With autumn on the horizon, many sun-seekers long for an escape to hotter climes as temperatures drop and the nights draw in. If you’re planning a holiday in late August or September, there are still plenty of short and long haul destinations to tempt you with the promise of sizzling sunshine. Read on for our pick of the places you’re guaranteed glorious weather.
The Canary Islands, Spain
Blessed with sunshine all year round, this bewitching group of islands offer natural beauty and stunning beaches with average daily temperatures in September settling in the mid to high twenties. Scattered off the coast of Africa, each of the seven isles offers something for everyone. Choose from the lively nightlife and popular resorts of Tenerife, the unspoilt beaches and family-friendly watersports of Fuerteventura or the sunlit backdrops of Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.
Orlando, USA
Head to Florida’s subtropical climate from late August onwards when temperatures reach highs of 33°C. As you make your way around the area’s theme parks, you can enjoy up to seven hours of sunshine a day but don’t forget your pac-a-mac. Until the hurricane season winds down in October, holidaymakers should expect sudden downpours and thunderstorms. However, with so much to do in and around the city, a few moments of rain certainly won’t put a dampener on your fun. Pay a visit to any of several indoor attractions including the Sea Life Aquarium or hit the shopping malls for some retail therapy.
Marrakech, Morocco
Only a few hours flight from the UK you’ll find a vibrant, sun-soaked getaway teeming with souks, mosques and aromatic cuisine. Venture through the winding alleys of the medina, taking in the hustle and bustle before heading for the atmosphere of the Djemaa el-Fna at night when the city’s storytellers, musicians and entertainers come out to wow the crowds. Travellers to Marrakech in September will enjoy temperatures into the mid 30s during the day, dipping to just below 20°C after sunset.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Known for its world famous architecture and fabulous shopping, Dubai also owes its reputation as a must-see destination due to its scorching temperatures. Prepare to brave the heat as the mercury soars to an average daily high of 37°C until late September. With around 10 hours of sunshine a day, sunbathers should pay a visit to Al Mamzar Beach Park for white sands and sparkling sea views. For a truly stunning spectacle take in the sights of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. It’s home to At the Top, the sky-scraping structure’s observation deck which offers amazing 360-degree views over the city to the desert and beyond.