A comprehensive guide to picking the perfect hotel for a fall getaway. 24 fantastic hotels are broken down by vacation type, so choosing the right one couldn't be easier!
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(photo by Nicolas Raymond via Flickr)
Planning the Perfect Vacation with ProntoHotelâs Fall Hotel Guide 2014
Each of the four seasons has its own way of making you want to pack your bag and go anywhere and everywhere, but no season brings on travel fever more than fall. Say goodbye to intense summer heat and hello to crisp, fresh air that begs you to go out and enjoy the weather before it gets too cold.
Sandwiched between two of the most extreme seasons, the blazing summer and the freezing winter, fall is a very welcome season indeed. It is also one of the best times in the year to travel, as crowds thin out, kids are back in school, and, as a result, airfare and hotel rates drop in order to attract more guests and give you a better deal.
When one thinks of autumn, what usually comes to mind are shorter days and longer nights, equating to having less time to do daytime activities. But that doesnât mean that you wonât get to fully enjoy your vacation. There are plenty of things to do both day and nightâand the weather around this time of year is also the most pleasantâeven more so than spring. Actually, itâs near perfect.
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Things to Do in the Fallâand Where to Do Them
(photo by Anthony Quintano via Flickr)
A vacation is not a vacation without good accommodation, and autumn is one of the best times to travel simply because itâs considered an off season. This means that the rates for accommodation, from hotels to bed and breakfasts, are significantly lower compared to summer and winter. Autumn brings with it a slew of different activities that you would not normally partake in during other seasons, and this is an important factor to take into account when choosing a place to stay. This also means that you get to experience different things every year!
Between the brilliant reds and oranges painting the landscape as trees head in to their winter slumber to a beautiful bounty of crops making their way from the farm to your plate, fall is a wonderful, picture- perfect, and delicious time of year to travel. And with that, here is our seasonal guide to the things you need to do and experience when you go on vacation in the fall.
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ProntoHotelâs Recommendations for The Best All-Around Hotels for Fall Aspen Meadows Resort, Colorado, USA
An amazing resort in the Rocky Mountains, youâll have a unique chance to view the changing colors of Colorado right before your eyes. With enormous windows in each room to take in the 40 acres of mountainous landscape around you, this property also offers proximity to a plethora of activities, including boutique shopping, fantastic hiking and biking, and even ski slopes late in November. There are also many great fall deals to be had within both the hotel and the vibrant city of Aspen.
Book here: Aspen Meadows Resort Address: 845 Meadows Road, Aspen, Colorado, USA 4 Stars ⊠98 Rooms ⊠Mountains Casa Delfino, Crete, Greece
Forget pumpkins, foliage, and the harvestâif youâre just not ready for summer to end, this hotel in Greece offers a wonderful respite in the sun. With temperatures staying warm through the end of October, the island of Crete is a great choice. This property is housed in a beautiful Venetian-style villa from the 17th Century with a mosaic courtyard and stunning ocean views. Enjoy spacious guest rooms, lots of sunlight, and a relaxing spa. Pack your sunblockâsummerâs not over here!
Book here: Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa Address: Theofanous 9, Chania, Crete, Greece 5 Stars ⊠24 Rooms ⊠Island Mamaison Hotel Riverside, Prague, Czech Republic
Located on the banks of the majestic Vltava River, this property is close to many of Pragueâs main attractions. Youâll enjoy beautiful views of both the river and Prague Castle from your contemporary guest room within this historic mansion. Autumn is a particularly special time to visit Prague, with many music festivals taking place in the city. The cuisine is also at its best in the fall, so be sure to try some of the typical dishes from the area, like the dumplings, alongside a fantastic local beer.
Book here: Mamaison Hotel Riverside Prague Address: JanĂĄÄkovo NĂĄbĆeĆŸĂ 15, Prague, Czech Republic 4.5 Stars ⊠78 Rooms ⊠City
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Watching the Landscape Change Through Your Window
The tell-tale signs that fall has set in comes when the nights become chilly and the trees start to turn from green to yellow, red, and orange. The process is truly awe-inspiring, letting you bear witness to Mother Nature at her finest.
Taking advantage of this scenic spectacle, one of the most popular activities during autumn is leaf- peeping, where you get to observe and take breathtaking pictures of fall foliage. Leaf-peeping has become a pretty big tourist attraction in many places around the globeâbut there are some spots that see a more dramatic change than others, particularly France and New England.
A good number of hotels offer special packages and rates for leaf-peepers, showcasing their prime real estate and sharing their secret views with lucky guests.
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ProntoHotelâs Recommendations for The Best Hotels for Fall Foliage Stowe Mountain Lodge, Vermont, USA
Sitting right at the foot of Mount Mansfield, the tallest peak in Vermont, you canât get a much better location when it comes to leaf peeping. All of the beautifully-outfitted rooms come with a balcony and picture-perfect views of the areaâs patchwork foliage. Expect first-class service all the way, from the helpful staff to the relaxing spa, the climatized pool to the gondola that takes you right up to the top of the mountain for a little hiking and a dramatic, colorful panorama.
Book here: Stowe Mountain Lodge Address: 7412 Mountain Road, Stowe, Vermont 5 Stars ⊠300 Rooms ⊠Mountain Domaine des Hauts de Loire, Loire Valley, France
While France may not exactly be known for its foliage, it is known for its wine, and in the Loire Valley, those two things combine to make one beautiful time of year as the now-vacant vines change color. This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of it all, surrounded by vast woods that were once used by hunters. The chalet seems straight out of a fairytale, and the service youâll get is fit for royalty. Be sure to hop on one of the free bicycles to explore the nature around you. Book here: Domaine des Hauts de Loire Address: 79 rue Gilbert Navard, Onzain, France 4 Stars ⊠31 Rooms ⊠Wine Route The Castle at Burg Colmberg Hotel, Germany
A stop on both the Romantic Road and the Castle Road of Germanyâs Bavaria region, this 13th Century castle hotel will take you back in time to the middle ages while giving you some of the most glorious views in the area. Perched on the edge of a mountain 511 meters high, youâll be able to see the entire landscape below, alive with red, orange, and yellow. Be sure to sample some of the regional cuisine at the on-site restaurant, which features a cozy wood-burning fireplace.
Book here: The Castle at Burg Colmberg Hotel Address: An der BurgenstraĂe, Colmberg, Germany 3 Stars ⊠26 Rooms ⊠Romantic Road
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(photo by Liz West via Flickr)
Tasting the Season During an Amazing Harvest
Along with the best weather of the year, fall also brings with it lush harvests of different fruits and vegetables. Depending on the area you plan to visit, your dinner plate will be full of an ever-changing rotation of natureâs bounty.
This is also the perfect time of year to be on the lookout for harvest festivalsâfrom wine in Italy to black truffles in France and Spain, pumpkins in Pennsylvania to cranberries in Massachusetts. People love to celebrate the areaâs crop, and finding a harvest festival can be a great way to get to know your destination better and to mix with the locals.
Many hotels will help you get in on the harvest action, offering everything from apple picking to wine tasting and grape harvesting, especially in wine country USA.
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ProntoHotelâs Recommendations for Harvest-Worthy Hotels Cottage Grove Inn, California, USA
Napa is the most famous wine region in the United States, and being just north of San Francisco, it is just as convenient as it is beautiful. Fall in Napa is one of the most magical and most exciting times of year to visit, as the wine harvest is in full swing. This series of cottages is the absolute perfect place to call home, with private whirlpools for two, wooden lounge chairs outside that just call your name, and on-site spas and restaurants to keep you happy and relaxed. Book here: Cottage Grove Inn Address: 1711 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, California 3 Stars ⊠16 Rooms ⊠Wine Country Le Terre di Isa, Umbria, Italy
Tucked away in the Umbrian countryside near Lake Trasimeno, this beautiful Italian farmhouse sits on a gorgeous piece of property lined with olive trees. Itâs the perfect setting from which to experience the townâs Olivagando festival in November, as well as Octoberâs famous Eurochocolate fair in the nearby town of Perugia. The family that runs the B&B will make you feel right at home, while the rustic villa will help you feel one with the landscape around you.
Book here: Le Terre di Isa Address: Via Case Sparse, 54, Magione, Perugia, Italy 3 Stars ⊠7 Rooms ⊠Agriturismo La Trufa Negra, Spain
The small town of SarriĂłn, Spain, is one of the biggest producers of the amazing black truffle, and it hosts the FItruf festival every year in early December. See the yearâs truffle crop, sample a number of preparations, and then return to this hotel for some star treatment, including a spa and trendy decor. All of this in a super charming and historic town. And since the hotel is named after the black gold that puts the area on the map, thereâs no better place to stay during harvest time!
Book here: Hotel La Trufa Negra Address: Av Ibåñez MartĂn, 10, Mora de Rubielos, Spain 4 Stars ⊠39 Rooms ⊠Small Town
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(photo by Ryan Blyth via Flickr)
Enjoying the Open Space of Off-Season
Another neat thing to do in the fall that most people donât is going to museums. Autumn is the perfect time to visit your favorite museums and other tourist attractions, because their rates are usually a lot cheaper, and are even free sometimes. This is because itâs off season, so the attractions are less packed with people than they usually are and there is an extra effort to get people in the doors.
Also, with students having just started their fall term, the bars and pubs that they frequented during the summer will be nearly empty. You can finally enjoy some downtime without being bothered by sometimes rowdy crowds.
Take advantage of this time to stroll a little slower, to sip a little longer, and to stare at some of the worldâs most famous paintings for a few extra minutes.
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Fun Events Throughout the Fall
(photo by Baker County Tourism via Flickr)
Because of the weather and the harvest and the lack of crowds, fall is also one of the best times of year to find organized events and things to do. In an effort to showcase the yearâs bounty and get families outside to enjoy the last few days before winter hibernation, many towns around the globe put on events that are all about fun.
From festivals celebrating local food and drink to harvest demonstrations and fairs where you can pick your own apples, pumpkins, cranberries, and more, be prepared for hay rides, haunted houses, and plenty of other activities to keep you and yours busy every weekend. Get out there and enjoy the crisp fresh air, the warm sunshine on your back, and the sights and smells of such a beautiful season.
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(photo by 46137 via Flickr)
Beer, Beer, and More Beer
Itâs one of the most anticipated events of the yearâespecially by those fond of hops, lederhosen, and oversized pretzels. Of course, weâre talking about Oktoberfest.
While the celebration originated in Germany, with the beer capital being Munich, the Oktoberfest phenomenon has quickly spread around the globeâparticularly in communities with large German populations. The festivals often take place in late September and early October, and they offer a wonderful party atmosphere with carnival games and live music performed by different bands, along with the opportunity to taste different international beer brands. And, while Ferris Wheels and group dance lessons are fun and all, we know the beer is what youâre really looking forward to!
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ProntoHotelâs Recommendations for Oktoberfest Around the Globe Hotel Seibel, Munich, Germany
One thingâs for sure: youâre not going to get any closer to Munich Oktoberfest than by staying here. Located directly across from the Theresienwiese fairgrounds, youâll even be able to get in on the action just by looking out your balcony or window (donât worryâthe windows are soundproof). Both inexpensive and convenient, youâll get all of the modern comforts, plus a nearby place to rest your head once youâve filled your belly with beer.
Book here: Hotel Seibel Address: Theresienhöhe 9, Munich, Germany 3 Stars ⊠50 Rooms ⊠City Walper Hotel, Kitchener, Canada
Opened in 1893, this hotel in Canada sits in the heart of the largest Oktoberfest outside of Munich. A full schedule, including a gala, Miss Oktoberfest, and, yes, beer, makes this celebration one not to be missed. The hotel will provide everything you need: convenience, a place to rest your head, and lots of history so that youâll learn more than just how many pints you can down! It has also hosted Oktoberfest events, so you wonât have to travel far to partake!
Book here: Walper Hotel Address: 20 Queen Street South, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada 3 Stars ⊠79 Rooms ⊠Small Town Emporium Hotel, Brisbane, Australia
We know, this is a fall travel guide, but weâre making an exception to tell you about another great Oktoberfestâthis one in Brisbane. Traveling Down Under in October will mean pairing ales with springtime. The Brisbane Oktoberfest is a huge, family-friendly event, and this boutique hotel is one of the closest to the event grounds. Get some stellar treatment in a chic environment, along with a rooftop pool that has great views of the city and is definitely a place to see and be seen.
Book here: Emporium Hotel Address: 1000 Ann Street, Brisbane, Australia 5 Stars ⊠102 Rooms ⊠City
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(Photo by creepyhalloweenimages via Flickr)
Goblins, Ghouls, and All-Around Spooks
Your year would not be complete without having even some semblance of a celebration for Halloween during October. Some hotels have huge Halloween costume parties that might pique your interest. After all, itâs not everyday that you get to dress up as your favorite scary character!
Kids from everywhere walk around town with candy bags in hand, going from door to door and getting their sweet tooth fix. The sight of these characters walking up and down the road, coupled with the fall foliage around you make for a pretty interesting atmosphere. You can also carve your own pumpkin, or join hotels that offer pumpkin-carving contests. Itâs time to show off your carving prowess!
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ProntoHotelâs Recommendations for Halloween Hotels Disneyâs Fort Wilderness Resort, Florida, USA
There may be no more magical place to celebrate Halloween than at Walt Disney World. Join villains and characters in costume for trick-or-treating at Mickeyâs Not So Scary Halloween Party and then head back to your room at this Disney resort for even more festivities, including pumpkin carving, a golf cart parade, a decoration contest, a campfire sing- along, and a haunted hayride. Be sure to plan ahead with the Disney floral and gift department for a spooky in-room surprise!
Book here: Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground & Resort Address: 4510 N. Fort Wilderness Trail, Orlando, USA 3 Stars ⊠408 Rooms ⊠Family-Friendly SIXTY SoHo, New York City
New York Cityâs West Village becomes even more alive every Halloween for the annual parade that attracts thousands of onlookers. If you want to be one of the more than 50,000 participants, pack your costume and check in to this hotel, which is right near the parade staging area. You wonât have to travel far from this boutique property to get in on the fun, and the service youâll receive during your stay is above par. Grab a drink at the rooftop bar for the perfect way to end your Halloween!
Book here: SIXTY SoHo Address: 60 Thompson Street, New York, NY, USA 4.5 Stars ⊠97 Rooms ⊠City Tower Hotel, Derry, Ireland
The only hotel inside of the 17th Century city walls, this is the perfect place from which to experience the Banks of the Foyle Halloweâen Carnival, a weekend celebration of scary, with tours, a parade, fireworks, and amazing costumes. In fact, those not dressed up are often refused service at local pubs. This hotel lends a unique vantage point to all of the festivities within the city, and quite a convenient place to pass outâeither from fright or exhaustion!
Book here: Tower Hotel Address: 17-19 Butcher St, Londonderry, Ireland 3 Stars ⊠90 Rooms ⊠City
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(photo credit Anthony Quintano via Flickr)
Giving Thanks: For Family, Friends, Food, and Travel
Perhaps the most popular holiday that everybody looks forward to is Thanksgiving. Itâs one of the most heart-felt and family-oriented Western traditions, stemming all the way back to when the Pilgrims came in contact with Native Americans, who taught them how to grow corn to last through the winter.
Nowadays, Thanksgiving is a holiday filled with different kinds of food, with stuffed turkey being the main dish. Families sit down and eat together, celebrating time together and the bountiful meal before them. But donât be fooledâthe United States isnât the only country that gives thanks on this holiday.
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(photo by maria del carmen gomes via Flickr)
Getting Your Shopping On
Another event in the United States that is very popular during fall, albeit one that has garnered very polarized views, is Black Friday. On the day after Thanksgiving, massive amounts of goods in almost every single store, whether online or not, drop prices as low as 80% in order to get their accounting books out of the âredâ and into the âblack.â Itâs also the unofficial start to the holiday shopping season.
Some people actually line up for as long as 24 hours in front of a store just so they can be the first ones in, and once the doors open, shoppers flood in to snag some of the coveted items. Itâs not for the faint at heart, to be sure, but it can be a day full of shopping fun and fantastic savings!
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ProntoHotelâs Recommendations for Black Friday Shopping Radisson Blu Mall of America, Minnesota, USA
Those who want to shop til they drop should look no further than the biggest mall in the United States, where Black Friday deals reign supreme. This hotel is literally on the doorstep of the Mall of America, so taking naps, grabbing meals, and unloading your bags full of goodies will be a breeze. Schedule a wake-up call so that you wonât miss out on any of the deep discounts. At the end of the day, spend some time getting pampered at the spaâyouâve earned it!
Book here: Radisson Blu Mall of America Address: 2100 Killebrew Drive, Bloomington, MN, USA 4 Stars ⊠500 Rooms ⊠City Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, California, USA
Just across the street from Westfield Century City, this Los Angeles hotel is perfect for those who want to do some high-end shopping on Black Friday. With 150 shops within walking distance, this property is quite convenient for those looking to score some deals. In the evening, enjoy two âfarm to forkâ restaurants right on site, as well as a spa and a pool. Also within close proximity to the Beverly Center, youâll be able to tackle nearly every retailer imaginable within just a few minutes!
Book here: Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Address: 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 4 Stars ⊠726 Rooms ⊠City InterContinental Miami, Florida, USA
Why not squeeze in a beach vacation alongside your shopping extravaganza? This hotel is located amid downtown Miamiâs shopping district, so while youâre not lounging at the pool, dining at the four on-site restaurants, relaxing in the spa, or basking in the fantastic views of the channel, you can take a quick walk over to Flagler Street, the heart of Miami shopping. After, zip on over to always-happening Miami Beach to put your toes in the sea or stroll through nearby Bayfront Park.
Book here: InterContinental Miami Address: 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami, Florida, USA 4 Stars ⊠641 Rooms ⊠City
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Get in on Fall Fun Before the Brilliant Colors Have Faded Away!
All in all, autumn is one of the best times to go on a vacationâeven a just a weekend getaway. Low prices, a lot of fun activities that you donât get to do any other time of year, and the amazing and breathtaking views of nature are just some of the things you can get to experience during this awesome season.
No matter what you decide to do, a vacation in autumn will never let you down!