November’s basically winter, and the UK’s about to enter its grey, dark and cold era – which means a Vitamin-D top up is very much needed at this time of year. We’ve come prepared with a line up of long-haul spots where the sun’s still shining in November, like Mexico City, the Gambia, and Goa. Abu Dhabi and Miami also get a shout out, and Costa Rica’s thrown in for an out-of-season plot twist.
Here’s your guide to the best places that are hot in November. Or if you’ve already made your pick, seal the deal on our deals page.
Mexico
Hottest pick – Mexico City
Mexico City’s the place to be in November. Not only is rainy season officially over, but it’s also time for the event of the year in Mexico – Day of the Dead. The city gets a ghoulish glow up for the 3,000-year-old festi where locals celebrate their loved ones that have passed away. It might sound like a funeral, but it’s far from it – expect huge parades, parties and colourful altars decorated with flowers and candles. Everyone goes all out with face paint and fancy dress, so don’t be alarmed by the crowds of people looking like skeletons.
In terms of temps, things are comfy in the low to mid-20s, which is perf for sightseeing without getting sweaty. Check out the Aztec ruins, head to Plaza Garibaldi to catch some Mariachi music, and stroll through the centuries-old streets of Centro Historico. And once it’s marg o’clock, the city’s packed with buzzy bars serving up all the fiesta vibes.
The Gambia
The equator’s a huge win for winter sun. The Gambia’s sitting around a steamy 34°C in November – plus it’s dry season – so the weather couldn’t be better for a beachy break. Kotu and Kololi are the big names for days on the sand – we’re talking golden sweeps, swaying palms and wooden huts. Kololi’s lined with bars and restaurants, or for a more au-natural situation, Cape Point Beach backs onto wetlands packed with wildlife. November’s prime time for safaris, too, so keep your eyes peeled for hippos, monkeys and crocs.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Summer’s always on in the UAE, and the heat’s just about bearable in November. Abu Dhabi’s a toasty 31°C right about now, which is the sweet spot for exploring this city by the sea. It’s a similar story to Dubai – cutting-edge skyscrapers sit side by side with traditional Arabic architecture, like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. When you’re ready to cool off after some culture, Corniche Beach has got you covered. This eight-kilometre stretch has 4K-clear water on one side and glitzy beach clubs on the other, with a dreamy backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline. And if you prefer your beaches more low-key, Mirfa Beach’s horizon is high-rise free.
India
Hottest pick – Goa
India’s having its rain-free moment, so November is the golden window for going to Goa. The thermometer hits the mid-30s in this part of the country, which is just what you want for getting to know its long coastline, lush jungles and local markets. The small state’s split in two, and both sides bring their own flavour. If you’re after beachy days and buzzy night, North Goa’s the place for you – the seafront’s got a strong watersports scene, and it’s lined with lively bars and restaurants. Down in the south, things are much more chill. Think yoga retreats, laidback beaches and fishing villages.
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USA
Hottest pick – Miami
With temperatures reaching the late 20s, Miami brings the heat in November – and it’s just before the busy season kicks in. The Cuban culture and sub-tropical climate will have you thinking you’re in the Caribbean, not the US. The city’s beating heart’s South Beach – the eight-mile sandy strip gives big film energy, with tall palms, bright buildings and boardwalk full of rollerbladers setting the scene. Plus, the city’s cultural calendar is booked and busy in November, with events like Miami live Arts Month, French week and Sunny Isles Jazz Festival making things even livelier.
Plot twist…
Costa Rica
Okay, November is the end of the wet season in Costa Rica, but hear us out. The rain’s starting to chill out by this point, so you might only catch a downpour every now and again, which soon clears to sunny skies anyway. The average temperature’s still around 26°C, and the tropical rain water’s nice and warm, too. Every (rain) cloud has a silver lining, and this one is that the price tags are a lot cheaper now than in the dry season, and it’s the last month of the green season – a win for wildlife lovers. From turtles and tree frogs to monkeys and toucans, you’re in with a chance of spotting them all. See more of the rainforest with some zip-lining or white-water rafting, or admire it from afar from Playa Matapolo’s Coco Beach.
Got your eye on one of November’s hot picks? Check out our holidays to narrow down your perfect pick.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Daisy Colley
Last updated: 16/07/2024
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