Avoid The School Holiday Crowds At These Travel Destinations

It’s the school holidays, and you want nothing more than an escape from reality. Yet, you can’t seem to escape the Singaporean accent anywhere you turn. Forget Japan or Korea. Dodge the crowds without sacrificing experiential quality by traveling during off-peak seasons.

Whether you’re planning around the brief March and September breaks or the lengthier June and December holidays, these under-the-radar destinations offer respite from the maddening crowds of yore.

Also read: Travel Resolutions to Set for a Great Travel Year in 2026

March: Chase Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan instead 

Taiwan

Whilst everyone flocks to Japan and Korea, consider Taiwan‘s flower festivals. The Alishan National Scenic Area offers breathtaking views of cherry blossoms set against a sea of clouds, best enjoyed from its famous forest railway. It’s a magical experience without the intense crowds of Kyoto or Tokyo. That’s not all: March in Taiwan beholds displays of calla lilies and bougainvillea, as detailed on TaiwanObsessed’s Guide to Taiwan’s Best Flower festivals. Book tickets to Alishan early as the area is popular with domestic tourists.

Armenia

Alternatively, Armenia offers crisp spring weather perfect for exploring Yerevan‘s brandy distilleries and the stunning monasteries of Tatev and Geghard. Direct flights aren’t available, but a quick connection through Dubai or Istanbul keeps this Caucasian gem accessible. You’ll feel more in a holiday mood when you arrive, thanks to the long flight time.

Oman

Take advantage of the end of the winter tourist season in Oman. Crowds thin and the country is at an almost Goldilocks temperature: warm, but not too hot. Catch the dramatic Jebel Akhdar Mountains covered in roses, and take the leisure to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Muscat’s souqs and beaches.

June: Beat the Monsoon with Island Retreats

Azores Islands, Portugal

While June marks the start of Europe’s peak travel season, Portugal’s Azores islands remain blissfully uncrowded. These volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic offer whale watching, crater lakes, and dramatic coastal scenery without the Mediterranean mayhem. 

Flores Islands, Indonesia

For something closer, try Flores Island in Indonesia. Spare yourself the tourist headache of Bali: Flores captivates with its tri-coloured volcanic lakes at Kelimutu, traditional villages, and excellent diving in the Komodo archipelago. You don’t have to go far or sacrifice your trip quality to avoid the school holiday crowds!

September: Shoulder Season Gold

Taiwan’s East Coast

This one-week break is perfect for quick escapes. Taiwan’s east coast is a clear winner. September sees fewer mainland Chinese tour groups, and you can explore Taroko Gorge, cycle through rice paddies in the East Rift Valley, and soak in hot springs in Taitung without jostling for space.

December: Rethink Winter

Petra, Jordan

While everyone else tries to escape the tropical heat or experience a white Christmas, think outside the box and visit Jordan in winter. Temperatures hover around a comfortable 15°C, perfect for exploring Petra without breaking a sweat. December also brings fewer tour groups to Wadi Rum‘s otherworldly desert landscapes. Though it is no white Christmas, you’ll get to savour the experience without jostling with other tourists.

Mauritius

For an island escape, look to Mauritius. December brings its summer peak, with sublime weather for exploring beyond the beaches. Hike through the Black River Gorges National Park, discover hidden waterfalls, and explore the rugged southern coastline. It’s a longer flight, but the reward is an Indian Ocean paradise with a unique cultural blend and far fewer familiar faces next to you on the beach.

Tips for crowd-free travel

Choose boutique hotels or holiday rentals over large resorts, which often fill with tour groups during peak season. Book early to lock in shoulder season rates.

Travel midweek for cheaper flights and fewer families.

Consider destinations requiring visas. The extra paperwork deters casual travellers, meaning countries like Russia or Algeria remain crowd-free despite their tourist appeal.

Always cross-check against local calendars to avoid overlapping with local holidays. You don’t want to be stuck in your hotel with all the attractions closed for celebrations.

Basically, take a different approach from others

Travelling during the school holidays doesn’t have to mean premium prices and packed attractions. With strategic destination choices, you can still find pockets of peace. 

The key is looking beyond Instagram’s greatest hits and embracing places that require an extra flight connection or a visa application.

If you can handle the initial hassle, the payoff can be exponential. Paying off-peak prices can create more room in your travel budget for premium options. Plus, you’re more likely to have authentic experiences, better photos (no photobombers), and holiday stories that won’t start with “It was nice, but so crowded…” 

Ready to make 2026 your year of traveling smarter? Time to approach travel from a different perspective!