This is somewhat of a vague question, but I was wonder if there was a traditional season for 'cheap' spring fares, before the pricey summer season starts. I guess I'm looking for when shoulder season to Spain is.

I know, for example, that in the fall there are usually fare sales for winter travel, up through mid-March or so. I'm wanting to go from the DC area to Madrid sometime in the April/May time period, though. Is this shoulder season? Are there traditionally sales sometime in Februrary or so for these fares?

And is $400 a typical DC-Madrid fare during the winter? That's what I seem to be finding online. I'm used to spending frequent flyer miles for my overseas travel. Might have to do that again next year.