Japan has two peak tourist seasons. For those wishing to visit during the beautiful cherry blossom season, March - May is prime time. For the beautiful warm, autumnal foliage, head to the Land of the Rising Sun between September - November. Much like the famous fall colours of New England, Japan becomes awash with a tapestry of deep reds and oranges that perfectly complement its ancient architecture and dramatic alpine landscape. 

One of my favourite recommendations for this time of year is a few days spent travelling between the Kiso Valley, Takayama and Matsumoto, some of Japan’s most stunning mountainous regions. Also rich in history, these areas are easy to add to most classic Japan itineraries, located between Kyoto and Fuji Hakone. Other popular areas to see the beautiful fall colours are Tokyo, Kansai and Nikko.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Japan holidays page.

Absorb the autumnal hues of this enchanting Andalucian city with a stroll, or perhaps a cycle, through Maria Luisa Park. The park boasts a wonderful variety of trees, including willows, poplars, elms, olive trees and holm oaks. This variety contributes to the rich tapestry of colors you can witness in November.

While visiting in November, be sure to check out the cultural highlights of the city, enjoying the fewer crowds, and milder temperatures. See the largest gothic cathedral in the world, explore the impressive Palacio de las Dueñas, and why not cap it all off with a lively flamenco show!

For more inspiration, take a look at our Andalucia holidays page.

The winter, from November to March, is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit Dubai. With temperatures ranging from a pleasant 14°C to 25°C, this season provides a respite from the searing summer heat. 

Perfect for outdoor activities, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, stroll through the Dubai Marina, or enjoy a desert safari without the worry of extreme temperatures. With its stunning beaches and azure waters, Dubai is perfect for a beach holiday. Relax on the pristine white sands of Palm Jumeirah or visit smaller emirates including Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah for a peaceful experience.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Dubai holidays page.

Oman holidays promise unspoilt landscapes and ancient heritage. On the coast, luxury resorts rest on pristine unspoilt beaches framed by majestic mountains. However, there is far more to Oman holidays than just beautiful beaches alone. The narrow streets, vibrant souks and impressive forts of Muscat have retained much of their ancient charm, whilst inland, a dramatic landscape of mountains and gorges dotted with lush oases and hilltop castles.

November is an ideal time of year to visit Oman, with comfortable daytime temperatures in the high 20s. This milder climate makes exploring Wahiba Sands and its majestic dunes of the desert much more comfortable, although it can be a busier time of year to go, so we recommend booking ahead.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Oman holidays page.

Treat yourself to some wonderful winter sunshine with a holiday in South Africa in November, with the month beckoning the start of the country’s summertime. By visiting in November, you are likely to miss the influx of tourists visiting over December, meaning you can enjoy a less crowded atmosphere and lower prices. 

Start off your South Africa holiday in November with a visit to Cape Town, with a must-do excursion up to the top of Table Mountain. Afterwards, head over to the beautiful Cape Winelands, perhaps taking a ride on the incredible Franschooek Wine Tram to easily get between the best of the region’s vineyards. Afterwards, why not opt for a whale watching trip in Hermanus, with November a great time of year to spot them? 

For more inspiration, take a look at our South Africa holidays page.

November is an ideal time of year for a holiday to Egypt. Daytime temperatures in Cairo average a comfortable 25 to 27 degrees – making sightseeing of the country’s ancient landmarks, such as the Pyramids of Giza and Valley of the Kings, more manageable at this time of year. With the peak tourism months for visiting Egypt generally being December and January, a visit in November means you can typically enjoy fewer crowds and shorter queues.

This is also a wonderful time of year for visiting Egypt’s Red Sea resort areas, such as Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, which experience warm waters year-round. These tranquil beach resorts are known for their exceptional snorkelling and scuba diving and are also a wonderful option for a relaxing stay at the end of a fast-paced cultural tour of Egypt’s historic sights and cities.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Egypt holidays page.