The month of October brings with it cooler weather, Halloween and of course the usual premature Christmas hype. As the days start getting shorter, we sit there casting our minds back to summer and maybe to that wonderful holiday you had. For most, a holiday during the summer is the only holiday of the year. However, October provides some great holiday options and with it, some really good deals.

While it’s true this time of year comes with more uncertain weather, if your holiday craving is just too strong, there are some destinations out there that are still great to visit this time of year. We take a look at some of the best:

Dubai

dubai

Guaranteed heat all year round, with temperatures in October averaging 36°C/97°F, Dubai is the perfect destination to escape the cold. Plenty of things to see and do, including the Burj al Arab, Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall and Palm Jumeirah, combined with pristine white sandy beaches mean you’ll definitely not find yourself twiddling your thumbs. The countless luxurious accommodation options combined with a host of flight deals to Dubai you can find this time of year make this city a great holiday option.

If you’re into cars, you should know that many people travel to Dubai so they can drive luxury cars. For example, you could be renting a Rolls-Royce to explore Dubai and its surroundings.

French Polynesia

french polynesia

While a little bit more far-flung than your usual European destination, the cluster of 118 islands scattered across the South Pacific make a great option if you are really looking to escape. After a lengthy flight, you are rewarded with stunning beaches, palm trees, beautiful clear waters and some of the most luxurious hotels you will find anywhere in the world, not to mention a load of sunshine this time of year. Bora Bora and Tahiti are perhaps the most well-known outcrops, but each island has its own beauty.

Cyprus

Cyprus

If you’re looking to top up the tan before winter firmly sets in, where better to do it than the Mediterranean’s third largest island. Not only does it play host to some amazing beaches, but you’ll find the wealth of history Cyprus has to offer intriguing.

With temperatures around 25°C/77°F, you won’t be short of sunshine during your stay. The likes of Limassol and Paphos really show off the beauty of the coast, while historical sites such as Kourion and Nea Paphos are fascinating to visit.

Explore the best places to live in Cyprus.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

italy amalfi

Short flight times and high average temperatures (around 21°C/70°F this time of year) are dwarfed in importance by the sheer beauty this destination offers.

Italy’s most fabled stretch of coastline situated along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, it is a popular destination throughout the year.

Beautiful towns such as Positano, Ravello and Amalfi itself reflect on the stunning blue waters. From the rugged shoreline to the pastel-colored buildings, it’s all stunning.

Hawaii

hawaii

Comprising of eight islands in total, the mid-Pacific archipelago is the perfect destination to visit this time of year. If you don’t mind the long flight time, from Europe at least, Hawaii boasts so much to see and do. Head to the “the Big Island” where you’ll find the state capital, Honolulu. The neighborhood of Waikiki is its center for dining, nightlife and shopping, famed for its iconic crescent beach backed by palms and high-rise hotels. The island of Maui is where you’ll find some of the best surf spots. Enjoy average temperatures of 29°C/84°F throughout October.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

lanzarote

The Canary Islands are probably Europe’s most reliable destination for sun this time of year, with temperatures averaging 25°C/77°F. The fourth biggest of the group of islands, Lanzarote offers relaxed sun-soaked holidays in its three main resorts, Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca. The visual drama in the volcanic landscape of Timanfaya National Park is another draw to the island, as well as the vibe of the bars and restaurants you can find in the capital Arrecife.

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015. She is been living abroad since 2014. Originally Canadian, she has been living and working online in many destinations around the world. She is passionate about traveling, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit.

She has traveled extensively in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. She is now living in Thailand.


☑ Book your flight: Who said you won’t be able to find cheap flights? My top saving tip is flexibility. If you're flexible, you should be able to find a cheaper flight. Check out Skyscanner or Google Flights for the hottest deals.

☑ Book your accommodation: Want the comfort of being at home or the luxury of a hotel? I love using Vrbo and Booking.com for those very reasons. If you're a solo traveler, Hostelworld offers a wide variety of hostels you should take a look at. Alternatively, if you're a budget traveler, sign up for Worldpackers to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work.

☑ Rent a car or an RV: Make your trip more comfortable by renting a car with DiscoverCars.com. This website allows you to compare car rentals around the world. If you're traveling in the United States, find an RV rental on RVshare.

☑ Stay safe: Travel mishaps happen – so, better be safe than sorry by covering your back with travel medical insurance. I would suggest SafetyWing, Genki or Heymondo as they offer the best rates, especially for long-term travelers.

☑ Pack the essentials: Universal charger, check; power bank, check; passport, check! What else could you forget? I've put together this ultimate packing list just for you!

☑ Do you need a visa? If you aren't sure if you need a visa, it’s highly recommended for you to double-check. You can use iVisa - it's super useful and easy to use.

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