Where and When to Travel
Planning the perfect trip can be quite the challenge, especially if you're unsure of the best time to visit your dream destination. But worry no more! Thompsons Holidays has created an incredible hub that guides you on where in the world to travel based on the month, ensuring you always have the best travel experience. With twelve months and a whole world to explore, where will you start? If you’re looking for inspiration on the best places to travel, and when to visit them, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to plan your holidays for every month of the year. Whether you’re in search of a classic culture trip in Europe, an epic adventure in South America, or the best honeymoon destinations near South Africa, you’ve come to the right place.
Save the date for a white Christmas in Germany, the Grand Prix in Singapore, a safari in Kenya or an island getaway in Mauritius. Or, explore your own backyard on a foodie trip in the Cape Winelands or a December holiday in Durban. Browse our list of destinations by month and take your pick of the best family holiday spots, city breaks, and bucket list experiences. Ready, set, travel with Thompsons Holidays!
Where to Travel by Month
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JanuaryWhat’s the best way to cure the post-December blues? A holiday! Whether you’re still chasing the sun or want to head north for frosty adventures, January is one of the best months in which to travel.
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FebruaryThe shortest month of the year is also the sweetest time to travel. Shoulder season rates typically apply, which means you score the best weather in Cape Town, the last of the winter snow in Europe, and some time in Thailand, for less!
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MarchMake memories in March and travel to the Mediterranean to soak up the late-winter vibes, from sangrias and siestas in Spain to gyros and ancient ruins in Greece. The weather in Portugal is perfect for a holiday.
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AprilWe start feeling the chill at home while the Northern Hemisphere warms up, heralding spring and the welcome shoulder travel season. If you want to visit Europe on rand-friendly tours, now is the perfect time to go.
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MayThe world is your oyster in May. The weather is mild, and travel packages are kinder on your wallet than during the high season. Enjoy the best of the Northern Hemisphere before the summer crowds arrive in Greece, Croatia, or the United Kingdom.
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JuneSummer is in full swing in the Northern Hemisphere, with popular holiday destinations like Portugal, Italy, Spain and Turkey at their best. If you’re feeling the need for a local bush break, then head to the Kruger for excellent game-viewing, or a winter escape to Croatia.
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JulyJuly is the busiest month of the year to travel, especially in Europe, North America and Asia. Popular destinations are abuzz with activity. Winter is also the best time for game viewing in the Kruger National Park, so now is the time to book that dream safari!
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AugustAugust is the perfect pick-me-up travel month to shake off the South African winter blues. Catch the last of the summer rays in Europe with travel packages to the Mediterranean and soak up the sunsets in Santorini, Lake Como and Porto.
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SeptemberSpring has sprung in South Africa, with several delightful local destinations ready to welcome families over the school break. If you have a week to spare, there’s plenty to do on a Garden Route adventure.
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OctoberAll over the world, October brings with it mild weather and beautiful scenery. The Mediterranean is starting to slow down, but ferries are still operational in Greece for some crowd-free island hopping. If you have ever wanted to see the Northern Lights, the clear-sky nights are best now.
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NovemberFalling just before the frenzy of the festive season kicks in, November is a fantastic time to visit your dream destinations. Take your pick of the best places to travel in November, from island destinations like Mauritius and Zanzibar to guaranteed crowd-pleasers like Thailand.
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DecemberA December holiday is the best way to end the year. Wherever you go, the festive season is all about good times, great experiences, and making memories to last a lifetime. School is out for the summer, which makes December the best time to travel on a family holiday.
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