October is a great month to travel to Europe, Asia, North and Latin America, and beyond because of the cooling temperatures and decline in visitor numbers. Here are some tips for maximising the shoulder season:
Fiji
October 10 is National Day in Fiji. Fiji commemorates the holiday during the week coming up to it by acknowledging both its ethnic variety and its independence from the British Empire. Religious and cultural festivities abound in the lead-up, which concludes with a huge military parade punctuated by cannon fire.
On the actual day, Fijians dress historically accurate for a recreation of the Deed of Cessation signing and listen to speeches from the president and other dignitaries. Plan your trip around this week to get a taste of the various cultures and religions that make up Fiji's rich tapestry.
This time of year, the islands experience pleasant weather. Mid-20s are normal day and night, but not too much humidity.
Temperature: 30°C high; 22°C low
Season: summer
Travel time from UK: 24 hours +
Time difference: GMT +5
Marrakech
Marrakech is the place to go if you're looking for some activity. If you don't want to deal with oppressive heat on top of that, October is a winner.
You'll gain from travelling during the off-peak season. Along with fewer tourists clogging the already congested streets, the intense summer heat disappears in favour of a more temperate environment.
You may arrange your trip to suit your preferences because the temperature declines from the 30s at the beginning of the month to the 20s at the conclusion. Due to a decline in foreign tourists, prices will be reduced and the city will feel a little more real.
Temperature: 33 °C high; 15°C low
Season: Summer
Travel time from UK: 3 hours 40 minutes
Time difference: GMT +1
Mauritius
All year long, Mauritius is a rather warm place. Even at night, the temperature rarely varies
much, and even though the local summer months (November to April) are a few degrees warmer, they're also known to be significantly rainier. You should be able to get some sun if you go in October.
The best time of year to go snorkelling and engage in other water sports is in October. In this season, its azure waters are serene and appealing. In October, sea temperatures are equal to, if not higher than, those of the atmosphere, and wind speeds rarely surpass a gentle breeze. This, along with the absence of rain, makes for ideal swimming and diving conditions.
Temperature: 27°C high; 18°C low (
Season: Spring
Travel time from UK: 12 hours 55 minutes
Time difference: GMT +4
Madagascar
The rainy season in Madagascar lasts from December to March, so your best bet is to travel there in the native springtime. October falls right in the middle of the island's warming trend.
A pleasant average high of 26°C and a warm 25°C sea are to be expected. The gulf coast's crystal-clear, turquoise waters are peaceful and the ideal place for snorkelling.
In September, ring-tailed lemurs give birth to their young, which they nurse for the first few weeks.
Madagascar is a sizable tropical island with a sparse population that is home to a variety of species. However, the island is well known for being the habitat of one particular animal: the ring-tailed lemur.
Temperature: 26°C high; 13°C low
Season: Spring
Travel time from UK: 13 hours 50 minutes
Time difference: GMT +3
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