November can feel like the forgotten middle child of the holiday season. The Halloween sugar rush is winding down, and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season hasn’t started yet (at least not until Thanksgiving, which falls on November 28 in the US this year).
But here’s the secret: it’s the perfect time to pack your bags and travel to a new place. It’s that quiet window when the world seems to heave a collective sigh, the crowds thin and travel deals beckon from across the internet.
Whether you’re chasing the last vestiges of fall before the holiday madness or just wanting to catch some sunshine before summer hits in the Southern Hemisphere, traveling in November before the holidays can be a lot of fun. Here are 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 20th anniversary of the festival and the celebration is bigger than ever. You can wander around prestigious museums like the Belvedere or the Kunsthistorisches Museum during the high season without the summer crowds. Pair your artistic pursuits with a relaxing evening at one of Vienna’s famous coffeehouses, where a hot cup of melange (like a cappuccino) awaits. Also, most of Vienna’s famous Christmas markets open in mid-November if you want to start your holiday as early as possible.
TPG Tip: stay at Imperial Riding School, The Autograph Collectionwhich opened earlier this year in a former 19th-century military riding 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 Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Las Vegas comes November 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. At the beginning of the month, car enthusiasts can also enjoy this concours at the Wynn (Nov. 1-3), featuring a grand motorcade and vehicle display of vintage and sports cars.
TPG Tip: To retreat from the action, stay at the Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World, starting at $149 per night or 52,000 Hilton Honors points every November.
Dublin
In the first week of November, Bookworms welcome to Dublin Dublin Book Festival (Nov. 6-10). For five days, the city comes alive with readings, workshops and panel discussions celebrating established and emerging writers. Held at various venues across the city, the festival gives you an excuse to head to a historic pub for a pint between events. 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 ShelborneWhere you can have afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge and cozy up with a book or an Irish coffee overlooking St Stephen’s Green. Rates start at $421 per night or 61,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
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Greater Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs offers sunny days with a side of celebration in November. Greater Palm Springs Pride (Oct. 31-Nov. 3) fills the desert with rainbow-colored parades and festivities, while The magic of lightsThe drive-thru light show at the Empire Polo Club, which begins Nov. 17, adds a sparkling holiday glow to the region.
With temperatures in the high 70s, the weather is prime for 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 a relaxing escape to this relaxing, stylish oasis.
TPG tip: Book a room at the highly anticipated Thompson Palm Springs, which is taking reservations for September 30 and beyond. Rates start at $387 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night this November.
Saint Martin
November in St. Martin is all about indulging in the Caribbean island’s rich culinary culture. This Festival de la Gastronomy (Nov. 11-22) invites food lovers to savor French-Caribbean flavors through cooking competitions, tastings and mixology workshops. It’s a mouth-watering festive season and a great way to taste the best of local cuisine. The weather is comfortably warm, with pleasant temperatures in the low 80s. When you’re not dining, take a dip in the turquoise waters or explore the island’s charming streets before the holiday crowds descend.
TPG tip: Opens for season on November 15, La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel Rates start at $1,095 per night in November. It is part of Fine Hotels + Resorts by American Express Travel. If you have an eligible card, ie Platinum Card® from American ExpressAnd book a stay through Amex Travel, you’ll get perks like two daily breakfasts and a $100 credit toward eligible charges, which vary by property.
Queensland, Australia
Down Under, November brings summer-like temperatures in Queensland without the peak-season heat. American Airlines is launching its longest ever Nonstop flights from Dallas to Brisbane in late October make exploring the region easier than ever. Family will love it too Bluey’s world In Brisbane, a fully immersive experience based on the beloved children’s show that opens on November 7. Additionally, the 80-degree beach weather on the Gold Coast and milder temperatures in the rainforest or Great Barrier Reef make Queensland one of the best places to visit. 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
In November Starting with New York City New York City Marathon on November 3, when the streets of all five boroughs come alive with runners and spectators. But if you’re not wearing your sneakers, don’t worry — the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 28 will bring just as much excitement. Also, the city transforms for the festive season in late November, before the December crowds die down. Crisp fall air and the onset of festive decorations make a stroll along Central Park or Fifth Avenue even more magical.
TPG Tip: For a luxurious stay with views of the Thanksgiving Parade, Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park (starting 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, choose Dream Midtown at 55th Street and Broadway (rates starting 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 stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Whether hiking in the Andes, horseback riding through vineyards, or rafting on the Mendoza River, the weather is mild, making for relaxing explorations. This is the best time to visit a winery in the months before the busy harvest season begins in February.
TPG tip: stay at Hualta Hotel Mendoza, Curio Collection by Hilton. Rates in November start at $170 per night or 51,000 Hilton Honors points.
Kenya
November in Kenya offers quieter safaris as the crowds thin out with the departure of the Great Migration. Still, the Masai Mara’s resident wildlife — lions, elephants and giraffes — remains, making it a great time to see game without the hustle and bustle of peak-season. A short rainy season begins, but these scattered showers only add to the lushness of the landscape, creating a dramatic backdrop for photography. Samburu National Reserve is another fantastic option, where you’ll have the chance to see rare species like Gravy’s zebra in a more intimate setting.
TPG Tip: stay at Fairmont Mara Safari Club In the northwest corner of the Maasai Mara in the Olchoro Oiroa Conservancy. Rates start at $405 per night in November. ALL — Join the Accor Live Limitless loyalty program to get 10% off.
Thailand
TPG: It is worth spending at least one or two nights in Bangkok before moving on to other parts of the country. Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 A great home in the bustling city, starting at $104 or 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night every November.
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