10 places to go in October

Travelling to India is a wonderful and colourful adventure at any time of year but travelling in late October, and witnessing the country-wide Diwali celebrations, is an extra special experience. The ‘festival of light’ lasts for five days each year, is celebrated right across the country, and is characterised by the lighting of thousands of oil lamps or diyas. Houses (inside and out), landmarks and other public places all glow in the light of hundreds of tiny flames. While you can witness Diwali celebrations throughout India, the Pink City of Jaipur is arguably one of the best spots. 

Known for the colour of the cherry blossom season, Japan’s autumn colours are just as fabulous. October is a wonderful time to visit Japan, and is especially popular with photographers, who are drawn by the spectacular changing colours of the leaves from green to red, rust and brown, and the clear blue skies typical of this time of year. Travel by high-speed train and stay in a classic ryokan, furnished in traditional Japanese style, on our Shogun Trail trip. 

Extend your summer in the sunny Algarve, which gets plenty of sunshine year-round. October is an ideal time of year for a walking holiday in southern Portugal. You can swim in the still-warm sea, or at the swimming pool in our hotel in Sagres, and spend the day exploring this beautiful region on foot. The warm sun and cooling Atlantic breezes at this time of year make it perfect hiking climate.

Avoid the summer heat and travel to Egypt in October on our Family Egyptian Adventure. Sail down the Nile on a traditional felucca boat and feel the breeze gently push our boat upstream. Sit back and watch life on the Nile unfold in much the same way that it has for over a millennium. Explore the awe-inspiring sites of Valley of the Kings and Aswan and step into the footsteps of ancient Egyptians.

The extreme heat of the southern Spanish summer mellows into lovely warm autumn days ideal for our Murcia cycling holiday. Take to your bike and discover the beautiful landscapes and vibrant autumnal colours of Murcia against a backdrop of deep blue skies. Cycle on quiet backroads and cycle paths on this moderate-graded trip, and enjoy delicious Spanish food and drink to fuel your days.