Travelling during the month of November has its perks, from it diminishing crowds due to its absence of school holiday travellers to its cheap deals thanks to greater availability. You don’t have to head further afield for your Vitamin D fix either, there’s plenty of short haul destinations promising winter sun too. So, what better way to escape the cold UK weather than an autumn getaway? Put your hats and scarves away because these toasty hotspots are waiting to warm you up.
1. Marrakech, Morocco
November is a great time to visit Marrakech with days remaining mild. Temperatures have been known to peak at 27°C, while averages of 18°C to 23°C are expected. However, when the sun goes down it can start to feel chilly, so we recommend bringing a light jacket. There is also an increase in rainfall at this time of the year with the odd shower. On average, there are eight days of participation. You’re also promised seven hours of sunshine per day, so there’s plenty of chance to work on your winter tan.
Why go?
This enchanting city should be added to your bucket list. This cultural hotspot will wow you with its tiled courtyards, aromatic street food and labyrinth of souks. Jemaa El Fnaa square is its centrepiece with all kinds of performers entertaining its crowds and enticing smells coming from its many food stalls. Celebrated for its striking gardens and intricate mosques, everything about this destination is intriguing. And when you’re not in the heart of its Medina action, its Atlas Mountain meets Sahara Desert surroundings make for some unforgettable adventures.
Things to do in Marrakech
- Jemaa El Fnaa
- Koutoubia Mosque
- Musée Yves Saint Laurent
- Medina Souks
- Atlas Mountains
- Sahara Desert
Flight time
3 hours and 40 minutes
Suggested hotels in Marrakech
Labranda Targa Aqua Parc: Found in a residential area of Marrakech, this modern hotel guarantees a luxurious stay. As part of the prestigious Labranda brand you can expect a high-end look throughout with Arabic touches reminding you of your location. This is also a great choice for families with its onsite waterpark, playground and kids’ club promising hours of fun.
Eden Andalou Aquapark & Spa: In a rural spot away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech centre sits this premium hotel. Every inch of this 5 star complex looks like it has been decorated for royalty with its grand features and ornate textiles. On arrival, the onsite aqua park will instantly demand your attention as will its six pools. On the dining front, you’ve got a buffet options and an a la carte specialising in local fare when you’re feeling peckish.
2. Malta
Visiting Malta in November promises warm temperatures, which means you can bask in averages of 18°C and highs of 21°C. Although mild, there is an increased chance of rain which is usually brief but heavy downpours can be expected. Fancy a day on the beach? The sea is still a toasty 22°C at this time of year, so dips in the sea aren’t out of the questions. When it comes to sunlight, you can expect eight hours daily. The only downfall is the wind can pick up during this month, but if you do experience a breeze it’s typically light.
Why go?
Malta is so much more than its beautiful coastline – this Mediterranean hotspot is actually home to some of the oldest structures in the world. Its capital Valletta is worthy of a mention for its history along, considering it’s one of the most concentrated historic areas on the planet with architecture which shows off its mix of rulers with Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Venetian structures mingling with one another. When you’re not exploring its antiquity, you could be lazing on beautiful coves dominated by towering limestone cliffs or hitting its neighbouring islands of Gozo and Comino where you can snorkel in its famous Blue Lagoon waters or visit its oldest surviving temples. While it’s also home to its fair share of lively resorts with the likes of Sliema, St Julian’s and Bugibba promising late-night action.
Best beaches in Malta
- Mellieha Bay
- Ghajn Tuffieha
- Ramla Bay
- Blue Lagoon
- Golden Bay
- Dwejra Bay
Things to do in Malta
- Mdina
- Upper Barrakka Gardens
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral
- Comino and Gozo
- Blue Grotto
- Hagar Qim Temples
Flight time
3 hours and 10 minutes
Suggested hotels in Malta
Seashells Resort at Suncrest: Gazing on the Qawra seafront, this 4-star property is a great option if you want to visit the capital for the day with Valletta’s historic charms just an hour down the road. Rooms are decorated in a modern style, with full-length windows and plush bathrooms. In terms of facilities, you’ve got a good-sized pool complete with a bar alongside a luxury spa.
db San Antonio Hotel & Spa: Sitting adjacent from the glittering Mediterranean and a 10-minute walk to Bugibba centre, this property boasts an enviable location. The rooftop pool and bar are the place to head during Malta’s warmest days, while its choice of restaurants specialising in around-the-world fare ensure every taste is catered for.
3. Tenerife
Despite temperatures dropping, Tenerife is still warmer than the rest of Europe at this time of year due to its idyllic position off the coast of Africa. You can still enjoy averages of 22°C and the south of the island is generally warmer than the north. The month also has an average of two rainy days, so this shouldn’t affect your plans too much. Lazy afternoons on the beach are still on the cards too with sea temperatures sitting at a pleasant 21°C. You’ll find that there is usually a heated pool in most hotels, encouraging you to take as many winter dips as you wish.
Why go?
As the largest and most popular of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is your go-to destination when it comes to bagging some winter sunshine. And there’s no end to the fun here from its mammoth resorts, world-famous waterpark and almighty mighty Mount Teide providing the backdrop. And there’s a beach scene for everyone here whether you’re looking for long golden stretches packed with amenities in its popular south or less-trodden volcanic shores made up of black sands in the north.
Best beaches in Tenerife
- Playa de las Teresitaso
- Playa del Duque
- Playa Jardín
- Playa las Vistas
- Playa de la Tejita
- Playa de Troya
Things to do in Tenerife
- Mount Teide National Park
- Siam Park
- Loro Parque
- Los Gigantes Cliffs
- Auditorio de Tenerife
- Roque Cinchado
Flight time
4 hours and 30 minutes
Suggested hotels in Tenerife
GF Gran Costa Adeje: When you’re not admiring its super stylish pool scene, which features a swanky rooftop number, you’re bound to be hitting its deluxe spa, where a list of luxury treatments await. Room are contemporary with a few stylish touches, while you’re location places you in Costa Adeje, one of Tenerife’s most prestigious spots. If you’re not dining buffet style, the Mediterranean a la carte is one hand to offer something authentic.
Best Tenerife Hotel: This all inclusive hotel in the lively resort of Playa de las Americas is a great base when you’re sampling the resort’s endless attractions. The pool is a real showstopper, mainly due to its mammoth size. There’s also an adults-only terrace designed for grownups wanting to relax in a peaceful environment alongside a buffet restaurant which comes complete with theme nights.
4. Cyprus
Although not as warm as its summer months, Cyprus boasts a mild climate most of the year. Days vary in November depending on your location, if you’re staying near the coast expect temperatures no greater than 22°C and if you’re based inland, you could be basking in highs of 24°C. The sea is a pleasant 21°C too, so you don’t have to worry about freezing if you want to go for a swim.When evening comes around, it may not be warm enough to eat outside. Temperatures around 13°C are expected after sunset, so cardigans and jackets are recommended.
Why go?
As the birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, Cyprus is a treasure trove with ancient relics dotted right across its coastline. History buffs will be in their element with antique sites such as Tombs of the Kings and Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, offering a glimpse into its fascinating past. It’s also home to its fair share of Blue Flag beaches, most of which sit on its alluring west coast. This is where you’ll find its family-friendly resorts and the party hotspot, Ayia Napa, which is celebrated for its neon-lit square crammed with bars and clubs. This European gem also has a natural side with plenty of hiking opportunities around its crowning glory, the beautiful Troodos Mountains.
Best beaches in Cyprus
- Fig Tree Bay
- Coral Bay
- Konnos Bay
- Lara Beach
- Aphrodite Beach
- Nissi Beach
Things to do in Cyprus
- Aphrodite’s Rock
- Tombs of the Kings
- Kato Paphos Archaeological Park
- Troodos Mountains
- Cape Greco
- Parko Paliatso Luna Park
Flight time
4 hours and 40 minutes
Suggested hotels in Cyprus
King Evelthon Beach Hotel: This hotel has a setting to end all setting with panoramic sea views, which can be enjoyed from its large lagoon-style pool. You’re also close to Paphos Town when you want to explore the country’s history. The hotel is also home to a waterpark when you want to make a splash, while the hotel’s sports facilities are a great way to burn off some energy when you’re fed up sunbathing.
Hotel Tsokkos Garden: This low-key spot places you close to the upbeat offerings of Protaras and is just a walk away from the beach when you fancy a day along the coast. There’s a buffet restaurant when you’re feeling hungry and a great pool scene when you want to relax. And did we mention its next door to Anastasia Aquamania Waterpark?
5. Dubai
November is an ideal time to visit Dubai for those wanting to avoid its stifling summer temperatures. Days are a lot more bearable during this month with averages in their late 20s or early 30s, meaning sunbathing is guaranteed. This is the perfect time to take advantage of the city’s outdoor offerings thanks to its lower humidity levels. This Middle East hotspot has two types of weather – hot and mild. This is also the perfect time to hit the waters with a sea temperature of 27°C. Whether you want to take advantage of its watersports or enjoy a refreshing dip, its heated waters allow you to do both. Plus, your chances of rain are extremely low.
Why go?
Dubai is one of those places that has to be seen to be believed. When you’re not taking in its futuristic skyline from the tallest building in the world, you could be hitting its white sand beaches or shopping in its grand malls. Away from its modern charms, you have miles of desert waiting to be explored by camelback and Bedouin camps ready to showcase their hospitality. It’s also lined with luxury hotels and beach clubs when you fancy a taste of the high life, or there’s plenty of fun to be had in its sprawling waterparks, not to mention Ski Dubai, the city’s very own indoor skiing complex!
Best beaches in Dubai
- Sunset beach
- Jumeirah beach
- Kite beach
- Umm Suqeim beach
- Al Mamzar beach park
- JBR open beach
Things to do in Dubai
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm
- The Dubai Fountain
- The Dubai Mall
- Burj al-Arab
Flight time
7 hours
Suggested hotels in Dubai
Double Tree by Hilton Resort and Spa Marjan Island: Setting the standard high when it comes to Hilton hotels, this hotel boasts incredible sea views with access to a private beach alongside seven temperature-controlled pools. Kids can take full advantage of a themed splash pool, while adults sample its 12 dining experiences.
Royal Central The Palm: With a private beach are on the east crescent of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah and a swanky pool area featuring cabana style beds, this hotel promises luxury days in the sun. Rooms are plush with modern fixtures and fitting inviting you to relax, while its dining options range from Lebanese mezes to creative Mediterranean dishes.
6. Mexico
Marking the end of hurricane season, November is a great time to hit Mexico’s sun-kissed shores. However, temperatures can vary slightly from its Pacific to Caribbean coast. With a combination of eight hours of sunlight a day and balmy averages of 25°C, it’s the perfect time to escape the cold back home. It’s tropical climate also means you can expect sea temperatures of 28°C, so there’s plenty of opportunity to swim in its Caribbean waters. The rainfall also drops compared to October with 96mm for the month. Evenings along the coast are also pleasant, so taking a jacket is essential unless you feel the cold.
Why go?
This diverse landscape is quite the holiday destination with its tropical jungles, white sand beaches and Mayan ruins. Lined with fancy hotels whether you choose to stay in the party capital Cancun or tucked-away in Tulum, you’re guaranteed a slice of luxury either way. Among its attractions is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the enchanting Chichen Itza. As Mexico’s most-visited archaeological site, this jaw-dropping landmark found at the northern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula is bound to take your breath away. This area is also home to cenotes, underground caverns where you’ll find a pool of emerald water – a must during any visit to Mexico.
Best beaches in Mexico
- Cancun beach
- Puerto Vallarta beach
- Akumal beach
- Playa Norte
- Xpu Ha beach
- Playa Paraíso
Things to do in Mexico
- Chichén Itzá
- Xcaret
- Isla Mujeres
- Tulum
- Cenotes, Yucatán Peninsula
- Cogo Bongo
Flight time
10 hours and 10 minutes
Suggested hotels in Mexico
Le Reve Boutique Beachfront Hotel: Found on an isolated beachfront just down the road from Playa del Carmen, this hotel was made for luxury retreats. Take in view of the Caribbean from your room or hit the infinity pool and enjoy premium dips with your other half. Rooms are designed to offer a sense of privacy and come equipped with plush amenities.
TRS Yucatan Hotel: Found in the beautiful Riviera Maya, this adults-only property promises noise-free relaxation in a tranquil setting. Take in ocean views from its private beach club or hit the swim-up bar and order a fruit cocktail. Days are best spent relaxing by its three pool, while nights should be reserved for sampling its six a la cartes.