What is Shoulder Season?

4/29/2009 12:00:00 AM

“Shoulder Season” is a term often used in the tourism industry. But just what does it mean and how can you use it to save money on your next vacation?

“Shoulder Season” is a term often used in the tourism industry. But just what does it mean and how can you use it to save money on your next vacation?

Most destinations have a key season, a time when the majority of people prefer to visit. For beach areas, it is spring break and summer. For mountain ski resorts, it is during winter when the snow is deep. These are the times of year with the highest demand for accommodations and activities.

But the beach is still there in the fall and winter months and so, too, are the hotels, condos, restaurants and area attractions. The weather may be too cool for swimming or getting a tan, but visitors can still enjoy the natural beauty of the area, the fresh local seafood, the museums and most attractions.

Those who are willing to travel to the beach areas in the fall and winter months can typically find great savings in accommodations as well as specials from restaurants, shops and attractions. It is simply the economic principle of supply and demand. There are just as many hotel and condo rooms available as there were during the peak summer months, but the demand is less; therefore, the price is lower.

Much the same is true for that mountain ski resort. Summer visitors can enjoy hiking, dining, shopping or perhaps a spa treatment for much less than they would have to pay during the popular winter months.

Vacation Planning Staff

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