November can feel like the forgotten middle child of the holiday season. Halloween’s sugar rush is fading, and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season hasn’t quite started (at least not until Thanksgiving, which falls on Nov. 28 in the U.S. this year).
But here’s the secret: It’s the perfect time to pack your bags and travel somewhere new. It’s that quiet window when the world seems to take a collective sigh, the crowds have thinned and travel deals beckon from across the internet.
Whether you are chasing the last traces of fall foliage before the holiday madness or craving some sunshine before summer starts in the Southern Hemisphere, traveling in November before the holidays can be great fun. Here are the 10 best places to visit in November.
Vienna
Autumn in Vienna is the best time to experience its art scene. By November, the city’s cultural calendar is in full swing. Vienna Art Week (Nov. 8-15) features more than 100 events, from gallery tours to artist talks. This year marks the festival’s 20th anniversary, and the celebration is bigger than ever. You can wander through iconic museums like the Belvedere or the Kunsthistorisches Museum during shoulder season without the summer crowds. Pair your artistic explorations with cozy evenings at Vienna’s famous coffeehouses, where a warm cup of Melange (similar to a cappuccino) awaits. Plus, most of Vienna’s famous Christmas markets open in mid-November if you’d like to start your holidays as early as possible.
TPG tip: Stay at the Imperial Riding School, The Autograph Collection, which opened earlier this year in a former 19th-century military equestrian school. Rates start at $165 or 20,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night this November.
Las Vegas
Watch the world’s fastest cars zoom down the Strip when the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix comes to Las Vegas Nov. 21-23. Wynn Las Vegas offers an F1 package starting at $9,100 for three nights’ accommodation and VIP access to race week, including two grandstand tickets. Earlier in the month, car enthusiasts can also enjoy the Concours at Wynn (Nov. 1-3), featuring an elegant motorcade and vehicle exhibition of vintage and sports cars.
TPG tip: To retreat from the action, stay at the Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World, where rates start at $149 or 52,000 Hilton Honors points per night in November.
Dublin
In the first week of November, Dublin welcomes bookworms for the Dublin Book Festival (Nov. 6-10). For five days, the city comes alive with readings, workshops and panel discussions celebrating established and emerging authors. Held in various locations across the city, the festival gives you an excuse to duck into a historic pub for a pint between events. The cooler weather brings a cozy charm to the city, making it a great month to explore Trinity College, stroll through Phoenix Park or enjoy the city’s literary history without the high-season crowds.
TPG tip: Stay at The Shelbourne, where you can indulge in afternoon tea at The Lord Mayor’s Lounge and cozy up with a book or Irish coffee while overlooking St. Stephen’s Green. Rates start at $421 or 61,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
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Greater Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs serves up sunny days with a side of celebration in November. Greater Palm Springs Pride (Oct. 31-Nov. 3) fills the desert with rainbow-hued parades and festivities, while the Magic of Lights, a drive-through light show at Empire Polo Club that begins Nov. 17, adds a twinkling holiday glow to the region.
With temperatures in the high 70s, the weather is prime for lounging poolside or hiking in nearby parks like Joshua Tree National Park. The combination of cool evenings and warm days creates the perfect setting for desert adventures or leisurely escape in this laid-back, stylish oasis.
TPG tip: Book a room at the highly anticipated Thompson Palm Springs, which is taking reservations for Sept. 30 and beyond. Rates start at $387 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night this November.
St. Martin
November in St. Martin is about indulging in the Caribbean island’s rich culinary culture. The Festival de la Gastronomie (Nov. 11-22) invites food lovers to savor French-Caribbean flavors through cooking competitions, tastings and mixology workshops. It’s a mouthwatering lead-up to the holiday season and an excellent way to taste local cuisine at its best. The weather is comfortably warm, with pleasant temperatures in the low 80s. When you’re not eating, dip in the turquoise waters or explore the island’s charming streets before the holiday crowds descend.
TPG tip: Opening for the season on Nov. 15, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel has rates starting at $1,095 per night in November. It’s part of Fine Hotels + Resorts through American Express Travel. If you have an eligible card, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express, and book a stay through Amex Travel, you’ll get perks such as daily breakfast for two and $100 credit toward eligible charges, which vary by property.
Queensland, Australia
Down Under, November brings summerlike temperatures to Queensland without the peak-season heat. American Airlines is launching its longest nonstop flight from Dallas to Brisbane in late October, making it easier than ever to explore the region. Families will also love Bluey’s World in Brisbane, a fully immersive experience based on the beloved children’s show that opens Nov. 7. Additionally, 80-degree beach weather along the Gold Coast and milder temperatures in the rainforest or Great Barrier Reef make Queensland one of the best places to visit in November.
TPG tip: Book a room at Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude Valley, Vignette Collection by IHG. Rates start at around $156 or 29,000 IHG One Rewards points per night this November.
New York City
November in New York City kicks off with the New York City Marathon on Nov. 3, when the streets of all five boroughs come alive with runners and spectators alike. But if you’re not lacing up your sneakers, don’t worry — the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 28 will bring just as much excitement. Plus, the city transforms for the holiday season in late November, well before the December crowd descends. Crisp autumn air and the start of festive decorations make strolling through Central Park or along Fifth Avenue even more magical.
TPG tip: For a luxurious stay with Thanksgiving parade views, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park (rates start at $1,193 or 102,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in November) has a prime location at Sixth Avenue and Central Park South. To save money, opt for Dream Midtown on 55th Street and Broadway (rates start at $244 or 29,000 World of Hyatt points per night in November).
Mendoza, Argentina
In Mendoza, November is springtime, and the region’s vineyards are lush and green, providing a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures. Whether hiking in the Andes, horseback riding through the vineyards or rafting on the Mendoza River, the weather is mild, making for comfortable exploration. This is also the best time to visit wineries months before the busy harvest season begins in February.
TPG tip: Stay at Hualta Hotel Mendoza, Curio Collection by Hilton. Rates start at $170 or 51,000 Hilton Honors points per night in November.
Kenya
November in Kenya offers a quieter safari as the crowds have thinned with the departure of the Great Migration. Yet, the Maasai Mara’s resident wildlife — lions, elephants and giraffes — remain, making it an excellent time for game viewing without the peak-season hustle. The short rainy season begins, but these sporadic showers only add to the lushness of the landscape, creating dramatic backdrops for photography. Samburu National Reserve is another fantastic option, where you’ll have the chance to see rare species like Grevy’s zebra in a more intimate setting.
TPG tip: Stay at the Fairmont Mara Safari Club in the northwestern corner of the Maasai Mara in the Olchoro Oirowua Conservancy. Rates start at $405 per night in November. Join the ALL — Accor Live Limitless loyalty program to get 10% off.
Thailand
By November, Thailand has fully recovered from the monsoon season, revealing lush landscapes and cooler temperatures, making it one of the best months to visit. The waterfalls are full, the rivers are navigable and the skies are clear. Explore the mountains of Chiang Mai or relax on the beaches of the southern islands. No matter your activity of choice, Thailand is the place to do it. It’s an ideal time to visit before the holiday season starts, offering a quieter, more relaxed trip. Thailand’s festivals are gearing up, allowing travelers to participate in the rich culture and traditions in a more peaceful setting.
TPG: It’s worth spending at least a night or two in Bangkok before venturing off to other parts of the country. Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 is a great home base in the bustling city, with rates starting at $104 or 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in November.
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