Tallinn, Estonia. (Photo: Shutterstock)Spring: It's that magical time of year when the cost of travel to key destinations stays affordable, while warmer, temperate weather breezes in.
There may not be a better time to visit certain places, whether you're eyeing excursions to vibrant European cities, charming U.S. towns, or sun-soaked islands. Ready to give winter an icy kiss goodbye? Bring in the warm weather with a budget-friendly shoulder-season trip to one of the following five destinations.
Tallinn, Estonia
We love colorful, medieval Tallinn—the capital city ofEstonia, one of Europe's tiniest countries. And we particularly adore Tallinn during spring, when pleasant weather arrives and a packed calendar of events, from the Tallinn Flower Festival to Tallinn Music Week to Tallinn Day, makes a springtime visit all the more special.
(Photo: Greenwich Photography …Istanbul, Turkey
One of the most cost-effective ways to see large swaths of the European continent is by train. And this year, country-hopping Europhiles can finally factor Istanbul onto their rail itineraries. T.C.D.D., the Turkish railway, has joined Eurail, thus setting the stage for the inclusion of Istanbul (as well as other Turkish cities and towns) on the ever-popular, budget-friendly Eurail Global Passes and Select Passes.
(Photo: Milton Jung via Flickr)Sao Paulo, Brazil
Brazil's biggest metropolis is on our radar this spring for several reasons. First, US Airways is launching new Sao Paulo service from the carrier's biggest U.S. hub, Charlotte, this spring, making it easier for U.S. travelers to get to Sao Paulo. Additionally, the city's improving its infrastructure by leaps and bounds and setting up free public Wi-Fi, which should be in place by mid-2013.
(Photo: Rhode Island Tourism)Rhode Island
Travelers seeking Gilded Age glamor (Downton Abbey fans take note) should consider a trip to the Ocean State, where grand mansions sit beside the sea and opulent hotels evoke a bygone era. While a stroll past the mansions on Newport's storied Cliff Walk is free, accommodations in some of Rhode Island's best historical hotels will typically cost a tiny fortune during the summer high season. But budget-minded travelers who want to live a baron's life for a night or two will find relatively more affordable accommodations during spring.
(Photo: kansasphoto via Flickr)Bermuda
Bermuda's high season starts in spring—generally in April, when the weather is right for beach-bumming. But if you go early enough, you can cash in on some fine spring deals, including cheaper accommodations, especially through late March and the beginning of April.
The Bermuda Department of Tourism regularly runs some pretty enticing deals during the low and shoulder seasons, like this free-night offer, which is valid through the end of March. Complete a stay of three to five nights at select hotels and get an additional night on the house.
article source : http://travel.yahoo.com
