Whether you're booking a family break for half term or you're seeking a five-day getaway to escape the chill, here are the places you should be looking at. We can't guarantee sun, but there's a very good chance you'll encounter blue skies, beach-friendly weather and warm seas.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
With October temperatures consistently hitting around 37°C you can be sure to escape colder climes with a holiday to Dubai. This dazzling and rapidly evolving city is a true marvel to behold, thanks to breath-taking architecture, luxurious ocean vistas and a tangible sense of adventure in the air. If you need a thrilling escape from work or the cooling autumn weather, then look no further than Dubai.
Florida
If you’re searching for a holiday with sky blue waters and leafy palm trees as their backdrop, Florida offers a true change of scene, particularly for those looking for a sunny October getaway. Temperatures hold firm above 30°C throughout autumn, leaving you free to enjoy such renowned attractions as Disney World and Universal Studios without a care in the world. Florida’s range of golden beaches, bordering both the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean, are also worth seeking out for a spot of well-earned relaxation.
Las Vegas
October is an ideal time to experience the vibrant, neon-lit marvels of the Las Vegas strip, with temperatures soaring as high as 37°C throughout the month. This truly is a holiday destination like no other, thanks to an abundance of casinos, live shows and fine dining on the strip. Plus, just a short drive away, downtown Las Vegas offers a side to the city that is rarely portrayed in movies and on television, and is well worth exploring.
Cancún
If luxury takes your fancy, the Mexican city of Cancún is a safe bet for October, thanks to its Zona Hotelera district. This large beachfront strip spans 14 miles, and is populated by world-class hotels, impeccable dining locations and bustling nightlife. Immerse yourself in autumn temperatures that hold firm at around 31°C as you browse Cancún’s rich selection of boutiques in the famed Luxury Avenue mall, snorkel off the coast, or simply unwinding by the pool.
Canary Islands
Found northwest of the African continent, the Spanish Canary islands play home to an archipelago of sunbaked havens – any one of which would make for an unforgettable October getaway. Tenerife remains a popular choice for holidaymakers, with autumn temperature highs of 29°C, and no shortage of beach resorts and wild nightlife. For a less hectic break, the volcanic island of Lanzarote offers a slightly slower pace, and blistering sunshine.
Bangkok
The weather in Bangkok takes a brilliant turn towards the end of October, with consistent highs of 31°C. Thailand’s capital boasts glittering cityscapes that may feel familiar to western travellers, melding faraway exotic sights and attractions. Be sure to take a boat ride down lush waterways that flow past grand, stunningly-lit temples right in the city centre, before taking in Bangkok’s rich street food culture. This is a city of positive contrasts that make for a memorable holiday.
Cyprus
Found in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is a true melting pot of culture influenced by colonial rule, and centuries of settlers from across the world. While on holiday you can expect temperatures sitting comfortably above 30°C throughout October, which makes for the ideal setting when exploring the many historical castles and mountain villages Cyprus has to offer. Visitors seeking a resort experience by the beach are also well catered for, thanks to the golden shores of Serena Bay by Protaras and Mackenzie Beach in Larnaca.
Havana
With autumn highs of over 30°C, the Cuban capital of Havana is an energetic and colourful holiday destination steeped in the spirit of rebellion. You will find live salsa music flowing through the air around every corner – a fitting soundtrack for the city’s many art galleries, surfing spots and restaurants serving up delectable fusion dishes inspired by American, Spanish and Latino culture.
Jordan
One of the Middle East’s most flourishing and welcoming of holiday destinations, Jordan is a place where history and modern intrigue collide. Throughout autumn, local temperatures range between the mid-twenties to over 34°C, setting a perfect scene for a day trip to the ancient city of Petra or the impressive Wadi Mujib nature reserve. Jordan’s capital of Amman is bustling and modern, but retains the history that makes this “cradle of civilisation” so endearing to begin with, and is a must for holidaymakers.
Marrakesh
Dubbed the “Red City”, a trip to Marrakesh is an ideal way to escape the cold autumn and explore a new culture while basking in the 30°C heat. The Moroccan capital is vast and growing at a rapid rate, thanks to an influx of wealthy westerners and businesses. No trip would be complete without a visit to the city’s open air markets – or “souqs” – which are treasure troves of handmade craft, fabrics and curios from across the region. It’s worth seeking out the “ville nouvelle”, or new town, to experience a wealth of fine dining, art installations and modern Marrakesh culture.
Santo Domingo
One of the Caribbean’s oldest cities, Santo Domingo plays home to “Zona Colonial,” a World Heritage Site protected by UNESCO. Expect October temperatures of around 31°C as you walk around this centre of historical architecture and trendy diners and bars. Go further afield to the stunning Playa Rincon beach, which is lined with swaying palms and sun beds, or head inland to visit Constanza, a small country town encircled by some of the region’s tallest mountains.
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