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10 Best Countries to Visit in October

by Danielle Owen | Jul 29, 2023 | Destinations | 0 comments

The best countries to visit in October are all the perfect antidote to the post-summer blues. By the time October rolls around, we’re all ready to plan a trip to somewhere warm and exciting.

To narrow down our list to the 10 best countries to visit in October, we considered the average weather, activities, and special events at each destination. The following countries are all generally warm and sunny in October. In addition, many have once-a-year festivals or events happening this month.

Check out the top 10 countries and discover the average temperature, the best activity to do in October, where to stay, and the chance of rain during your October getaway.

Ready to plan your group trip to one of the following countries? Head over to Troupe’s group trip planner where you can let your travel group vote on their favorite destination and tackle all the trip planning, all in one place.

The 10 best countries to visit in October are:

• Mexico (Oaxaca)
• USA (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
• Australia (Melbourne)
• Argentina (Buenos Aires/Cordoba)
• Indonesia (Bali)
• Tanzania (The Serengeti)
• Japan (Kyoto)
• Austria (Vienna)

Best Countries for an October Vacation

When it comes to Europe, the weather has drastically cooled off on most of the continent by October. Naturally, the further south you go, the better chance of sun and beach-friendly temperatures. The tiny country of Malta is tucked way down below Italy’s boot in the Mediterranean Sea.

Malta is one of the best countries to visit in October as it offers visitors a wide array of beaches and plenty to explore in the way of history, cities, nature, and cuisine as well.

Average Weather in October: 76°/54° Best October Activity: Notte Bianca Where to stay: In the capital, Valletta, or the seaside town of Sliema Chance of rain: 5 days/month

2. Oaxaca, Mexico

This vibrant town in Mexico is consistently voted one of the best places to travel in recent years. And October is one of our favorite times to visit. With daily highs in the high 70s and some of the best Dia de Los Muertos festivals in the entire country, you can’t go wrong with a visit here the last week of the month.

Oaxaca is also one of the best culinary destinations in Mexico, so be sure to arrive with an appetite.

Average Weather in October: 82 ° /54 ° Best October Activity: Enjoy Dia de Los Muertos festivities (while the holiday is technically November 1-2, celebrations start as early as Oct 28th) Where to stay: Oaxaca Centro Historico Chance of rain: Low. 4 days/month.

3. Albuqueque, New Mexico , U.S.A.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta kicks off in early October when temperatures in this southern state still reach the low 70s during the day. However, as it is the desert, it gets chilly after dark so be sure to bring warmer clothes as well.

Enjoy the colorful balloon-filled skies along with nine days worth of fun entertainment and events. Beyond the fiesta, the United States is one of the best countries to visit in October for its abundance of road trip options in the country’s southwest.

Average Weather: 72°/46° Best October Activity: The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Where to stay: Nativo Lodge Chance of rain: 3 days/month

4. Melbourne, Australia

The Melbourne International Jazz Festival takes place each October, giving jazz lovers a perfect excuse to make the journey down under. This is Australia’s largest jazz festival and it’s worth the long flights.

However, Melbourne is always a good idea. Enjoy the trendy bar and restaurant scene, catch a comedy show, or visit the Royal Botanic Gardens. In addition, Australia is one of the best countries to visit in October if you’re looking to hit up multiple destinations, like Sydney and Adelaide as well.

Average Weather: 68 ° /51 ° Best October Activity: Melbourne International Jazz Festival Where to stay: The trendy Fitzroy neighborhood Chance of rain: 8 days/month

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

October in Buenos Aires is the beautiful start to springtime in the north of Argentina. It’s also the ideal time to visit this bustling South American capital. The weather is perfect for days spent strolling around the city. Everything is far less crowded — not to mention cheaper — as October is the shoulder season here.

Enjoy steak and Malbec, take a tango dancing lesson, or catch a polo match. Be sure to also pay a visit to Cordoba where you can head to Villa General Belgrano to celebrate Oktoberfest this month.

Average Weather: 71 ° /57 ° Best October Activity: Celebrate Oktoberfest in Villa General Belgrano   Where to stay: Alvear Icon Hotel Chance of rain: 8 days/month

6. Bali, Indonesia

While it’s certainly going to be a bit hot and muggy this month in Bali, Indonesia is still one of the best countries to visit in October. There’s something for everyone. Bali is great for a totally chilled beach vacation or a week full of exploration with trips to the mountains, jungles, and islands off the coast.

Visit Ubud, the Gili Islands, or Mount Batur.

Average Weather: 88°/76° Best October Activity: Visit the Pura Tirta Empul Temple Where to stay: Komaneka at Keramas Beach Chance of rain: 8 days/month

7. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, Africa

Have you ever wanted to go on an African Safari? Tanzania is one of the best countries to visit in October because that’s when you’ll find The Great Migration in Serengeti National Park. Head to the northern Serengeti to see the big herds congregated in certain spots before the rains.

Even without witnessing The Great Migration, a visit to Serengeti National Park is one of the most unforgettable trips you can take in your lifetime. If you have the time, combine your safari with a beach vacation on Zanzibar.

Average Weather: 82 ° /59 ° Best October Activity: See The Great Migration in the Serengeti Where to stay: Serengeti Simba Lodge Chance of rain: 9 days/month

8. Kyoto, Japan    

October is one of the best months to visit Japan when the weather is still pleasant and the summer’s rainfall and humidity is subsiding. Kyoto is one of the best places to visit at this time. Wander the temples, shrines, and gardens in the gorgeous weather.

If you’re looking for an October festival nearby, the   Kurama-no-hi Matsuri takes place in the mountains near Kyoto and you’ll see men in loincloths carry burning torches through the village of Kurama.

Average Weather: 72 ° /54 ° Best October Activity: Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine Where to stay: Ryotei Rangetsu in Kyoto near the riverfront Chance of rain: 7 days/month

9. Vienna, Austria

One of the chillier destinations you’ll visit in October, we still love Austria in the fall. Enjoy the autumn colors in Stadtpark. Cozy up in ancient wine bars or enjoy culinary excellence at restaurants like Amador .

Pay a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral and explore the catacombs and south tower without all the tourists of the summer months.

Average Weather: 57°/44° Best October Activity: St. Stephen’s Cathedral Where to stay: Park Hyatt Vienna in central Vienna Chance of rain: 13 days/month (typically light showers)

10. Aruba 

While October is still hurricane season for most of the Caribbean, Aruba sits outside of the hurricane belt. So if you’re looking for a Caribbean island to visit this fall, Aruba is the place to be. You’ll still catch the occasional shower but you’ll also have so much more peace and quiet on the island than in the coming high season months of December/January.

Enjoy a stay on Eagle Beach, named the 5th best beach in the world by Tripadvisor for 2022.

Average Weather: 89 ° /79 ° Best October Activity: Enjoy the white sand paradise of Eagle Beach Where to stay: Bucuti and Tari Beach Resort in Eagle Beach Chance of rain: 7 days/month

October travel planning

Now is the perfect time to start planning an October getaway. Use Troupe to streamline all your vacation planning by letting your friends vote on their favorite October destination.

For more October travel inspiration, check out the following:

• The best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• The best beaches in Tulum
• The best places to stay in Cabo San Lucas
• The perfect 7 days in Greece itinerary
• The best things to do on Marco Island

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Europe Tours in October 2024

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European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

Excellent 18 days itineraries!

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

Had a great time doing the 10 days Balkans tour. Unforgettable sceneries and memories. Our guide Simon is really a fantastic guy. Highly recommended.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Europe Taster

Mike (Tour Guide) and Sylvio (Coach Operator) was superb, and they provided us on this trip memories that will last us a lifetime! This is definitely much needed break away from the daily grind that allowed us to appreciate and enjoy LIFE's simple pleasures. Very appreciative of Mike and Sylvio for sharing a slice of their TIME with us on this trip. "Travel made Possible" = "Time made Possible". Highlight of the trip for us was the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe in the Swiss Alps where we marked and celebrated our 25th year Anniversary this year together at the Summit! With a thankful heart, Alberto and Marissa

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Genuine Europe

Filipo and Gaitano were excellent guides. The itinerary was Ok in and Italy but not much in Paris and London

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Central Europe

The Central Europe tour I was on with my daughter went beyond my expectations. I was nervous about having all that free time in new places but Eliza our amazing tour guide, gave us the best orientations and knowledge of all the places we visited. Sharing her local knowledge and her mastery of all the languages to help us fully experience and enjoy the countries we were in, made it perfect. The group size was good and she looked after us at every turn, especially on busy train stations and on arrival at new places. She helped us experience the local culture and food in each location, so we had highlights all through the tour. Highly recommend

Europe Escape

Hhmm... Luke is charming and kind ????, I am a little biased ????. But he is a great tour guide and a great person in general. Would see him again in UK tour If I could choose him again. So yea, highly recommend . He is entertaining and very committed to his job and in making the tour fun. I've never written a review before , but I did for this guy . That says a lot!! Haha safe travels everyone !

The Great Adventure

The tours was fine. The tour leaders were good and professionals. Just one complaint The hotel in Switzerland was not acceptable. No air conditioning. The rest of hotels were in good standard. My wife had a wheelchair and the tour personnel were highly helpful and ready to help on anyway possible. Thank you.

The Best of Eastern Europe

A well organised varied and interesting tour . The tour leader was delightful and aimed to please everyone. A variety of travel modes . Felt safe well cared for and accommodated Our tour group were all friendly and supportive

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

Great tour to see Balkan countries at fast pace but well organised. Visited sites were very interesting with Wonderful sceneries and intriguing history Good hotels, Dragan was an excellent Guide and Sasha excellent driver A lot to see but also long drives

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Berlin to Venice (15 Days) (including Salzburg)

Enchanted Landscapes

We took this trip for our first wedding anniversary, it was a great deal and we had the trip of a lifetime. We would note that this is not the trip for someone looking to relax or be alone, but if you want to see a lot in a little time, this is perfect! The accommodations were mostly great and communication was fine. Transportation in between countries was easy and the guides were knowledgeable. Our favorite guide was Albert, he was clear and knowledgeable and very honest with us about what to watch out for and try and what’s not worth it. He’s the best and we would love any tour with him! Sometimes the groups can be large and be combined with groups that speak other languages but it’s not all the time.

ScanBaltic Tour

overall I think the tour was well worth it for what you paid for and what was included Accommodation was good, (beds were comfortable ) buffet Breakfast every morning were good and the buses were pretty comfortable - I would say some parts of the tour were a bit rushed and you would have liked to have spent more time at some places, however as it is a "highlights" tour of quite a few countries, time was in short supply. It did give you good idea and feel for where you would like to go back too though. The Tour guides however helpful and friendly they were, I feel could have been a bit more organized and clear in so far as communicating information on i.e times to meet back, leaving times etc.. etc.. Overall I had a good time , enjoyed what I saw and would recommend this tour as it was well worth the money.

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

we had a great trip so many places we saw in only 14 days even with the covid 19

European Delight

We really enjoyed our 16 Day tour from Rome to Paris. We met some lovely people and of course some tour guides are more experienced than others and we understand this. We hope to use Europomundo again in the future. The only complaint would be the Spanish translation seemed more detailed( went on longer than the English) as I don’t understand Spanish, I feel they were told more about the towns and cities than we were.

Rome to Berlin: Piazzas, Prague & the Past

Great diversity of countries and cities but WAY too fast paced. One night in Slovenia and Poland was ridiculous and with travel time some days we spent less than 15 hours in the city. The guide was a but inexperienced so we didn't have a good description of some of the cities. Great way to make friends and see cities! Would recommend going end of August or later as it was still very hot going through the cities!!

What people love about Europe Tours in October

Mimi was great. Only thing I would change is a better break about half way through. The older people were exhausted by the end.

excellent, highly recommended

Overall the trip was well coordinated. There were minor glitches that were easily resolved

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The best holiday destinations in October 

By Sarah James

October can be many things. It can be the dreamy scent of bonfire smoke on restorative air; pumpkins on porches; blazing leaves. Or, Down Under, it might be the abundance of spring – and a fine time to explore new Aussie cooking . In much of Asia , rains and humidity are abating, so both riotous cities and off-grid escapes are at their best. And with the steamy, congested summer a distant memory, it’s the savvy traveller’s time for a classic California road trip , or an in-demand beach break. We’ve got October holiday ideas for sustainable touring, shopping, stays and getting around, too. For more, see our guide to where is hot in October .

Our choices for the best holiday destinations in October

Temperature: 27°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 4 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

Perfect autumn beach destination: Europe, a Mediterranean island, but so far south-east it has the climate of the Middle East. Enter Cyprus. A rich history and eclectic culture, a blissful climate and fantastic beaches. Away from the dramatically beautiful coastline and the beachfront hotels is the lesser-explored interior, the Troodos mountains – the Cotswolds of Cyprus – with their vineyards and hillside villages and friendly tavernas.

Where to stay: Anassa is one of our favourite hotels in Europe, particularly for families. For a more adult stay, try the glossy beachside Amavi in Paphos. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Cyprus .

Los Cabos, Mexico

Temperature: 33°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 15 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT-7

Beachy Eden ‘Cabo’ is all about switching off in style. This sun-drenched spot is always hot hot hot: where smart hotels such as the One&Only have restaurants by elite chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and host birthday parties for starry guests including Jennifer Aniston. In winter, all and sundry come for the weather (it rains in summer). Praise be for October, then, when the mercury’s high but occupancy low. Los Cabos is actually two towns at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula – Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The latter retains more traditional charm, and has the chicest hotels: mid-century fans will love Thompson’s The Cape. Don’t miss Puerto Raiz in San José del Cabo, an outdoor foodie hub with two restaurants and a distillery, set within 13 acres of orchards and gardens. All produce is sourced onsite – including for the distillery’s spirits and cocktails – while cheese, meat and seafood come from local purveyors in neighbouring Baja towns such as La Paz and Todos Santos.

Where to stay: One&Only Palmilla , an elegant retreat and one of the best hotels in Los Cabos .

Mauritius, Indian Ocean

Temperature: 25°C high; 20°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+3

It's springtime in Mauritius in October; the weather is warming up after a long, warm winter. But it's not yet humid or rainy. Huge Indian Ocean-sized flowers are bursting in bloom and animal hoots and chattering come riffling out of the rainforest. There’s not a lot you can do about the carbon-belching flight to Mauritius, but, once you’re there, you can opt for a sustainable stay. Mauritius Conscious Travel offers solar-powered glamping with vegetarian meals sourced from an onsite garden, plus motor-free day trips by sea kayak, mountain bike and climbing rope. If anyone offers you a trip to Mauritius at any other time of year, we urge you not to turn it down. But October is definitely a goodie.

Where to stay: For a private stay, Maradiva is a smart all-villa resort. At Shangri-La Le Touessrok , guests can enjoy exclusive access to a private island. See more of the top hotels in Mauritius .

Provence, France

Temperature: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours by plane; 6.5 hours by Eurostar Time difference: GMT+1

Everybody goes to Provence in summer. But for food, for tranquillity, for scenery, October is deeply delicious, its vineyards a vibrant ochre, morning mists shrouding the glades of the Luberon at dawn. Autumn is the season of wine and truffles and food festivals, when Provence’s slow-paced villages are uncrowded except for locals, markets heaped with harvest spoils. And the weather is still largely warm and dry – ideal T-shirt weather for country walks and bike rides.

Where to stay: Hôtel Crillon Le Brave is a classic favourite; while Coquillade has just reopened after a facelift, a restored Provençal village in the Luberon, with spoiling suites, a destination spa, and its own vineyards.

Málaga, Spain

Temperature: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

On Spain ’s sunniest costa, Málaga’s exuberant young crowd has injected a fresh energy into this little seaside city, earning it a reputation for being a pocket-sized Barcelona , where you’ll find sizzling art and food scenes and late-summer heat. Its charming old town, though small, is packed with buzzy little restaurants and boutiques selling artisan-made fashion and homewares; there’s a museum dedicated to Picasso and a theatre run by Antonio Banderas, both Málaga natives. More modern kicks are found at the regenerated port with its Rubik’s-Cube-like Pompidou Centre. And why not explore Málaga carbon-free – Urban Bicycles rents out the most beautiful handmade mint-green bikes for cruising along the promenade, which runs from the city centre to the beach bars north of the city.

Where to stay: At the 18th-century Palacio Solecio , which opened in 2020 after a full overhaul to become the city’s most beautiful hotel, and the latest in Pablo Carrington’s stable (along with Formentera’s Gecko Hotel & Beach Club and Mallorca’s Cap Rocat).

The Greek islands, Greece

Temperature: 24°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

The more southerly of the small Greek islands – the Dodecanese and the Cyclades – are still hot and sunny well into October – and there are some sensational beaches on which to enjoy it. Rhodes, with the lovely cobbled Lindos and parties in its ancient ruins. Milos , which has some of the best beaches in the Greek Islands. We love unspoilt Symi, Nisyros and Patmos ; while Santorini and Mykonos are eternal big-hitters. Pick any one, they're all lovely. Or go island-hopping around them all. Just remember: cruise ships are an issue on the Greek islands, disgorging thousands into small port towns and diverting visitors to just a small number of shops and restaurants. If you’re island-hopping, opt to do it by sailboat instead: this is not only more environmentally friendly, but smaller vessels can take you to more off-the-beaten-track beaches, coves and towns.

Where to stay: We have a long list of the best Greek island hotels to choose from. In terms of the newest openings to know about, Once in Mykonos Luxury Resort is a chilled hideaway for young families and dapper partygoers. Another name to note is Oku Kos , which effortlessly combines local culture with relaxation.

Japanese Alps, Japan

Temperature: 20°C high; 9°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +9

The masses might go mad for cherry blossom season, but arguably Japan ’s most arresting sight is its Alps in autumn. Vibrant reds, oranges and yellows sprawl across the ranges, reflected in jade-green lakes and rivers. Hiking trails get very busy, but the outstanding vistas more than make up for it, and the ever-organised Japanese excel at high-altitude mountain huts, where you can get a private room and bento box-style dinner. Afterwards, the spa towns around Takayama are adept at soothing aching limbs. Upmarket ryokans, such as Fukuji Onsen’s Yumoto Choza, offer both outdoor and indoor hot-spring baths, fine-dining kaiseki dinners and gorgeous traditional rooms with tatami mats and sliding paper screens.

Ningaloo Reef

Temperature: 33°C high; 16°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 16 hours 45 minutes to Perth direct, then 1 hour 50 minutes to Learmonth for Ningaloo. Time difference: GMT+8

Off the coast of Western Australia , the country’s most pristine coral reef has become known as a marine superhighway. Diving and snorkelling trips are technicolour dreams, teeming with fish, turtles and sharks, and Ningaloo Reef is one of only a handful of places in the world where you can swim alongside whale sharks and humpback whales, when they journey alongside the reef on their on their way to feeding grounds in the Antarctic. Or take a boat out as they breach, dramatically, out of the water around you.

Where to stay: Guests can walk straight from their safari tent at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef – the only hotel in the Cape Range National Park – into the marine-rich waters of the reef. The tented camp’s local guides will unearth the wonders of sea and bush, and arrange experiences such as swimming with whales.

Paul Richardson

CNT Editors

Arati Menon

Olivia Morelli

Temperature: 14–26ºC Season: winter Flight time from UK: 13h 30m (one change) Time difference: GMT+2

Marking the turn of winter into spring, October is a wonderful month to visit this storied Indian Ocean island. The weather is dry and warm, the nights are cool, the jacarandas are in bloom, and it is egg-laying season for turtles and birthing season for lemurs – poster girls for Madagascar’s unique and diverse indigenous wildlife, which is found in abundance from the country’s ancient forests to its dreamy white-sand beaches.

Where to stay: On cast away fantasy Nosy Ankao off Madagascar’s north coast, Miavana is the best eco-lodge in the country: a five-star private-island resort dedicated to conservation, with expert guides to take guests lemur-and turtle-watching, fishing and diving. Abercrombie & Kent offers the 13-night Classic Madagascar trip from £5,960pp.

Darjeeling, India

Temperature: 17°C high; 10°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 13 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +5.30

This month marks the end of monsoon season, and an excellent time to visit India’s most famous hill station as the rain and fog peel back to reveal extravagant Himalayan views. Top of the list should be a sunrise visit to Tiger Hill, to see the frosted peaks of the world’s third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga, bathed in a peachy glow. The effect is said to be best in mid-October; keep your eyes peeled and you’ll even spot Everest on the left. Other than that, it’s a relaxing time tasting the ‘Champagne of teas’ at local plantations, riding the UNESCO-listed steam railway (affectionately known as ‘the toy train’) and taking afternoon tea in Victorian-style heritage hotels.

Where to stay : Ging Tea House is among the oldest tea estates in the region, from which you can take lovely guided hikes. Or see more hotels across India for gorgeous monsoon views . Do remember that water scarcity is a huge problem in Darjeeling, so look for hotels with responsible practices around conservation (such as rainwater harvesting), and be mindful of how much you use.

Vienna, Austria

Temperature : 15°C high; 5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2hrs 25 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Though Austria’s capital is better known for grand imperial palaces and an even grander musical legacy (Mozart and Beethoven), one of the city’s finest assets is its urban vineyards. Forget a designated driver, just take the tram to the pretty outer suburbs, where rows of vines spread across grassy slopes, as skyline views and the Danube stretch out below. October marks the harvest, when the vineyards are at their greenest and winemakers open up their operations to enquiring minds (and mouths). There are several designated wine trails to follow, where vintners hand out samples from both cellar and kitchen, and autumn’s mild, sunny days are ideally suited to frolics in the fields. Where to stay: Park Hyatt Vienna , a magnificently grand stay – one of our favourite hotels in Vienna .

Austin, Texas

Temperature: 27°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT-6

Austin’s other festival happens in October: Austin City Limits , in Zilker Park – an altogether easier shebang to negotiate than SXSW if you’re not in the industry. And autumn brings glorious weather to Texas – blue skies, mild warm days, low humidity – which is just right for a road trip out of the USA’s coolest, weirdest state capital across the high Texan desert to find historical charm in San Antonio and more weirdness, along with knockout art and sensational food, in Marfa. Rent bikes at Lance Armstrong’s Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop , fired up by a farm-sourced, single-origin, Fair-Trade, shade-grown, home-roasted coffee from the shop’s Juan Pelota Cafe.

Where to stay: The Texas-based Bunkhouse group has places to stay in Austin and San Antonio, including Austin’s  Carpenter Hotel  in a former union hall near Zilker Park and beautiful  Hotel Havana  in a riverside house in San Antonio, while avant-garde hotelier Liz Lambert, a true original, is behind the out-there trailer park  El Cosmico  in Marfa.

Churchill, Canada

Temperature: 1°C high; -5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 21 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

Better to be a visitor than a resident in Arctic Churchill, which in autumn earns the dubious honour of becoming “polar bear capital of the world”. As the surrounding Hudson Bay freezes, these massive mammals – male polar bears can weigh as much as 10 men – invite themselves over, in search of seals. Great news for wildlife watchers, who can board specially reinforced tundra buggies to get up close to earth’s largest land carnivore; not so great for the people of Churchill, who are apt to find polar bears hanging around like delinquent youths at the local bus stop. The largest groups gather in October. Consider a tundra buggy safari with Frontiers North Adventures , respected locally for thoughtful initiatives including creating the town’s first recycling programme; employing staff and sourcing supplies from within the community; and investing in causes such as Churchill’s Canadian Junior Rangers and non-profit conservation outfit Polar Bears International .

Atacama Desert, Chile

Temperature: 25°C high; 5°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 21hrs Time difference: GMT -4

The world’s driest desert isn’t the hottest, but it is perhaps the most starkly beautiful – so Mars-like that actual Mars rovers are brought here for test drives. Red canyons and sand dunes, whooshing geyers and steaming volcanoes, salt flats and hot springs stretch out as far as the eye can see. It’s largely devoid of a drinking water supply or any natural shade, so there are few settlements, which means no pollution, explaining why it has also lately garnered buzz as a premier stargazing destination. The fabulously remote Explora Atacama, for example, has a private observatory as well as a spa and bespoke-bred horses. October, shoulder season, offers a holy trinity: empty vistas unspoiled by fellow visitors, lower room rates and temperate daytime conditions. Don’t ignore the highland hamlets and historic sites in the Atacama region – spending your tourist dollars here helps to sustain local and indigenous communities and preserve their heritage. Where to stay: Hotel Wara , a spacious and rambling escape in the desert. Explora Atacama , meanwhile, is a gorgeously rugged ranch turned spoiling escape, with a spa, an observatory and an exemplary restaurant.

Watch a video of a dramatic ride across the Atacama Desert

Rome, Italy

Temperature: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Tutti Italia is on holiday all month long in August. You might think that would make Rome relatively quiet, with every Roman gone to the beach, but it's not; it's unbearably busy and unbearably hot. July, too, is unbearably busy and hot; so is much of June. May and September used to be quieter, but lots of people realised that and now they are busy too. Winter can be a bit miserable, though Christmas is quite busy. So October, by default, becomes our month of choice to visit Rome , when it is less busy, still lovely and warm, and you can selfie at the Trevi Fountain in that magic late-summer sunlight without quite so many tourists ruining the view.

Where to stay: Hotel de' Ricci , a retro-cool hotel in an artsy neighbourhood and one of the best hotels in Rome .

The Lake District, UK

Temperature: 10°C high; 2°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours by train from London Time difference: GMT+0

Even when it rains – and it does rain here, a lot – the Lake District must be one of the most wistfully beautiful places in the world. Never more (many would say) than in fiery autumn, when mist and woodsmoke mix in the morning and good days are pin-sharp, bright with red-gold trees and bracken covering the fells. If only someone could capture such beauty in words.

Where to stay: Foodies will love the Michelin-starred restaurant at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House . For a quant village stay, check in to The Black Bull Inn . For a private stay, we love the look of this cosy Airbnb near Ullswater . For more, check out our list of the best Airbnbs in the Lake District .

New England, USA

Temperature: 17°C high; 7°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 7 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

As above, except with less rain, and leafpeepers (for that is what they call them here) tend to drive to look at the Fall foliage rather than put on walking boots. Combine the fiery Vermont countryside with a Boston city break.

Where to stay: Castle Hill Inn , the best places to watch the boats become silhouettes against the Atlantic Ocean, one of the best things to do on Rhode Island .

Temperature: 35°C high; 16°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 14 hours Time difference: GMT+1

You can make a convincing case for Botswana as the world’s greatest safari destination. The government’s “low impact, high experience” mandate makes for more intimate camps; Serengeti-like jeep scrums just aren’t a thing. Then there’s the Okavango Delta, an immaculate wetland wilderness teeming with life. (Conservation is so successful that South Africa relocates endangered rhino here.) Tourism tails off in October because of rising heat, but the flooded Okavango is water-cooled, while a lack of vegetation – munched over the dry winter – puts game-viewing at its peak. Prices drop towards the end of the month, and the new, solar-powered Qorokwe Camp by Wilderness Safaris, sitting on its own lagoon, is a slick pick. A bush walk with the San – the indigenous people of the Kalahari desert – conserves their culture in more ways than one, fostering both education for visitors and employment for the San. But do your research before booking: some tours can be less than respectful. Where to stay: Xigera Safari Lodge , a lodge putting a swish edge on sustainability, or read about the best Botswana safari holidays in the Okavango Delta .

Seville, Spain

Temperature: 26°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

A hot destination right now, the winds of change are finally blowing through old Seville – and October is the best time to visit for fresher air, when the winding streets are a little less sultry but no less romantic. Culturally there's a lot happening, from pop-up galleries and cafés to a gastronomic revolution.

Where to stay: For a taste of truly regal extravagance, book in to Hotel Alfonso XIII . For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Seville .

Temperature: 29°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 18 hours Time difference: GMT-11

With the summer crowds gone, low rainfall and mellowing prices before the winter holidays, what better time to head for Hawaii? Of course, there’s more to the archipelago than Big Island: Kauai for secret swimming holes and charming local bars; Oahu for top food and surf; and even Maui, with its ever-popular 30 miles of beach, has some hush-hush stuff up its sleeve – seek out the rural artists’ community at Makawao, or go on an agri-visit to Surfing Goat Dairy, a farm on the slopes of a volcanic crater. Given the amount of importing that goes on here – and that goes for hotels, restaurants and shopping chains as much as groceries – shopping local helps the Hawaiian people maintain an identity that is uniquely their own. Buying locally made fashion not only guarantees designs that are true to the culture, but supports master weavers and artisans: see the likes of Hana Hou (Big Island); Native Intelligence (Maui); Na Mea Hawaii (Oahu); and Ohana Shop (Kauai). Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Lana'i , an alluring escape.

Perugia, Italy

Temperature: 18°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK : 2 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

It’s not difficult to get excited about a place that holds an annual 10-day festival celebrating the world’s favourite sweet treat. Every October, Umbria’s capital in central Italy hosts cooking classes, exhibitions and (most importantly) tasters to celebrate the town’s most famous export – chocolate. It’s a diabetic’s purgatory, a sweet lover’s dream and a local staple. The Belgians have their pralines, Oaxaca has its drinking chocolate and the Swiss have Lindt – but Perugia is home to baci. The word translates as “kisses”, and the story goes that a young chocolatier created a special sweet for her paramour, wrapped in a love letter and – naturally – sealed with a kiss. Today, baci somewhat seductively resemble a nipple, and still come wrapped in romantic proverbs and poems. Perugia is also a town rich in history and art, set on a hilltop peppered with medieval aqueducts, curious cobbled staircases and views that appear out of nowhere.

Where to stay: Find boutique hotels in Tuscany and Umbria, Italy

The Galapagos Islands

Temperature: 25°C high; 19°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT-7

Out of this world all year round – there is no other wildlife like this on earth. However for maximum nature shows, it's peak season for fish and birds from June until the end of October in the Galápagos Islands . It's also when there's least rain. Wait until October and most of the other tourists will have gone back to work; plus the sea should have warmed up a bit in case you were thinking of taking a dip (and you should) to get up close to the phenomenally varied marine life. And while most visitors explore the Galápagos via small cruise ships, it is possible to book land-based tours, where you’ll stay on several islands and take small- boat excursions by day. This means eating at locally run restaurants, visiting land-based businesses (such as farms), and exploring the human history of the islands, too.

Where to stay: Finch Bay , one of the island’s longest-standing hotels as recommended in our expert's guide to the Galapagos .

Taipei, Taiwan

Temperature: 27°C high; 22°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+7

Yet to draw the trend-obsessed like Tokyo , or shoot to relevance like Seoul , the Taiwanese capital is a broadly undiscovered, just-as-thrilling blend of both. From Taoist temples to record-setting skyscrapers, flashy shopping malls to throbbing, neon-lit night markets, it’s a fascinating cultural smash: all cheap street-side beers and grilled cuttlefish on a stick one minute; a bonkers club with a waterfall on the dance floor the next. Towards the end of October the rain stops, humidity dials down and skies clear, so you can take in the glitzy cityscape, best viewed from the 230ft Miramar Ferris Wheel, or the 89th floor of once-world's-tallest tower, Taipei 101.

Where to stay: There’s more bling at the W , where room categories have names like Fabulous and Extreme Wow.

Temperature: 31°C high; 25°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+6

October is the beginning of dry season in Vietnam’s north and south, where monumental natural spectacles and buzzing city scenes both abound. Up top, hill station Sapa is the gateway to misty treks; the capital Hanoi is all chaos, condensed-milk coffees on low plastic stools and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. Down at the bottom, the Mekong Delta is a whole world bobbing on canals and streams; and Ho Chi Minh City is where the bohos go – don’t miss The Café Apartment, a nine-storey block stuffed with fairy-lit mini-boutiques and craft coffee stores. High season creeps up in November, so it’s also the last chance for lower rates. In Sapa, the most popular activities are trekking the terraced slopes and staying with hill tribes, and the best way to do both is with Sapa O’Chau . This social enterprise, founded by a single mother from the Black Hmong tribe, is a nonprofit homestay and trekking service, which puts funds back into the community: improving village schools, providing English classes to Hmong guides and street vendors, distributing winter clothes to local children, and more. Where to stay: An Lam Retreats in Ninh Van Bay , one of the best hotels in Vietnam .

Adelaide, Australia

Temperature: 21°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 21 hours Time difference: GMT+8:30

Sydney and Melbourne – so yesterday. It’s Adelaide’s time to shine, and how. The wine-producing Adelaide Hills had long overshadowed South Australia’s coastal capital, but a vital new food scene is changing all that. And thank the Hills’ surrounding farms for fresh finds that Adelaide’s urban rivals can only covet. All that natural bounty is paired with October’s crisp air, as the beginnings of spring slough off winter’s edge. If you fancy getting off-grid, CABN has a number of tiny houses tucked into the South Australian wilderness, less than an hour’s drive from Adelaide’s CBD. These solar-powered minimalist escapes also have composting loos and rainwater catchment, and sit close to conservation parks, heritage bushland and wine country.

Read more about the best restaurants in Adelaide

Mendocino, California

Temperature: 14°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT-8

October is when Northern California finally gets its act together, dropping the fog and chilly winds that never fail to surprise under-dressed tourists, opting instead for more Cali-appropriate shimmering sunshine and bright, blue skies. It’s also the ideal time to make the road trip to one of the state’s best-kept secrets, Mendocino County: a thrilling coastal drive 160 miles north of San Francisco, with enough dramatic sea cliffs, lanky redwoods and crashing ocean to put Big Sur to shame. Mendocino town looks like a slice of New England picked up and dropped off on a California headland, and recalls its 1950s bohemian heyday with a surplus of art galleries and no chains. That hippie spirit also lives on in the Mendocino wine region, known for the country’s biggest haul of organic vines. Try a true taste of Mendocino at Harbor House Inn , where the 25-seat dining room hosts an ever-changing, hyper-local menu that has been awarded the county’s first-ever Michelin star. Everything you eat here has been sourced from within a 30-mile radius.

Where to stay: Half an hour up the coast, The Inn at Newport Ranch is a place of wild extremes. Or see more of the best hotels in California for more ideas.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Temperature: 35°C high; 24°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 7 hours Time difference: GMT+3

Summer is when Dubai hibernates: as the desert city heats up to 40 degrees Celsius and beyond, even skyscrapers seem to perspire, the al-fresco fun packs up and everyone bolts for the AC-cooled inside. But in October Dubai springs to new life: beach clubs reopen, restaurant terraces are jammed and a dip in the Arabian Gulf no longer feels like swimming in a scorching-hot spring. Temperatures in the high 20s also make a desert excursion less like an episode of Bear Grylls ’ Born Survivor. Enough of the world’s biggests and tallests? Poke into the boutiques, galleries and Foster + Partners-designed buildings of the freshly minted Dubai Design District. Where to stay: Al Maha , an exclusive desert haven set within a conservation reserve. See more of our favourite hotels in Dubai for more ideas.

Temperature: 19°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT+5

The remote Himalayan kingdom known for its Gross National Happiness Index, pristine peaks and precariously perched Tiger’s Nest Monastery, makes a point of exclusivity – foreign visitors face a hefty daily tariff for the privilege of stepping within its borders. The payoff, of course, is the rare purity of a nation largely untouched by the outside world. Given that much of Bhutan’s pleasures are found in hikes to sacred mountains and remote temples, the cool mountain air and clear skies of October make it a prime time to visit. The Six Senses Bhutan – comprising five different lodges – adds a touch of luxury to some of the country’s most scenic valleys and forests. The daily tariff ensures that Bhutan only deals in sustainable tourism – limiting visitors in this way protects the kingdom’s culture, land and traditions. But you can make sure the money you spend goes directly to the Bhutanese you meet by shopping in local markets, eating in neighbourhood restaurants and sleeping in heritage properties or homestays.

Where to stay: Read our spa review of COMO Uma Paro, Bhutan .

Temperature: 26°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 5 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Perhaps the most captivating country in the Middle East, Jordan has an embarrassment of spectacular things to see: ancient and awe-inspiring Petra, the Roman city of Jerash, the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, great desertscapes where you can stay overnight in a Bedouin camp. In October there are still bright sunny days that light the rock of Petra up rose-red; but it is cool enough to journey into the Valley of the Moon on camel or horseback by day, and warm enough to sleep out under the starry sky by night. Don’t miss the opportunity to camp out in Wadi Rum. A co-operative of Bedouin tribes runs the majority of trekking and camping trips, and they rely on tourism to hold onto their traditional way of life.

The Turkish Coast

Temperature: 26°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 4 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Turkey's beautiful Aegean and Bosphorus coasts are still hot in October, the beaches uncluttered by holidaymakers. There's a distinctly Greek feel to these regions, and between the coves you'll find dreamy boutique hotels that are good value for money out of season, and unexpectedly boho fishing villages. Alaçati is one of our favourites; and picturesque Selimiye, an hour from Dalaman, tipped (by us) as the new Kalkan. Likewise Istanbul – too prickly, too hot in summer – is more pleasant to explore out of season.

Where to stay: Mandarian Oriental in Bodrum , a glamorous, starry beach base. Alaçati is a good spot for small boutique hotels – a better bet for eco-friendliness than a sprawling coastal resort. The Stay Warehouse is a super-cool, adults-only converted brewery built from regionally sourced, recycled wood, bricks and glass, and the restaurant serves platters of local fruit, olives and cheese.

Temperature: 23°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 25 Time difference: GMT+1

Mallorca and Ibiza get the lion’s share of the Balearic spotlight. But little Menorca is just as beautiful. In the summer, this tiny island’s roads are largely closed to private vehicles to avoid congestion and protect the natural environment – especially around the most beautiful beaches. By October, things have calmed down, and most summer tourists have left. More fool them: Menorca is still warm and sunny well into the autumn, and the sea – warmed by the Mediterranean sun all summer – is still pleasant to swim in. In shoulder season, you can explore at your own pace.

Where to stay: at Menorca Experimental , a handsome, pared-back hideout from the Parisian Experimental Group, or at Christine Bedfor , a smart townhouse in Mahon.

Temperature: 21°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 20 Time difference: GMT+1

Sicily’s long been drawing Italo-philes after something a little different to the mainland – more rugged, more fierce – but the White Lotus effect has really ramped up tourism to this little island over the past few years. See what all the fuss is about by planning a trip in October when the oppressive summer heat has finally died down, and the peak-season crowds have melted away. The landscape here is extraordinary; cities plonked at the bottom of smoking volcanoes, glossy islands cast away in the sea, and gently crumbling grandiose architecture that hints at a patchwork of influences from Moorish to Norman. You’ll also find some of Europe’s best food here; fat tubes of cannoli and refreshing granita that you won’t stop talking about even after you leave.

Where to stay: In Palermo, we love Villa Igea (which was featured on our 2023 Gold List ) or stay at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , set against the backdrop of Mount Etna.

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How to Make a Group Travel Itinerary: A Complete Guide

The stories you’ll tell, the experiences you’ll share, and the memories you’ll make on a group trip all start with a thoughtful and thorough group vacation itinerary. Use this guide to create a group travel itinerary that harnesses your travel inspiration while balancing group members’ expectations. Be sure to get input from the group, whether it’s your family, friends, or coworkers throughout the planning process. And consider hiring a group travel advisor who can help optimize your group travel experience and ensure your travel companions’ travel needs and wants are fully accounted for.

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1. Decide Who’s Going on the Trip

It’s tempting to label this first step “0” because before you start planning you must consider who your itinerary is designed for. After all, group trips include vacations, reunions, and even work trips like destination team-building experiences for close friends, family members, or colleagues.

These groups have different needs and preferences, each desiring something different from travel. The same destinations can have radically different itineraries if, say, children and elderly individuals require more rest and downtime to comfortably accompany you on a group trip.

2. Choose a Destination

Perhaps you’ve already planned on taking a trip and want to choose an enticing destination to encourage friends or family to join you. Or maybe your friends from work or school have decided to travel together but haven’t chosen a destination yet. You’ll want to nail down your destination early in the itinerary process to get a sense of what sort of sights, activities, attractions, accommodations, and transportation options are on offer.

Consider the weather, the season, and any major events coinciding with your itinerary when choosing a destination. Remember that the seasons in the northern and southern hemispheres are opposite. So when planning a group trip to say, Argentina, remember winter in the US is actually South America’s summer.

3. Set the Schedule

Another big step to creating a thorough and enticing group itinerary is the schedule. You’ll need to put some thought into which days are most convenient for your group to arrive and depart from your chosen destination.

Adding a schedule to your group trip itinerary will ensure everyone knows where to be and when so you don’t miss a moment together. Some questions to consider as you build your itinerary’s schedule include:

• When is everyone in your group available for a trip?
• What season of the year is best for visiting your preferred destination (and why)?
• How long is your ideal vacation?
• Are there other factors that impact the date the group arrives to your destination?
• Does your prospective vacation include more than one destination or mode of transportation (e.g. a three to seven day cruise with onshore excursions)?
• Are there any events or seasonal activities happening at the destination your group would be interested in attending?

The best time to visit a location may be during its offseason, especially for large groups. Without sacrificing fun, costs can be lower and the destination easier to navigate during its offseason.

4. Set Expectations

Every trip has a goal and it is important everyone understands what that goal is. Goals can be general, such as to relax or experience something new. Or, maybe, in the case of multigenerational travel , your vacation is to foster strong bonds between family members. It isn’t just about what is listed in the itinerary, but whether the itinerary captures what a destination offers. A more rigorous, detailed itinerary may not be received well if your travel companions don’t understand its design. Maybe you have to balance competing interests among group members. Even if parts of your itinerary don’t appeal to everyone, be transparent with disgruntled individuals about your choices.

5. Set a Budget

The most common group vacation expenses include these items. Keep in mind that fees and/or taxes may be attached to each.

• Lodging and accommodations
• Transportation to the destination
• Transportation within the destination
• Foods and drinks such as meals, snacks, and eating as vacation activity (e.g. stopping at street food vendors on a group foodie vacation )
• Entrance fees or tickets to activities, events, or sites
• Potential emergencies or need for medical care
• Travel insurance
• Any apps or digital experiences that simplify or enhance the group trip experience

Having a clear idea of what your group can comfortably afford goes a long way to prioritizing activities and accommodations.

When budgeting, keep these ideas top of mind:

• Is the emphasis of your group vacation luxury, affordability, or something in between?
• How important is cultural immersion and how can it be achieved at a chosen destination?
• Do you expect to take advantage of any discounts through airline or credit card points programs, travel agents , travel apps, or a destination’s tourism authorities?
• Are there alternatives to traditional lodging options that could lower the cost of a group stay, such as hostels or short-term rentals?
• If traveling internationally, what is the currency exchange rate?
• How important is staying within budget? Is the budget a general guideline or a hard ceiling?
• Should budgets be established by the group, individual group members, or families? If more than one person is overseeing vacation spending, how do you ensure control over the budget?

6. Schedule Activities

Now, for the fun part of itinerary building: choosing the activities and experiences that will comprise the bulk of your trip.

Work out the details like the day and the time as well as an estimated head count to prepare for each activity. Make advanced reservations for the activities that require it or you expect to be crowded. The time of year, type of group, and preferences of individual group members will all impact the types of vacation activities and attractions you choose.

Activities can be:

• Enjoyed indoors or outdoors.
• Thrilling, relaxing, or something in between.
• Familiar or wholly new to your group.
• Intended to immerse or entertain.
• Popular and well-known or off the beaten path.
• Slower-paced, like sightseeing, or faster-paced, such as deep-sea diving.
• Inspired by nature, history, culture, food, or romance.
• Spontaneous or planned.
• Designed for children, adults, or those who live with a disability.

Examples of common group activities are:

• Iconic sites and natural wonders
• Sporting events
• Tours by land and sea
• Boating or fishing
• Adult gaming
• Unique eating experiences such as themed restaurants
• Escape rooms
• Plays or concerts

7. Choose Accommodations

The modern travel environment offers group travelers plenty of accommodation options that combine spacious, comfortable lodgings with affordability. Depending on the destination and the type of trip, accommodations may be a central attraction —as in an all inclusive resort getaway —or simply serve as a layover before diving into the next activity.

When choosing accommodations or lodgings there are a few factors to consider:

• Type: Modern lodging options are varied. They can include hotels, motels, vacation rentals, short-term rentals, hotels, bed and breakfasts, and resorts.
• Location: The location of your group’s accommodations could include urban centers or destination outskirts. Beachside hotels, alpine lodgings, and casino hotels are all examples of how accommodation settings can add to the group vacation experience.
• Price: Cost will be a major factor in your choice of accommodation. Group vacationers have more options than ever to access affordable accommodations.
• Ratings and recommendations: This one’s self-explanatory; a higher customer rating usually means a better experience.
• Amenities: Free WiFi, breakfast, and exercise rooms are common amenities you should look out for. Luxury amenities include towel warmers, full kitchens, and plush bathrobes.
• Special offers, discounts, or rewards programs: that can be applied to your stay.

8. Arrange Transportation

Transportation includes both reaching and departing as well as any mobility needs you’ll have while at your destination. If traveling by air with a large group, you’ll want to encourage travelers to arrive at the airport early. When booking flights, consider the time zones you’ll pass through, how they will affect your arrival time, and any jet lag group members could experience.

For vacations that include multiple destinations or a lot of travel within a destination, consider a vehicle rental. The right vehicle can greatly simplify your travel experience and help you see and do more. Cover more ground while hauling the gear necessary to enjoy hiking, swimming, or skiing.

If your destination has reliable public transportation, consider a bus, train, or subway pass. These are sometimes available online through apps or your destination’s tourism website. Organizing rentals or transportation passes for you and your group are just one of the many perks of using a travel advisor .

9. Reserve or Pre-Plan Meals

Meals can be tricky on group vacations, especially if your group includes picky eaters or you are headed to a remote or unusual destination where the food options are unfamiliar. To avoid breakdowns at mealtimes by kids (or adults), investigate possibilities beforehand. Ensure that the restaurants you choose have something for everyone and have the seating and staff to serve large groups.

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Japan Tours in October     View Tours

Japan tours in october.

October is when autumn truly begins for most of Japan, and as the heat of summer fades, travelers find it to be one of the most inviting months to plan a trip. All across the country, moving from north to south, leaves of the maple, rowan, and gingko put on their finest autumn colors. The ephemeral beauty of fall in Japan is said to rival the spring cherry blossom, and October is the ideal time to experience the majestic wonder of the season. In Gifu Prefecture, the city of Takayama holds their annual Autumn Festival – a truly lively and unforgettable celebration of the season. Takayama Autumn Festival is one of two seasonal festivals in this charming mountain town, and while the Spring Festival embodies the hope for a good harvest, the Autumn festival is all about celebration and gratitude. One of the most ornate festivals in the country, when Old Town Takayama is set aglow in golden light from the 11 large floats that are paraded through the streets. Plan an October tour of Japan and see the northern regions of the country decked in fall splendor. The preserved natural vistas and meticulously kept parks of Hokkaido and Tohoku are pretty in any season, but in October they become truly magnificent. The stunning mountain panorama of Lake Chuzenji, the tree-lined streams and waterfalls of Oirase Gorge, the star-shaped city park of Hakodate – all must-sees during this season as their landscapes glow with fall color. The pleasant weather makes October a most comfortable time for visiting Japan’s top attractions. Enjoy the vibrant Tokyo’s fashionable neighborhoods and cultural landmarks, explore ancient Kyoto’s UNESCO Heritage temples and shrines, feed the playful deer in Nara Park, admire splendid Himeji Castle, and gaze through the gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Discover the fall beauty of Japan’s historical treasures during one of our October Tours.

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Japan Deluxe Tours

Visit the must see sites of japan with group sizes ranging from 12 to 35 people..

These tours are great for first time visitors to Japan looking for comfortable accommodation with all entrance fees and most meals included. Our Japan Deluxe Tours are accomodated with professional tour guides, fluent in both Japanese and English, to ensure an educational and valuable visit. Air-conditoned, private coaches are also included, so you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free time in Japan. Our tours range from 7 to 21 days, to various regions of Japan.

Deluxe-Plus Small Group Tours

Experience the culture of japan at a slower pace with groups of 10 to 18 people. (smaller group departure available).

These tours combine enrichment, enjoyment, and education with time to truly absorb and appreciate your surroundings. Our Deluxe-Plus small group tours are created to cater to those who are interested in having a deeper understanding of Japan's culture. You will have the opportunity to participate in culturally rich activities and visit destinations only locals may know. Experience luxurious hotels and travel at a leisurely pace when you book a Deluxe-Plus small group tour.

Budget Group Tours

Our budget tours are designed for our guests who are on a limited budget..

Explore the must-see sights and enjoy the hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a quick stop to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys. These are the tours for you.

Active Small Group Tours

Travel japan more flexibly in groups of 6 to 13 people using public transportation..

Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best of cultural destinations with off-the-beaten-path via Japanese public transportation, Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes.

Group Tour | Budget           Book Now & Save $50

Group Tour | Budget     Book Now & Save $50

6 Days 5 Nights | from US $1898.00

Tokyo / Mt Fuji / Hakone / Kanzanji Onsen / Kyoto

Explore the top locations in tokyo and kyoto (with one day at mount fuji and hakone) during our 6-day tokyo to kyoto summer group tour..

Group Tour | Deluxe           Book Now & Save $100

Group Tour | Deluxe     Book Now & Save $100

5 Days 4 Nights | from US $1898.00

Nikko / Takasaki / Karuizawa / Yudanaka / Matsumoto

Discover what lies beyond tokyo in an itinerary that includes visits to destinations in nikko, karuizawa, and nagano, all during the stunning autumn season..

6 Days 5 Nights | from US $2498.00

Tokyo / Takasaki / Karuizawa / Yudanaka / Matsumoto / Takayama / Shirakawago / Kanazawa / Osaka

Explore the best destinations between tokyo and osaka, including takasaki, yudanaka onsen, karuizawa, takayama, shirakawa-go, and kanazawa, on this 6-day journey during the autumn season..

Group Tour | Active          

Group Tour | Active    

8 Days 7 Nights | from US $2940.00 (Limit to 13 guests)

Kyoto / Nara / Magome / Tsumago / Nojiri / Yabuhara / Narai / Matsumoto / Tokyo

A short small-group guided walking tour with three hikes of 3-6 hours of village-to-village walking on the nakasendo trail..

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2998.00

Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo

Perfect introduction for first time visitors with limited time..

Tokyo / Mt Fuji / Hakone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

8 Days 7 Nights | from US $3298.00

Anime Flavor Tour is the best thing to fulfill your Otaku needs. We will go to some of the popular anime spots while learning about Japan’s culture.

Osaka / Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo

Perfect introduction for first time visitors with limited time, plus expo 2025 osaka..

Perfect introduction for first time visitors with limited time, plus Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai.

9 Days 8 Nights | from US $3395.00 (Limit to 13 guests)

Kyoto / Takijiri / Takahara / Chikatsuyu / Yunomine Onsen / Katsuura / Kyoto

A small-group guided walking & hiking tour with five hikes of 2-6 hours of village-to-village walking on the sacred kumano kodo, or kumano ancient trail..

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Baby Blue Eyes Flowers

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Gion Summer Festival

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Autumn Leaves

Takayama Autumn Festival

Snow Monkeys

Sapporo Snow Festival

Ice Breaker Cruise

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

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Shirakawago

Miho Museum

Naoshima Island

Himeji Castle

Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Sushi-Making Experience

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko

Ise Grand Shrine

Most Beautiful Places in Japan

Otaru Snow Light Path

Tottori Sand Dunes

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Miyajima Island

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine

Adachi Museum of Art

Shimanami Kaido

Takeda Castle Ruin

Kurashiki Canal Area

Takachiho Gorge

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This Iconic Kitchenware Brand Launches Culinary Trips That Include Harvesting Oysters in Normandy and Olive Oil Tasting in Marseille

The food-focused journeys will immerse travelers in French culinary traditions.

Chalffy/Getty Images/Courtesy of Sur La Table

Hungry for adventures? Sur La Table, the national retailer of cookware and bakeware, is entering the travel industry by launching a series of trips to immerse travelers in the culinary traditions of France. The Seattle-based company partnered with Academic Travel Abroad Inc., a decades-old cultural and educational travel provider, to host two curated itineraries in September and October, with more journeys coming up in 2025.

“At Sur La Table, we’re constantly looking for new ways to engage with our customers that bring to life our passion for cooking and celebrating cuisine from around the world,” Meredith Abbot, culinary director and trip expert at Sur La Table, told Travel+Leisure, noting that the partnership will allow the company to “take our signature cooking programming to the most iconic culinary destinations for a fully immersive trip.”

Hemis/Alamy/Courtesy of Sur La Table

Cooking classes, visits to local markets, food tours, and workshops with artisans will be some of the experiences included in the hyper-local itineraries. The first trip will take place from Sept. 1 until Sept. 8 and will introduce travelers to the gastronomic culture of Northwestern France. From learning to harvest mussels and oysters in the Bay of Biscay to making crepes in the historic port city of Saint-Malo, smoking salmon, and visiting the picture-perfect island of Mont Saint-Michel (at low tide, of course), this week-long trip will whisk travelers to some of the most beautiful corners of Brittany and Normandy. 

The second culinary journey, A Taste of Provence and the French Riviera will take place in Marseille and Nice from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6. Guests will try their hand at preparing classic Bouillabaisse seafood soup with a local chef, will learn all about sea salt production in the small village of Salins de Giraud, and will cook a classic Niçois meal with fresh produce from a local organic farm. Another highlight of this trip is a private tour of the Maison Empereur, the oldest specialty store in France. 

Both trips will include hands-on experiences and lectures so travelers leave with a better understanding of the history and culture of these distinct culinary regions. Groups will cap at 25 people, and rates start at $7,995, excluding flights. 

In a press release, Sur La Table said that its 2025 itineraries will include Paris and the South of Italy.

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Visit lyubertsy, check lyubertsy hotel availability, popular places to visit.

You can learn about the history of Moscow with a trip to Red Square. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

• Moscow Kremlin

Visit the most iconic square in Russia, which is bordered by many of the city’s most famous landmarks.

• Bolshoi Theatre

A centerpiece of the Russian arts scene, this theater’s magnificent auditorium and top-tier productions will impress even the most jaded theatergoer.

• St. Basil's Cathedral

Think of Russia and you probably picture this iconic building, whose onion-shaped domes overlook the Moscow skyline.

• Lenin's Mausoleum

Mourners and curious visitors stream to the grave to see the embalmed Vladimir Lenin, the famous revolutionary and one-time leader of the Soviet Union.

• Armoury Chamber

Visit one of Moscow’s oldest and most revered museums and discover more about Russian royal life and military history.

• Cities near Lyubertsy

Dzerzhinskiy

• Places of interest
• Moscow City
• Arbat Street
• Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy
• State Historical Museum
• Moscow State University
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Victory Park
• New Tretyakov Gallery - Museum of Modern Art
• Minin and Pozharsky Monument
• Luzhniki Stadium
• Ostankino TV Tower
• Sparrow Hills
• Triumphal Arch
• Multimedia Art Museum
• Russian White House
• Novodevichy Convent
• Cathedral of the Archangel

Middle East latest: Forces seize vessel 'linked to Israel', Iran's state media says - as Israel warns of 'consequences'

Iran's state news agency has said guards have seized a vessel 'linked to Israel'; Israel's military has said it is "prepared to attack" as well as defend itself if Iran follows through on its threats.

Saturday 13 April 2024 12:00, UK

• Israel-Hamas war
• Iran and Israel risk dragging US and UK into another major conflict
• Israel 'prepared' to respond to threatened Iranian attack
• Iran's threat is real and viable, White House says
• US 'prepared to intercept' strikes on Israel
• Man killed and 25 wounded after 'Israeli settlers storm West Bank village'
• Dominic Waghorn:  Risk of bigger war rising - but Biden knows he can't blink
• Explained: Why is Iran threatening to attack Israel? 
• Live reporting by  Brad Young

An Israeli military spokesperson has responded after Iran said it had seized a vessel "linked to Israel".

Spokesperson Daniel Hagari said: "Iran will bear consequences for choosing to escalate the situation any further.

"Israel is on high alert. We have increased our readiness to protect Israel from further Iranian aggression. 

"We are also prepared to respond."

More now on the incident reported off the coast of the United Arab Emirates earlier today.

Iran's state news agency has said guards have seized a vessel "linked to Israel".

A navy special forces helicopter boarded the Portuguese flagged vessel and seized it, IRNA added. 

They said the seized vessel is being transferred to Iran's territorial waters.

It comes days after Iran warned it could close the area to sea traffic. 

Commandos repel down from helicopter

A video shared by a defence official shows commandos raiding a ship near the Strait of Hormuz by helicopter, the Associated Press reports.

Commandos are seen rappelling down onto a stack of containers sitting on the deck of the vessel. 

A crew member on the ship could be heard saying: "Don't come out."

He then tells his colleagues to go to the ship's bridge as more commandos come down on the deck.  

One commando can be seen kneeling above the others to provide them potential cover fire.  

An incident at sea northeast of the UAE's Fujairah city has been reported.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations said it took place 50 miles from the city and authorities were investigating.

News of the incident comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.

The commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guard's navy said on Tuesday that Israel's presence in the UAE was viewed as a threat by Tehran.

The commander said Iran could close the Strait of Hormuz - the entrance to the Gulf - if deemed necessary.

Fujairah is located on the eastern side of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran-aligned Houthis have also staged attacks on shipping in the Red Sea region for months.

The UK and US are at risk of being dragged into another major conflict in the Middle East, an expert has said.

The war is escalating in multiple theatres, putting the region on "the brink of another all-out wider conflict", said Fawaz Gerges, professor of international relations at the London School of Economics.

Benjamin Netanyahu and his generals have been provoking Iran for several years and while the latter is "desperate" to avoid direct conflict with Israel or the US, it wants to re-establish effective deterrence, he said.

"This a manmade crisis. This is Benjamin Netanyahu's war cabinet decision to provoke Iran. To attack Iranian sovereignty, the Iranian consulate in Syria, and kill several top commanders."

Iran has blamed Israel for an attack on its embassy complex in Damascus - though Israel has not said it was responsible.

Professor Gerges said the Israeli war cabinet and IDF generals were "trying to force and provoke Iran to retaliate".

"The war itself is escalating into multiple theatres and basically risks dragging the US and Britain into another major conflict in the Middle East," said the professor.

He said that if Iran attacks Israel, Israel will retaliate against strategic targets in Iran itself, which will lead to another major Iranian attack.

"Iran wants to restore its deterrence because Israel has been provoking Iran, attacking Iran, doing sabotage in the past few years and Iran has not retaliated directly.

"We really are at the brink of another all-out wider conflict," he said.

"This is what we have been warning all along in the past six months and calling for a ceasefire."

The US is prepared to intercept any weapons launched at Israel by Iran, according to reports.

Iran has been moving military assets like drones and cruise missiles internally, two people familiar with US intelligence told CNN .

America believed Iranian proxies, like the Houthis and Hezbollah, could also be involved in the threatened attacks, the sources said.

Yesterday, Sky News learned from a defence official that the US was "moving additional assets" to the Middle East to bolster deterrence efforts.

The White House said yesterday it changed its force posture in the region after threats of an Iranian attack on Israel. 

A human rights groups says dozens of settlers stormed a Palestinian village in the occupied West Bank, shooting and setting fire to cars and houses.

A Palestinian man was killed and 25 others wounded, said the Palestinian health ministry in the territory.

Settlers entered the village of al-Mughayyir in search of a missing 14-year-old Israeli boy, according to Israeli rights group Yesh Din.

The group posted videos showing smoke billowing from burning cars as gunshots rang out. 

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said eight of the injured were hit by live fire. 

Israel's military said it was looking into the reports. Sky News cannot independently verify them.

Tensions have flared in the West Bank since the war began in Gaza.

More than 460 Palestinians have been killed there by Israelis since 7 October, the Palestinian health ministry says,

Israel's military says it has prepared plans to respond to a possible Iranian attack.

The country is ready for a "wide variety of scenarios" that include both defensive and offensive actions, said army spokesperson Daniel Hagari.

The military has completed a situation assessment with the head of US Central Command, General Erik Kurilla, he added.

"Our defences are ready and know how to deal with every threat separately," said Mr Hagari.

"Next to defence, we are prepared to attack. We are ready to attack with a range of capabilities and we know how to act and protect the people of Israel."

His comments come as Israel braces for a possible Iranian attack, which Joe Biden warned could come "sooner rather than later".

Iran has threatened to retaliate after blaming Israel for an airstrike that killed two Iranian generals in the Syrian capital of Damascus last week.

Iran has a number of proxy groups in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen that are all capable of striking Israel. 

Israeli leaders have threatened to strike Iran directly if it attacks.

Welcome back to our live coverage of the Israel-Hamas war and wider tensions in the Middle East. 

Last night, a US defence official told Sky News it was "moving additional assets" to the region as the threat of an Iranian attack on Israel continues to grow. 

The White House has warned the threat of a strike was "real" and "viable", and some analysts have suggested it could happen this weekend. 

Iran has vowed to launch a retaliatory attack after a deadly airstrike on its embassy in Syria last week, which has been widely blamed on Israel. 

We'll be bringing you all the latest updates throughout the day but, before we do, here's a recap of the key events from the last 24 hours: 

• Multiple countries including Poland, France and Russia changed their travel advice, urging citizens to avoid visiting Israel;
• Joe Biden reiterated US support for Israel, saying his administration is "devoted" to its defence;
• Israeli officials met a US CENTCOM commander to discuss the military's readiness for "defensive and offensive operations";
• The Israeli military said the first humanitarian aid trucks entered through a newly opened northern crossing point;
• Iran said it will not attack Israel hastily and it will avoid a major escalation. 

That's all for our coverage for now. 

Well be back tomorrow morning with more updates on the Israel-Hamas war and wider tensions in the Middle East. 

Tensions in the Middle East are continuing to increase this evening, as the US moves assets in the region to better protect its forces and bolster regional deterrence. 

It comes amid the threat of an Iranian attack on Israel in retaliation to a deadly strike on its embassy in Syria. 

Earlier, Joe Biden was asked what his message was to Iran. 

You can watch the US president's answer below.... 

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Planning to Combine Business and Leisure Travel? You’re Not Alone.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are trying to figure out where their duty of care obligations begin and end.

Credit... Aart-Jan Venema

Supported by

By Amy Zipkin

• April 7, 2024

On a Sunday in late January, Melinda Buchmann, who lives in Florida and supervises client relations for RevShoppe, a 30-person remote company advising organizations on sales techniques and strategies, arrived in Banff, Alberta, to help set up a four-day company meeting.

The last day of the event, her husband, Josh, a director of strategic partnerships for the delivery company DoorDash , who also works remotely, joined her. They spent two leisurely days hiking in Banff National Park and visiting Lake Louise.

“I take advantage, because I don’t know when I’m going to return,” Ms. Buchmann said of the decision to combine downtime with a business trip.

As postpandemic work life has changed, and arrangements now include full-time office attendance as well as hybrid and remote work, so, too, has business travel. The phenomenon known as bleisure, or blended business and leisure travel, was initially embraced largely by digital nomads . But such combined travel is now also popular with people outside that group . Allied Market Research, a subsidiary of Allied Analytics, based in Portland, Ore., estimated that the bleisure travel market was $315.3 billion in 2022 and would reach $731.4 billion by 2032.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are struggling to determine where their legal obligation to protect employees from harm — their so-called duty of care — begins and ends. And workers may think that because their trip started with business, they will get all the help they need if something goes wrong on the leisure end. Instead, they should generally consider the leisure part of a trip as a regular vacation where they cover all expenses and contingencies.

Companies are responsible for knowing where their employees are during a business trip, covering expenses if an accident or emergency occurs, securing new lodging if a hotel is damaged, even swapping out a broken down rental car. Still, it’s not entirely clear if that coverage ends completely after the conference or the last client meeting.

Companies recognize that threats are increasing, said Robert Cole, senior research analyst focusing on lodging and leisure travel at Phocuswright, a market research company. They are trying to figure out how to take care of a valuable company resource, the employee, without leaving themselves open to financial risk or potential litigation.

“Crafting a comprehensive policy that balances business objectives, employee well-being and legal considerations can be challenging,” Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos, head of tourism at ICF, a consulting and technology services company in Reston, Va., wrote in an email.

Employees may be on their own without realizing it and may be surprised by out-of-pocket expenses if they require hospital care abroad or evacuation, said Suzanne Morrow, chief executive of InsureMyTrip , an online insurance travel comparison site in Warwick, R.I.

Ms. Morrow said medical coverage provided by a company “is generally only for the dates of the actual business trip abroad.” If travelers are extending the trip for personal travel, she added, “they would want to secure emergency medical coverage for that additional time abroad.”

Employers and employees are left to figure out when the business portion of the trip ends and the leisure segment begins, a significant detail if an employee has a medical emergency. “Where does the corporation liability end?” said Kathy Bedell, senior vice president at BCD Travel, a travel management company.

Companies have varying policies to deal with the new travel amalgam. The chief executive of RevShoppe, Patricia McLaren, based in Austin, Texas, said the company provided flexible travel options and allowed employees to work anywhere they choose.

Even so, there are constraints. The company requires all employees, including executives, to sign liability and insurance waivers when they are on a voluntary company-sponsored trip, such as an off-site meeting. Such waivers typically place responsibility on employees for their own well-being. And if they bring someone, they are responsible for that person’s expenses.

Employees are responsible for requesting the paid time off and notifying their managers of their whereabouts, although that part is not a requirement. Managers have to ensure adequate staffing, Ms. McLaren said.

Elsewhere, employees may not bother to mention the leisure portion of their trip. Eliot Lees, a vice president and managing director at ICF, said he had been on trips as a child with his parents when they combined business and leisure. His parents were academics, who would piggyback vacations onto conferences.

Now he does the same. “I don’t think I ever asked for approval,” he said. (ICF has no formal business-leisure travel policy. It’s allowed as part of personal time off.) After a conference in the Netherlands last year, he spent four days hiking in the northern part of the country.

“I go anywhere, and take more risks than I should,” he said. He said he didn’t carry personal travel or accident insurance.

Any nonchalance may quickly evaporate if a threat emerges. Security experts say even low-risk locations can become high-risk for a few days or weeks of the year.

“Companies are concerned about losing visibility into a traveler’s whereabouts if they booked flights and hotels outside their corporate travel management company,” Benjamin Thorne, senior intelligence manager in London for Crisis24, a subsidiary of GardaWorld, wrote in an email. “The company may think the traveler is in one city when, in reality, they could have booked a holiday package to another nearby city. This lack of visibility by the company makes it difficult to support travelers when a disaster occurs.”

He also raised the possibility that “a traveler with bleisure travel reservations and expectations may find their work trip canceled due to changes in the risk environment or company policy, disrupting their leisure plans.”

Will a company step in off hours if there’s a problem? “That depends on how you are booked,” Mr. Cole, the senior research analyst at Phocuswright, said. A rule of thumb is the further you get from corporate control, the greater the gray area gets.

Half of GoldSpring Consulting’s clients take the responsibility for the entire trip, said Will Tate, a partner at the consultancy based in Cross Roads, Texas, and a certified public accountant. They don’t want the reputational risk. The other half say: “The business trip ended Friday. That’s when we end our duty of care.”

Some companies are trying to define and narrow the gray area. “If you are clearly on personal time, there is no legal requirement for your employer to provide for you,” said Nicole Page, a lawyer whose practice includes employment law at Reavis Page Jump in New York.

Uber provides employees with advisories before a trip, travel assessments, safety tips while traveling and emergency travel assistance, including medical aid, airport travel support, urgent and emergency assistance, and lost or stolen personal property insurance whether they are on business or pleasure travel or a combination.

And at DoorDash, Chris Cherry, head of global safety and security, wrote in an email that “while personal travel is not something we track, we have received requests to extend our travel support capabilities to personal travel.” Mr. Cherry said in those cases, the company has manually added employee leisure itineraries to its travel risk management system and “provided the same level of overwatch that we do for regular business travel.”

The Buchmanns plan to travel this month to Barcelona, Spain, for the McDonald’s Worldwide Convention. DoorDash will have a booth, and Mr. Buchmann will work on the exhibit floor and also entertain clients.

Ms. Buchmann will accompany him. She plans to go sightseeing in the morning, and work in the afternoons and evenings Barcelona time. She will also take three days of paid time off and has shared her plans with Ms. McLaren, the RevShoppe chief executive.

They will stay a day after the conference and plan to visit the Dalí Theater and Museum in Figueres. “I’m sure there will be no shortage of tapas and window shopping along way,” Mr. Buchmann said. He expects to be back at work the next Monday.

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This isn’t the first time the quartet of Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Jimi Westbrook, and Philip Sweet shared the stage with Sugarland, the reunited duo of Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush. In 2008, Little Big Town, Sugarland, and Jake Owen performed Dream Academy’s 1985 single “Life in a Northern Town” at the CMT Awards, and LBT would join Sugarland on their Incredible Machine Tour a few years later.

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What to do if your flight is canceled.

Follow these steps in the event your flight is canceled.

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

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Key Takeaways

• If your flight has been canceled, you are entitled to a full cash refund per federal law.
• Using the airline's app or calling an international airline number is often the quickest way to get help.
• The DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard shows what each major domestic airline will or will not provide in the event of a cancellation or delay.

If your flight has been canceled, read on for step-by-step instructions on how to rearrange your travel plans and/or claim compensation.

What to do if your flight is canceled

1. get on the airline's app – or make an international call.

First, pull up the airline's app on your phone. Most airline apps allow you to easily rebook your flight for free, provided you can supply your six-character reservation code. Getting in line to speak with an agent and calling the airline while you wait is also a good idea (albeit slower than using an app), and social media messaging, texting or WhatsApp may prove helpful. "During times of mass travel disruption, you should try all different avenues for getting help," says Nick Ewen, director of content at The Points Guy.

Ewen also recommends a lesser-known tactic: calling the airline's international numbers. Airlines have offices in Canada, Mexico, the U.K. and more. "While it can be costly, you can often get through to an agent more quickly," Ewen says.

Note that, depending on why your flight was canceled, finding seats on a new flight may alter your travel plans considerably.

2. Book a hotel

Next, determine if you need overnight accommodations. "If you were originally booked on the last flight of the night and there are no other options, grab a hotel room near the airport before they're all taken," Ewen advises.

3. Ask for a refund

If the airline cancels your flight or it's "significantly delayed" (a term currently defined on a case-by-case basis) and you're forced to change your travel plans, the Department of Transportation requires airlines to provide a full refund. Unfortunately, getting a refund can be a lengthy and frustrating process. Most airlines will instead offer a credit for future travel, but be wary of these, since they often come with limitations such as blackout and expiration dates.

When you're able to get a refund, note that it covers the total cost of airfare only and does not include other expenses associated with your trip.

If you believe you're entitled to a refund and the airline denies it to you, you can and should file a complaint with the DOT .

4. Reference the DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard

While you're entitled to a full refund, other flight cancellation policies may vary by airline. Go to the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard to see what each major airline will and will not offer in the event of a controllable cancellation.

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What to do if your flight is delayed

In the event your flight is delayed, airlines are not legally obligated to give you a refund unless the DOT determines the delay to be "significant." But here's what you can do:

Research other flights

Investigate what other flights on that airline are headed to your destination and ask an agent if they can get you on one of them (without charging change fees). Also be sure to look into what's available on other airlines: If your original airline doesn't have any flights available on your departure date, an agent may be able to book you on a flight with a different carrier at no additional cost to you. Note, however, that airlines are not legally required to do this.

Inquire about other compensation

If you've been stranded at the airport for several hours, check in with an agent and reference the Commitments for Controllable Delays section on the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard – regardless of whether you're able to get on another flight. Some airlines may provide amenities such as vouchers for meals or overnight accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

"The main causes for flight disruptions are bad weather, understaffed air traffic control, and factors within the airline’s control,"  says Katy Nastro, a spokesperson at Going.com, formerly Scott's Cheap Flights. She explains the following:

• Weather:  This is outside of the airline's control and is the single biggest reason for why we see flight disruptions. We saw this play out over the winter holidays in 2022, and even to some extent during the 2023 holiday season. Even if the weather is accurately predicted, it cannot be controlled, which means at times flight disruptions are unavoidable.
• Understaffed air traffic control:  The U.S. air travel industry has made strides in pilot hiring year over year, but when it comes to air traffic control, we are still down roughly 1,000 fewer air traffic controllers from a decade ago. New York metro area airports specifically have felt the brunt of this deficit, so much so that airlines were permitted to reduce schedules without penalty from the summer until the end of Q4 in 2023. At its lowest, the decrease in flights in the New York metro area resulted in about 11% fewer flights per day. With less trained staff, current air traffic controllers are stretched to the limit, and schedule reductions only temporarily solve this problem. Even with aggressive hiring efforts, training takes time and will not be a quick fix.

It's almost impossible to avoid canceled or delayed flights these days. But there are a few things you can do when booking flights to lessen your chances for travel disruptions.

Keep tabs on your aircraft: On your departure date, check your flight information before heading to the airport. You can keep a watchful eye on the flight's status – including the aircraft scheduled to operate your flight – using the airline's app or a third-party app such as FlightAware Flight Tracker (which also offers a website ), FlightRadar24 or TripIt Pro.

"As an example, if you're flying from Orlando to New York, and your plane is flying in from Chicago, the initial flight from Chicago to Orlando might be delayed (or canceled) before yours is," Ewen explains. "Airlines will try to find replacement aircraft in that case, but if you can identify a potential cancellation before it officially happens, you may be able to get rebooked ahead of the other 100-plus passengers on your flight."

Consider an alternate airport: When booking your flight, you may consider flying out of a different airport than the one you typically depart from. For example, a small regional airport with limited routes may mean less travel delays and hassle overall – or it may be worth driving further to another international airport for a nonstop flight to your destination rather than opting for a connecting flight close to home.

Fly in the morning: While flight disruptions are unpredictable, historically fewer cancellations and delays occur in the morning.

Avoid weekend travel: Fly on off-peak days like Tuesday or Wednesday. You'll often find cheaper flights on these days, too.

Opt for longer layovers: If you need to take more than one flight to reach your destination, book a flight with a longer layover to provide enough time to make your connecting flight. Keep in mind that at some airports you may need to go through security or customs for your connection. For longer journeys, you can reduce the risk of missing connecting flights by planning a city stopover. For example, Icelandair offers Iceland stopovers for no additional airfare.

Consider a credit card with travel protections: You don't need to be a frequent traveler to take advantage of credit card travel protections and perks. Here are a couple options to consider:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred :  This travel credit card ($95 annually) provides coverage for delays and cancellations when used to book flights. It also provides other travel protections such as delayed baggage coverage. "Even someone who travels just once or twice a year can still get phenomenal value from this card," Ewen says.
• American Express Platinum Card :  This card ($695 annually) offers travel insurance that reimburses some nonrefundable expenses like hotel accommodations, meals and other essentials as long as the trip was purchased using the card.

When choosing a travel credit card, you should also pay attention to other benefits. Even the most basic airline credit cards can offer travel perks like discounts on in-flight purchases and waived baggage fees, while premium travel credit cards (which require a higher annual fee) can include access to an airport lounge with food, drinks and Wi-Fi. Some also provide a concierge service to rebook flights or built-in trip insurance to cover unforeseen expenses.

Purchase travel insurance: If your credit card doesn't include travel protections, consider purchasing insurance with flight coverages – even a cheap travel policy can help protect your investment. Covered reasons include a travel carrier delay and loss or theft of travel documents, among other scenarios. If you're interested in purchasing a policy, you can browse the best travel insurance companies here .

Talk to a travel advisor: "Booking directly with your travel advisor provides more leverage and support if something goes wrong," explains Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer . "We can advocate for a better outcome should there be cancellations or hiccups in the itinerary."

Charlotte French, owner of Cavatica Luxury Travel , agrees, sharing this recent example: "My clients were booked on a nonstop United Flight from Tokyo (HND) to EWR (Newark) in business class, when it was canceled (due to technical issues). The clients were waiting in line to find other options for their return flight home; however, these were very limited. In parallel, I was able to speak to the United Airlines corporate desk (as a travel advisor) and was able to secure them in business class on a flight out of Tokyo the same day."

Avoid checking luggage: Travelers who only travel with a carry-on bag and/or personal item (such as a backpack or purse) that meet carry-on size restrictions will have the most flexibility in rebooking – and will also avoid the chance of lost luggage, another common issue. Some carriers will try to move checked luggage to a later flight for you and will make every effort to keep you and your belongings together. However, when airlines don't have interline agreements with other carriers, you'll have to allow enough time to retrieve and recheck your own luggage.

The number of canceled flights recently fell to its lowest rate in at least a decade — a welcome change for air travelers, especially following COVID-19-era travel disruptions.

Still, flight cancellations will always be inevitable, especially during the busy summer travel season. Summer 2024 is shaping up to be especially busy. "It was the busiest March on record for air travel according to the TSA," explains Nastro. "It also had the tenth busiest day on record, which is pretty significant since it is not a 'peak period' and is generally considered off-season in the Northern Hemisphere. If this trend continues, we are likely in for the busiest summer on record when it comes to air travel."

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Luggage Trackers
• Is a Travel Agent Worth It? The Pros and Cons
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seatbelt Extender?
• How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

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