Do you want to go on a vacation in October? While the usual European attractions have said their goodbyes, it is now the time of a slew of fascinating autumn places to shine. Here are six holiday choices from the UAE for October, ranging from a local well-being retreat to Indian Ocean retreats and opulent city breaks.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Why go: Weekends tucked between the desert dunes are back with the return of the cool UAE weather. If you prefer your desert adventures with a touch of luxury and health, sign up for the first Soma health weekends flee, which will take place from October 27 to 29 at the amazing desert hotel Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara. The retreat, led by professional fitness doctors, is intended to be a three-day, two-night break to rest and relax. Yoga courses, sound baths, a cacao ceremony, and all meals are included in the price of Dhs8,900 for single occupancy or Dhs6,300 for double occupancy, with housing.
Where to stay: The retreat experience will also include amazing lodgings at the Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara Resort, which features premium suites with views of the desert horizon and a green oasis where you can immerse yourself in the incredible beauty.
How to get there: The resort gates are 154 kilometres along the E65, about a three-hour journey from Dubai and a two-hour trip from Abu Dhabi.
Doha, Qatar
Why go: Formula One fans will be aware that the summer races are now over, with a small number of exciting events left until the end of the 2023 Grand Prix season. The exciting 2023 Qatar Formula 1 Grand Prix will take place on the famous 5.38-kilometer Lusail International Circuit from October 6 to 8. A series of spectacular activities and shows take place around the race, including Egyptian creator Amr Diab, Swedish DJ Alesso, and American musical superstar Bruno Mars this year.
Where to stay: Raffles Doha, a new ultra-luxury address that provides anything but ordinary, is a stunning base for the F1 weekend. Spend an amazing weekend in the Crescent Signature Suite, which has amazing skyline views, a wide terrace, and a thoughtful hospitality package that includes an in-suite breakfast and a 90-minute spa treatment, plus premium race tickets. The Grand Prix package includes a Raffles Bentley chauffeur and a heart-stirring test drive of the McLaren GT, so it’s not just the drivers who will be getting in on the racing action. Even if you are not there for the suite life, ALBA will host F1-themed actions. Signature Brunch by Enrico Crippa and L’Artisan.
How to Get There: Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Air Arabia, and flydubai all fly from Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi to Doha on a regular schedule. Flydubai’s return prices start at Dhs1.825.
London, UK
Why go: Long summer days can draw thousands to the British capital from June to September, but the Christmas months of November and December are usually busy as revellers drink up the festive spirit. But, in between, October in London can be amazing, with the weather still pleasant enough for sightseeing and the city’s parks and greenery tinted with that crisp autumnal light. For foodies, the London Restaurant Festival continues through October, while the end of the month hosts an excellent array of spooky-season activities.
Where to stay: A pair of high-profile hotel opens are incentive enough to make London a must-see this month. The Peninsula London, tucked in the heart of Belgravia, is the epitome of outstanding British workmanship. The hotel, which is just steps away from Buckingham Palace, Knightsbridge, and Hyde Park, has luxurious suites decorated with original artwork, six stylish restaurants and bars, and a fleet of cars that includes Rolls-Royce Phantom IIs, hybrid Bentley Bentaygas, and a 1935 Rolls-Royce Phantom Sedanca de Ville. Then there’s Raffles London at The OWO, which is now officially open within the majestic, Grade II* listed old Old War Office on Whitehall.The famous location, which has more than 100 years of history, has undergone a full transformation, opening to the public for the first time as a comfortable emporium of gourmet meals and luxury housing. A curated selection of partnerships includes a destination spa in conjunction with Guerlain and a trio of trademarks restaurants from chef Mauro Colagreco, one of the world’s best culinary brilliant individuals.
How to Get There: Both Emirates and Etihad provide direct daily flights to London, with Emirates offering the lowest round-trip prices starting at Dhs3,015 per person.
Mauritius, Indian Ocean
Why go: Mauritius’ summer season begins in October, and while every part of the island has its own appeal, the east coast is especially appealing for those wanting natural beauty, sugary soft beaches, and intriguing local activities, such as local markets in cute villages. Climbing Mount Lion, kayaking along the Grande Rivière Sud Est, and taking in the rich history of Vieux Grand Port should all be on your east coast bucket list.
Where to stay: The famous LUX* Belle Mare on the island’s wild east coast reopens to tourists on October 1. This popular resort is set in beautiful tropical gardens and has re-emerged as an amazing seaside safety with design influence from its tropical, beachy surroundings after a year-long restoration. The 174 suites and 12 villas, which extend along one of the nicest beaches on the island, have a laid-back-luxe vibe, as do the culinary decisions which include a beach club, namesake restaurant Amari by celebrity chef Vinnet Bhatia, and Chinese restaurant Duck Laundry.
How to Get There: Emirates has a daily flight from Dubai to Mauritius that prices Dhs4,285 round trip.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Why go: On October 1, Boeing will debut a new autumn flight route to Copenhagen, Denmark, four times per week. While temperatures continue to fall and there is a risk of rain, the weather is still good for finding the city’s many hidden precious stones in all their October splendour during this shoulder season. Denmark’s capital and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scandinavia, owing to its beautiful canals, café culture, and facilities like Tivoli Gardens, the world’s oldest amusement park.
Where to stay: Coco, a stunning boutique hotel in the heart of the city, is a standout address in terms of eco, food, and style. Guests will be rewarded with soothing vibes, bright and fun furnishings, and a superb wine bar.
How to get there: From October 1, Etihad Airways will offer four weekly flights from Abu Dhabi to Copenhagen. Return tickets start at Dhs3,625.
Rajasthan, India
Why go: October is a fantastic month to visit Rajasthan, with cool temperatures for touring, plenty of outdoor activities, and so much heritage and culture that you’ll wish you could stay longer. This vibrant Indian state is jam-packed with things to see and do, from the pink palaces of Jaipur’s capital to the renowned lakes of Udaipur. You should also see the beautiful Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and the cultural camel festival in Pushkar.
Where to stay: Stay at The Leela Palace Jaipur, one of the pink city’s most luxury hotels. The hotel is enveloped in eight acres of beautiful garden and is a collision of culture, wellness, and adventure set against the backdrop of breathtaking Aravalli hills. To ensure the history and legacy of this historical locale seep from every corner, design features include Shekhawati paintings, inlaid mirrors, and traditional thikri craft, while off-property a range of important cultural sites are all within easy reach from the hotel’s ideal position. If you book and stay before October 31, you’ll just pay for two nights, with breakfast included.
How to Get There: Air Arabia flies erect from Sharjah to Jaipur, with roundtrip tickets ranging at Dhs966.
