03 Sep Travel Tip Tuesday: Best Fall Destinations Around the World!

Along coastal Quebec, the fall brings mountains covered in shades of orange that contrast with the emerald sea they greet. Red, orange and golden leaves dance in the air as they fall from the trees in towns along the countryside. Observation points dot the region to provide you the best viewing of this yearly phenomenon. It is only a matter of time before you are left captivated by the warm colors of the landscape even as the temperatures become cooler. Make it an adventure, ask a local where their favorite lookout spot is and take a trip off the beaten path. Hike the mountains of Parc national de la Gaspesie, or admire the beautiful orange backdrop while whale watching in Forillon National Park. The opportunities are endless and the views are breathtaking.

Autumn transforms the Douro River Valley into a sea of red, orange and yellow as the terraced vineyards that slope along the riverbanks change color in preparation for winter. The light remains limpid, temperatures have softened, and the days are sunny with a breeze. Now is the time to visit some of the most popular villages and wineries in the region without the heat and crowds of summer. With so many outdoor activities, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery while on a hike, picnic or wine tour. We recommend you make a stop at the local wineries, as they are credited with producing some of the best wines in all of Portugal.

China’s Jiuzhaigou Valley is known to be beautiful year round, but autumn is the best time to visit. The skies are clear, leaves are changing to warmer colors, and the endless number of lakes, ponds, and waterfalls reflect the colors all around. In late September, the forest begins to turn into colors of red, golden and purple leaves. These bright colors are reflected off the emerald-tinged lakes that are scattered all throughout the region, creating surreal backdrops for your day hike. If you are looking to extend your trip, make a stop at the Chengdu Panda Base, which is famous for research and breeding of pandas. This incredible destination would make your much-needed trip to China better than you could have ever imagined.

In the Southern Hemisphere the autumn season is best viewed in March and April. Surround yourself with its golden glow as New Zealand’s landscape begins to prepare for the winter. During this time of the year, there is no better place to be. The weather is cool and breezy but full of sun. It is common for people to continue swimming through April. Relax and smell the fresh air as you journey through the beautiful countryside, surrounded by everything that is autumn. If you plan your trip just right, you will be able to witness the first snowfall on the Southern Alps. The colorful changing leaves make autumn a scenic delight, especially in regions such as Central Otago and Hawke’s Bay, which are known for their autumn splendor. If fall is your season of choice, take a trip to New Zealand for a while different feel of fall.

When a world-famous town is named after a tree, you know it is going to be a site to see. Aspen trees begin their transition from green to gold in early September, starting at higher elevation and moving lower throughout the season. Leaf watchers from all around flock to Aspen to witness the area’s golden glow against its stunning backdrop of bluebird skies and snowcapped peaks. Explore the area of Maroon Bells in Aspen and be astonished by the reflective lake, two giant snow-striped mountaintops, and a symphony of color that changes as the season advances. Hiking trails within the area provide endless opportunity for picture perfect scenes of rich yellow leaves that shimmer in the fall breeze. The seasonal change happens fast so plan your trip in late September to see this incredible city change colors before the leaves are gone with the wind.

One of the more popular escapes for urbanites in New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia, the Berkshires provide world-class foliage viewing. Narrow, winding roads connect mountain hamlets set against a forested backdrop of crimson, yellow and every hue in between. With its charming inns, incredible farm-to-table dining, and captivating art museums, the Berkshires is sure to impress when set to a backdrop of fall foliage that would appear to be from a painting. Schedule your trip for Columbus Day weekend in mid-October to view the peak of the fall foliage event that takes place every year.