Fall is the perfect time to book a relaxing getaway. It brings relief from the summer heatwaves with cosy mornings, pleasant afternoons and crisp evenings like no other season. Travelling from September to November also means fewer crowds and less pricey airfares for fall travellers to roam about or hit up iconic tourist spots peacefully. The changing of the seasons brings earthy-toned landscapes, cool weather, and an abundance of seasonal delicacies — and not to mention, some of the world’s most iconic events one needs to see in person at least once. From the untouched natural wonders of Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls to the fun-filled and beer-soaked festivities of Munich’s Oktoberfest, fall travel is perfectly suited to every type of traveller. For thrill-seekers, city dwellers and nature lovers here are some of the best places to visit in the fall.
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Burgundy, France
Burgundy is the ideal destination for a foodie — with a whopping 30 Michelin-star chefs and an abundance of seasonal gourmet menus and delicacies. Immerse oneself in the French countryside when grape harvests draw to a close and when the colours of the Route des Grands Crus (Route of the Great Wines) line take on an earthy amber hue and streets lined with golden trees. The fall time is an especially ideal time to book local restaurants to indulge in seasonal delicacies like mushrooms, truffles, pumpkins and chestnuts and the list goes on. Additionally, Burgundy is also widely famous for its picturesque castles and vineyards like the Renaissance-era château, Clos de Vougeot and the famous wine-making village of Gevrey Chambertin.
Oaxana, Mexico
This time of year is a perfect time to experience vibrant cultural events in Oaxaca, Mexico, most notably, the Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead). The centuries-old tradition starts in late October to prepare for the main event on 1 and 2 November, marking a magical time in the city celebrating Mexican heritage and their ancestors. Around this time, candlelit altars line the streets of public squares and cemeteries and Catrina figures (elegant skeletons) parade through the historic city centre’s cobbled streets. Additionally, the weather is exceptionally pleasant around this time of year, with cool and dry air, ideal for outdoor excursions like hiking and biking in Oaxana’s underrated yet stunning mountain towns.
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New York City, United States
New York has earned its status as one of the most popular travel destinations in the United States — best known for its bustling yet exciting atmosphere, diverse culture and iconic landmarks. New York is best suited as an autumn travel destination with pleasant weather, stunning Central Park sceneries and of course, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. 2024 will also mark the parade’s 100th anniversary, hence ultra-extravagant festivities are to be expected! In addition to such of the most prominent museums, New York City is truly a melting pot of creatives — being home to some of the most unique up-and-coming designers, chefs and artists, great for city dwellers and creative enthusiasts.
Zimbabwe, Africa
The months of September to November in Zimbabwe are springtime, meaning hotter weather, drier air and sunshine. A trip to Zimbabwe is ideal for those who crave adventure. The warm and dry weather ensures unobstructed visibility, making it the perfect time to embark on safari trips and bird-watching. September and October are the ideal months to catch local wildlife, given that they typically gather around watering holes in the dry months — allowing a lucky traveller to spot a plethora of different species of wildlife in just one spot. Visibility is also at its optimum level at the spectacular Victoria Falls around this time of year. Victoria Falls is a thrill-seekers paradise, with not just stunning views but also activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging against the amazing backdrop of the rainbows and lush foliage of the famous waterfall.
Munich, Germany
Munich is a cosy yet bustling travel destination for those who love a good city break, along with a crisp beer, warm pretzel and an epic celebration. Oktoberfest is taking place from 21 September to 6 October this year and is the party of all parties with attendees travelling from every corner of the world to immerse in the German tradition. The festival is the perfect opportunity to try a variety of local delicacies and of course, beers from Munich breweries as well as to partake in festive games, amusement rides and even folk dancing! Munich is also a great destination for art enthusiasts, with the Kunstareal Museum quarter where one hit up museums to wonder at the masterpieces of art’s all-time greats all within walking distance. Visit Museum Brandhorst to take a look at Picasso’s illustrated books as well as iconic Warhol pop art or pop by Neue Pinakothek to see the most iconic European art of the 18th and 19th centuries.
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Zhangjiajie, China
Zhangjiajie is the breathtaking gem of China’s Hunan Province extraordinary views of untouched naturalistic beauty. Zhangjiajie is best known for its national forest and 430-metre-high glass bridge, perfectly suited to the nature lovers and thrill-seekers out there. The Autumn season brings along comfortably warm weather, pristine views and clear skies to truly capture the mountains in all its glory. From September to November, rainfall lessens, temperatures drop and clouds clear for Zhangjiajie trekkers to experience the National Park in prime conditions. Within the park, expect to see lush dense forests, deep ravines, deep canyons, unusual peaks, caves, and pillar-like rock formations blanketed throughout the park as per The Global Alliance of National Parks. The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge is definitely worth visiting, standing at 430m high and 300m long, making it the longest and highest pedestrian glass bridge in the world.
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