Chase the Sun: Your Passport to Perpetual Summer in October!
Dubrovnik, Croatia: A Serene Adriatic Interlude
In October, the historic walled city of Dubrovnik transforms into a tranquil haven, shedding its peak-season throngs. The limestone alleys of the Old Town, usually bustling with tourists, regain a peaceful charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and soaking in the cinematic atmosphere. Locals reclaim their city, enjoying unhurried conversations and exquisite meals in restaurants no longer plagued by queues. The air fills with the scents of autumn harvest—truffles, olives, and late-season figs abound in vibrant markets. Whether ascending ancient walls at dusk or embarking on a secluded boat trip to the Elafiti Islands, October provides an intimate experience of this beloved Croatian gem. For accommodation, Hotel Excelsior offers royal-worthy coastal luxury, while Ninion Dubrovnik provides a secluded boutique experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Cairo, Egypt: Pyramids and Warm Breezes
While often associated with intense heat, Cairo in October offers a delightfully temperate climate, with temperatures hovering in the pleasant high 70s Fahrenheit. This makes it an opportune time to explore the iconic Great Pyramids, located just a short drive away, without the overwhelming crowds of winter. Beyond the ancient wonders, Egypt's capital boasts a dynamic cultural scene waiting to be uncovered. Visitors are advised to carry a portable fan and sunscreen, embracing the sun's gentle embrace. For a refreshing escape, a traditional felucca sailboat ride down the Nile provides a cool, serene perspective of the city. Consider the Kempinski Nile Hotel for a luxurious riverside stay, complete with a rooftop pool and a spa, or the Marriott Mena House for unparalleled views of the pyramids, making it one of Cairo's most exquisite hotels.
Limassol, Cyprus: Coastal Charms and Ancient Wonders
Limassol, nestled on Cyprus's glittering southern coast, presents an exquisite autumnal retreat for those yearning for sun. Beyond its pristine beaches, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Enjoy relaxed evening meals at charming harbor-side eateries or marvel at opulent superyachts in the modern marina while sipping cocktails. Essential excursions include the historic Limassol Castle, leisurely walks through the old town, and a journey to the ancient Greek city-state of Kourion. As the midday sun wanes, indulge in local wines at surrounding vineyards or unwind by the sea at popular spots like Aphrodite Beach. Parklane Limassol, a short drive from the city, offers polished rooms and luxurious villas, perfect for a pampered escape with private pools, perhaps enticing you to extend your beach time over extensive sightseeing.
Antalya, Turkey: Mediterranean Tranquility
By October, Turkey's Mediterranean coast in Antalya exhales, offering a serene and unhurried atmosphere as summer crowds dissipate. The sun remains high, casting a soft, golden glow over the tranquil Gulf. Mornings are ideal for sunbathing on Konyaaltı Beach and savoring Turkish coffee in local cafes. Despite the lingering warmth, midday shade is often welcome. Dine under vibrant bougainvillea in Kaleiçi, the city's old quarter, and indulge in sticky baklava while admiring Ottoman-era mansions. Markets are overflowing with fresh pomegranates, figs, and olive oil, inviting self-catering culinary adventures. The Maxx Royal Kemer Resort provides a luxurious setting with private beaches and elegant accommodations, serving as an ideal base for exploring nearby towns and attractions.
Costa Brava, Spain: Secret Coves and Medieval Towns
Forget the bustling resorts; October reveals a different Costa Brava—one of secluded coves, golden beaches, and charming medieval towns that the Catalans prefer to keep to themselves. Explore Begur with its Cuban-style residences, close to the Caribbean-esque Aiguablava Beach and the Amalfi-like Sa Tuna. Venture inland to Peratallada, a picturesque village with streets straight out of a movie set and exceptional dining options. A brief drive away, Girona's Old Town, featured in Game of Thrones, offers both historical grandeur and culinary delights, including the renowned El Celler De Can Roca. Who needs Barcelona when such hidden treasures await? Hotel Villa Gala in Cadaqués, with its charming white and blue aesthetic, and Hostal Empúries, nestled in a pristine cove, offer delightful stays.
Taghazout, Morocco: From Surf Haven to Chic Retreat
While Morocco's vibrant cities are captivating, the sun-kissed Atlantic coast, particularly Taghazout, offers a more relaxed allure. This sleepy fishing village is evolving from a surfer's paradise into a chic, bohemian escape. Surfing remains central, with numerous 'surf and yoga' camps attracting visitors year-round. However, an influx of stylish new accommodations like Amouage, with its ocean-facing infinity pool and unique Berber-meets-industrial design, and Munga Guesthouse, a masterclass in 'driftwood chic,' elevates the experience. Cafe Mouja caters to the health-conscious with smoothies and avocado breakfasts. The 15-room Munga Guesthouse, with its Afro-inspired decor and inviting indoor-outdoor dining, is a perfect choice for those seeking a laid-back, sun-drenched retreat.
Sicily, Italy: A Golden Autumnal Dream
In October, Sicily transforms into a golden, unhurried paradise, shedding the scorching summer heat and its accompanying crowds. Sun worship becomes a serene affair under a gentle glow. Beaches are notably quieter, offering ample space for couples and families. The Mediterranean Sea remains invitingly warm, perfect for unhurried swims, especially around the pristine Aeolian Islands, which beckon for extended exploration. The island is perfumed by citrus groves, and its Baroque towns, like Palermo with its architectural splendor, seem to breathe a sigh of relief after the summer rush. Occasional rainy days towards the end of the season are best spent wandering through the capital's narrow streets, followed by convivial meals in local restaurants. Enjoy cappuccinos at a leisurely pace in Ragusa or Modica's cobbled piazzas before heading to inland vineyards, where the harvest season unfolds. Oenophiles will delight in savoring the island's unique flavors amidst the vines. For luxurious stays, the classic Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo offers stunning pool views, while Monaci Delle Terre Nere provides a stylish country escape near Mount Etna.
Valletta, Malta: Island Charms and Historical Grandeur
Situated in the heart of the Mediterranean, between Sicily and the Tunisian coast, Malta enjoys abundant sunshine, even in December. Its capital, Valletta, is a captivating city of honey-colored forts, winding cobbled streets, and sun-drenched squares. Discover hidden wine bars, churches adorned with Caravaggio masterpieces, and a burgeoning collection of high-design hotels. Being a waterfront city, Valletta also offers easy access to sandy beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and mesmerizing blue lagoons just beyond its historic walls. The key to enjoying Malta is to take it slow and savor every moment. The 66 Saint Paul's offers an affordable yet stylish palazzo experience in Valletta, complete with a rooftop pool.
Samos, Greece: An Undiscovered Aegean Gem
Despite its undeniable beauty and rich history, the Greek island of Samos remains a relatively undiscovered treasure, often overshadowed by more frequented islands like Kos and Rhodes. However, October reveals Samos's true charm as a shoulder-season destination, where the rustling of olive groves replaces the clamor of late-night parties. Days begin with refreshing swims in the crystal-clear waters of Tsamadou Beach, followed by leisurely strolls through sleepy fishing villages such as Kokkari, where terracotta-roofed villas overlook the sea. Coffee-sipping often transitions into wine tasting as the day progresses. Samos's rugged mountains and hidden coves reward adventurous travelers willing to explore. Turn off your phone and wander along hilltop paths, uncovering ancient ruins that whisper tales of the past. As the sun sets, savor grilled octopus and fresh figs, then relax in a local bar, listening to the gentle lapping of waves. Casa Cook Samos offers stunning accommodations, with stone buildings arranged around multiple swimming pools, mirroring the island's traditional villages.
Las Vegas, Nevada: Desert Oasis of Entertainment
For an escape to a truly otherworldly destination, Las Vegas is an unbeatable choice. The Nevada desert remains scorching in October, and the city's iconic Strip pulses with energy year-round. Begin your Vegas experience with creative cocktails at the Chandelier Bar in the Cosmopolitan, a bar uniquely nestled within a colossal chandelier. For dinner, indulge in a lavish meal at Picasso at the Bellagio, where an opulent dining room showcases original artworks by Pablo Picasso, offering a menu featuring wagyu, lobster, and foie gras. Resorts World Las Vegas, the first new resort on the Strip in over a decade, offers a fresh experience, while the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas provides a serene, gambling-free sanctuary several floors above the vibrant street-level madness.
Bali, Indonesia: Spiritual Beaches and Lush Jungles
While Bali's allure is well-known, finding its untouched natural beauty amidst growing popularity requires venturing east, where traditional villages, pristine beaches, and peaceful water palaces thrive, undisturbed by the southern coast's hustle. This less-traveled region also hosts some of Bali's finest hotels, such as Amankila. Meaning 'peaceful hill,' Amankila lives up to its name as a serene hilltop sanctuary, boasting a magnificent three-tiered infinity pool, thatched-roof suites perched on stilts, and a private beach. Surrounded by an expanse of lush greenery and the azure sea, it embodies the idyllic Bali of your dreams. Another exceptional choice is Hoshinoya Bali near Ubud, which seamlessly blends Japanese minimalist design with local traditions, nestled on a hilltop amid verdant rice fields and dense jungle, offering a truly tranquil escape.
Havana, Cuba: Timeless Charm and Vibrant Culture
The captivating capital of Havana stands as one of the world's most romantic cities, offering a perfect starting point for exploring Cuba's profound charm. Beyond its iconic vintage cars, grand yet gracefully aged architecture, and salsa-infused clubs, Havana reveals a thriving contemporary scene. Discover independent boutiques spearheaded by innovative young artists and an increasing number of chic guesthouses that are revitalizing the city's hospitality landscape. Gardens Havana, a magnificently restored townhouse near the lively Plaza del Cristo, offers a sophisticated base for exploring the city, reflecting a blend of historical elegance and modern creativity championed by its New Yorker owners.
The Azores, Portugal: Nature's Untamed Masterpiece
The Azores, thrillingly elemental and deeply connected to nature, beckon explorers to a lost world. Though part of Portugal, these islands lie 1,000 miles from the mainland, gloriously cast adrift in the mid-Atlantic. Here, visitors, including savvy Lisboetas and surfers, discover a landscape of mesmerizing blue-green crater lakes, bubbling mud pools, and waterfalls cascading down lush green cliffs. It's akin to an Icelandic dreamscape, but with a subtropical climate ensuring year-round sunshine—a land of fire without the ice. São Miguel, the largest island, maintains a hushed, uncharted feel, yet offers modern comforts. Consider the wellness-focused Furnas in the hot-springs town or the Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort, secluded amidst tea plantations with magnificent sea views. Sul Villas, on São Miguel's coast, features 12 rooms with ocean views and a saltwater pool, perfect for unwinding.
Austin, Texas: Southern Charm Meets Bohemian Cool
Austin, once a modest college town, has transformed into a major Texan success story, now mentioned alongside prominent cities like Dallas and Houston. Despite its growth, Austin has commendably preserved its intimate, small-town atmosphere and quirky essence. Visitors can indulge in authentic Texas barbecue, explore vintage shops, and hike through numerous green spaces, all without the sweltering heat that typically blankets the city during summer months. This makes October an ideal time to experience Austin's unique blend of culture and outdoor activities. For accommodation, Liz Lambert's Bunkhouse group offers several revamped motels across the city; Hotel Magdalena stands out as a particular favorite, embodying the city's distinctive charm and hospitality.
Trancoso, Brazil: Simple Pleasures, Unforgettable Escape
Dubbed the 'Brazilian Tulum,' Trancoso offers pleasures far simpler and more authentic than its comparison suggests. It's the absence of pretense that draws São Paulo's elite, along with celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Naomi Campbell, to this languid clifftop village on the Bahian coast. Here, you won't find grand resorts or velvet-roped clubs, but rather a scattering of unpretentious restaurants spilling onto the village green, and a magnificent beach fringed with swaying coconut palms and ochre bluffs. The hottest bar in town serves cocktails from a charming old wooden boat, embodying the village's laid-back ethos. While high season (Christmas and New Year's) brings crowds, visiting at any other time allows you to truly make Trancoso your own, experiencing its tranquil beauty and understated luxury.
ABC Islands, Caribbean: Hurricane-Free Paradise
For those who crave intense heat, October in the Caribbean's ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) offers an ideal escape. Safely situated outside the hurricane belt, these islands promise the quintessential Caribbean experience: brochure-perfect blue seas and expansive white-sand beaches, all without the severe weather typically associated with the season. Aruba caters to those seeking all-inclusive luxury, while Bonaire is a relaxed haven for diving enthusiasts. However, Curaçao offers a unique charm with its rows of vibrant Dutch houses and colonial-style hotels, injecting a distinct European flair into this tropical paradise. And rest assured, no one will bat an eye if your drink matches the sea's enchanting blue. The Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort in Aruba provides an adults-only sanctuary, Buddy Dive Resort in Bonaire is a diver's dream, and Sandals Royal Curaçao exemplifies top-tier all-inclusive luxury.
Melbourne, Australia: Shoulder Season Sophistication
October marks the sweet spot of Melbourne's shoulder season, making it an excellent time to visit. Days are pleasantly sunny without being overly hot, the city and its beaches are less crowded, and travel costs are generally more favorable. Many consider Melbourne Australia's coolest city, celebrated for its cutting-edge coffee culture, diverse food scene, and vibrant art landscape. For a unique stay an hour south of the city, the Jackalope Hotel, nestled within a 27-acre vineyard on the Mornington Peninsula, offers a luxurious escape that combines sophisticated design with natural beauty.
La Gomera, Canary Islands: A Hiker's Hidden Gem
La Gomera, often considered the 'secret' Canary Island, stands in stark contrast to its more bustling winter-sun counterparts. This understated and secluded island is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, boasting spectacular hiking trails that wind through lush jungle valleys and ascend rugged cliffs. Accessible only by ferry from Tenerife, it offers a serene escape from crowded resorts, trading them for tranquil villages, intricate paths, and charming rural boutiques. While not a typical 'fly-and-flop' destination, October's ideal walking weather guarantees sunny expeditions for dedicated hikers. Furthermore, there's ample opportunity for relaxation, joining locals at harborside seafood restaurants or wandering among the pastel-painted houses of the capital, San Sebastián. The historic Parador de la Gomera offers a beautiful courtyard garden and a stunning pool with sea views, providing a perfect base for exploration.