Where to go in

November

Where to go in

November

November means…chasing the sun and finding the fun in far off climes. So, where to go? The choices are many and varied. Whether you’re looking for beach action, worldly festivals, adventures in nature or a heady culture hit, read on for our November hotspots from Auckland to Doha, Thailand and Hong Kong.

Auckland

Into the outdoors? November is the dream time to visit Auckland in New Zealand’s North Island, as it marks the late spring season with just-right temperatures for outdoor adventures. Nature lovers can dig into the numerous hiking trails, like the Coast-to-Coast Walkway with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes. For hardcore hikers, Waitākere Ranges provides a tougher terrain and lush rainforests and waterfalls, while Rangitoto Island features volcanic landscapes and panoramic views. Beyond nature, the city itself is totally buzzing. Explore the waterfront at Viaduct Harbour, known for its It-restaurants and views of the marina, or visit the Auckland Art Gallery for contemporary and traditional New Zealand art. A trip to the Sky Tower is a must for awesome views of the city skyline. Venture a little out of town and you'll find hot springs – pure bliss – and, off the coast of Auckland, some of the most amazing beaches you'll ever see.

Doha

Dune bashing, camel rides, a night under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp? There’s a ton of cool things to try to in Qatar’s Doha made all the better thanks to November’s cooler climes. Tune into the culture with a visit to the iconic Museum of Islamic Art, featuring an impressive collection of art from across the Muslim world then stroll along the nearby Corniche, a serene waterfront promenade with surreal skyline views. Souq Waqif, Doha's traditional market, is the best way to get your hit of local culture and do some shopping and eating (lots of eating). Qatar’s multicultural population means there’s a diverse dining scene. Beginning in November, foodies will love the Qatar International Food Festival - three weeks of food stalls and culinary events. Into football? Catch a match as Qatar gears up for its sporting season.

Bangkok

November is one of the best months to travel to Bangkok with sweet spot temperatures (ranging from 24°c to 32°c) and no rainfall, making it ideal for the season’s festivals. One highlight is the Bua Tong Festival, celebrating the blooming of sunflower fields in nearby regions, a beautiful sight for nature lovers and photographers. You’ll have heard of the full moon parties, well in Bangkok, to mark the night of the full moon in November, the city comes alive with the Loy Krathong Festival, known as the Festival of Lights, where locals float beautifully decorated lanterns on rivers and lakes, creating a magical atmosphere. Keeping the light-up-the-sky theme, nearby in Pattaya, the Pattaya Fireworks Festival offers a crazy display of fireworks over the beach, easily accessible as a day trip from Bangkok. Bangkok’s renowned food scene shines in November, with cooler weather making it more enjoyable to explore the buzzing street food markets to get your Pad Thai fix.

Hua Hin

Thailand is the dream destination all year round, but in November it’s dry season which makes it the ideal time to hit the beach. Say hello to Hua Hin, the Gulf of Thailand’s hip coastal city, just a few hours from Bangkok. November is the start of the tourist season so you can check out the famous beaches without the peak crowds. Hua hin hits the sweet spot between chill and action – feel free to literally lay down with a cocktail/massage or get involved with some kite-surfing, night snorkelling or water park fun (try Black Mountain Water Park). Away from the beach, November’s mild weather is perfect for hiking in nearby national parks like Khao Sam Roi Yot, or visiting the scenic Phraya Nakhon Cave and Maruekhathaiyawan Palace - a stunning beachfront royal residence. Don’t miss the famous night markets, like Cicada and Tamarind for the best street food and local crafts.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of those cities that has it all – the buzzy culture of the city itself with the chance to island hop and get your fix of the rural, coastal or historic. To make the most of all it, November is the ideal time to visit thanks to the mild, pleasant weather and low humidity. It's not too steamy for sundowners in one of the rooftop bars overlooking Victoria Harbour, which lights up at 8pm every night for a light show; or for taking a wander around Chinatown. Foodies are spoilt for choice but make like the locals at street-food stalls in Wan Chai. Don’t miss Kowloon’s bustling street markets, like the Temple Street Night Market and Ladies Market, where you can find all kinds of souvenirs from the sublime to the surreal. It’s also a good time to visit Lantau Island, home to the impressive Tian Tan Buddha and tranquil monastery grounds.