Hello September — Photo by Jumia Travel

Hurry! Once in September, you know the year is quickly closing in as the ember months (September, October, November and December) seem to fly away. The excitement mood sets in and people are unsettled; always wanting to move from place to place, perhaps due to the numerous festivities during the last quarter of the year. Hoteliers are optimistic of the season with expectations of increased bookings; some properties register as 'booked solid'. Recreational centers are usually packed in these four months as fun lovers go all the way to discard the year long burnout.

People's spending power increases as revelers finally get to make use of their savings particularly for the festive season; generally, currency circulation is on the high end. As a result, accommodation facilities such as hotels, apartments, camps and even self catering cottages strive to give the best services at the best and most affordable rates; to accommodate the needs of every client seeking a getaway during any of the ember months. Travel agents such as Jumia Travel offer rate discounts, to ensure that customers do not break the bank to achieve their dream vacation in the final leg of the year.

W hile the hype is high, travelers of the ember months are always advised to remain careful especially on the roads. Reports show an increased number of road crashes between the months of September and December, largely attributed to vehicular traffic since a lot of people are on the move; most of them at a breakneck speed. After a night of carousing in celebrations during the vacation, do not drive as your judgment is usually vague on the road from the alcohol. Have fun, enjoy every bit of the trip and return home in one piece and in readiness for the next move.

Superstitious myths associated with this period have also emerged over the years, some associated with an evil disquiet perhaps due to the high rate of crime too. Kidnappingcases and other fraudulent activities are also reported, with some crime reports attributing it to the urge by some lazy individuals; to acquire freebies hard earned by others to satisfy their festivity fancies.

I t is a time that re-awakens the urge to wander off to the unknown. For many, not even the anxiety will keep them from packing up and being on the move. For this reason, there is need to remember that another day awaits. Another itinerary has to be planned and therefore the need to ensure you travel and make merry responsibly. Spare some savings, for after the ember months are over, comes January with the 'money hangover' where most people find themselves down-and-out. Meanwhile, Happy Ember Months!