Where to go in October
As we get deeper into autumn, you might notice your feet get a little itchier. After all, it’s when we might want to escape the impending winter season ahead of us. It doesn’t necessarily mean we’re craving pure sunshine – although there are plenty of places with guaranteed great weather for those who are after it. More than anything, a holiday is something to look forward to and keep us going through the darkening nights, and it’s nice timing that there’s a half-term at the end of the month.
From white-sand beaches to Hallowe’en festivities, there’s so much to travel for in October. Here are our favourite destinations.
Cadiz, Spain
For a quick jaunt to somewhere a bit warmer and sunnier (and daytime for longer), try Cadiz in the south west of Spain. In the heart of Andalusia region, it’s said to be the oldest city in Europe, having been established in 1100 BC. An amble around the city will tell the story of its long and eventful history: it’s laden with historical buildings from the Roman Theatre built in 1AD, its fortress and castle, to its magnificent gold-topped cathedral, created with both baroque and neoclassical architecture.
There are beaches to relax on if the weather reaches its average high of 23C. Its coastal location also means that fish features heavily in its tapas – try the local delicacy of pescaíto frito: battered and fried white fish, served with a tangy wedge of lemon. A frosty glass of beer is optional.
Mauritius
If you’re after a suntan holiday, Europe will be cooling down so it’s wise to look further afield. And happily, Mauritius comes into its own in October. As it enters its spring, it’s a sweet spot that offers warm temperatures of 18C to 26C – so no jackets needed – while avoiding the humidity found in the island country’s hottest times.
You’ll see the abundance of flora and fauna burst to life, adding even more of a tropical feel to this glorious destination. It’s also the very start of Mauritius’s busy season, so you’ll find competitive prices, whether you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful hostel or a luxurious beachside villa.
Nuremberg, Germany
It’s not wholly accurate that the German beer-drinking festival of Oktoberfest takes place in October. Rather, it’s in September, with a few days at the start of its namesake month. The place to be is Munich as the Bavarian capital turns into a booze-swilling, sausage eating place of revelry. But because accommodation costs will be sky-high at this peak time, try staying an hour’s train ride away in Bavaria’s second city, Nuremberg.
You can take a trip to Munich when you want to partake in Oktoberfest, but you also have the added benefit of exploring this fascinating city. For a great view, walk the city walls with its 80 unique towers, and the canals that brought in a great deal of trade. Its churches and the Imperial Castle (the symbol of Nuremberg) are also worth seeing. And those with an interest in World War II can visit the Trials Museum, where Nazi war criminals were prosecuted in 1945 and 1946.
Derry, Ireland
It might be known in recent times for bringing us the laugh-a-minute comedy Derry Girls, but before then, Derry earned a reputation for being the Halloween capital of the world. The Gaelic tradition of celebrating ‘Samhain’ – when harvest season ended and winter began – started in Ireland, and since then it’s adapted and spread to become the spooky festival it is today.
On the last four days of October, Derry turns into a Halloween haven, with walking tours and trails to explain its role in the Halloween tradition. The big day is of course the 31st, when the fancy dress comes out and the city’s huge Halloween Parade snakes throughout the walled city, before a fireworks finale in the dark of the evening. It’s a spooktacular festival you won’t want to miss – but book your accommodation as soon as you can, as it will be in short supply.
Kerala, India
While much of the globe’s warmer climes encounter face weather in October, there are small patches where the weather is just perfect – and that includes Kerala in India. On the shores of the Indian Ocean, this spot is a longtime favourite with honeymooners and couples looking for romance – but actually, it’s a perfect destination for anyone looking for sizzling temperatures with sizzling cuisine at competitive prices.
As well as being famous for its 600km of coastline and tempting waters – the Arabian Sea reaches around 29C at this time – its lush forests are ripe for exploring. You can also take a trip to the terraced landscapes of its tea plantations, or traverse down Kerala’s backwaters, dotted with hidden temples to wow you. Arrive at the end of October to partake in Diwali, the most important day in the Hindu calendar, where celebrations, Indian sweets and fireworks will be everywhere to mark the festival of light.
Wherever you plan to head on your break from the norm make sure to protect your travels with one of Switched On’s feature packed travel insurance policies. Find out more here.