Happy September, folks!

Summer hasn’t quite ended yet, but the smell of fall is already in the air, am I right? Clothing stores are full of frocks in burgundy, mustard, and charcoal gray, convenience shops are overflowing with notebooks for kids headed back-to-school, and the breeze is starting to get the most subtle hint of a chill.

As much as the end of summer is le sad, the beginning of September is actually something to be excited about. It’s widely considered to be one of the best months to travel!

How come? Seasonally, a lot of happy things happen around the globe this time of year. Hot summers are cooling off, rainy seasons are drying up, and cold winters are thawing out. Even better, since most folks don’t travel during the back-to-school kickoff, crowds are smaller and accommodation prices tend to be lower.

So, where should you go to take advantage of this once-a-year travel opportunity? We’ve got 5 pretty awesome ideas for you. You can grab a pumpkin spice latte on your way home.

If You’re Coupled Up and Looking for Romance

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Want to step up your date night game? Turn a random September weekend into a romantic fall getaway when you head up to New England!

This region is the quintessential American autumn trip, with Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire all offering some gorgeous fall foliage displays. If you’re a fan of hiking and leaf peeping, New England will totally be your jam. Even better, you’ll find tons of adorable little towns complete with romantic bed and breakfasts. So snag your sweetie and turn up the romance about ten notches.

Go forth, fall foliage enthusiasts! We’re jealous of you already.

If You Want to Get Weird

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As awesome as New England is this time of year, it’s also very unoriginal. Who hasn’t gone up to Vermont for leaf peeping? (We actually haven’t—but that’s beside the point).

If you’d like to experience all the romance and fall foliage in a more unique location, head over to Asheville, North Carolina. Dubbed the capital of weird, Asheville is full of art galleries, bookstores, antique shops, boutiques, independent breweries, and funky restaurants. There’s something new around every corner, and you’re going to experience all of it!

Even better, Asheville is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, which make for a ridiculously gorgeous fall foliage display. Factor in a day trip to go hiking, and you’ve got the perfect fall getaway.

If You Absolutely Love Beer

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If you’re looking to go a bit further afield, and just can’t get enough of those homemade draft beers back in the States, we’ve got the perfect trip for you. Head to Munich, Germany, for the annual beer lovers’ extravaganza, Oktoberfest.

That’s right, Oktoberfest doesn’t actually happen in October. Go figure.

Anyway! If you’re headed to Munich this September, be sure to hit up the world famous Hofbrauhaus, aka one of the best beer gardens you’ll ever visit. If you’re not too inebriated, take a hike up to the top of St. Peter’s Church, where you can catch a gorgeous view of the entire city. Need a break from booze? Take a day or two to explore the rich history of the city and its surrounding region. Auf Wiedersehen!

If You’re Ready to Tango

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If fall really isn’t your jam, you can absolutely escape the chilling temperatures and the falling leaves. But where should you go instead?

Buenos Aires!

It’s spring time in Argentina, my friends, so grab your dancing shoes and pretend that autumn isn’t happening.

There’s something for everyone in Buenos Aires this time of year. If you’re an architecture nerd, head to the Plaza de Mayo or to the Teatro Colón. History buffs will also appreciate these spots—las Madres de Plaza de Mayo are a local fixture in the square. Be sure to try some homemade empanadas in their nearby café, and then read up on revolutionary Argentinian history in their adjacent bookstore.

Ready to dance? You should be! This city features a legendary tango circuit, and you’d be seriously missing out if you didn’t give it a shot. Avoid touristy, choreographed shows in favor of local milongas, where the real people of Buenos Aires go to dance. Vamos!

If You’re Adventurous and Love Animals

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Want to really get out there? Head to South Africa for a safari in Krueger National Park. The weather will be cool, dry, and ideal for spotting the incredible animals that roam this stretch of land. The lack of rain this time of year means animals will congregate around watering holes—as opposed to roaming more freely—so you’ll know exactly where to look to spot your favorite furry friends.

Aspiring photographers, get your long range lens ready! You could be going home with shots of lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, and more.

September is an awesome month to be traveling, am I right? Where will you be headed this month? Let us know in the comments!