Hottest destinations in November

November, the start of the traditional fall season when leaves are falling at an average rate in many parts of the world while temperatures drop to a cooling 10–21 degrees Celsius, is usually an excellent month for travelers looking to escape from cold and lack of sunlight. Here you will find that there are many destinations where a beach or vibrant city trip is the way to go. These are some of the best destinations to offer you a great experience on your escapade.

Cancun, Mexico

For sun, fun, and the beach year-round, head to Cancún. Fall is a great time to visit the Maldives, with its beautiful white sand beaches and glittering turquoise water. It has warm weather (on average 80°F / 27°C) and a lack of summer crowds — November is the perfect time to visit.

But there are plenty of things to do in Cancún that reach beyond the beach. Discover the centuries-old Mayan ruins of Tulum or Chichén Itzá nearby, go snorkeling in the colorful tropical coral reefs, or enjoy local cuisine with fresh seafood and fiery salsas. The energetic nightlife — think of countless bars and clubs that keep the vibe going until at least 4 or 5 a.m.

Dubai, UAE

If it's a luxury getaway you're looking for, then Dubai is your destination. The temperatures start to dip in November, with the cooler months averaging between 70°F and 85°F (21°C – 29°C). It's a nice time to visit when the luxurious shopping centers are busy, cultural sites and beautiful architecture are everywhere.

Be sure to visit the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, with an observation deck providing splendid panoramic views of the city. Another taste of culture is found in Al Fahidi — discover old Dubai or venture into the desert for a thrilling ride on a desert safari. Relax at one of Dubai's fabulous spa experiences or enjoy a dinner cruise aboard a dhow in Dubai Marina at sunset.

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket kicks off its high season in November, with the rains tapering off from last month. This creates a huge tourism demographic who prefer to hit up the beaches and bars when no Bazooka Joe is raining down on them. Consider the appeal of a Thai island, where temperatures are usually around 85°F (29°C). Three beautiful beaches are located in Patong, Kata, and Karon where you can relax, dabble in water sports, or party on the beach.

Find out where else to go besides the beaches, like vibrant markets and temples in Phuket. Head over to the Big Buddha for some peace and tranquility, or float out to the nearby Phi Phi Islands on a boat trip for spectacular views and snorkeling. Flavors of the local cuisine unfold along roadside stalls, with surprises like pad thai and mango sticky rice.

Cape Town, South Africa

November is a good month to visit Cape Town as spring turns into summer. With temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), Cape Town boasts natural beauty and world-class culture that can be explored. Its instantly recognizable Table Mountain serves as a beautiful backdrop, and an ascent via numerous walking trails — or cable car — offers views along the coastline.

Take a tour of Robben Island, the historical location where Nelson Mandela was held, and visit Bo-Kaap, a colorful neighborhood in Cape Town with its vibrant colored houses and Cape Malay culture. A day trip to the nearby Stellenbosch wine region is a must for wine lovers, where you can enjoy wines straight from the vineyards and have a tour through its picturesque backdrop.

Havana, Cuba

The beauty of history, tradition, and warmth combine to create a mesmerizing destination that draws in visitors from around the world. November's temperatures hover around 78°F (26°C), making it an ideal time to visit. Between its colonial architecture, classic cars, and lively atmosphere, the city begins to seep into you.

Take a sunset walk on the Malecón - the Caribbean seafront. Visit Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the Capitolio and the Cathedral of Havana. Gorge local dishes such as Ropa Vieja and the best mojitos, or make it a more authentic experience by doing so in one of the lively bars with live music.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is sometimes also referred to as the Island of the Gods, and trust me, they have a good reason for it. Bali still has hot weather in November, reaching on average 86°F (30°C), and occasional drops of rain. Smaller crowds mean locals have more time to share their island home during the heart of Bali weather and its equally opulent culture.

Explore the well-known rice terraces in Ubud, watch a Balinese dance performance, or unwind on the charming beaches of Seminyak and Nusa Dua. There's an abundant selection of delicious local cuisine for all tastes. You cannot leave without tasting Nasi Goreng, a delicious fried rice that embodies Bali.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

With its lively culture, picturesque views, and golden beaches, Rio de Janeiro makes a great November getaway. During spring in the southern hemisphere, temperatures hover between 70°F and 85°F (21°C–29°C). From iconic landmarks showcasing scenic vistas like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain to the Brazilian vibe — this city has it all.

Relax on Copacabana or Ipanema Beach to soak up the sun and take in the festive beach ambiance. Visit the Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban forests in the world, or enjoy some Brazilian sounds with salsa and bossa nova.

Maldives

For anyone after a real taste of the tropics, the Maldives is hard to beat. November is perfect, with an average temperature of 85°F (29°C) and low humidity. This is great for basking on white sandy beaches and snorkeling among vivid coral reefs.

For the treat of a lifetime, book an overwater bungalow and partake in scuba diving, spa sessions, and a sunset cruise. The Maldives is a popular honeymoon destination, offering beautiful scenery and unforgettable experiences within gorgeous natural surroundings.

For those seeking warmth and adventure, November is an excellent month to travel. From beaches in Mexico to the luxury of Dubai or the history of Cuba, there's something for everyone. Pack your bags and escape the chill — an unforgettable getaway awaits!