A holiday in September? Yes please! Raise your hand if you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram in August, feeling a pang of jealousy as your friends post envy-inducing photos of their sun-soaked vacations. Yeah, me too. Now raise your hand if you’ve been the one on holiday in Europe in August or July, and kind of hated it for so many reasons. Yes, me too. We’ve all been there, caught in the FOMO trap – the Fear Of Missing Out. Booking ourselves on holiday because everyone is going on vacation to Italy in August, and we don’t want to be the only ones not doing it.
But guess what? Having just spent two weeks in Venice in July, I am now convinced it’s time to not care about the FOMO frenzy and embrace a different kind of trend: JOMO – the Joy Of Missing Out.
Let’s be real, Summer travel, especially in popular European destinations like Italy, can be a bit of a circus. The crowds, the heat, the overpriced Aperitivo experience… it’s enough to make even the most zen traveller lose their cool. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend my vacation sipping a chilled glass of rosé on a peaceful terrace than elbowing my way through a sweaty throng of tourists.
What To Do Now
That’s where JOMO comes in. It’s the liberating feeling of knowing you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Away from the chaos, embracing the slower pace, and having authentic experiences that actually make you happy.
To quote mindfulness guru Deepak Chopra, “JOMO is the antidote to FOMO.” Embracing the joy of missing out helps us focus on what truly brings happiness, leaving us with a sense of contentment. Visiting Italy is always a memorable experience, but like most Julys, it can also be exhausting. Between the scorching temperatures, the lack of air conditioning in many restaurants and hotels, and the overwhelming crowds… it’s easy to feel drained.
Deciding on the best time to visit popular destinations
If you’re wondering the best time to visit places like Italy for a relaxing holiday, September should be at the top of your list. By this time, school is back in session, yet the weather remains warm and pleasant, without the sweltering heat of July and August. The milder climate makes sightseeing, exploring historic towns, and enjoying Italian cuisine far more comfortable.
Another advantage? Visiting Italy in September means you avoid peak summer crowds. Tourist hotspots are quieter, allowing you to enjoy a more authentic experience. On top of that, travel costs for flights, hotels, and activities typically start to drop, helping you maximise your travel budget in Italy. In short, September offers the perfect blend of sunshine, warmth, and affordability, all while giving you the chance to fully savour Italy’s beauty and culture at a slower, more joyful pace.
Read More: Is Visiting Venice Worth It Anymore?
Plus, another cool thing is, you get to witness the stunning transformation of nature as summer fades into fall. Think golden sunsets, crisp air, and vibrant foliage. Some places start to get those beautiful fall colours, while others are just recovering from the summer heat. So everything looks lush and vibrant. And don’t forget about the unique events and festivals that happen only in September! You could be at harvest celebrations, cultural festivals, food and wine events… there’s always something fun going on.
So, if you’ve been dreaming about your next vacation, especially in Europe, but are always put off by the crowds, September is your golden ticket. It’s your chance to escape the tourist hordes and experience a more authentic, intimate side of your chosen destination.
Imagine strolling through charming villages without having to jostle for space. Savouring a leisurely meal at a local bistro without fighting for a table. And how about truly immersing yourself in the local culture without feeling rushed or overwhelmed? September offers the luxury of time. Allowing you to linger over a café au lait in Paris. Explore hidden corners of Tuscany, or hike the breathtaking trails of the Scottish Highlands without the usual summer frenzy.
And oh yeah! Feeling so relaxed on your holiday in September, you’ll fully appreciate the beauty of JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out). Because truth be told, isn’t it better to sip that Aperol Spritz in a peaceful piazza? And especially surrounded by locals, rather than fighting for a selfie at a packed tourist attraction?
