Four Fall 2015 Getaways To Inspire

rockhouse-parlourWhen the long days get a little shorter, breezes get a little cooler and the leaves start to look a little more yellow—you know it's time to say goodbye to summer and welcome the fall season. But while most may mourn the end of Summer Fridays and beachy weekends, traveling women know that autumn is one of the best times to see the world minus the summer crowds and higher rates. Take advantage with these four "idea starters" for a memorable fall getaway that will leave you more money in your pocket and time to enjoy what everyone else tried to cram in over the summer.The Chill Bestie Getaway: Negril, JamaicaWhile it may be a go-to destination for honeymooning and anniversary-ing couples, Negril's Rockhouse Hotel & Spa (above) is probably one of the most underrated chill spots for a couple of close friends looking to do absolutely nothing in style. It was this sentiment that drew me to the western Jamaica property last fall, when rates dip as low as $95/night, which leaves more money to splurge on one of their famous spa treatments and cocktails to compliment your sun sessions. Relive my experience with our review and then see for yourself. spicemarket-istanbul-turkeThe Solo Culinary Adventure: Istanbul, TurkeyIf you ask anyone who has ever been to Istanbul what their favorite experience was, something food related is probably going to come out. Every region of Turkey has it's own culinary flavor, but Istanbul is where centuries of cross-cultural trade and culinary influence converge in it's famed spice markets and restaurants for a truly unique, multi-sensory experience. Indulge in it with your own tastebuds during the fall when the crowds disappear, hotel rates drop and the weather shines. Culinary immersions like Turkish Flavours and Istanbul Walks are a great way to get to know the city, make friends and indulge in Turkish/Ottoman cuisine through a local lens. Inkwell-2-parlourThe Lovers Rock Away: Martha's Vineyard, MassachusettsA weekend...or week in the country can do wonders for any over-worked soul, but for the couple looking to get lost in their surroundings and each other, time well spent in Martha's Vineyard is the best prescription. Like many east coast vacation hubs, fall is when the crowds scatter and you can really see what this tiny Massachusetts island has to offer. Make the historical Shearer Cottage or chic Oaks Bluff Inn* your home base and get lost on foot or by bicycle as cars are limited on the island. Great New England cuisine, casual fun and a wealth of African American history and even a potential Barack and Michelle sighting are yours to explore and enjoy.*Black owned 11eaf56d62_album-bresil31The Brasil Crew Connection: Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro + SalvadorAs seasons change, they also flip for our southern neighbors, which present a unique opportunity for any group of friends looking to try something new. In Brasil, our Fall season is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of Brasil's cheap spring rates before the summer and Carnival season begins and prices skyrocket. Start in the south with the cosmopolitan grit of Sao Paulo for amazing street art, hip-hop and jazz performances, sushi and shopping. After a few days, jump on a flight to Rio de Janeiro for it's famed beaches, nightclubs, Carioca delicacies and legendary carnival schools as they practice for February—ask a friend to ask a friend for tickets to a practice. Finally for a culture fix, head one more stop north to Brasil's cultural capital, Salvador do Bahia for breathtaking art, dance, street food and views in the spiritual and cultural hub of black Brasil. You will notice how temperatures, culinary styles and cultural demographics will shift in each city, all before the throng of crowds arrive.