Need some insight into which is a better time to travel around the midwest and east coast of the United States.
Hi all!
I'm planning a four week trip to the United States later this year and I'm tossing up between going at the beginning of October or the beginning of December. I'm mainly going to visit friends, not sight-see, but they are scattered around the Midwest and south-east. I want to take the Greyhound from St. Louis to Louisville, then from Louisville to Tampa, FL.
Which month (October or December) would be better for this?
I have my heart set on October as it probably won't be as cold as December, but if flights are cheaper for December I'll probably go for that. However, I don't want lengthy delays on roads because of ice or storms...
I've never traveled to the U.S. before.
Advice?
Reply to this You pretty much laid out the pros and cons, yourself. I think October is one of the more lovely times of year, particularly in the St. Louis/Louisville/Kentucky area - but then again I really love fall. December can be lovely too, what with the holidays, but that's providing you don't get stuck in major transportation delays. This year snow and ice repeatedly impacted travel and road conditions across most of the U.S.
Keep in mind that October is also racing month in the Bluegrass, so if you're in and around Louisville the horse-tracks will be open and that is a season that many in the area look forward too (so you have good weather, good culture and good times). December... not so much.
Can't imagine why flights would be more expensive in December, as the holidays are usually more expensive than the rest of the year.
Reply to this I completely agree with Stephanie-- October is going to be a better choice. It will be warmer and sunnier. October is the start of our fall so you may get to see the leaves turning on the trees. They usually start turning mid to late October but you never know you may get lucky. The drive from St. Louis to Louisville will be delightful.
October is my absolute favorite month in Florida! I used to live in Tampa and October is warm and wonderful. Warm, not hot and nice ocean breezes.
Doubt the flight prices will vary much.
You are going to have a great time. Enjoy your friends.
Reply to this Thanks y'all. I do remember hearing about 'early frosts' and snow storms around mid-December. It seems weather everywhere is just getting crappier. Well, Cheerio!
Reply to this Don't forget to blog so we will know how the trip went.
Reply to this I can only speak for New York City, where I conduct New York tours <snip> year round. I, personally, think January through March is a great time to visit New York. Air fares are low (as low as they get), hotels are half price, tourist lines are gone, same day half-price tickets are available for all but a few shows... Winter is a great time to visit New York City. Make sure to bring a warm coat, hat and gloves. In the opinion of many, Winter beats the heat and humidity of the city in Summer.
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Give me the warm sunshine any day over having to bring the shovel for the snow.......especially this year.
Reply to this My plans have changed once again. I've decided to visit the midwest and Florida in January. Still planning on getting around by Greyhound and road. Seeing as it doesn't snow at all where I'm from, it'll be an experience.
Just how much snow should I expect? Especially around the South Dakota/ Colorado area? (Planning on road tripping there).
Reply to this We understanding changing plans. You'll need to wear a coat, hat, gloves and boots for South Dakota and Colorado in January.
In South Dakota, you are likely to encounter some snow in January but the winds blow and make it cold. Winter temps 23-0 F or -5 to -18 C. Dress warm. You could encounter rain, sleet, and some icy roads. They will keep the major roads clear.
Colorado will be beautiful in January. Up in the mountains they receive hundreds of inches of snow but he roads will be kept clear. You may want to go skiing. Some of the best skiing in America is in the Rocky Mountains.
Florida is a large state and the northern part of the state can have some cold temperatures in January for short periods of time.
Reply to this I'm going to the southern part of Florida. I read that the temp there is about 15C which I can deal with.
-5 to -18C - that's low. I might reconsider how long I stay in South Dakota. Damn.
Everyone pretty much said the same thing about hat, coat, gloves and boots. And I'll need stuff much thicker than what they make here.
'Here' is Australia btw.
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In response to: Msg #138900 Do not know where you are in Australia but I have a Sister that has lived near Brisbane for many years. She comes home to visit about every two years. Last year she was here in June when our temperatures were in the high 60's-70's F and FROZE TO DEATH....do not think she acclimated till she got back to her Australia. SO regarless when you come it will feel much colder to you here...bring sweaters and jackets to help you thru.
Reply to this Yeah, you are not used to our temperatures. When we were in Melbourne they kept saying what a cold climate it was.... My friend and I would about lose it every time they said that. They had no idea what cold is! We had a woman visit us in December one time and she almost got back on the train because she could not breathe. It was colder there than what you will run into in St. Louis, but I am just saying....
Reply to this Yeah I'm in Melbourne. The coldest it gets here is about 12 degrees C* - I think I will only pack sweaters and long-sleeved tops in that case. Of course, I am looking forward to the shopping in the states.
Reply to this Let us know what kind of shopping you are looking to do and we can direct you to the best places/cities.
Reply to this Outlet malls and chain stores for clothing and accessories. What are some good outlet malls in Florida? I think I'll wait 'til I get there to do most of my shopping, as the other friends aren't interested in shopping with me.
Reply to this There are several nice outlet malls in Florida. You will not have any trouble finding one. They are near all major cities to include: Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville.
Sawgrass MIlls in Sunrise Florida near Miami is nice.
Orlando Premium Outlets are good.
Prime Outlets in St. Augustine has recently expanded.
No shortage of shopping in America.
Reply to this Omg - next time I go to America I'll just go straight to Montana or Oregon. Lol.
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It is true that there is no sales tax in Oregon and Montana but prices are cheaper in Florida so it is more than likely a wash. Shopping outlet opportunities are better in Florida and Tennessee.
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