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Whether planning an unforgettable wildlife experience, maybe amidst the vast savannas of southern Africa or the jungles of Sri Lanka, hoping to immerse yourself in a special cultural event such as an opera festival or simply wishing to avoid higher temperatures, busy times of year or the vagaries of annual monsoon rains, the decision as to where to go on holiday and when to do so is possibly the most important choice when finalising your travel plans.

From exploring the regal cities of Rajasthan and northern India in November, witnessing New England's stunning autumnal foliage in October or attending an August operatic performance in Verona’s iconic Roman Arena to visiting Vietnam and South East Asia in February, California in May or Canada in June, our guide provides destination-specific advice to ensure you have the information you need to plan your next holiday whilst also showcasing new travel ideas.

Bayon Temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Our best holiday destinations by month

January is the best time for winter sun whether enjoying an Asian beach escape in Thailand or a relaxing break in the Caribbean, exploring Kolkata and little-visited Eastern India or Laos to explore the country’s many cultural sights.

February is a fabulous time to travel. Visit one of South Africa’s exceptional national parks or journey along the beautiful Garden Route, travel the length of Vietnam, explore the cultural sites of Kerala or opt for total relaxation in the Maldives.

March is a great time to travel. Fewer visitors mean it is an ideal time to visit Oman, the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is resplendent with spring flowers, Florida offers a warm welcome and or undertake a memorable Indian river cruise.

April is synonymous with Japan and the cherry blossom is in full bloom at this time of year. Temperate weather in the Deep South of America and Morocco makes this an excellent time to visit whilst April is also the perfect time for viewing wildlife in India.

May is a fantastic time to visit the Mediterranean, especially Spain, Italy and Croatia, where the warm weather is ideal for sightseeing. America’s west coast is beautiful at this time of year and provides perfect conditions for exploring national parks.

June is a good time to visit the west coast Canada including British Columbia and Alberta. For wildlife enthusiasts there are few better places in the world than Borneo and Indonesia whilst Georgia is at its sunniest and most pleasant.

In contrast to the rest of the island, the pristine beaches of Sri Lanka’s east coast are at their best in July. Likewise, July is also an ideal time to drive Route 66, head north into the remote wilds of Alaska or explore the vast wilderness of Mongolia.

August is a great time for cultural events throughout Europe including opera, Ladakh is at the height of its season and Romania’s bucolic beauty and painted monasteries are at their best. Further west, it is a great time to visit the east coast of Canada.

September is a quieter month for European destinations such as Greece, Portugal and Turkey with fewer visitors and excellent weather making it ideal for a touring holiday or beach break. For something a little different, discover Armenia.

October is a magical time to visit New England to experience the dazzling colours of autumn. Cambodia and Uzbekistan boast pleasant climates during October, perfect for visiting ancient sites, and it is also a great time to experience regal Rajasthan.

With Christmas around the corner, New York is a fabulous option for world class shopping. Alternatively explore the ancient ruins of Jordan, head to Rajasthan and Northern India or discover Nepal where clear skies make for excellent for walking.

Explore the tea estates and beaches of Sri Lanka, board a Mekong river cruise or discover the pristine wildlife reserves and indigenous cultures of North East India. Alternatively, head to Dubai with its excellent hotels and endless entertainment.

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Khao Sok Cheow Larn Lake, Thailand

Thailand

Famed for its tropical islands, bustling cities, diverse wildlife and indigenous cultures, one of the best times to visit Thailand is in January. Combine city, beach and rainforest in one trip where you can expect dry and sunny days with highs of up to 30°C.

Kolkata Flower Market, India

Eastern India

From exploring the Raj-era buildings of Kolkata, travelling north to historic Hugli trading centres or heading south to under-visited Odisha, January is the perfect month to visit Eastern India with little risk of rain and comfortable temperatures.

Grenada beach in the Caribbean

The Caribbean

January is an excellent time to visit the Caribbean for some winter sun. It is one of the driest and sunniest months with little worry of tropical storms. The verdant volcanoes of St Lucia are beautiful at this time of year as are the calm waters of Barbados.

Monks giving Alms in Luang Prabang, Laos

Laos

The best time to visit Laos is January when the weather is warm and the risk of rainfall low. It is also an excellent time of year to embark on a river cruise. High river levels make it easy to explore the Mekong and the country’s waterways.

Cheetah in Kruger National Park, South Africa

South Africa

Whether driving the scenic Garden Route, wine tasting in the Cape Vineyards or taking a once-in-a-lifetime safari in the Kruger, February is a great time to visit South Africa. Expect hot days cooled with pleasant sea breezes with light rain in some regions.

Traditional houseboat on the Keralan Backwaters, India

Kerala & South India

Kerala and Tamil Nadu are at their best during the month of February. Kerala is known for its coast but this scenic state also boasts tea estates and national parks. Tamil Nadu is home to fine temple cities including Madurai and Tanjore.

The Maldives

February is one of the sunniest and driest months of the year. Clear, crystalline waters makes the Maldives ideal for diving and snorkelling, and warm temperatures and bright blue skies create the perfect setting for relaxing in the sun.

Hmong woman in Mu Cang Chai Yen Bai, Vietnam

Vietnam

Home to culture, history and natural beauty, one of the best times to visit Vietnam is February. It is dry season for most of the country with temperatures between 25-30°C and low humidity. You may also catch the magical Lunar New Year – Tet.

Said Bin Taimur Mosque, Muscat, Oman

Oman

With temperatures in the mid 20’s, March is an ideal time to travel to Oman before the scorching heat of summer. It is also less busy than the previous months making it a great time to visit the ancient forts, rolling sand dunes and wild beaches.

Miami Art Deco buidlings

Florida

March is the start of spring in Florida where temperatures begin to rise and days lengthen. With nine hours of sunlight, there’s plenty of time explore the theme parks, relax at the beach, and enjoy cotton-candy-pink sunsets over the Atlantic.

Tigers Nest, Taktsang, Bhutan

Bhutan

The best time to visit Bhutan is either during the spring or autumn, however March is at its prettiest with spring flowers, rhododendron and azalea all in bloom. The climate is also dry and pleasant with sunny skies and a fresh breeze.

Assam Bengal Navigation River Cruise on Ganges River, India

Indian River Cruises

March is an ideal time to take an Indian river cruise. River journeys in India take place on either the Ganges or mighty Brahmaputra – the former from Kolkata and the latter as it winds its way through Assam passing extraordinary national parks and rural scenery.

Mount Fuji during cherry blossom season, Japan

Japan

Japan bursts into shades of pink in April with cherry blossom in full bloom – expect Sakura-coated temples, streets lined with rose-coloured buds and parks awash in floral carpets. Temperatures rarely exceed 20°C making it a lovely time to travel.

Ouarzazate, Morocco

Morocco

Morocco is a mysterious land of colourful cities and stunning natural scenery. The best time to visit is during spring, especially April, where the weather is pleasantly warm. It is also a great time for birdwatching and seeing wildflowers in bloom.

India Wildlife - Tiger

India's Wildlife

April is excellent for wildlife viewing in India when high temperatures and lack of water result in a reduction of foliage and catalyst for animals to overtly search for water. The reserves of central and northern India are best for tiger sightings.

Plantation Alley near Savannah, Georgia, Deep South

America's Deep South

Famed for its musical cities, historical roots, bright lights and iconic southern food, the Deep South is a feast for the senses. The best time to visit is in April where days are warm and sunny, and evenings are comfortably cool – perfect for exploring.

Duomo in Florence, Italy

Italy

As the Mediterranean starts to heat up, May is a wonderful time to travel to Italy where temperatures are pleasant and visitor numbers are relatively low. It is a great month to visit the usually busy sights and museums of Rome, Florence and Venice.

Croatia

Croatia

Croatia is one of the Mediterranean’s gems, a country of secluded islands, beautiful beaches and medieval cities. One of the best times to visit is in May when temperatures average in the early to mid-twenties, making it a comfortable time to explore.

Utah desert Western USA

Western USA

Whilst the West Coast is a year-round destination, May boasts warm temperatures and fewer visitors. It is also a great time to explore the rest of the region, its cities and magnificent national parks before the intense summer heat arrives.

Albarracin in Aragon, Spain

Spain

A wonderful blend of cosmopolitan cities, picture-perfect islands and an intriguing history, Spain is best from spring to late autumn. May is a particularly fine month to travel with reliably warm weather and fewer visitors.

Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Canada

Canada's West Coast

For those wishing to enjoy Canada’s west coast, the ideal month to travel is June where days are long and warm. It is also a great time to visit the national parks of Alberta when hiking trails are open and wildflowers and wildlife start to emerge.

Borobodur Temple, Yogyakarta, Java

Indonesia

From the beautiful beaches of Bali to the temples of Java, June is the best time to visit the diverse archipelago of Indonesia. Days are filled with warm sunshine and very little rain. It is also an excellent time to go diving, especially around the Gili Islands.

Mother and baby orangutan in Borneo, Kalimantan, Indonesia

Indonesian Borneo

June sees the start of the dry season in Borneo. It is the most comfortable month to explore the rainforest and see orangutans, snorkel and kick back on the island’s beautiful beaches. Expect temperatures of 29 °C and little threat of rain.

Gremi Castle in Kakheti, Georgia

Georgia

Georgia has a wealth of history to discover. June sees long and sunny days and makes it a great time to visit this scenically impressive country of working vineyards, grand cathedrals, mighty mountain ranges and picturesque villages.

Grizzly bear in Denali National Park, Alaska

Alaska

A wild, remote and spectacularly beautiful frontier-land, Alaska is best visited in during the summer months when the days are long and temperatures mild. Alaska's untouched landscapes are home to an incredible variety of wildlife including the mighty grizzly bear.

Golden Eagle Festival with local boy, Mongolia

Mongolia

A country where half the population maintain a nomadic lifestyle, Mongolia is a place where traditions have remained unchanged for centuries. July is a fantastic month to visit with landscapes lush and green and temperatures in the mid 20’s.

Route 66

Get your kicks on Route 66 - the iconic road trip between Chicago and Los Angeles. July is an excellent month to drive the beloved ‘Mother Road’ with beautiful weather across all eight states ideal for visiting all the quirky landmarks and attractions.

Elephants in Gal Oya National Park, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's East Coast

Whilst the west coast is still affected by the monsoon in July, the island’s untouched east coast is a great option for warmth and sun. Experience one of the many festivals that take place in summer and enjoy the sea’s perfect swimming conditions.

Arena di Verona Opera theatre, Verona

Opera Holidays

Home to the world's finest opera houses and a short flight from the UK, Europe is the ideal place for an opera break. August is also when the continent's best arts and cultural celebrations take place including performances at the iconic Arena di Verona.

Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh, India

Ladakh, India

A land of high-altitude desert and remote Buddhist monasteries framed by majestic snow-capped mountains, Ladakh harbours and incredible range of animals and birds including Himalayan brown bear, Asiatic ibex and the elusive snow leopard.

Puffin in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Canada's East Coast

May to October is the best time to visit eastern Canada with summer a particularly lovely period to travel. Explore the quaint harbour towns of the Atlantic Coast, visit the charming cities of Quebec or experience the mighty Niagara Falls.

Romania

Romania

With charming medieval towns and unspoiled countryside, monumental castles and a spirited capital, Romania is a year-round destination. Late August is a good time to visit with warm but comfortable temperatures and little rainfall.

Santorini blue domes in Oia

Greece

Whist the hot weather continues to linger in September, the islands and beaches of Greece become less busy. Long days are filled with sunshine and seas remain warm. September is also a great time to visit the beautiful Peloponnese region.

Ponta da Piedade, Algarve, Portugal

Portugal

With its good weather, fabulous food and beautiful scenery, Portugal is a year-round destination but is at its best in September. Relax in the Algarve, explore picturesque Lisbon, discover the wine houses of Porto or cruise the Douro River.

Ephesus library at sunset, Turkey

Turkey

From the Aegean coast to Istanbul and central Turkey, September is a great time to visit. Temperatures remain hot, making it a great option for a beach holiday and it is also an excellent time to discover Turkey’s ancient sights.

Church by lake in Armenia

Armenia

Armenia can be visited throughout spring and autumn although September is a particularly good time to travel. Visit monasteries, churches and forts, discover fabulous natural scenery and explore the charming capital city.

Bayon Temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Cambodia

The ancient kingdom of Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting destinations. The summer’s intense humidity dissipates in October making it a great time to visit the country’s ancient temples and historic landmarks.

New England

New England

Witness the breathtaking display of autumnal colours in New England during the fall. October is the perfect time to explore the contrasting landscapes of this charming region as a plethora of leaves turn from green to amber, red and vivid crimson.

Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada Mausoleum, Jodhpur, India

Rajasthan

October is a fabulous time to visit Rajasthan. From grand monuments and magnificent forts, intricate temples and grandiose palaces to charming country towns, wildlife reserves and beautiful ancestral homes, Rajasthan is the best of India.

Gur Emir Mausoleum, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan

After the heat of summer, October is an ideal time to travel to Uzbekistan with pleasantly warm days and little risk of rain. Discover the atmospheric ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand which have lost little of their historic grandeur.

Local man in Northern India

Northern India

With comfortable temperatures and little chance of rain, November is an excellent time to visit the cultural sites of Rajasthan and northern India. Highlights includes the grandiose fortified cities of Rajasthan, holy Varanasi and Agra's Taj Mahal.

Jefferson Memorial in Washington D.C during cherry blossom season, Eastern USA

Eastern USA

America's east coast is a region of incredible diversity. Possible to visit the year-round, November is a particularly good time to head here with fall colours still present and New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC still pleasant before the winter freeze.

Kathmandu Boudhanath Buddhist Stupa, Nepal

Nepal

Landlocked Nepal is delightful in November with warm and sunny days. Discover the ancient royal sites of the Kathmandu Valley, experience clear views of the mighty Himalayas and go in search of tiger in Chitwan and Bardia national parks.

Petra at night with lights, Jordan

Jordan

Jordan is awash with ancient treasures, striking landscapes and diverse cultures. November is a very pleasant time to visit Jordan and explore its remarkable landmarks such as Petra, with cooler temperatures and generally dry weather.

Fisherman on stilts near Galle, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's West Coast

As monsoon season ends along Sri Lanka’s south and western coasts, December sees hotter days and sunny skies. Whilst the Cultural Triangle and Hill Country will still experience a little rain, overall December is a brilliant month to visit Sri Lanka.

Fisherman in the Mekong River, Laos

Mekong River Cruises

Snaking its way through Southeast Asia, a Mekong cruise is one of the best ways to experience this part of the world. Cruises operate for several months of the year, however, December is an excellent time to visit this largely tropical region.

Dubai at night

Dubai

Dubai is a fabulous destination for guaranteed winter sun. Set on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai combines tradition and modernity, a beautiful coastline with world class entertainment and a rugged desert interior.

Tea pickers in Assam, India

North East India

Little visited, India’s north east is a frontier land. Despite the cooler weather experienced during December, this is the month of Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival when the tribes of the region gather in a grand celebration of their cultural traditions.

Booking with Pettitts Travel
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3

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Young African bush elephant baby walking with it's parent alongside tall grass.

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