If you’ve ever wanted to visit America’s own island paradise, it might be more feasible than you initially thought. Though we often associate “luxury”, “vacation”, and “getaway” with Hawaii, the “off-season”, which paradoxically boasts Hawaii’s best weather of the year, has many good deals on flights, hotels, and more. Here’s a basic guide to kick-start your vacation planning.

When to Go

Although weather-wise, you can go anytime of year, what time you decide to visit Hawaii will depend on your budget and what you want to experience while there. Generally, the weather is cooler from December to March, and warmer and drier from April to November, which is technically Hawaii’s summer season. To get the best deals on just about everything, visit during the off-season periods between April and June, or September and November. There will be better weather and fewer crowds, anyway, and you’ll pay much more if you are traveling during the peak seasons of December to March or July to August.

Where to Go and What to See: A Basic Guide to the Islands

Made up of over one hundred small islands, there are six main ones to consider when planning your trip.

Oahu: “The Gathering Place”

Hawaii’s third largest island and its governmental and commercial center, Oahu boasts sites such as the famous Waikiki, Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu, the historic Pearl Harbor, and Iolani Palace, the home of Hawaii’s last two monarchs. The majority of Hawaii’s population resides on Oahu, making it one of the more populous and developed islands (public transportation is widely available). Its North shore is a surf mecca, where high season is from November to February. It is easily accessible via Honolulu’s airport.

Hawaii Island: “The Big Island”

The youngest and largest of the State’s islands, Hawaii Island contains a huge variety of natural wonders, climactic zones, and environments. It is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, the most massive mountain in the world (Mauna Loa), and the world’s tallest sea mountain (Mauna Kea). It also boasts the largest state park out of all the islands. With two airports, the Big Island is accessible via direct flights, especially to Kona, or via Honolulu on Oahu.

Maui: “The Magic Isle”

Some say Maui is the “best island”; it has been rated by such as travel giants like Conde Nast. With a smaller population, Maui has many sophisticated resorts and diversions, as well as some of the best beaches in the world. Golfing and whale watching (from December to May) are especially popular activities. Though many luxury resorts fall on the high end of the price range, there are some hostels available for budget travelers. There are three airports on Maui, with non-stop flights available from major cities in the continental U.S. Once there, you can get around by shuttle, tour bus, taxi, public transportation, or rental car.

Kauai: “The Island of Discovery,” “The Garden Isle”

The fourth largest island, Kauai is the oldest and northernmost of Hawaii’s chain. Some parts of it are only accessible via sea or air and cannot be reached by land. Outdoor activities abound, with lots of opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and ziplining. Accommodations range from bed and breakfasts, to budget and luxury hotels. With its own airport, there are some non-stop flights available, but you can also reach Kauai via Honolulu. Think about renting a car if you plan to explore the island via land, as there is less in the way of public transportation here.

Molokai: “The Friendly Isle”

This is an island where you can get away from the stressful hustle and bustle of life – the least developed of all of Hawaii’s islands, there is no traffic, no lights, and no tall buildings to be found on Molokai. Here, you can live as locals do and discover the Hawaii of the past. As the fifth largest island, it is home to the highest sea cliffs in the world and the longest continuous fringing reef. Most people living on Molokai are of native Hawaiian ancestry, so the island is a place where Hawaiian culture thrives. A higher elevation gives Molokai a cooler climate, so be sure to pack appropriately. Molokai has its own airport, but there is no direct service from the continental U.S., so you’ll want to book a flight through Honolulu or another hub. Once there, a rental car is a must, as there is no public transportation.

Lanai: “The Pineapple Isle”

Known as the “Pineapple Island” because it was once entirely owned by Dole Foods and home to the largest pineapple plantation in the world, words often used to describe Lanai are “romantic,” “tranquil,” “serene,” and “intimate.” If you are looking for a honeymoon or couples getaway, this might be the island for you. Aside from its exclusive resorts, though, Lanai also has rugged back roads begging to be explored. There are no traffic lights on the island, and only about thirty miles of road are actually paved. It is the smallest of all Hawaii’s inhabited islands. Though there are no direct flights from the continental U.S., you can connect in Honolulu or Maui to local airlines that will bring you to Lanai’s airport. There is also ferry service from Maui available. The weather is drier and slightly cooler than the other islands, and a convenient island shuttle is available to take you to most frequented locations.

Travel Tips

Here are some quick tips to help you work out the details of your Hawaii vacation.

Flights

Most affordable flights to Hawaii are non-stop ones. Roundtrip fares from major cities in the continental U.S. usually start around $1000, but package flight-hotel deals are available. There are cheaper fares available during the spring or fall; they become more expensive during holidays and school vacations. If you can, book far in advance on EasyClickTravel, LastMinuteTravel or LMTClub. Also try to book flights mid-week rather than on the weekends for the cheapest fares.

Hotels

If you’re looking to splurge, there are plenty of luxury and mid-range hotels available all over Hawaii. For Honolulu, The Hyatt Regency on Waikiki Beach boasts stunning views, while the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort and Spa features excellent amenities and beach access. Those both are tried-and-true options both worth booking.

Food

Hawaii’s cuisine is flavorful and diverse, but dining out can quickly become a big chunk of your budget if you aren’t careful. Avoid dining in major tourist locations, where prices are always higher. Also avoid chain restaurants and instead eat where the locals eat; don’t be afraid to ask around to find the best places! Look for hole-in-the-wall or mom-and-pop restaurants, which often source local produce, are cheaper, and have the most delicious offerings anyway. Take advantage of lunch specials and eat a hearty lunch and a light dinner. If you are staying in a private vacation rental and have the option to cook for yourself, consider purchasing produce at local farmers’ markets, which are generally cheaper than grocery stores. Finally, be sure to carry water and snacks with you when sightseeing.

Angie Picardo is a writer at TravelNerd, a blog dedicated to helping you save money traveling to the destination of your dreams by comparing airport taxi options at over 72 airports.

Rising up from the desert over a century ago, the city of lights and action hosts famous shows, world-class golf and spa resorts, Zagat rated cuisine, 5-star hotels, and of course the thrill of the casinos.

Las Vegas is also known for the many drive through wedding chapels, and about 122,000 marriages are preformed there every year. Be sure to catch all the action after dark when the sides of many buildings light up to perform a dance of colors; some even have music set to them.

Watch a volcano erupt outside the Mirage, experience the water symphony of the Fountain Show at the Bellagio, or be serenaded through a gondola ride at the Venetian (be sure to look up at the intricately painted ceiling). Don’t forget to take a ride up to the Eiffel Tower observation deck where a panorama of the city unfolds itself for miles.

If you plan on spending most of your vacation shopping make sure you visit the Forum Shops next to Caesars Palace. Here you can window shop over 160 boutiques and experience fine dining all in one place. When night falls make sure to visit at least one of the six clubs located inside Caesars Palace. Clubs range from sophisticated jazz lounges to lively outdoor clubs.

The Venetian

The Venetian is a eco-friendly resort on the Las Vegas Strip with a unique Italian-themed design. The all-suite resort includes 19 international restaurants, a state-of-the-art casino, 5-acre pool deck and an Italian-style shopping mall.

Every suite at the Venetian Resort offers a spacious living room with a dining table, two 32-inch flat-screen TVs and free high-speed internet access. The large bathrooms offer marble counters and deluxe toiletries. A daily newspaper is also provided.

The Resort Venetian Hotel features 3 outdoor pools, a poolside bar and free access to the Canyon Ranch SpaClub gym. Four bars and lounges provide live nightly entertainment.

The Venetian Hotel’s indoor mall, Grand Canal Shoppes, boasts 80 boutique stores. Guests can stroll down the Italian styled streets or ride down the Grand Canal in an authentic Venetian gondola.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

Set in the center of the Strip, this unique resort provides an enchanting destination amid the attractions of Las Vegas. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is less than 5 miles from McCarran International Airport.

Diverse culinary offerings led by world-renowned chefs range from Italian and French to Asian and Mexican cuisines. Resort highlights include 3 distinct pool environments, a 100,000-square-foot casino, and a desert-inspired spa.

The 2,995-room resort, opened in 2010, features oversized, private terraces accessed via large, sliding glass doors. Bright, spacious interiors provide kitchenettes, multiple flat-screen TVs, and luxurious bathrooms.

Established as the city of San Francisco in 1847, the California Gold Rush in 1848 transformed the city into the largest city on the West Coast at the time. Today, this multi-layered city carries a mix of all kinds of people and cultures, and the neighborhoods display the same diversity. In the Financial District where Union Square is located, you’ll find the main shopping area and hotel district in very close proximity. At Fisherman’s Wharf, be sure to try some of the famous clam chowder and Dungeness crab at this ever thriving fishing industry. In the same area, you’ll hit upon Russian Hill, where the well known, crooked and striking Lombard Street is found, as well as North Beach, the city’s mini-Italy. Telegraph Hill, also nearby, is the area you’ll find Coit Tower. The Tenderloin is infamous for most of the crime and poverty found in San Francisco. Be sure to observe the gorgeous murals found in the Mission District, and come see the Castro to appreciate the center of gay life in the community.

The city of San Francisco is a well known lure for counterculture in the United States, mainly due to the many mass movements that have occurred there, giving it the reputation of being the liberal center of the States. In the 1950’s and 60’s, the San Francisco Renaissance was encouraged by the Beat Generation writers, and soon hippies gathered to Haight-Ashbury resulting in the famous Summer of Love and the Gay Rights Movement. The writers and artists who came to the area established the modern coffee house culture, and the social upheaval of the 60’s led San Francisco to become the center of liberal activism.

The mix of cultures and communities in this melting pot of an area has led to the emergence of a thriving artistic and active community, where acceptance and respect are major attitudes that most members value. Another positive feature of this city is the fact that the weather is good all year long. The winters are mild and so there’s really no time of the year that is unsuitable for a trip. So come to visit this amazing city, and be sure to give yourself plenty of time to visit all the wonderful attractions and hot spots it has to offer.

The bright rooms at The London Hyde Park are decorated with modern art and have Hypnos beds covered with Egyptian cotton sheets and thick duvets. Rooms include a flat-screen satellite TV, internet access and a work desk.

With wall-to-ceiling windows, The Arts Brasserie serves modern cuisine in stylish surroundings. Guests can enjoy a drink in the welcoming Arts Bar, which has a sun terrace overlooking Kensington Gardens.

Nearby Paddington Train Station offers excellent access to Heathrow Airport via the Heathrow Express 15-minute service. Oxford Street and West End theatres are a 10-minute Tube ride away.

One of our favorite hotels in Edinburgh is the Tune Hotel Haymarket, which is directly across the road from the entrance to Haymarket Rail Station and centrally located to all the main attractions in the city. Tune Hotel Haymarket is just a mere 15 minutes’ walk to Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street which is the main shopping street in Edinburgh. Other attractions include Edinburgh International Conference Centre (only 7 minutes’ walk away), Murrayfield Stadium and Edinburgh Zoo is just a short 8 minutes’ drive away.

Wyndham Garden Clearwater Beach hotel, which is located not far from the beautiful Tampa Bay, is nestled right on a charming and private 260-foot white sand beach. This hotel is a perfect blend of contemporary amenities with impeccable service for the ultimate Clearwater Beach getaway. The hotel is 15 miles from St Petersburg/Clearwater International Airport and 24 miles from Tampa International Airport, offering easy access to the area’s best family-friendly attractions, championship golf courses, shopping and sporting events.

The InterContinental Miami lets you discover a new dimension of sophisticated elegance. Set in the heart of downtown Miami’s thriving financial and business district, InterContinental Miami offers rich accommodations and breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay. From the dramatic 34-story marble exterior to the soaring atrium lobby, InterContinental Miami specializes in stylish flair.

The Hilton Atlanta is another hotel that boasts a central location in the heart of downtown Atlanta. It’s within a walking distance of some of the best attractions in the city, including the Georgia Aquarium, CNN Center and the Georgia World Congress Center. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is just a 15 minute drive from the Atlanta hotel.

Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead is set within the upscale uptown neighborhood of Buckhead. Renovated guestrooms include state-of-the-art Internet access, and sleek flat screen HDTVs with Roomlinx interactive iTV. You can also enjoy views of the Japanese Zen Garden.

Atlanta hotels are everything you can possibly want and more.