It’s time to go long haul. Anyone well versed in holidaying at this time of the year will know that European sunshine – the kind that’s worthy of a sunbed, not just a day out – sadly doesn’t cut it, meaning those after a guaranteed dose of Vitamin D will have to board a seven-hour-or-more flight east or west to enjoy it. That said, we think November poses a brilliant time to book a rejuvenating break, perfect for those who need to use up their annual leave allowance and truly switch off for more than just a weekend. Whether you’d prefer a barefoot luxury experience in Mexico and the Caribbean, or a cosmopolitan destination with as much style as substance (hello Dubai and LA), here’s where to travel in November.

Bequia, St Vincent and The Grenadines, Caribbean

Average temperature in November: 30°C

Fondly known as the Caribbean’s best-kept secret, the island of Bequia – situated within St Vincent and The Grenadines – is the perfect far-flung paradise for a family getaway this November. Meaning ‘island of the clouds’ in ancient Arawak, Bequia is the largest in The Grenadines but, measuring just seven miles, you can trust it epitomises the laidback lifestyle for which the Caribbean is renowned. Brimming with beautiful sandy beaches, where more than 10 people are considered a crowd, verdant green hillsides, and lively little villages filled with varied restaurants and bars, Bequia’s secluded location (while still being accessible via private plane from Barbados) ensures it retains the vintage Caribbean charm of days gone by. A haven for yachts zig-zagging through the Caribbean’s 700 islands, expect long leisurely lunches fringing the ocean, trips to celebrated turtle sanctuaries, and plenty of lounging on the beach. Sounds like heaven to us…

Where to stay: Bequia Beach Hotel

Occupying an enviable slice of one of the island’s best coastlines, Bequia Beach Hotel is family-owned and run, promising barefoot luxury, plenty of character and the very best of Caribbean hospitality. The property is set within nine acres of lush tropical gardens, with 58 distinctive guest rooms and suites which combine elegance and charm with a vintage retro feel. Travelling with kids in tow? Book the new Rock Villa, the biggest on the island with eight en-suite bedrooms, as well as an enormous private infinity pool, dining gazebo, lounge gazebo, jacuzzi and spacious kitchen. All villas also provide access to Bequia Beach Hotel’s five-star facilities, including the garden spa, saltwater pool and private plane. 

From £250 per night. 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Average temperature in November: 31°C

Grand and glamorous, anyone who has been to Dubai is aware it never does things by halves. Comprising many five-star hotels – including the world’s only seven-star Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, a beacon of Arabian luxury – world-class service and an enviable year-round climate, the most westernised city in the UAE is the most reliable destination for those whose main criterion for a November break is 30°C, and above. Head to The Palm, Dubai’s man-made archipelago, to experience a flurry of beach clubs, pool days, and bottomless brunches at some of the biggest names in hospitality. Elsewhere, culture vultures can get their fill at the Museum of the Future, Dubai Frame, and by venturing into the desert to embark on adventures inspired by the native Bedouins. 

Where to stay: One&Only One Za’abeel

As Kerzner’s first urban vertical resort, One&Only One Za’abeel brings all the energy and glamour of the brand’s iconic beach resorts to a cosmopolitan setting, where exceptional dining and innovative wellness take centre stage in Dubai’s financial district. The resort’s spacious rooms, suites, and Villa One penthouse are among the largest in the city, masterfully designed by Jean-Michel Gathy; yet the hotel’s most famous feature (and architectural marvel) is The Link. 

Straddling two skyscrapers that make up the 229-key hotel, The Link boasts a strip of restaurants courtesy of Michelin-lauded chefs Anne-Sophie Pic, Mehmet Gürs, and Tetsuya Wakuda. From here, go upstairs to find the longest infinity pool in the UAE adjacent to Japanese-Peruvian restaurant, Tapasake, and go downstairs to relax at the three-storey Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie. Explore the other countless floors at your leisure, where you’ll come across a family pool, kid’s club, Indonesian restaurant and private members' club – we promise you won’t get bored. 

From £500 per night. 

Wa Ale, Myanmar

Average temperature in November: 25°C

Situated off the coasts of Thailand and Myanmar within the Myeik Archipelago, Wa Ale is an isolated island paradise steeped in ecotourism. Perfect for the adventurous traveller, with a particular penchant for exploring unchartered aquatic and jungle habitats, Wa Ale, just three hours south of Myanmar, was once off-limits to tourists and is now only just emerging as a holiday destination. Be one of the first ‘in’ to enjoy a wide variety of ecotourism excursions designed to showcase the beauty of this untouched corner of southeast Asia, from trekking through tropical forests to kayaking through mangroves. For safaris of every kind, head to Lampi Marine National Park – home to a multitude of indigenous land animals and more than 200 bird species – and take to the surrounding waters to discover a variety of marine life, including whale sharks, dolphins, as well as eagle and manta rays.

Where to stay: Wa Ale Resort

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Chris and Farina Kingsley in a bid to boost Wa Ale’s ecotourism efforts, luxury island retreat, Wa Ale Resort, has just opened its doors for its eighth season, reeling from a number of recent travel accolades, including Conde Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Featuring just 11 beach villas and three treetop suites – all thoughtfully designed to blend in with the lush vegetation and pristine beach, as well as boasting sweeping views of the ocean beyond – the resort is inherently sustainable, only using local materials and ingredients, and avoiding any elements that may be harmful to the environment, such as chlorinated swimming pools. Instead, indulge at the River Spa featuring a treatment menu using local products, enjoy yoga classes on request, and sample chef Antonio’s traditional Burmese menu centred around organic produce, with many of the ingredients grown on island or caught in the local waters. 

From £494 per night. 

Los Angeles, California, USA

Average temperature in November: 23°C

A playground for the rich and famous, Los Angeles has long been a destination for London’s social set. Away from the bright lights of the city – however, it’s a rite of passage to visit attractions such as Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame – there’s plenty to appease every traveller, from hiking to the Griffith Observatory for unparalleled views of the sprawling Californian city, to cycling the Strand: the 22-mile bike path that follows nearly the entirety of LA’s coastline. Pair these excursions with five-star hotels, impeccable service, perfected international cuisines and rejuvenating spas and you’ve got a stand-out stay. If you’re after the Hollywood treatment this November, this is the destination for you… 

Where to stay: Hotel Bel-Air

One of The World’s 50 Best Hotels, Hotel Bel-Air makes for a wonderful escape this winter. The 12-acre paradise is located among LA’s canyon hills and has welcomed countless celebrities over the years thanks to its spacious and luxurious rooms, rejuvenating spa and Californian-inspired gastronomic offerings. This year has seen the opening of two new culinary outlets: The Living Room, offering opulent afternoon teas, and The Patisserie, boasting a selection of freshly baked treats by pastry wizard Christophe Rull. Unwind at the Valmont spa, where exceptional Swiss products inform a rejuvenating menu of facials, massages and body rituals. 

From £1,332 per night. 

Yucatán, Mexico

Average temperature in November: 26°C

A heady mix of ancient culture, exceptional cuisine and diverse scenery, Mexico has everything you’d need for a memorable winter break. Spend a few days in the bustling beachside city of Cancun before heading west to the city of Mérida: the vibrant capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, boasting rich Mayan heritage. Scattered with beaches and world-renowned archaeological sites, must-see spots include the famed step pyramid Chichén Itzá, preserved sculptures at Ek Balam, and intricate carvings at Uxmal. Combine that with days spent on beaches that fringe the sparkling waters of the peninsula and guided tours of the forest that engulfs the state and you’ve got a relaxing but eye-opening holiday. 

Where to stay: Chablé Yucatán

Just 25 minutes from historic Mérida, Chablé Yucatan is spread over 750 acres in the heart of the Mayan forest. Also listed as one of the World’s 50 Best Hotels, the boutique property features 38 luxurious stand-alone pool casitas, four luxury villas and a traditional hacienda, restored to reflect the local culture. A highlight is the innovative spa founded on ancient Mayan rituals and traditions, which is the first to be built inside a cenote – a natural cave formation commonly associated with the Yucatán Peninsula and considered sacred by the Mayans. Elsewhere, discover traditional Mexican cuisine thanks to award-winning Mexico City-born chef Jorge Vallejo, whose organic, seasonal menus are sourced directly from Chablé’s gardens and pair delectably with the hotel’s tequila collection, the largest in the world.

From £822 per night.

Read more: Winter sun: The ultimate Caribbean villas to escape to this season