1) The Canary Islands
Perhaps an obvious choice is the Canaries – and island group which is ever popular down to its year-round sun. But why so hot? The reason is that the Canaries, comprising Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, are just 50 miles from the sub-Saharan region of Africa, giving the island group the benefit of Africa’s cosy climate. Temperatures typically reach 24 degrees in October – perfect for sunbathing – and, even better, the sun is around for at least seven hours a day. Another reason to head to the Canaries is that the destination boasts nearly 950 miles of beaches – although Tenerife, the most volcanic of the islands, can be a little rocky. For soft, golden sands, you’re best to head to Gran Canaria, the second largest of the islands.

2) Cyprus
Cyprus is one of the few destinations in the Mediterranean which doesn’t start cooling down straight after the summer months – on the contrary, in fact. The Cypriot summer spans April to November and you’re normally guaranteed temperatures of at least 21 degrees in October. Families are advised to head to the likes of Coral Bay, just 12km south of Paphos which is a bit livelier. Both bases, however, are renowned for their pretty, clean beaches so you’re rest assured a great holiday – even in autumn. Perhaps the best bit about holidaying in Cyprus, however, is that it’s only just over a four-hour flight from the UK.

3) Tunisia
Tunisia has become a popular destination for families in recent years – thanks, in part, to budget airline Jet2 launching direct flights from Scotland and Manchester. Although the country cools down a little in September, it still enjoys daily temperatures above 20 degrees and also boasts a minimum of seven hours sunshine. It’s famed for its great beaches but has plenty of heritage and culture to engage in besides. For a place that’s truly steeped in North African history, head to the city of Carthage which, believe it or not, was once the third largest Roman city in the world. Rainfall is minimal here in October and there are seven hours of daily sunshine to worship as you wish.

4) Egypt
Sharm el Sheikh, which sits on the edge of the Egyptian Sinai Peninsula, goes one better and guarantees at least 10 hours of glorious sun each day in October. It’s a destination that’s grown in popularity over the years – having started out as just a small fishing village. It’s just a five-hour flight from the UK and temperatures are typically around 27 degrees at this time of year. Rainfall is barely heard of in October but, if you’re a bit of a water baby, you’ll be delighted to hear that it’s one of the top diving destinations in the world given its location on the coast by the Red Sea.

5) Dubai
The UAE country of Dubai is one that’s generally best visited outwith the hottest summer months as temperatures can be uncomfortable and, sometimes, downright unbearable. With this in mind, October is an excellent time to visit and you’ll still find average temperatures of around 29 degrees, with at least 10 hours of daily sunshine. It, too, has stunning beaches and is a great place to relax in the lap of luxury – if you can afford it. Don’t expect much culture though or many sightseeing trips.

The post Where’s hot in October? Our top five autumn destinations appeared first on MyTravelMoney.co.uk.

To whet your appetite for warmer climes, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 favourite winter sun destinations to get you in the mood and remind you that it’s not all doom and gloom so, until you’re lying on that sun lounger, why not make a hot chocolate, pull up a seat and enjoy?!

1) The Canary Islands
The Canaries will always come number one in our book – for three simple reasons:

1) It’s cheap as chips
2) It’s a short flight
3) Rain is rare and you’re guaranteed year-round sun

Need we say more? Probably not, but we will anyway. Tenerife is a really good bet as it’s the largest of the islands and there are hoards of activities and facilities all-year-round. However, if you’re looking for the best beaches, head to Gran Canaria for sure.

2) Tunisia
For the past couple of years now, Tunisia has been hailed as an up-and-coming destination but savvy travellers will never have forgotten it from their super cool hippy days when Tunisia was the place to be. Budget airline Jet2 started operating flights here from most major UK airports, including Glasgow, in the last couple of years so it’s pretty amenable these days – without having to board the rickety, old campervan filled with pot-smoking-students. It’s not overly expensive but has an indulgent feel about it, with its Arabic culture and sandy Mediterranean coastline scented with jasmine.

3) Cyprus
Cyprus seemed to have its heyday in the 80s but this destination is making a notable come-back as Brits seek cheaper and safer places to travel than the likes of Spain and France. In fact, every second person we come across is off to Cyprus at some point this winter so expect the beaches to be bustling if you’re headed that way too. The fresh fruit and gorgeous lamb dishes are worth going for alone.

4) Goa
Goa is a great way to sample India without being overly adventurous. It’s notoriously tourist friendly and, of course, enjoys the warmth all year round. And the great thing about travelling there in the winter months is that you’ll have missed monsoon season, which typically spans June to September. We think it’s a great place to escape the rain.

5) Marrakech
Pretty similar to Tunisia, Marrakech is a great place to visit at any time of year and has never really gone out of fashion. Great markets, a great buzz and great food are just a few of the reasons to check it out if you haven’t done so far. It’s not super hot at this time of year but warm enough for some comfortable respite from the UK weather.

6) Dubai
If you fancy a spot of dune bashing, some serious shopping or just chilling by the pool this winter then Dubai’s a great draw. Don’t expect much else however beyond the large hotel complexes. Yes, there’s plenty of sand, plenty of camels but don’t expect too much culture in this business capital. There’s no doubt it’s a great place to kick back though.

7) Florida
Florida is another destination that’s great at any time of year – particularly Orlando. Not only that, but if you’re heading to Disneyworld then Halloween, Christmas and New Year are magical times to go. If you are heading to Florida, however, make sure you pencil in enough time as it will fly so quickly. There are so many things to see and do here that you need a couple of weeks at least.

8) Cuba
Cuba’s a great choice for a seriously exotic break and we’d especially recommend it for couples. Forget anywhere you’ve ever travelled before because Cuba is a real eye-opener. Prepare yourself to be shocked, stunned and seriously rested – in the weirdest of ways. Cuba will make you think again – about almost everything. For what it lacks in economical richness, it makes up for in culture. It’s a stellar place to visit but must be experienced to be believed. Expect hot, sticky nights in the city (if that’s where you’re headed) and lots of sexy salsa.

9) The Maldives
The Maldives are just a dream – a complete paradise worlds away from the grey skies and sporadic showers of Britain. Whether you want to discover a new-found love of water sports or simply chill with a cocktail and an Indian head massage, you couldn’t be better placed for reinvigoration, revitalisation and relaxation. The only problem is, you’re unlikely to want to come home.

10) Egypt
Egypt is another destination that’s being rediscovered by the masses. Former terrorist strikes took their toll on Egypt’s tourism industry in the past but now the country is resurfacing as a popular holiday hotspot once more. The funny thing is, this time it’s not all about the pyramids. People are discovering there’s so much more to Egypt – not least, as we already know, being the perfect clime and setting for deep sea diving.

Wherever you’re off to this winter, don’t forget to order your currency before you travel and save money. For example, MyTravelMoney.co.uk could save you 10 per cent!

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