Where to go on holiday in November
As the holiday season approaches many of our favourite destinations take on an even more wondrous atmosphere including everyone’s favourite shopping mecca, New York. For a more relaxed and warmer early winter break it’s hard to beat the peaceful shores of the Indian Ocean, especially during the latter half of the month before the Christmas crowds arrive. Now that the monsoon rains have gone this month is perfect for exploring the Sri Lankan resorts of Negombo, Bentota and Weligama, as good beach conditions return and festivities ramp up over the Hindu festival of Diwali. Whether you’re taking advantage of the climates, off-peak prices or celebrating a special occasion, speak to your personal travel expert to start creating your perfect holiday.
Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean’s beauty is endless, and November’s warm weather is excellent for an early winter break. In Mauritius you can relax on a beautiful beach by the turquoise lagoon; in the Seychelles temperatures rarely drop below 24°C, plus it’s turtle nesting season on Cousin Island. Agreeable temperatures make this month a good time for hiking on La Réunion; it’s the official wet season in the Maldives but although there are showers, they are usually brief.
Thailand
Thailand has long been a favourite with travellers because cold weather doesn’t really exist here. November sees the end of the rainy season, and brings with it a significantly cooler and drier climate. For divers and snorkellers, this is one of the best times to visit as visibility in the waters can reach over 30 metres during peak season between November and April. The Surin and Similan Islands, home to some of Thailand’s best dive and snorkelling sites, are open between October and May.
Sri Lanka
Rainfall starts to decrease along Sri Lanka's south and western coasts which are getting hotter and sunnier, although the Hill Country and Cultural Triangle will still be rainy. Now that the monsoon rains have gone, November is a great time to explore the resorts of Negombo, Bentota and Weligama with the return of good beach conditions. The Hindu festival of Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, takes place in late October or November, so expect lots of festivities.
New York
Winter breaks in New York are full of magic and romance. With Christmas around the corner shopping in the Big Apple is excellent: Fifth Avenue specialises in high-end brands and Madison Avenue is where you’ll find designer store names including Christian Louboutin, DKNY and Jimmy Choo. Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, two of New York’s best known department stores, are also nearby. Evenings are best spent seeing a Broadway show and dining at one of the city’s finest restaurants, complete with a stroll through Central Park – stunning at this time of year.
Nepal
Whether you’re allured by the Himalayas, rare wildlife species or the ancient royal city of Kathmandu, November is the best time to visit Nepal. Blue skies and temperatures around 20°C are found at the vibrant and wonderfully chaotic capital, followed by dry and mild evenings. Make time to experience the sunrise as it casts light and shadow over the foothills and mountaintops of the Langtang Himalayan range and head to Chitwan National Park for a possible glimpse of the Bengal Tiger.
Costa Rica
November offers dry days and comfortable warmth in Costa Rica, whether you’re exploring the numerous national parks, cloud forests and jungles or lying on an unspoilt powdery-sand beach. Sunshine and occasional showers are typical and the beaches are much less busy than during other times of the year. You’ll find luxurious resort retreats and superb marine life on the Pacific Coast and rustic tropical vibes on the Caribbean Coast.