With summer a fast receding memory autumn has plenty going for it in the northern hemisphere. In both England and Japan the colours that it brings to nature are a treat and well worth exploring if you can.
In New England it is perhaps the busiest time of year for visitors with the colours starting to change around mid to late September in Northern regions of Maine & Vermont and continuing through to November in the southern parts and along the coast. It is a brilliant excuse to explore the byways and small towns of the region and you can enjoy the traditional harvest celebrations at the same time. For a great guide to what’s going on try www.yankeefoliage.com – we particularly like the live and interactive map. For help getting there and around speak to Putney Travel.
At the other end of the world Japan is better known for it’s dramatic Cherry Blossom season, which typically takes place in early April in Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo regions. Here the gorgeous pinks are celebrated with outdoor picnics and festivals. While the autumn colours come without the festivals they are spectacular and tend to last a lot longer than the week or so of the cherry blossom. They run from late September to early December across the main islands. For excellent information and regular detailed reports check here – http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2014_when.html
This is a superb time to visit Japan with the summer heat passed and as mentioned previously the UK£ is doing very nicely against the Japanese Yen being 25% up compared with last year. For a taste of Japan check out the Japanese festival in Trafalgar Square next week, and for information on holidays there speak to Putney Travel.
by TMS