Outer Banks , NC

Expatriots will tell you the late spring and early fall are perfect times to go. It rains a little more often in spring but fewer people are there and the water is warm enough to swim or surf in. The early fall, such as October would make anyone happy. It stays warm and dry and the water is still fine. The scenery changes (not quite as drastically as say New York), and you can see beautiful colors. Now, summer is the pinnacle of existence but, if you want to be around fewer tourists but still be able to enjoy the beach, these are the times to go. As for sites to see, try the lighthouses, especially Hatterass Island's. On a rainy day, skip the movies and head to somewhere like the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum or the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. If you have kids and the water is too rough, then head to Jockey's Ridge and they will have just as much fun. Jockey's Ridge is also very beautiful in the evening around sunset.

“Destin, Florida: Hidden Gem”

Florida beaches April through September are the best months to travel here for vacation, but stay away from the college 'spring break' months if you prefer a quieter vacation. During the months of October through March the weather and water is generally much cooler than the southern parts of Florida. Most travelers to this area drive in from the surrounding southern states of GA, AL, MS, LA. I live in Boston, MA now, but I travel to this area about once every couple of years to visit family and friends. I am always surprised to learn that not many folks I talk to know about this part of Florida. Their typical destination to Florida is either Orlando or Miami. Destin and the surrounding beach communities (Panama City Beach to the west and Pensacola Beach to the west) have the most beautiful beaches in Florida and even the United States. The sand is soft and snow white. The water is emerald green. This is why the area is known as 'The Emerald Coast'. Vacationing here is different than vacationing in Miami or Orlando. There is a calmness to the area. No big theme parks to speak of around here, but there is still a 'family oriented' vibe with lots of things to do.

Gatlinburg

Vacation Rentals By OwnerGetting around Gatlinburg is easy once you have a city map, found at the Welcome Center and most hotel desks, and a roll of quarters for the Trolleys. With these 2 things you can get where you need to go with minimal delays and not worry about where to park the car. The Trolleys run color-coded routes all over town, just ask your driver for help finding your way around. For the more adventurous and those with strong calf muscles, walking is the way to go.....but be warned, Gatlinburg has only 2 kinds of streets....UPHILL and DOWNHILL. The Gatlinburg Trollies are a great way to get a quick overview of the many studios, shops, and galleries in this working arts community. When you are ready to do some serious shopping, bring your car. There is plenty of parking ( a real plus in Gatlinburg) at every shop in the Arts and Crafts Community.