When to visit in late spring to avoid school holidays

by eddie breslin
(Derry,Ireland)

We are couple in early 50s from Ireland want to stay when schools are not out,in late spring. What would be best time?

ANSWER
I'll have to answer that in two ways. Spring in the Gold Coast is September, October and November, whilst spring in your part of the world is March, April and May! Confusing I know! After twenty odd years living in Australia, its still not hardwired into my brain!

Gold Coast late spring would be October to November.

There are school holidays from mid September to mid October and none during November. However! And a big HOWEVER, Australia's graduating school leavers (schoolies) descend upon the Gold Coast and in particular Surfers Paradise from about the 22nd November onwards.

Another consideration at this time of the year is Gold Coast Indy 23rd to 26th October 2008 - these dates will change next year.

The longest window of opportunity is from after the Indy (assuming that doesn't interest you) to around the 20th November before the schoolies arrive.

The weather is great at this time of the year, although the humidity does start to build during November.

For more information about each month check out October and November to give you an idea of weather and what's on.

If you are planning on staying in the hinterland then things like the schoolies shouldn't bother you too much. This is a great time of year to be visiting places like O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat.

Now - if you mean your spring - we are talking March, April and May.

School holidays are usually around the Easter period. If you want to check exact dates for each year check my School Holidays page. This is updated for each year as soon as the information is firmed up by each of the State Governments. Each state in Australia has different school holidays!

Unless Easter is really late - school holidays are usually over by around 20th April (although do check as it really does move around!) and there are no school holidays during May.

Weather during April and May is usually pretty good too, much cooler than our summer months, but very nice!

So, as messy and complicated as the answer was, I hope it helps you and certainly points you in the right direction for information and dates to give you something to plan around.

Annie
www.gold-coast-australia-travel-tips.com

PS if you have any more questions, you can use the comments box.