Words Nicole Schlichting
Whether you’re craving a whirlwind trip to a bustling city, a tropical escape from the winter blues, a chance to unplug into nature, or something else entirely, we’ve curated a list of 12 bucket-list destinations and the perfect time of year to visit them to see them at their seasonal best.
So, grab your calendar – the next 12 months are your time to explore!
January: Soak up the sun in Thailand
January in Thailand offers warm, dry weather, ideal for exploring the country’s renowned beaches, such as those in Phuket and Krabi. It’s also the peak season for traditional festivals like the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival and the colourful Chiang Mai Flower Festival, which visitors are bound to enjoy. Thailand’s natural beauty and cultural celebrations make it a perfect destination to start the year.
February: Get outdoors in New Zealand
What better time of year to explore your backyard? February is peak summer, with sunny skies and mild weather, making it the perfect month for outdoor adventures. Have a look at hiking through Fiordland National Park, kayaking in Abel Tasman, mountain biking in Rotorua, or swimming with dolphins in Kaikōura. February also brings lively events like the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival, celebrating the country’s fine wine and fresh produce.
March: Enjoy springtime in Japan
Late March typically marks the beginning of cherry blossom season in Japan, especially in southern areas like Kyushu and Shikoku. Given the unpredictability of the blooms, though, make sure to leave some flexibility in your plans so you can take in whichever part of the country is blooming when you visit. Travelling earlier in the cherry blossom season means fewer tourists, creating a serene atmosphere to enjoy iconic spots like Kumamoto Castle or Fukuoka parks, and the mild temperatures make sightseeing pleasant and comfortable.
April: Eat and drink your way through Italy
Speaking of mild temperatures and fewer crowds, April in Tuscany offers an alternative to the oppressive summer heat, making it a great time for exploring Italy’s culinary heart. Springtime awakens the vineyards and olive groves, and you can enjoy wine tastings, olive oil samplings and farmers’ markets across the region. This month also brings Easter celebrations to the small towns throughout the region, adding a unique cultural layer to the culinary delights.
May: Hike the Andes in Peru
May is the beginning of the dry season in Peru. Clear skies and temperate weather create the best conditions for trekking through the longest mountain range in the world – the Andes. Crowds in May are thinner than in peak season, making it a great time of year to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, visit the ancient ruins of Sacsayhuaman, or explore the beautiful and historic Sacred Valley.
June: Experience the Midnight Sun in Iceland
In June, the sun in Iceland never quite dips below the horizon, even in the middle of the night. This almost 24-hour daylight, combined with the relatively mild weather, is ideal for extended outdoor adventures like hiking, glacier trekking and hot spring dips. This is also the best season for puffin sightings along the coast and a chance to explore the world-renowned Golden Circle in all its summer splendour.
July: Enjoy summer in Canada
North American summer is in full swing in July, offering warm temperatures and lush landscapes from coast to coast. It’s the best time for exploring some of Canada’s national parks, like Banff and Jasper or experiencing unique festivals, such as Calgary’s Stampede. Whether hiking, canoeing or sightseeing, Canada’s scenic wonders and vibrant culture come alive in July.
August: Escape winter in Indonesia
August in Bali offers a welcome escape from the dreary New Zealand winter. The sunny, dry weather is perfect for beach days and water sports. The warm seas and clear skies attract divers, surfers, and sun-seekers alike. Bali’s cultural calendar is also lively, with ceremonies and local festivals adding vibrancy to the tranquil beaches. August is ideal for exploring this tropical paradise without the monsoon rains.
September: Island-hop through Greece
Greece in September still offers warm summery weather but with fewer tourists, making it perfect for island hopping and exploring ancient sites. Santorini and Mykonos are less crowded, allowing for relaxed beach days and intimate sunset views. The mainland’s historical wonders, like the Acropolis in Athens, are also more accessible in September, enhancing the cultural depth of any itinerary.
October: Experience autumnal Morocco
Avoid the oppressive desert heat of summer in Morocco by visiting in October, with its cooler, comfortable temperatures. Autumn is the ideal time of year to explore the Sahara Desert or cities like Marrakech and Fes, allowing you to enjoy camel treks, bustling souks, traditional music and vibrant cultural festivals without the intense summer heat.
November: Explore Australia in springtime
Springtime in Australia is well-regarded as one of the best times to visit. Take your pick of locations – November is prime season for snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, whale-watching in Tasmania, exploring Sydney’s vibrant neighbourhoods, seeing blooming wildflowers in Western Australia, or getting dolled up and heading to the Melbourne Cup.
December: Have yourself a white Christmas in Austria
In December, Austria transforms into a winter wonderland, with charming Christmas markets in Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck complemented by snow-capped mountains and world-class ski resorts. Feel the cosy holiday magic while you enjoy traditional mulled wine, gingerbread and handmade crafts, or hit the slopes to experience some of the best skiing and snowboarding the Alps have to offer.
Whether you’re keen on the northern hemisphere or southern, winter or summer, an urban escapade or an off-the-grid expedition, the possibilities for your next big travel adventure are endless. Happy trip planning!
