From Munich With Beer: Oktoberfest Revelry

BY  Sibashree Oct 11, 2025

Potter and Tioga Counties in Pennsylvania are the newest vacation hotspots in the USA in the fall season. The fifth position in the 2025 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Destination for Fall Colors has further brought this into the limelight.  Hiking the canyon rims, watching the stars at the Cherry Springs, live entertainment, and great local food make Potter and Tioga stand out.  On the other hand, USA Today has recently named Mackinac Island the Best Place to Visit for Fall. Since 2023, it has been placed in the top three destinations in the list of USA Today as one of the best places to travel in October in the USA.  Tim Hygh, the executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, has shared his thoughts with MLive.com. “Fall on Mackinac Island is a remarkable experience, from the tranquil atmosphere to the brilliant fall colors, and we are incredibly honored to receive this recognition.”  So, are you ready to enjoy the whiff of the fudge in the air in Mackinac Island? Or, do you want to explore more places to travel in October in the USA? Here is a complete travel guide. What Is The Leaf-Peeping Season In The USA? Why Is It So Special? With the leaves of the trees turning orange and golden yellow, and the earth getting covered with dry leaves, Autumn announces the season of Thanksgiving and Halloween.  Furthermore, it is the season of apple picking and pumpkin harvesting.  Mid-September to early November is the leaf peeping season in the USA. However, the peak season for the foliage color reaches different parts of the country at different times in the month.  Parts in the USALeaf Peeping Season West, the Aspen Groves in Colorado and Utah• Late September• Early OctoberMidwest• OctoberBlue Ridge Mountains and the Southern Part of America• Late OctoberNortheastern America, such as Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire • October The Leaf Peeping Season In The USA In The Current Year  In the current year, the fall season has officially set in on 6th October. However, because of a pretty dry season since late July, the fall colors seem to be less visible in different parts of the country till now.  Furthermore, due to the “Urban Heat Island Effect,” the urban areas are likely to have less vibrant fall colors, and the ocean influences in the coastal areas will also impact and delay the change of foliage colors.  So, in the current year, we will have to wait till mid and late October for the leaf peeping season to reach its full glory. Even in the northeast, the drought stress since the end of August and a consistent temperature of around 80°F will delay the arrival of fall colors. Having said that, Hudson Valley, New Jersey, and some other locations in the northwestern region have already started showing mild colors. In addition, a wet beginning to summer and the long dry spell afterward have created a favorable condition for apple and pumpkin harvesting, two other major attractions of the fall season, along with the change of leaf colors.  Moreover, the species of the trees (Red Maple Trees offer red foliage and ash trees offer yellow foliage) and their locations impact the fall colors. Trees at higher elevations and near lakes and ponds show better colors.  What Are The Best Places To Visit In October In The USA?  Have you seen the painting, Four Seasons, by Egon Schiele? The 1917 painting beautifully captures the spirit of the fall season with the shades of golden yellow and red. The “Autumn” painting of Helmer Osslund is another amazing depiction of the season, where nature sheds the old and gets ready for the new.  Some places in the USA are nothing short of these iconic paintings in the fall season. Let’s find out what special they have in store for us.  1. New England Region Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius The New England Region covers states such as Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.  The crisp air and silent roads with trees in golden, orange, and red shades make the region an ideal choice for autumn vacations.  Vermont Average Temperature: 5-15 °Celsius Vermont is the quintessential autumn destination you need to visit in the USA. The scenic drive along Route 100 and the views of the Green Mountains are breathtaking, with the leaves changing their colors.  You can also visit the apple orchards and pumpkin farms for a first-hand harvesting experience.  New Hampshire Average Temperature: 5-12 °Celsius Home to the White Mountains, New Hampshire is one of the best places to travel in October in the USA. You can explore the state parks and enjoy the iconic ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway.  The small towns here are ideal for experiencing the autumn festivities.  Salem, Massachusetts Average Temperature: 6-18 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salem, Massachusetts (@destsalem) Known as the Witch City, Salem is associated with the Infamous Witch Trials of 1692. You can be a part of the month-long Haunted Happening Festivals in October in Salem. The festivities include ghost tours and parades.  Also, visit the Salem Witch Museum for a somber and eerie experience.  2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bordering North Carolina And Tennessee Average Temperature: 9-21 °Celsius Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers the most amazing views of the fall foliage with its diverse elevation.  You can hike or go for scenic drives in the national park. You can even explore nearby small towns such as Pigeon Forge.  3. Aspen, Colorado Average Temperature: -1 to 13 °Celsius With the aspen trees turning golden yellow in October, Aspen looks beautiful, and the Rocky Mountains create the perfect backdrop.  Furthermore, the Maroon Bells in Colorado, one of the most photographed mountains in America, looks stunning with the changing colors of foliage.  4. Boston Average Temperature: 10-17 °Celsius Beacon Hill and Back Bay are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston to see autumn foliage.  Furthermore, visit the Boston Common and Public Garden to enjoy a beautiful urban landscape in autumn.  5. New Orleans Average Temperature: 20-25 °Celsius Known for its Voodoo culture, New Orleans is most alive in the Halloween Season. Take a tour of the local cemeteries and the French Quarter to soak in the eerie vibe.  6. Orlando, Florida Average Temperature: 18-29 °Celsius Be a part of the Halloween Horror Nights festival in Orlando. It is one of the scariest festivals in the USA, with scare zones, haunted houses, and live acts inspired by popular horror movies and TV shows.  7. Savannah, Georgia Average Temperature: 14-25 °Celsius One of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah is a must-visit in October. A tour of the historic district of the city is spooky. Also, you can enjoy the changing colors of autumn foliage.  8. San Francisco, California Average Temperature: 12-21 °Celsius Home to the notorious Alcatraz Island and prison, San Francisco is one of the most prominent locations for dark tourism in the USA.  Also, if you want to see autumn colors, you can visit Golden Gate Park.  9. Asheville, North Carolina  Average Temperature: 7-21 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Asheville | Asheville, North Carolina (@visitasheville) Asheville, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is one of the most scenic locations in October. The trees in the mountains change their colors faster, and you can take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the colors. Also, visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America.  10. Santa Fe, New Mexico Average Temperature: 4-14 °Celsius Santa Fe shows a beautiful fusion of Native American and Spanish culture. In October, you can be a part of the Santa Fe Harvest Festival and go hiking in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains.  The leaves of the aspen trees in the mountain trails turn golden yellow in the season.  11. New York City Average Temperature: 14-18 °Celsius Central Park is the epicenter of seeing fall colors in New York City. You can also be a part of the Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village, which is the largest in the country.  Otherwise, you can just chill at the outdoor cafes and enjoy the Broadway shows.  12. Leavenworth, Washington State Average Temperature: 7-18 °Celsius With the charm of a Bavarian-style village, Leavenworth is just another small town in the USA that turns magical in October.  The small town hosts an Oktoberfest. It is a German-style celebration with great food and music. Furthermore, the entire town is decked up in fall foliage, pumpkins, and everything autumn.  13. Lake Tahoe: California And Nevada Border Average Temperature: 10-21 °Celsius Surrounded by mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the most serene places to travel in October in the USA. With the summer crowd gone, the foliage in the mountains and around the lake starts changing colors.  You can do kayaking and hiking here. Or, you can just relax by the lake for some tranquility.  14. Chicago Average Temperature: 4-21 °Celsius Chicago bustles with energy in October as it hosts many renowned festivals. It is the month of the Chicago International Film Festival and the Lincoln Park Autumn Harvest.  Also, with the nip in the air, it is the best time to try the signature deep-dish pizzas. 15. Zion National Park, Utah Average Temperature: 4-20 °Celsius Hike through the famous trails such as the Narrows and Angels Landing in Zion National Park and witness how the fall foliage creates a contrast against the red rock canyons in the park.  The views are dramatic, and with the summer crowd gone, the ambiance is peaceful.  16. Potter And Tioga Counties, Pennsylvania Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Potter Tioga (@visitpottertioga) Blessed by the Appalachian Mountains, Potter and Tioga Counties have the most amazing forests and verdant hills. So, the autumn vistas here are quite dramatic.  Furthermore, the Pine Creek Gorge, or the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, is at the epicenter of the autumn attractions here.  Moreover, you can do horse riding, hiking, or biking through the Pine Creek Rail Trail for an unforgettable experience.  17. Mackinac Island, Michigan  Average Temperature: 4-12 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mira (@lightbender_photo) Autumn on Mackinac Island is captivating. Enjoy a ride in the bikes or horse-drawn carriages to see the changing fall colors. It is famous for its car-free lifestyle.  Also, don’t forget a visit to the Mackinac Island State Park, famous for limestone arches, woods, and trails.  Visiting The Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: A 7-Day Itinerary  Are you in the USA this autumn? Try this 7-day itinerary to explore the best places to travel in October in the USA.  DaysLocationActivitiesDay 1Salem • Drive from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Salem• A Visit to the Witch House and Walking through the Historic StreetsDay 2Boston• Walking through the Freedom Trail and Exploring Places such as Boston Common, Paul Revere House, and Faneuil Hall.• A Visit to Boston Common and Enjoying a Boat Ride.• Walking through Beacon HillDay 3Boston to Vermont• Foliage Drive from Boston to Vermont for 4-5 Hours.• Stopping by the Woodstock Town to See Fall Colors. • Trying Maple Syrup at a Sugar House. Day 4Vermont and New England• Hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest for Foliage Views• Shopping at Vermont Country Store• Afternoon Drive in the BerkshiresDay 5Vermont to New York City• A Drive for Around 5 Hours• Exploring Central Park• Visiting the NYC Landmarks such as Rockefeller Center and Times SquareDay 6New York City• Visiting the Metropolitan • • Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)• Brooklyn Bridge Walk• Visiting the 9/11 MuseumDay 7Departing from New York City• Souvenir Shopping• Trying Classic Bagels• Airport Travel What Is The Cost Of A 7-Day Fall Vacation In October In The USA? Here is the estimated cost of a 7-day fall vacation in the USA in October. The budget range here is wide because I have considered budget, mid-budget, and high-end traveling and their various options.  Types of CostEstimated BudgetNotesAccommodation$600-2100• Hostels• Budget Inns• Boutique Hotels• B&BsTransportation$200-600• GasTolls• Parking• Subway• Rental CarTrainFood and Drink$350-1000• Quick• Service• Groceries• RestaurantsAttractions$150-450• Entry Fees• ToursTicketsTotal$1300-4150• (Excluding flight tickets to the USA) A Calendar Of October Festivities In The USA  In October, try being a part of these nationwide and local festivals.  Time of MonthFestivalsDetails2025 DatesEarly OctoberAlbuquerque International Balloon Fiesta• The Largest Hot Air Balloon Festival in the World• Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico4th to 12th October 2025First Two Full Weekends in OctoberNational Apple Harvest Festival• Visit Biglerville, Pennsylvania. 4th and 5th October and 11th to 12th October13th OctoberColumbus Day• A Federal Holiday Celebrating America’s Past13th OctoberMonth-Long ActivitiesSalem Haunted Happenings• Visit Salem, MassachusettsN/AMid-OctoberFall-Foliage Festivals• Visit Vermont, New Hampshire, and MarylandN/A31st OctoberHalloween• Nationwide Celebration with Themed Parties and Spooky Tours31st October Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the best places to travel in October in the USA.  1. What Is The #1 Place To Vacation In The US? New York City, the Yellowstone National Park, and Los Angeles are some of the most popular places for a vacation in the USA. However, if you want to enjoy a vibrant nightlife, you can visit Las Vegas or Reno. Also, Orlando is the place to be for theme park fun. 2. What Is The Cheapest Vacation Destination In The USA? Oklahoma City, known for its distinct cowboy culture, is one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the USA. You can visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Zoo, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum here. Furthermore, the cost of living in the city is way below the national average.  3. Where To Take Kids For Fun In The US? With the presence of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando is the most coveted location for kids visiting the USA. However, if your little one loves nature and wilderness, Yellowstone National Park, Olympic National Park, and the Dry Tortugas National Park are some of the best places to be.  Read Also: Check the Best Warm Winter Destinations in USA! The Best Places to Visit in February in the USA in 2025! The Best Places To See Northern Lights In The USA: When And Where To Watch Aurora Borealis

BY  Nabamita Feb 20, 2024

Imagine the enchanting allure of Cancun, where crystal-clear turquoise waters beckon and fiery sunsets paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. It's the perfect setting for an unforgettable romantic proposal. Picture yourself and your loved one on a private yacht charter, gliding through the pristine waters of the Caribbean, caressed by a gentle breeze. As the waves softly lap against the yacht's hull, a sense of serenity envelops you, creating an intimate and magical moment. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature and the tranquil embrace of the ocean, you have the opportunity to create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Choosing Your Yacht When it comes to selecting your perfect yacht, there are a few things to think about. Firstly, consider the size of the boat - do you fancy a spacious and grand vessel or a more intimate and cozy one? Also, take into account the range of amazing amenities available on board. Luxury cancun yacht rentals often boast gourmet meals prepared by talented chefs, plus personal staff to cater to your every need. Some may even have water sports equipment so you can enjoy thrilling aquatic adventures. However, it's worth noting that smaller vessels, while offering a more intimate experience, may not provide the same extensive range of services and facilities. Setting the Scene Once you've carefully chosen your dream yacht, it's time to make it truly yours and create an unforgettable ambiance. Think about adding your favorite flowers, curating a special playlist to set the perfect mood, and even including a cherished photograph that holds sentimental value. If your partner isn't a fan of surprises, it might be a good idea to let them in on the trip in advance, while keeping the proposal itself a delightful secret. By paying attention to these finer details, you'll ensure that the entire experience becomes even more memorable and magical. Timing Is Everything Picture this: timing your proposal with the breathtaking sunset. Watch as the sky gracefully transitions from a brilliant blue to a mesmerizing palette of pinks and oranges, creating an unparalleled and magical romantic setting. Feel the warm glow of the sun gently kissing the horizon, casting a romantic ambiance that envelops you and your loved one. Don't forget to check the local sunset times and meticulously plan this unforgettable moment, ensuring that every detail aligns perfectly with the natural beauty of the setting sun. When it comes to proposing, timing is crucial. It's not just about the time of day, but also the stage in your relationship and the unique context of that particular day. Outside of the classic sunset proposal, here are a few other ideas: Dawn Proposal: If you and your partner are early birds, a sunrise proposal can be incredibly romantic. The quiet tranquillity of the early morning, coupled with the stunning beauty of the sun slowly rising above the horizon, can make for a truly memorable moment. Under the Stars: If your partner is an astronomy enthusiast, consider a nighttime proposal under a starlit sky. A clear night, away from city lights, presents an opportunity for a private, intimate proposal under the blanket of the cosmos. Midday Cruise: A daytime proposal offers the advantage of excellent visibility. The dazzling blue sky and shimmering Caribbean sea create a vibrant backdrop for your special moment. Special Dates: Another timing aspect to consider is the date itself. Proposing on a significant date, such as the anniversary of your relationship, a birthday, or a special holiday, can add an extra layer of sentimental value to your proposal. Remember, the best time for a proposal is one that feels right to you and resonates most with your partner’s preferences and your shared experiences. The Perfect Dinner A romantic dinner is not just any detail, my friend, but a truly unforgettable and essential part of any yacht proposal. Picture this: a serene setting on the deck, with soft lights twinkling in the background, creating an enchanting atmosphere. You have the option to choose between an intimate picnic, where you can savor delectable delicacies while basking in the breathtaking views of the open sea, or a formal dining experience that oozes elegance and sophistication. Alternatively, imagine a cozy barbecue under the twinkling stars, where you can indulge in delicious grilled treats while being embraced by the gentle sea breeze. Whichever option you choose, make sure to personalize the meal, taking into account your partner's preferences and creating a culinary journey that will leave an everlasting impression of romance and love. Capturing the Moment Opting to hire a skilled professional photographer or videographer to capture the precious proposal is truly an outstanding idea. Their expertise lies in discreetly documenting the heartfelt moment, ensuring that you both can relive and cherish this extraordinary experience for many joyous years to come. With their exceptional ability to capture every intricacy and emotion, the photographs or videos will serve as a timeless reminder of the love and commitment shared during this significant milestone in your life. After the Proposal After the magical proposal, you can embark on an enchanting night aboard a luxurious yacht, gently swaying with the rhythm of the ocean waves. As you drift off to sleep, the tranquil sounds of the sea will serenade you, preparing you for a mesmerizing awakening. Picture yourself waking up to a breathtakingly beautiful sunrise, where the sky is painted with hues of gold and pink, creating a stunning backdrop against the vast horizon. Imagine this: a luxurious yacht proposal in the breathtaking destination of Cancun. It's an experience that will leave you spellbound. As the radiant sun dips below the horizon, casting a mesmerizing glow over the turquoise Caribbean Sea, you and your beloved find yourselves aboard a magnificent yacht. The gentle sway of the vessel enhances the romantic atmosphere, enveloping you in serenity and tranquillity. In that magical moment, you present your partner with a sparkling ring, a symbol of eternal love and commitment. As the waves dance beneath you and the stars twinkle above, the memories created on this extraordinary occasion become as infinite as the vast ocean itself. Prepare to be captivated! Read Also: 4 Things To Do When Visting The British Virgin Islands On A Yacht Spa Relaxation On A Charter Yacht In Dubai How Much Does Yacht Crew Make

BY  Abdul Aziz May 19, 2023

For avid travelers and investors, the Korean currency rate can be a fascinating topic of discussion. Understanding the fluctuations of the won against other currencies can give insights into its economy. Likewise, it could say much about Korea's political developments and investors' sentiment in the market. This article will explore everything about the Korean currency rate. As such, we will cover the basic conversion rates to the impact of major events on the Korean economy. History Of Korean Currency South Korean currency has rich historical data that dates back to the early dynasties of Korea. It all started with the use of cowry shells and pearls as currency. As time passed, metal coins and paper money became popular. The Japanese occupation of Korea introduced the Japanese yen as the official currency. Yet, in 1945, the Korean won was introduced and became the official currency. Interestingly, the won was initially divided into 100 jeon, but the jeon was eliminated in 1960. The won has undergone many transformations to ensure price stability and economic growth. In modern times, the South Korean won is the official currency used in South Korea. Today, the value of the South Korean won fluctuates with the global exchange rates. It’s one of the world’s top 20 currencies by value. Current South Korean Won Exchange Rate Knowing the latest exchange rate for the Korean won can be helpful in budgeting and forecasting your finances. As of January 2023, the exchange rate for Korean won is fluctuating depending on the global market and demand. Below are some of the latest conversion rates: 1 US dollar = 1,315.29 Korean won (USD to KRW) 1 Australian dollar = 893.35 Korean won (AUD to KRW) 1 Chinese yuan = 192.07 Korean won (CNY to KRW) 1 Japanese yen = 9.90 Korean won (JPY to KRW) However, exchange rates may vary depending on banks' locations and policies. Check exchange rates online through various currency converter websites to ease the currency conversion. Alternatively, download an exchange rate or currency calculator app. With these tools, you can convert your dollars to South Korean won (USD - KRW) or any other currency at the current rate. Banknotes And Coins Banknotes and coins in South Korea are not only used for daily transactions. Yet, they also hold significant cultural value. As such, these banknotes come in different denominations and colors. For instance, the 1,000-won note features a Confucian scholar. Then, the 10,000 won note features Admiral Yi Sun-sin, known for his naval victories against Japan. Meanwhile, the 50,000 won note features Shin Saimdang, a prominent female artist. Besides that, she was the mother of the famous Korean painter Yi I. These banknotes represent important historical figures and showcase various artistic designs. Similarly, Korean coins are equally fascinating, with 10, 50, 100, and 500 won denominations. Each coin features a different symbol that holds cultural significance. The 500-won coin features the portrait of King Sejong, who invented the Korean alphabet. Meanwhile, the 100-won coin features the image of a crane, symbolizing longevity and good fortune in Korean culture. When visiting South Korea, carry some local currency as most stores prefer cash transactions. Foreign exchange markets are available in major cities, but it is crucial to know exchange fees as they vary. Overall, banknotes and coins in South Korea hold monetary value and capture the country's cultural heritage. Visit the Bank of Korea to learn more about their banknotes and coins. Money-Handling And Etiquette As with any country, knowing the cultural norms when handling money in South Korea is good. As such, for Koreans, money is not just a means but a representation of energy. Below are some key points to note: Cleanliness is crucial. Many Koreans believe money represents energy and keep their bills and coins as clean as possible. Hence, you will rarely see crumpled or dirty bills in circulation. Besides that, many Koreans carry cash and coins in wallets and change purses. For them, it is not just a convenient way to have cash but a way to keep it clean and maintain the money's energy. Respectful giving and receiving. When giving or receiving money, using both hands for respect is customary. This act is particularly true when exchanging money with older people or of a higher status than you. No throwing or placing on the floor. Throwing money or putting it on the floor is considered disrespectful. If you drop a coin or bill, pick it up immediately. Likewise, people usually place money on a designated tray or hand it directly to the receiver. Cash vs. Card. Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. Yet, having some Korean won for small transactions or in areas that only accept cash is always good. Keep this Korean currency rate information. Doing so will allow you to navigate financial transactions in South Korea with ease and respect for the country's cultural norms. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food 7 Reasons Why Phuket, Thailand Attracts Travelers Worldwide Top Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room In Las Vegas – Travel Guide