Where is the sun this October?
A recent YouGov survey commissioned by travel money expert, Moneycorp, showed that 64% of British people prioritised sun more than anything else when heading abroad. So with sun on our mind, we have identified a number of beautiful locations for an October getaway.
If the temptation of sunnier climes doesn't already have you running to pack your swim kit, the current strength of the sterling against a number of currencies should. According to Moneycorp's Vanessa Schotes, the Pound's strength in the currencies of some beautiful destinations make it a great time for a getaway. For instance, you will get €93 more per £1000 than you would of this time last year.
In order to take full advantage of these great rates, Vanessa recommends some top travel money tips. "We would always advise not leaving it to the last minute to pick up your travel money. It is also worth doing a bit of research to find the best option for your getaway."
"A great way to store your travel money is a currency card", Vanessa adds. "Pre-paid currency cards are easy to use and a great way to keep travel money secure, all-the-while enabling you to take full advantage of the pound's strength."
So with the sun and a strong sterling on our minds – where exactly should we be heading to catch the last of the summer rays? The Lady has pulled together its top locations for an escape this autumn.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
A masterpiece of modern day engineering and architecture, the capital of the United Arab Emirates should be on every woman's list. From marvels such as the Palm Islands to the global shopping hot spot of The Dubai Mall, this desert gem is the perfect place to jet away to experience the true meaning of an Arabian night.
Key facts:
Flight time: 6h 55m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 30 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 2,890 UAE Dirham (2,853 in Oct 2013)
Dubrovnik, Croatia
As you explore the corridors of the old town you will feel like you have taken a step back in time. Sit on the shores of the azure Adriatic Sea and walk along the Dubrovnik's city walls at sunset - become enchanted as bells chime across the terracotta city. With some of the best seafood in Europe and beautiful clear water beaches, this medieval city is the perfect location for an October escape.
Key facts:
Flight time 3h 40m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 19 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 4,641 Croatian Kuna (4,313 in Oct 2013)
Marrakesh, Morocco
Reignite your senses with the sights, sounds and smells of Marrakesh. Explore the market stalls of the souks in Medina with its beautiful carpets and textiles, kaftans and spices. If you are looking to indulge, book a spa day and experience a traditional Moroccan Hamman.
Key facts:
Flight time: 5h 10m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 21 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 6,491 Moroccan Dirham (5,843 in Oct 2013)
Barcelona, Spain
Founded as a Roman city, Barcelona has an incredibly rich cultural heritage. Take a walk through the city centre and admire the architectural genius of Gaudi, feast on Barcelona's decadent tapas, then head to the beach for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
Flight time: 2h 50m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 18 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 624 Euro (577 in Oct 2013)
If the temptation of sunnier climes doesn't already have you running to pack your swim kit, the current strength of the sterling against a number of currencies should. According to Moneycorp's Vanessa Schotes, the Pound's strength in the currencies of some beautiful destinations make it a great time for a getaway. For instance, you will get €93 more per £1000 than you would of this time last year.
In order to take full advantage of these great rates, Vanessa recommends some top travel money tips. "We would always advise not leaving it to the last minute to pick up your travel money. It is also worth doing a bit of research to find the best option for your getaway."
"A great way to store your travel money is a currency card", Vanessa adds. "Pre-paid currency cards are easy to use and a great way to keep travel money secure, all-the-while enabling you to take full advantage of the pound's strength."
So with the sun and a strong sterling on our minds – where exactly should we be heading to catch the last of the summer rays? The Lady has pulled together its top locations for an escape this autumn.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
A masterpiece of modern day engineering and architecture, the capital of the United Arab Emirates should be on every woman's list. From marvels such as the Palm Islands to the global shopping hot spot of The Dubai Mall, this desert gem is the perfect place to jet away to experience the true meaning of an Arabian night.
Key facts:
Flight time: 6h 55m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 30 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 2,890 UAE Dirham (2,853 in Oct 2013)
Dubrovnik, Croatia
As you explore the corridors of the old town you will feel like you have taken a step back in time. Sit on the shores of the azure Adriatic Sea and walk along the Dubrovnik's city walls at sunset - become enchanted as bells chime across the terracotta city. With some of the best seafood in Europe and beautiful clear water beaches, this medieval city is the perfect location for an October escape.
Key facts:
Flight time 3h 40m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 19 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 4,641 Croatian Kuna (4,313 in Oct 2013)
Marrakesh, Morocco
Reignite your senses with the sights, sounds and smells of Marrakesh. Explore the market stalls of the souks in Medina with its beautiful carpets and textiles, kaftans and spices. If you are looking to indulge, book a spa day and experience a traditional Moroccan Hamman.
Key facts:
Flight time: 5h 10m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 21 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 6,491 Moroccan Dirham (5,843 in Oct 2013)
Barcelona, Spain
Founded as a Roman city, Barcelona has an incredibly rich cultural heritage. Take a walk through the city centre and admire the architectural genius of Gaudi, feast on Barcelona's decadent tapas, then head to the beach for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
Flight time: 2h 50m from London Heathrow
Temperature: Average of 18 ºC in October
Exchange rate: £500 buys you 624 Euro (577 in Oct 2013)