But, local schools are back (usually at the end of January or the beginning of February), so you will see a noticeable reduction of visitors at popular beaches, lakes, rivers, and other major attractions. February is also a better time to camp in New Zealand, because campsites won't be so crowded with local families. Always be aware of local laws regarding 'freedom camping', as this is not welcome in many parts of the country. If you plan to cross the Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton on the Interislander Ferry in February, book tickets in advance. Although February is generally less busy than January, it's still peak season with foreign visitors. Accommodation costs will be at peak season highs in February. Where to Go Everywhere in New Zealand is accessible in February, so where you decide to go should depend on your own preferences. If you want to spend time at the beach, Northland and the Coromandel Peninsula are the best options in the North Island, and the area around Nelson, the Abel Tasman National Park, and Golden Bay are the best options in the South Island.
WASHINGTON, DC — After a year spent cooped up, folks are getting outdoors more and eager to travel this summer. The Farmers' Almanac has released its much anticipated 2021 summer forecast, and the weather for DC and northern Virginia is predicted to be stormy and sizzling from mid-summer to late in the season. © Shutterstock Will we have scorching heat or soggy skies? Here's what the DC and Virginia summer 2021 weather forecast is expected to bring, according to the Farmers Almanac. The Farmer's Almanac, created in 1818, is predicting the Washington, D. C., region can expect "showery and sizzling" weather in mid-summer. What does that description mean? Officially, summer starts on June 20, so there's plenty of time to see what sort of weather patterns set in. The Farmers' Almanac predicts that summer temperatures will rise above normal for about two-thirds of the country, especially in the South and East. Typically, the hottest summer weather occurs in last July or early August; this year's hottest temperatures could linger into late August and early September.