The trick to visiting a popular destination in the off-peak season is to find the window of time when good weather, lack of crowds and low prices combine to create the perfect vacation experience.

Before you decide to cut into your life savings for an African safari, consider the options available much closer to home.

For travelers who want to get completely off the beaten path and experience nature up close and unfiltered, these islands should be at the top of the list.

Volcanoes are often found in remote corners of the Earth, so hopping a flight for a few days of lava-viewing usually isn't possible. Luckily, there are some obvious headliners and a few under-the-radar volcanoes that are accessible and spectacular.