheaptickets.com. While on break, travelers can enjoy the ocean they are working to keep clean with a surfing lesson. Hawaii vacations
JUNE: 26% savings in Las Vegas, NV
The Strip has never been so cool. Escape the heat this June with a night helicopter ride over the Las Vegas Strip for $82 per person. Sip champagne and then sit back and enjoy the elevated vantage point as the air-conditioned helicopter soars above the lights and the crowds on the street below. Las Vegas hotels
JULY: 57% savings in Phoenix, AZ
With an average temperature of 105 degrees in the summertime, Phoenix can feel more like sauna than a sanctuary – but it doesn’t have to. Spa your way to bliss on a budget by booking in July, when this off-season locale boasts 57% savings compared to peak rates and travelers can take refuge in the serenity of Phoenix’s many world-class spas. Phoenix hotels
AUGUST: 45% savings in Florida Keys, FL
Key Marathon, Key Largo, Key West: CheapTickets has found the key to Florida – August! Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available in the Florida Keys during the summertime, when savings of 45% compared to peak rates are available. To beat the heat, hit the water for a romantic Champagne Sunset Sail on the Atlantic. Key West hotels
SEPTEMBER: 45% savings in Cancun, Mexico
Forgo spring break madness and fly south of the border in September. Beyond the white sand beaches and twenty-something’s dance clubs, visitors can day-trip to nearby Chichen Itza, one of the world’s seven wonders, for a guided excursion that takes travel to new heights. Cancun hotels
OCTOBER: 56% savings in Punta Cana, DR
As the air turns a bit cooler, Punta Cana becomes a most desirable Autumn retreat, offering 56% savings in October compared to peak rates. With over 25 all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean hot spot, visitors are guaranteed the best bag for their buck. From snorkeling to wave ridding to drinks on the beach, travelers will be glad to finally vacation without feeling like an open register. Punta Cana hotels
NOVEMBER: 53% savings in Lake Tahoe, CA/NV
Winter activities can get pricey and when you add the skis, boots and thermal gear, the bill adds up. But in 2008, travelers can kick the ski season off right without spending a fortune. With 53% savings in November, compared to peak rates, Lake Tahoe’s 12 alpine ski areas have never looked better for budget-minded ski aficionados! South Lake Tahoe hotels
DECEMBER: 48% savings in Rome, Italy
All roads lead to Rome this December with 48% savings compared to peak rates. As vacationers become ever more conscious of the value of the Euro to the US Dollar, Rome-bound travelers will appreciate the hefty holiday savings in 2008. Whether tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain or exploring the architecturally spellbinding Vatican City, Rome is for amore. Rome hotels
When it comes to top vacation destinations — those looking for cheap vacations can find good travel deals during off-peak times.
