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Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, natural wonders, or festive celebrations, October offers a plethora of options to satisfy your wanderlust. From Tel Aviv’s vibrant nightlife to the ancient ruins of Petra, these are some of our favourite choices for an unforgettable October holiday:
Floating fishing village in Halong Bay, Vietnam
With the monsoon season coming to an end and the weather becoming milder, October is an ideal time to explore this breathtaking destination, and a visit to the enchanting Ha Long Bay should be at the top of your wish list. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its emerald waters studded with towering limestone karsts: a surreal seascape that makes for an idyllic overnight cruise. Whether you’re kayaking to hidden lagoons, visiting the mesmerising Sung Sot Cave, or simply soaking in the stunning vistas of this spectacular bay, this unique destination offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
Nowhere does Halloween quite like the United States, which is just one of the reasons why an October holiday in New York City is sure to be an unforgettable experience. As the spookiest time of year approaches, the city that never sleeps transforms into a haven for all things spooky. New York is famous for its epic Halloween parades, one of the most famous of which is the Village Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village: a riotous celebration with elaborate costumes, creative floats and live music. For an iconic Halloween experience in New York, consider adding pumpkin picking and exploring corn mazes to your itinerary.
Tel Aviv, Israel
As the summer heat mellows into a pleasant October warmth, the rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultures of this captivating destination offers a unique blend of experiences. The various cultural and religious festivals which take place at this time of year, including the Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and the Sukkot festival, will add extra vibrancy and colour to your visit. Tel Aviv was once described as ‘The Mediterranean Capital of Cool’ by the New York Times, and it is renowned for its stunning coastline, fringed with stunning golden sand beaches such as Frishman, Hilton and Metzitzim. The city’s nightlife is as legendary as its beaches: whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy a laid-back evening by the sea, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your mood.
As the dry season takes hold in October, Botswana offers exceptional wildlife viewing: the weather is warm and pleasant during the day and cooler at night while rainfall is minimal, prompting animals to congregate at reliable water sources. You may be lucky enough to witness the spectacle of the zebra and wildebeest migration which, although not as famous as the Serengeti migration, is still a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. October is also a prime time for birdwatching, as many migratory birds are present in the country during this time. The dry season, with its clear skies and softer sunlight, offers excellent photographic conditions for capturing stunning portraits of wildlife.
Ancient Kourion, Cyprus
The idyllic Mediterranean charm of Cyprus extends into October, where the sun continues to shine and the warm temperatures are just right for exploring ancient ruins, enjoying water sports, or simply unwinding on picturesque beaches. Peak tourist season has already finished, which means the peak summer crowds have departed – ideal for visiting the many incredible archaeological sites and historic ruins for which Cyprus is renowned, including the Tomb of the Kings and the ancient city of Kourion. October is a magical month for hiking in the island’s interior, with the forested trails of the Troodos Mountains transforming into a kaleidoscope of autumn colours. If you’re a beach lover, Cyprus has a huge number of beautiful beaches, bays and coves to discover, the more secluded of which are best explored by boat.
One of Mexico’s most iconic and culturally significant festivals, Dia de los Muertos, is celebrated each year from 31st October to 2nd November. It’s a time when Mexico’s rich cultural heritage is on full display, with colourful and elaborate festivities that feature beautifully decorated altars, vibrant parades and delicious food. If you’re interested in marine life, it’s a great time of year to visit the Baja California region of Mexico as the annual migration of Pacific grey whales offers incredible whale watching opportunities. Although you may encounter some rain, the weather in October tends to be milder and more comfortable than during the scorching summer months – ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and joining the Dia de los Muertos celebrations.
Galapagos giant tortoise
The remote islands of the Galapagos are paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts at any time of year, but in October, visitors can expect warm weather, clear skies and calm seas – ideal conditions for exploration. It’s an excellent time of year for wildlife viewing: giant tortoises enter their nesting season and playful sea lion pups embark on their first ocean adventures. If you’re a snorkelling enthusiast, the islands’ crystal-clear waters provide incredible visibility to observe the diverse marine life beneath the surface, while birdwatchers may be lucky enough to see Waved Albatrosses and blue-footed boobies performing their captivating courtship dances. Isabela Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, the Sierra Negra and a guide is essential if you want to hike through its dramatic landscapes.
Petra, Jordan
Are you seeking an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty? The mesmerising destinations of Egypt and Jordan offer all of this in abundance, especially in October when the temperatures lowered from the scorching heights of summer. From exploring the temples of Luxor and Karnak to watching the sun set over the river’s tranquil waters, a cruise up the Nile is an unmissable part of any visit to Egypt. Combine your Egyptian holiday with a visit to Jordan, where the awe-inspiring beauty of Petra, the Rose City, is sure to leave you utterly spellbound. A jeep safari or hot air balloon ride over the enthralling desert landscape of Wadi Rum are a great way to view the region’s otherworldly rock formations, sand dunes and ancient petroglyphs, then conclude your Jordanian adventure with a swim in the famously salty waters of the Dead Sea. An organised tour is great option for seeing the many incredible sights of these two fascinating nations – ask your personal travel manager for recommendations.
October is a month which invites you to join a celebration, experience a local tradition, or explore a myriad of new destinations. For more October holiday inspiration, contact your nearest personal travel manager.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
