History is filled with many beautiful and desirable destinations. Yet unfortunately, not everyone has the resources for a trip to Ancient Greece or elaborate futuristic resorts. We can’t all meet William Shakespeare or Millard Fillmore, no matter how much we might want to. But being on a budget doesn’t mean your adventures have to lack excitement—avoid the tourist traps and consider going to some of the following places for your next getaway.
Black Death-era England
Don’t let this one scare you: plenty of tourists avoid traveling here because they have misconceptions about safety. But that just means rates will be cheaper for you and everything will be less crowded! Safety shouldn’t be a problem; only about 25-60% of England’s population was actually killed by the disease. Check out the dashing knights and gorgeous castles, both worth braving the long lines of plague-infested people dying in the streets. Exploring the sites and dodging the disease will be an unforgettable adventure for the whole family, especially grandparents who are most susceptible to the infection!
July 4, 1776
Skip the crowds at Independence Hall and instead head to Connecticut, the most exciting place in all of the newly independent nation, to witness 1776’s best kept secret: the birth of future Ohio governor Ethan Allen Brown. You’ll be glad you did: the birth of a child is even beautiful than the birth of our country.
Dallas, Texas on November 23, 1963
Going back to save JFK is one of the most desired getaways for many time travelers, second only to killing Hitler. Yet that also means that fares to Dallas on November 22, 1963 are sure to be through the roof as wannabe Kennedy-saviors flood the city. Spare yourself the trouble and go the next day instead; traveling off-season is a great way to save some money. This off-peak destination in time is sure to be steeply discounted, so go after the rush of other travelers and have yourself a great time in the third largest city in Texas!
One Month in the Past
You don’t have to go far from home to have a relaxing, memorable trip. Take a little break from the present by journeying one month backward in time; you’ll feel right at home. Use the time to explore all the little things about your hometown and your life that you never got to see, and do all the things you never got around to finishing one month ago!
— KD ’19, Illustration by KG ’19