Awesome Autumn Escapes for 2023
Autumn is on the horizon and, in our minds, there are few better times to travel than this laid-back season. Less crowded and cooler (in many places) than super-scorching summer, autumn also tends to be a more affordable time to head off on holiday. So, keep the end-of-summer blues at bay by booking a trip to one of these three must-visit destinations…
DESERT DELIGHTS
There are few travellers brave enough to visit Oman in the summer when it’s around 40 degrees in the shade and the oppressive heat makes you feel like you’re wading through soup. Autumn, on the other hand, is the perfect time to visit. If you’re looking for a hot holiday, then the Middle East from late-September until December is a dream destination. Compared to neighbouring Dubai, Oman is still relatively undeveloped with incredible mountains, wadis, coastline and desert to explore, but also a plethora of fabulous hotels in which to stay.
Start your trip in Muscat, the country’s capital where you can relax in a hotel, explore the old port and visit a traditional Omani souk such as Nizwa. Then head along the coast to Ras al Jinz where, at night, you can see green turtles come on shore to lay their eggs. Also visit the natural turquoise pools of Wadi Shab and take a tour into the desert to spend a night sleeping out under the stars.
Where to book? Audley Travel arrange fabulous tours of Oman taking in wadis, the desert and the city.
MIAMI SPICE
If there’s one place guaranteed to cheer up your post-summer blues, it’s Miami. The party capital of The States is one of the best cities in the world for a long weekend with its miles of white-sand beach, stunning Art Deco district, blissful climate, amazing restaurants and sultry Latin flavour.
Base yourself in South Beach, which is a hub of hot hotels, nightlife, galleries, boutiques and, of course, beautiful Art Deco architecture, before exploring the rest of the city. It goes without saying that Little Havana is the heart of the city’s sizeable Cuban community and a great neighbourhood for a night out, whilst Wynwood and the Design District are recommended for galleries, restaurants and a buzzing creative scene. If you have time, don’t forget to hit the water and try Miami’s favourite watersport – paddleboarding.
Where to Stay: With 3 bars, a Cowshed spa, pool, atmospheric restaurant and trademark shabby chic style, Soho Beach House is the ONLY place to stay.
CYPRIOT CHIC
It may be getting colder and darker in the UK, but in Cyprus it still feels summery well into October, making it an autumn-sun hotspot. With a ridiculously beautiful coastline, fabulous hotels, a splash of ancient culture and the lovely Troodos Mountains, Cyprus ticks all the holiday boxes.
Paphos is the main tourist town (ignoring Ayia Napa) and is known for its ancient ruins, golden beaches and wonderful restaurants. If sightseeing is on your agenda, then check out the Tomb of the Kings, a World Heritage recognised site dating back to the 3rd century BC, and Nea Paphos, the ancient city of Paphos dating back to 4th century BC. Alternatively, explore the foothills of the Troodos Mountains or hit the beach – the Akamas peninsula is home to the best; think white sand, turquoise sea and turtles.
Go: The super-chic Almyra has four pools, a glorious spa, small beach, fantastic food (the local mezze is a must) and sleek, white rooms. As recommended by our favourite Travel Company, i-escape.com
Travel Contributor: Alex Gorton
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