If you’re needing to replenish your Vitamin D and you’re looking for a holiday in the sun in November, read on for our favourite sunny countries and top tips on where to travel for sunshine in November. This is part of a series where we’ll look at where is best to chase the sun throughout the months.
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Barbados
Barbados is located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea and is such a great place to visit in November because it is warm and sunny all year round. The temperature in November on average is 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is also one of the top islands known for its gorgeous pink sand beaches and crystal-clear aqua water. There are approximately 80 pristine beaches on the island. One of the most popular beaches is Crane Beach. It has been rated as one of the ten best beaches in the world by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. Barbados also is a great destination for surfing on the south coast and east coast of the island and the surfing experts state that the surf in Barbados is best during the months of November to June.
The best way to traverse the island is by using public transportation or renting a car. The island is only 21 miles long and 23 miles wide so you can see a lot in either a short or long stay. Some of the top attractions in Barbados are as follows: Harrison Cave, Bathsheba, St. Nicholas Abbey, Animal Flower Cave, Island Safari and so much more. If the sea entices you a cruise on a catamaran is definitely a highlight of any trip to Barbados. Not only can you admire the coast however you can swim with the turtles and other marine life. Barbados is also known for its wrecks offering both snorkelers and scuba divers an experience like no other.
There are so many options for accommodations on the island ranging from budget-friendly Airbnb to luxurious 5 star rated hotels. There are also the following: self-catered apartments, mid-range hotels, all-inclusive hotels and villas with a full staff to pamper you. There are hotels all throughout the island some of the most popular areas to stay in are the south coast and west coast of the island.
Barbados is also known for its culinary scene from high-end restaurants to its infamous fish fry held at Oistins. Popular Barbadian cuisine consists of the national dish cou cou and flying fish, pudding and souse, cutters and fishcakes, and bakes just to name a few.
Barbados is home to the oldest distilled spirit in the whole world rum and the country is known for its legendary Mount Gay Rum. Barbados is such a great place to visit especially in the month of November as the country celebrates its Independence day on November 30th and leading up to the day are so many festivities that you will love.
Read more about Barbados from Leticia on Chic Travel Around The World.
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Greece
Southern Greece has lots of fall and winter sunshine but fewer tourists, cruise ships, and crowded tourist sites. Only an hour’s drive from the suburbs of Athens, Corinth is a fascinating place to visit. The modern town of Corinth has outdoor cafes lining the streets of the port area and it is certainly warm enough to be dining outside in November!
But it’s what’s outside Corinth that is interesting. Only seven kilometres away are the beach resorts of Loutraki. The resorts are not over-touristed and are much cheaper than staying in Athens.
Surrounding Corinth are wonderful archaeological sites that are all within an hour’s reach. These include Nafplio, a very old city with a walled Acronaupli that dates from pre-classical times, and Epidaurus with its Ancient Theatre and Sanctuary of Asklepios.
Closer still than Loutraki, Nafplio, and Epidaurus is the incredible excavated city-state of Ancient Corinth. It is the highlight of any trip to Corinth and the main reason for tourists to visit. At the height of its power and fame, Ancient Corinth guarded the land route to the Peloponnese, had ports on two gulfs, and taxed the trade by land and sea. Corinth had its own currency and pottery from Corinth was traded all over the western Mediterranean.
The archaeological zone of Ancient Corinth is an entire excavated city. Towering above the city is the Acrocorinth. An acropolis larger than the Acropolis of Athens, with fortifications, castles, and ruined temples. Within the city of Ancient Corinth, there are agoras, fountains, streets, business and residential areas, and a large museum. The most impressive monument in the archaeological zone is the Temple of Apollo. Some of the columns are still standing on one corner of the building.
If that’s not all enough, there’s also the beautiful area around Lake Stymphalia. This is the lake where, in Greek mythology, Heracles had to kill the Stypmhalian birds which ate humans and had bronze beaks! These days, there aren’t any Stymphalian birds, but there are thousands of tiny green fogs hiding in the grasses and it is an important site for migratory birds.
Written by Monique from Trip Anthropologist.
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Malta
Malta is a small island nation located in the Mediterranean south of Italy. It is made up of three islands – Malta, Gozo and Comino. The capital, Valetta is located on Malta and is a great place to start exploring islands. This city sits on a hill between two natural harbours and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the summer months, the design of the city keeps it cool with sea breezes but in the winter months the heat is nowhere near as high as the
31°C highs that are seen in the summer.
Not far from Valetta is a much less explored town called Mdina. It is dominated by the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral and is quite special as only 300 people live in the town meaning that when the day-trippers leave in the evening it is a quiet and secluded place to explore.
In the winter months walking in Malta becomes much more pleasant as the summer temperature makes walking hard work. Dingli Cliffs in the north-west of the country have bracing cliff top walks that take you from the Blue Grotto to Bahrija through vineyards and past secluded bays. Malta can be very windy in the winter months so always remember to stay away from the cliff tops in high winds.
If you have time then visiting Gozo is definitely worth considering. This island is best known for its spectacular diving which continues through the winter months, but during the winter the island is quiet. The Citadel in Rabat and the beautiful Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary in Gharb are worth exploring while visiting this wild and rugged island.
Driving in Malta away from Valetta is easy although the rules of the road can be confusing and the roads are busy. Taxies are good value for money and easy to find and there is a hop on hop off bus that visits all of the main areas. Gozo is reached by ferry that runs continually so there is only ever a short wait. You can take your car or go as a foot passenger and pick up a taxi or bus from the ferry terminal.
Malta has lovely food which has a strong Italian influence with salads and pizza being some of the more common local foods. Seafood is fresh on the islands and the restaurants know how to cook it perfectly.
Written by Suzanne from Meandering Wild.
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Ethiopia
Africa is a captivating place. While most will come to Africa on safari, the best and most captivating place to experience the history and culture of Africa is perhaps Ethiopia.
A short, one hour flight from the capital Addis Ababa ( or a gruelling two-day bus ride for the adventurous) will take you to the fabled rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. A visit to Ethiopia would not be complete without seeing Lalibela, the highlight of the country.
Situated right in the middle of the Ethiopian highlands, Lalibela is home to, what is perhaps, the most fascinating architectural site on the continent. After the Arabs conquered Jerusalem, King Lalibela of Ethiopia decided to create a New Jerusalem and had 11 churches hewn out of the rock.
These 11 churches are a true wonder in engineering and a sight to behold. Cut out of solid rock, these churches were cut from top to bottom and hollowed out. This means that roofs of these churches are on ground level, so you won’t really see them until you’re actually about to fall onto them!
The best thing about visiting Lalibela is the fact that these churches are not mere museums. Lalibela is the centre of the Ethiopian Orthodox church and the main pilgrimage centre. These churches still function and joining the devout pilgrims for mass on Sunday morning is something that will stay with you for a long time.
Lalibela is a small town and there are far more donkeys than cars in town. Everyone walks to where they want to be, and you’ll probably do the same. Lalibela is a good place to stay a few days and really soak up the special atmosphere and the cool mountain air. If possible, visit on the weekend, as the weekend market brings folks from the surrounding mountains to sell their livestock and goods, socialize and attend mass on Sunday. There is a definite buzz in town over weekends.
Being in the highlands, Lalibela is also a great base for some fantastic day hikes, or even longer. An easy day hike will take you up to 4000m and the monastery of Asheton Maryam. If you’re in luck, you might even spot a troop of Gelada baboons.
Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee. You’ll get your fair share of the good stuff anywhere you go in the country. Definitely go for a coffee ceremony if you get invited (and you will!) Not a fan of coffee? Ethiopians also make fantastic fruit juice called spreece which is often served as a layered drink of different fruit.
Ethiopia is a year-round destination, but the dry season between October and June is considered the best time to go. Whether you come to Ethiopia for the Christian highlands in the north, the tribal lands of the south, the coffee growing west or the Muslim east, you’re bound to be captivated.
Written by De Wet & Jim from Museum of Wander.
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Check Out These Cheap Flights With Kiwi: Sunshine in November
Uruguay
Uruguay is a fabulous place to catch sunshine in November. The days get longer and warmer, and you can enjoy the great weather either on the coast or while relaxing on an estancia.
Uruguay is home to 3.3 million people but more than three times as many cows. So it doesn’t come as a surprise that you can find estancias all over the country. Many of those ranches date back to the 19th century when immigrants settled down in the countryside and raised cows and sheep to make a living.
One of the best experiences in Uruguay is to stay at one of those estancias. Besides earning their living from the cattle, some have opened up to guests. When going there, you will experience an authentic insight into gaucho life. Most ranches offer horse riding and other activities, as well as home-cooked meals.
Traditional food you can expect includes Asado, which is an Uruguayan barbeque, and Chivito. The latter is a giant steak sandwich, and you can find many variations (with eggs, french fries, bacon, etc.) around the country. Also, don’t forget to try some typical Uruguayan drinks. Locals love their mate tea, and you’ll rarely see them without it. You’ll also find Grappamiel everywhere, which is grappa sweetened with honey.
November is not just a great month to stay at an Estancia; it’s also a great time to explore the coast. You can find many beach towns in this country, each with their own unique charm.
Do you want to go as remote as possible? Then head to Cabo Polonio. This village is not connected to the main road, and the only way to access it is with giant trucks. These take travellers through the sand dunes and into the settlement. In Cabo Polonio, tourists can relax on the beach, go for long walks or watch the sea lion colony that lives here.
Punta del Este is the exact opposite of Cabo Polonio. Come here if you want to experience glamour and party with the rich and famous. Here, you can find modern architecture, fine dining and the iconic statue of Los Dedos – a hand in the sand.
Backpackers flock to Punta del Diablo, with its endless beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Keep your eyes open while going for walks. With a bit of luck, you might spot penguins or sea lions.
The easiest way to get around Uruguay is by bus. Depending on your budget, you can also rent a car. However, it is entirely possible to travel by public transport only.
Written by Daniel and Ilona from Top Travel Sights.
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Mexico
In the beautiful state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, November will bring you the best of both worlds – bright sunshine-filled days and fewer tourists, just before the busy December season starts.
Quintana Roo is found at the Eastern-most tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, surrounded by the beautiful Caribbean Sea and its neighbour to the South, Belize. I’ve travelled extensively through Mexico over the years, and Quintana Roo might be my favourite state yet. After road tripping the entire state as a solo-female, I have a lot to share.
You simply cannot beat the blue of the Caribbean Sea. Just about every beach showcases white-coloured sand against clear blue waters, and compared to the Pacific shores of Mexico, they are much more swimmable.
Although Tulum is becoming more ultra-trendy and hip by the day, what I love about this area is that there are no large chain hotels or resorts and many establishments are eco-conscious and built using the surrounding nature rather than cutting it down. There are also plenty of opportunities to visit everything from off the beaten path cenotes to major historical ruins, all in a simple day trip from Tulum. You can really have it all here.
If you enjoy diving, head out to the island of Cozumel. In November, the island will supply fabulous weather and warm temperatures. Diving attractions include the Mesoamerican Reef and underwater caverns. Dolphins and manatees can be found here for animal lovers!
Farther south, near the Belize border, Lago Bacalar is an unbelievable blue. Known as the lake of seven colours, you could easily spend days lazing around this quiet lake. If you’re up for camping, this is the place to do it. Tasty restaurants are popping up in the area, so you will definitely not go hungry!
If Bacalar is too far south for your liking, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a great alternative. This area offers incredible nature much closer to the major airports. In Sian Ka’an, creatures like heron, monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas and flamingos can be spotted in their natural habitat.
Up north, Puerto Morelos is a small town with a thriving immigrant community. You can probably get by here without knowing Spanish. It’s a lovely area, however, the prices are slightly higher due to the incomers, although it’s definitely worth a day trip at least.
You really can’t go wrong with a visit to Quintana Roo in November. There is truly something here for everybody!
Written by Monica from This Rare Earth.
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South Africa
South Africa is an amazing place to travel in November for sunshine, good weather and wildlife. As November is the beginning of summer in South Africa, nice weather is one of the reasons to come here, especially if you’re planning to travel to Cape Town and its surrounds. Cape Town in November is pleasantly warm without being too hot and windy like the summer months.
November is also a quiet month with fewer tourists compared to the busier months of December and January. At this time there is no need to book accommodation and activities months in advance and Cape Town is the perfect place to start your trip. The city offers a great number of activities from kite surfing and diving to wine tasting and wild-life watching.
November is a good time to see Southern right whales in Hermanus, a small town 120 km from Cape Town. Besides whales, going out on a boat you can see Cape Fur seals, African penguins, dolphins, sharks and seabirds. The vineyards of Cape Winelands are another amazing place to visit. Both well-known wine regions like Stellenbosch or Constantia and lesser-known wine routes like Durbanville or Breedekloof offer tantalising wines and breathtaking scenery.
Take a road trip and drive along the East Coast of South Africa. You could visit the famous Garden Route enjoying the beauty of its rugged coast and stop off at a couple of National Parks along the way. The area has hidden gems including amazing campsites, beautiful hiking trails, unspoiled sandy beaches and stunning lookout points.
For those who like visiting off the grid places, a trip to the Kgalagadi National Park is a great alternative to the safari in the famous Kruger National Park. Kgalagadi is the wildest National Park in the country and is a great place to watch big cats such as lions and cheetahs as well as wild dogs, meerkats, foxes and antelopes. Our top tip would be to camp inside the park for a couple of days & take your time to explore it.
South African braai (BBQ) is a well-known part of the culture; during a braai, you can cook anything on fire although lamb chops and beefsteak are the most popular meats. If you like fine dining Franschhoek, the food capital of the country, should be on your bucket list.
Written by Campbell & Alya from Stingy Nomads.
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Australia
Queensland has to be one of, if not, the most, beautiful and adventurous areas within the whole of Australia. Not only is it extremely popular amongst travellers, particularly backpackers, but it is also very popular amongst Australian residents.
One of the top things to do is to take a road trip and explore Queensland all the way along the East Coast. This is the best way to explore Queensland.
There are many highlights in Queensland but no trip is complete without visiting and exploring Fraser Island, the Gold Coast and the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest, along with Cape Tribulation.
A Fraser Island tour is a must-do in Queensland. You have the option to drive a 4WD on a 75-mile beach. You’ll visit amazing sites such as whale watching spots, a natural bubbling jacuzzi known as the champagne pools and an abandoned shipwreck. Wild dingoes live on Fraser Island too and it is a rarity to see them so easily in the wild anywhere else in Australia.
Queensland has some of the best beaches in Australia and you won’t be short for choices. The Gold Coast is a beach city which has to be visited to truly appreciated the golden sands with the skyline of buildings in the background.
Queensland’s diversity doesn’t stop there as further up north on the East Coast becomes more tropical. Tropical North Queensland will have you thinking you are somewhere on a Caribbean Island. With palm trees swinging in the air, blue waters and white sands.
However, Tropical North Queensland is probably better well known for its wildlife and the Daintree Rainforest. Exploring the rainforest, one of the animals you will be able to spot are wild crocodiles, best seen by taking a tour.
Perhaps one of the most sort after wild animals to see is the majestic Cassowary. These amazing birds are native to Tropical North Queensland and if you spot the beautifully coloured creature in the wild it would be an unbelievable experience.
Other highlights of Queensland include skydiving, visiting some of the world’s best beaches in the Whitsunday Islands and visiting towns which have their own unique personalities. Such towns include the relaxed Mission Beach or the quint Agnes Waters & Town 1770.
You will not be short of choice on what to see and do in Queensland. It’s a part of the world that offers something for everyone.
Written by Kerrie & Woody from Just Go Travelling.
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Spain
Tenerife in the Canary Islands is the ideal island destination for some winter sun in Europe. November is an ideal time to visit as it is cheaper to fly to from the UK and other European destinations than in October or December.
Tenerife has year-round sunshine and in November the temperature stays around 22 Celsius during the day, at night the temperature drops to around 17 Celsius so you may need a light jacket especially by the coast. The cost of a holiday in Tenerife is cheap with many accommodation options from 2* to 5* most of which offer an all-inclusive package. If you prefer to get out of the hotel then the best way to explore the island is to rent a car as taxis can get expensive, this will give you chance to explore the island thoroughly and drive up through the quaint little villages around the coast and on the mountain.
Options for eating out are extensive and you can find restaurants to suit any taste from traditional Spanish to Italian, Chinese and English cuisine. Many local restaurants offer a menu del dia which is excellent value for money for 3 courses and often includes tasty local dishes like tapas and paella, some even include a free glass of wine.
Tenerife has many exciting things to do and it’s not just about visiting the beautiful beaches which have both yellow and black sand. You can find tours for whale watching, jeep tours of Mount Teide, snorkelling with turtles or even scuba diving at one of the many dive sites on Tenerife. One awesome activity that requires pre-planning is getting the cable car to the summit of Mount Teide, this requires a permit as they only allow so many visitors per year.
If you are looking for family fun, then visit Siam Park a vast Asian themed water park with slides of varying sizes and a huge lazy river. Great for a fun day trip.
Written by Steph from Book It Let’s Go.
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Florida
The Florida Keys in winter remain at a constant 27 degrees centigrade making it the perfect destination for sunshine in November. The Florida Keys are one of the only places in the US where you can sunbathe all your round although visiting in November decreases the chances of high numbers of tourists.
The Florida Keys are a number of small islands (approximately 44 coral cay archipelago) to the south of Florida. They are mostly interconnected with a 113-mile long freeway & 42 bridges although some remain accessible only by boat. The islands comprise of Lower, Middle and Upper Keys with Key Largo, the northernmost Key, receiving most tourists. Our top tip is to carry on driving until you reach the Middle or Lower Keys because these are quieter and more authentic.
Marathon Key is where you’ll find the Turtle Rescue centre and this is definitely worth a visit. The Turtle Hospital treats turtles that are rehabilitating after being hit by boats, swallowing too much plastic or those that have tumours. If you visit, you can see turtles recuperating, the operating room and the research lab. The Turtle Hospital relies upon donations and tours to continue its projects. From here you can also see manatees, hire glass-bottomed kayaks & explore mangrove tunnels.
Big Pine Key is where you’ll find the Bahia Honda State Park which is home to more than 150 species of rare flora and fauna. Its beautiful beaches are fabulous for snorkelling, camping, kayaking and relaxing.
On Key West, the southernmost island, you must stop for your photo on the quayside at the southernmost buoy. It’s a bit touristy but fun to do all the same. Key West is the busiest of the Middle and Lower Keys and also the most developed. Here you’ll find Duval Street, a quaint relic to colonial architecture and Mallory Square which is about the only place in the Lower Keys where you can actually see the sun set. Make sure to visit The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to see 60 species of butterflies.
The best beach on Key West is accessed from Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach and from close by, we really recommend heading to Dry Tortugas National Park; only accessible by boat. An archipelago of seven beach ringed islands, home to the 19th century Fort Jefferson, the islands are amazing for both snorkellers and divers as coral is in abundance, as are shipwrecks.
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