Hey there! I’m Arif. Over the years, I’ve traveled to places like Thailand, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka—sometimes during peak tourist seasons. Trust me, traveling during these busy times can be challenging, but with the right tips, it can still be an amazing experience. Let me share some tricks I’ve learned from my adventures and a few stories along the way.
My Story: When I visited the Maldives during Christmas, I almost missed out because I waited too long to book. Hotels were either fully booked or insanely expensive. Luckily, I found a local guesthouse on Maafushi Island, which turned out to be a hidden gem. I spent my evenings chatting with locals and enjoying the beach just steps from my room. That experience taught me a valuable lesson about booking early.
Tip: Peak season means high demand, and prices skyrocket fast. Book flights, accommodations, and even tours months in advance to save money and secure the best spots.
My Story: In Thailand, I visited Maya Bay early in the morning. It meant waking up at 5 AM, but when I reached, it was quiet, and the water was so clear it felt like a dream. By the time I was leaving, boatloads of tourists arrived, making me grateful I went early.
Tip: Early morning or late-night flights are usually cheaper and less crowded. Also, visiting popular spots at sunrise helps you enjoy them without the crowds.
My Story: I went to Sri Lanka in late March, just after the peak tourist season, and it was perfect—great weather, lower prices, and I still enjoyed everything from Ella to Mirissa without the crowds. Plus, I managed to get a beautiful beachfront room at half the usual price.
Tip: Plan your trip just before or after peak periods (shoulder season). You’ll enjoy better prices, fewer crowds, and still get great weather.
My Story: In Nepal, I planned to trek to Poon Hill, but the trail was packed with tourists. A local guide suggested an alternative route through less crowded villages. It ended up being one of my favorite hikes—I passed by peaceful waterfalls, met friendly villagers, and had the trails almost to myself.
Tip: Have a plan, but be ready to adjust. Ask locals for alternate routes or less popular experiences. Sometimes, the unplanned moments become the most memorable.
My Story: In Bangladesh, during the Eid holidays, Dhaka’s traffic was a nightmare. Instead of getting stuck, I took a train to Sylhet. The ride was smooth, scenic, and I ended up having a fun conversation with a family sharing their homemade snacks with me.
Tip: During peak times, skip the traffic and use public transport. Trains, ferries, or even local buses are often faster and give you a chance to experience the local lifestyle.
My Story: When I visited Bhutan, I decided to hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery at sunrise. It was cold and a bit dark when I started, but as I reached the top, the morning sun hit the monastery, and there were only a few other travelers. It felt peaceful and magical.
Tip: Popular spots fill up fast during peak seasons. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the beauty without distractions.
My Story: During Songkran (the water festival) in Thailand, I learned the importance of packing smart. My phone almost died because I didn’t bring a waterproof cover, and with the long festival hours, my power bank saved the day.
Tip: In busy places, pack light but include essentials:
My Story: During the Holi Festival in India, it was chaotic—people throwing colors everywhere, loud music, and huge crowds. At first, I felt overwhelmed, but then I let go of my worries and joined in. I danced with strangers, got covered in colors, and had the time of my life.
Tip: Peak seasons come with crowds—accept it and enjoy the vibe. Sometimes, the energy of the crowd is what makes the experience unforgettable.
My Story: While in Sri Lanka, instead of staying only at famous beaches, I visited a small village near Galle. I discovered a quiet, untouched beach and spent hours watching local fishermen at work. It was peaceful and felt like a secret paradise.
Tip: Research beyond the famous spots. Sometimes, the lesser-known places offer the most authentic experiences with fewer crowds.
My Story: In the Maldives, I booked a snorkeling tour online before the trip. When I arrived, every tour operator was fully booked because of the peak season. Thanks to my early booking, I didn’t miss swimming with sharks and exploring coral reefs.
Tip: During peak seasons, tours and activities sell out quickly. Book them online in advance to secure your spot and sometimes get early-bird discounts.
Traveling during peak seasons can be challenging, but with these tips, it becomes a rewarding adventure. From peaceful sunrises to spontaneous local encounters, my favorite travel memories often come from these busy times.
So, pack your bags, plan ahead, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey—because the best stories come from the most unexpected moments.
Happy travels,
Arif
