“Shoulder season” was once a term whispered at school gates as well-traveled parents discussed their fall break plans, or one used over drinks among friends—often met with furrowed brows. That’s no longer the case, and October holidays are all the rage among the sun-starved, eager to make up for lost time and extend the summer for a little longer.
October in the upper portion of the northern hemisphere is often associated with tumbling leaves, falling temperatures, and the obligatory wardrobe shift once we admit defeat and give in to the shifting seasons. However, there are plenty of places that are hot in October, should a prolonged dose of vitamin D be in your best interests. Many southern US cities have favorable weather, for example buzzy Austin and Las Vegas, as does Southern Europe, where historic cities like Dubrovnik in Croatia and Valletta in Malta continue to sizzle post-summer.
Even hotter climes may be guaranteed slightly further afield—some of our favorites include Taghazout in Morocco and Spain’s Canary Islands. Then there are the bucket list destinations that warrant an extended escape, like the dazzling beaches and junglescapes of Indonesia’s most popular island, Bali. Whether you crave a fly and flop, a weekend of cultural sites between alfresco courtyard lunches, or an intrepid adventure, there’s something in our editor-selected list of the warmest destinations in October for every type of traveler.
Is heat not the be-all and end-all? Check out Condé Nast Traveler’s guide to the best places to visit in October.