Where to travel in November (and why it’s the best-kept secret in the travel calendar!)
It’s the month that usually gets left behind in the travel chat, wedged between the half-term scrambles of October and all of the glittery chaos of December. But personally, I think November is a gem. The prices drop, the crowds vanish, and the weather? Well, in the right places, it’s absolutely perfect.
If you're looking for that sweet spot to give yourself a pre-winter break, November is the one! Here’s a handful of places I’d whisk you off to if you fancy swapping out the drizzle and dark mornings!
Cape Winelands, South Africa Spring in the southern hemisphere means the vines are blooming, the sun’s shining (but not scorching), and everything feels alive again. South Africa in November is a treat, especially around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Think long lunches under oak trees, wine tastings with a view, and maybe a few days in Cape Town to climb Table Mountain or visit Robben Island. And of course, can be combined beautifully with a safari. It’s also whale watching season, and if you head to Hermanus, you’ll almost certainly spot them. Not a bad way to spend a November day!
Kyoto, Japan Autumn in Japan is nothing short of magical. Whilst Cherry Blossom season in the spring is the one that gets the attention, Kyoto in November is like walking through a painting, with maple leaves in every shade of red and gold, peaceful temples, steaming bowls of ramen, and quiet gardens with hardly a tourist in sight. If you’ve been thinking about Japan but want to avoid the cherry blossom crowds, this is your moment. November gives you that perfect balance: cool weather, breathtaking scenery, and room to breathe. And for 2025, this is what I have booked for myself, can’t wait!
Mauritius For those of you who just want a beach, a book, and a cocktail Mauritius in November is perfection. It’s dry season, the sea is warm, and the skies are clear. Mauritius is not just a beach destination, though, there’s a real mix of culture, wildlife, food, and adventure (think hiking in Black River Gorges National Park or snorkelling in a marine reserve). If you’re craving proper relaxation, but you’d also like to have a few interesting things to see and do, it’s a brilliant choice.
Oman If you like your winter sun with a dash of adventure, Oman is one to watch. It’s still relatively under the radar, but those in the know rave about its mix of luxury and landscape. November is the perfect time to go as temperatures are just right for exploring the desert, visiting ancient forts, or sailing the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula. And the hotels? Let’s just say there is no luxury like Oman luxury!
Iceland And I couldn’t possibly talk about November without mentioning Iceland. If you’re after drama Iceland in November delivers, and some. Steaming hot springs under a frosty sky, and hopefully the Northern Lights putting on a show. The days are shorter, but filled with activities. Glacier hiking, soaking in the Blue Lagoon, or driving the Golden Circle. Iceland is bucket-list for good reason!
Why November? It’s simple, you skip the peak season crowds, dodge the school holidays, and sneak off just before the Christmas frenzy kicks in. It’s the kind of month that rewards those in the know with quieter destinations, better prices, and the sense that you’ve ‘beaten the system’
So if your November usually has you staring out the window wondering how many more cups of tea it’ll take to get through the grey, maybe it’s time we planned you a little November escape.
