MOST READ TRAVEL
September, October, November– the fall months are creeping in and summer is fizzling out.
But if you're already bemoaning the end of vacation season (though summer officially ends September 21), leave none of it to chance and book a trip to a destination that guarantees balmy, sunny weather. Jackets and coats can stay in the closet that little bit longer. Sandals, swimsuits and pool time, we’re not letting go just yet.
Ready to chase the sun? Here’s where to travel for guaranteed fall sunshine.
Malta
For rich history and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, head to one of Europe’s Capitals of Culture 2018, Malta. Velvet season here is September and October when daytime temperatures hit about 79 degrees and water is almost equally warm (75 degrees). September 21 marks the country's Independence Day, so time your travels right and join in the jacket-free street celebrations.
Vietnam & Laos
The days are moving towards dry season right now, fall sees increasingly warm sunny days and green landscapes left by the previous rains are peppering the lush South East Asian hotspots over the next few months. Now's the time for a scenic ride through Vietnam's hidden countryside or lazing away the warm days poolside in Laos' new Rosewood hotel. Or both.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Two towns at the south tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula is where you’ll find this sun-drenched beachy haven. Fall is the sweet spot for those looking for peace and quiet as the holiday tourists are yet to come to the popular destination—and average daily temperatures stay sizzling above 80 degrees.
Sicily, Italy
If truffle hunting, wine tasting, and helicopter tours over Mount Etna and the Aeolian islands sound like your kind of extended summer adventures, make a beeline for Italy’s southern coast. An especially idyllic extended summer escape is Sicily. Architecture fiends head to the sun-drenched towns of Ragusa, Noto, Syracuse, and Ortigia—where Baroque design rules the landscape.
Melbourne, Australia
Hit the buzzing laneways and outdoor brunch spots of trendy Melbourne come late October as Australian summer kicks into gear and temperatures near 70 degrees. Or for a dose of nature, pack your swimming gear and head northwest of the city to reach the beautiful mineral springs in Daylesford.
Cape Town, South Africa
Come October, safari lodges in South Africa are quieter and the foliage less dense, making it easy to spot the Big Five. Also, with temperatures averaging 70 degrees, it's the perfect time for a relaxing beach day. And don’t miss Cape Town’s Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa while you’re there.
Morocco
The sizzling August heat is winding down (Marrakech can get to 120+ degrees in summer) and conditions in this majestic country are magnificent come fall. Whether it's city and souk explorations in Marrakech or coastal strolls in Essaouira, the time to go is now.
Mauritius, Indian Ocean
When isn’t there a good time to visit Mauritius? Our fall is springtime on the island, after a long, warm winter—you're guaranteed no rain, and humidity is non-existent, making it the best time of year for a visit. For panoramic views of the historic Cap Malheureux tea plantation stay at one of the world’s most unique hotels, The Bubble Lodge.
California
Now is when the savvy traveler plans the classic California road trip. San Francisco's chilly winds and fog disappear, and Los Angeles, which is blessed with good weather all year round, sheds the influx of summer crowds too. And with a flurry of new hotel openings, the best stays are ripe for the picking.
