The days are getting shorter and UK temperatures are on a downward slope. If you’re looking to escape to a holiday destination that’s hot in November, here are our top, early-winter recommendations…
1. Bangkok, Thailand
Even though November is Bangkok’s ‘cool’ season, the dry weather and 24°C to 32°C heat is the total opposite of the cold and drizzle of a UK winter. The lower humidity at this time of year makes it easier to explore the city with its many cultural attractions.
Bustling street markets, gilded temples and world-class cuisine all combine to make the Thai capital one of Asia’s most beguiling cities. There’s nowhere else quite like it. Foodies will be in their element, whether they’re sampling fiery street food or sitting down for a Michelin-approved meal. Or marry the two at Michelin-starred street food stall Jay Fai, which specialises in wok-fried dishes like crab omelette, and is well worth the queue.
When you’re not tantalising your tastebuds, there’s lots to see and do. Take a boat tour along the Chaophraya River, haggle with vendors at the sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market or pay your respects in the many beautiful Buddhist shrines. Best of all, November is the time of year where Loy Krathong: the Festival of Lights takes place. Local residents release beautifully decorated krathongs (floating lanterns) onto the city’s waterways, in honour of the goddess of water. It’s a truly enchanting sight.
2. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
If basking on a tropical beach is your idea of a holiday well spent, head to Playa del Carmen. It’s the start of the dry season in this Mexican coastal paradise, and it’s wonderfully hot in November.
November is the very start of peak season in Playa del Carmen, so it’s not yet as busy as December or January. This means you can find good deals on hotels, bars are buzzing but not too crowded and you’ll have plenty of beach to yourself. Although it’s a big draw, stunning beaches aren’t the only thing Playa del Carmen has to offer.
When you’re not relaxing on the warm golden sands and snorkelling in the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, you can get out and enjoy some local culture. Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, one of the most important pre-Columbian cities in the Yucatán peninsula. Adventure-seekers will enjoy a trip to the nearby cenotes: natural sinkholes are filled with cool, clear water. As well as being a natural wonder, they’re also perfect for plunging into on a hot day.
3. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
If you don’t fancy a long-haul jaunt, your best chance of going somewhere hot in November is to head to the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria is particularly pleasant at this time of year, with warm temperatures ideal for sunbathing and exploring.
Gran Canaria is sunny and not overly hot in November, with temperatures hovering around a pleasant 22°C to 26°C. This is one of the best times of year for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes and stunning natural parks. Hike through the lush forest of Tamadaba Natural Park, admire the rugged rock structures of Roque Nublo Rural Parkor go on a camel safari through the rolling sand dunes of Maspalomas.
The entire coast is lined with picturesque beaches, perfect for sunbathing or trying your hand at watersports. Hire a car and take a coastal trip to find your favourite. November is low season, but there’s still plenty going on. Winter Pride takes place from 6-12 November – an LGBTQ+ celebration featuring parades, pool parties and colourful live shows.
Ready to book a holiday somewhere hot in November?
Don’t let the chilly and dark days of November get you down. It’s always hot and sunny somewhere in the world. All you need is a flight ticket to give yourself a second summer. The places in the table below are all hot in November, and each offer a unique experience to visitors.
| City | Average temperature in November |
|---|---|
| Bangkok, Thailand | 28°C / 82°F |
| Orlando, Florida | 25°C / 77°F |
| Larnaca, Cyprus | 22°C / 71°F |
| Brisbane, Australia | 28°C / 82°F |
| Sihanoukville, Cambodia | 29°C / 84°F |
| Muscat, Oman | 30C / 86°F |
| Playa del Carmen, Mexico | 29°C / 84°F |
| Bridgetown, Barbados | 30°C / 86°F |
| Gran Canaria, Canary Islands | 25°C / 77°F |
| Bali, Indonesia | 33°C / 91°F |
FAQs
If you want a scorching beach break in November, your best bet is to hop on a flight to Southeast Asia or the Caribbean. Bali is always a good choice with its laid-back atmosphere and stunning white sands. Barbados is also hot in November, as the wet season tapers off and leaves the island’s interior lush and green.
The southern hemisphere is entering spring so it’s the perfect time to visit cities in Australia. Brisbane is a tropical paradise with a fun a mix of arts and culture, and the opportunity to take excursions into the rainforest. Golf lovers may be interested to hear that the 2023 Australian PGA Championship will take place in Brisbane this November, too.
From the UK? Morocco, Cyprus and the Canary Islands are all nearby, affordable and most importantly, nice and hot in November.
