Home to a colourful blend of African, Arabic and European influences, Morocco is an intoxicating destination that’s as popular with kids as it is with adults. If you’re travelling as a family for October half term, we can arrange a treasure hunt through the bustling souks, an exhilarating 4x4 safari in the Agafay Desert and a night spent sleeping in a tent under the stars. We’ll guide you through some of Morocco’s most untouched areas, where you can share tales with the Berber people over a pot of Moroccan tea.

Portugal’s secluded beaches, rolling countryside and medieval towns have long made it one of our favourite European destinations. Travelling to Portugal in October brings a whole added allure – the opportunity to take part in the wine harvest in the Douro Valley. Stunning autumnal colours transform the vineyards at this time of year, and the grape picking is in full flow. Visitors can help with the harvest, as well as enjoying tastings and learning about the wine making process. The perfect accompaniment to Portugal’s world-class wines is its exemplary food scene. Tuck into locally sourced octopus, Iberian pork and freshly grilled sardines.

Japan is a land defined by quirky customs and innovative inventions, and nowhere is this more prominent than in the nation’s food scene. Traditional Japanese cuisine has been awarded heritage status by UNESCO and is an art form in itself. From the utter masterpieces of sushi to immaculately prepared kaiseki dinners, it’s important to the Japanese that their food looks as good as it tastes! Travel to Japan in October to combine a culinary tour of the country with the most captivating autumn hues, as Japan’s iconic temples are cloaked in warming displays of red, orange and gold.

Extending like a frayed ribbon down the west coast of South America, Chile is revered as the world’s longest country and is a land of contrasts. From the lunar-like desert landscapes of the north to the ice-capped wilderness of the south, this spellbinding country showcases some of the world’s most diverse and beautiful scenery. In October, Chile emerges from its cold, frosty winter into the spring sunshine. Visitors can hike the Patagonian trails without getting too hot, while signs of winter can still be seen in the mountains of granite and ice which rise overhead. 

Jordan is the perfect place to get away from it all in October. Combine adventure with relaxation as you walk through history and marvel at epic scenery. Discover the ancient treasures of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra, stay in a desert camp in Wadi Rum - a desert which is so striking it has been used as an alien planet in numerous films - and float in the Dead Sea. This small country is brimming with things to do and can be jam-packed into one unforgettable week.

Madagascar is a land of contrasts, of spectacular and amazing wildlife, of towering mountains and white sand beaches, impossibly high dunes and deep freshwater lakes and of course - the lemurs. From the Aye-Aye to the Indri, these little balls of fluff are Madagascar's main attraction and the reason that so many visitors return year after year. Enjoy an exciting wildlife adventure exploring the National Parks, and then finish on one of Madagascar's pristine beaches for some fabulous diving and relaxation. October sees warm and dry weather, making it the best time to visit.

As the largest Greek island, Crete is abundant in beautiful scenery, stunning beaches and remote villages. Visitors are seduced by the island's distinct character and way of life, especially the plethora of outdoor activities. Warm sunny days extend throughout October so visitors can enjoy hot, sun-baked breaks with less of the crowds.

Autumn is a magical time in New England; the air is crisp and cool, the leaves have transformed into every imaginable shade of red and freshly-pressed cider is sold at local eateries. Photographs can't adequately capture the charm of the scarlet, gold and orange that blaze across this historic part of America, complimenting quaint white churches and sweeping valleys.

Where ancient meets modern, in the Middle East you can experience a rapidly growing new world in modern Dubai, explore bustling souks, stretch out on a golden beach. If you're after adventure, you can escape to endless sand dunes, by camel or by quad bike, and end the day with a magical night under the stars. October marks the end of summer in the UAE so the days are warm ad sunny but not unbearably so.

Mauritius offers white sandy beaches, the crystal-clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean and wonderful luxury properties. With world-class diving, golf, deep-sea fishing and watersports it is a great spot for anyone wanting to mix relaxation with some action. But that's not all, if you venture inland you will discover verdant tropical rainforests, epic waterfalls, botanical gardens and steep-rising lush mountains. October days are warmer and drier so it's an ideal time to explore all the island has to offer.