Looking to extend that warm weather a little bit longer (Picture: Getty Images)
The October half term holiday is nearly here, and the cold snap we’re having may be prompting you to book a last-minute break in the sun.
Despite a warm start to autumn, storms raged and temperatures plunged throughout the UK this weekend – it doesn’t look like the forecast will improve any time soon either.
Thankfully, though, that’s not the case everywhere.
Many parts of Europe are still enjoying hot weather, meaning you don’t need to travel too far (or spend a fortune) to enjoy a bit of sun.
If you’re thinking of heading off to somewhere that doesn’t require multiple layers of clothing right now, we’ve rounded up some of the hottest destinations.
From mainland Spain to the Greek islands, whether you’re after a city break or a relaxing beach trip, there are plenty of options available. You may even get a tan!
The Canary Islands
Tenerife is busiest from December to February each year due to warm winter climes (Picture: Getty Images)
Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura are usually a safe bet if you’re looking for autumn or winter sun.
Each of the Canary Islands has an average daytime temperature of 27ºC in October, with sea temperatures ranging from 22ºC to 23ºC, sunshine hours of roughly seven hours a day, and very little chance of rain.
Peak season here is between December and February, so you could bag a half-term bargain too.
Cyprus
Increase your chances of getting a spot at the beach (Picture: Getty Images)
Cyprus offers average daily highs of 26ºC, 10 hours of sunshine a day, and sea temperatures of 24ºC.
There are plenty of beaches along the Paphos coastline, and October is still warm enough to head to the Blue Lagoon for a dip or give watersports a go in the stunning Coral Bay.
Tips for October travel
Bring layers
Even if it’s hot during the day, it may get cooler in the evenings, so pack light jackets and jumpers to ensure you don’t catch a chill.
Double-check activities
If you have your heart set on activities like boat trips or hiking, call ahead to check weather conditions are right. Stronger waves or winds during autumn could mean plans need to change.
Make alternative plans
On that note, it’s important to have other options in case your planned activities can’t go ahead. The tourist board website for wherever you are headed should have plenty of ideas.
Pre-book where possible
Although it may not be peak season everywhere, October can be a popular month for tourists. To avoid disappointment and get ahead of the crowds, pre-book activities, meals or excursions.
Malta
There’s plenty going on in Malta during October (Picture: Getty Images)
October in Malta sees daily temperatures of 22ºC, similarly warm seas, and a 60% of a perfect sunny day or a 40% chance of both sunshine and clouds. Plus, as the humidity tends to be quite high here, it feels even nicer than the forecast may suggest.
Thanks to an average rainfall …read more
Source:: Metro
