October holidays

Spend some time on bali’s beautiful beaches

If it is rest and relaxation you’re after, consider flying off to the Indonesian island of Bali to recharge your batteries. After arriving on Bali, it’s easy to see why this island is so popular with newlyweds and attracts around two million visitors each year. Choose to relax on golden beaches, take a walk in the evening with the scent of Frangipani blossom in the air or trek through volcanic countryside scattered with rice terraces.  

Once you’ve worked up an appetite you’ll have no problem finding good dining options in Bali, serving fresh local dishes and a wide selection of international cuisine. Religious temples, dancing, flora and fauna, water sports, fine dining and shopping - Bali is a relatively small island but there are so many different sides to it, you won’t want to stop exploring.

experience the cultural side of cape town

If it’s a city break you’re looking for then why not consider South Africa and its capital city, Cape Town. Its Mediterranean climate makes for warm and dry summers which last from November to March, so a visit during October should provide you with enough relief from the UK’s falling temperatures, without making it too hot to walk around comfortably.

Visit the Cultural History Museum and find out about the history of South Africa, or head down to Cape Town’s Victoria and Albert Waterfront, where you’ll find shops, an aquarium, craft markets, bars, restaurants and live music. If you’ve energy left over after a meal, then dance the night away in one of Cape Town’s clubs.

A trip to Cape Town would be wasted if you didn’t make an effort to explore the surrounding area. There are day trips galore to get your teeth into, from boats which will take to out to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent many of his years in prison, to snorkeling and diving trips, and walks up Table Mountain.

Hire a car and venture out on your own to experience some of the delights the Western Cape can offer. Go whale watching off the coast at Simon’s Town, watch African Penguins wander about on the sands at Boulders Beach or spend a good few hours wandering around Cape Point, taking in magnificent views across the ocean from the old lighthouse. Whatever you choose to do, you can be sure a trip to Cape Town is an experience you won’t forget any time soon.

enjoy a fun-filled holiday in geneva

Looking for somewhere closer to home? Then check out the cosmopolitan city of Geneva in Switzerland. Watching the early morning mist rise off the surface of Lake Geneva is a wonderful experience, while on a clear day you’ll be able to see the Chablais Alps bordering the southern shore and the Bernese Alps over to the east. It is also possible to spot Mont Blanc from some parts of Lake Geneva.

Although July and August are the hottest months of the year in Geneva, you’ll still find it warm enough for an October visit and the brave may even go for a swim. Those prepared to pull on a wetsuit have a range of activities to choose from, including sailing, water skiing, rowing, wind surfing and kayaking.

The French-speaking city of Geneva is situated where the River Rhone leaves the lake. This is where you’ll find culture in the form of the Grand Theatre, Geneva Opera House and Musee International D’Horlogerie – a museum dedicated to the history of timepieces. Geneva is not the cheapest city in Europe by any stretch, but if you are prepared to spoil yourself for a few days, then the opportunity will present itself at every turn.

enjoy the sunshine in perth

If Europe is not adventurous enough for you and you don’t mind a long flight, then consider travelling to Perth for a holiday this October. Being the largest city in Western Australia, Perth has much to offer visitors, and the warm and dry weather you can expect during October makes it one of the best months to go.

Perth may not have the same level of hustle and bustle as Sydney for example, but for many travelers that’s something of an advantage. Although it is still a very metropolitan city, Perth’s residents enjoy a more relaxed way of life - just what most holiday makers are looking for. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to keep you fed and watered and a variety of activities to enjoy when you’re ready.

Western Australia is one of the best places in the world for water sports and so when you’re ready for a spot of surfing, then try Scarborough Beach. Practice your moves on the board or perhaps just spread out on the warm, white sand and let time slip by. If scuba diving appeals then the underwater wrecks off the coast of Yanchep make it an ideal destination.   

Choose to go abroad with The Co-operative Travel this October and let us help you choose the perfect holiday to ensure a relaxing, affordable break.