Top 10 Destinations For The Year End Vacation You’ve Always Dream Of

It’s that time of year again when the allure of the end-of-year vacations begins to infect each and every one of us. But with so many options to choose from, just deciding on where to go in the first place is hard!

1. Seoul, South Korea

Autumn lends a sense of romance that permeates the very air of Seoul, making it arguably one of the best times to visit South Korea’s famed capital.

This is when Seoul’s ginko tree-lined avenues and promenades are awash with brilliant shades of yellow, brown and red 😍

Based on 2016’s fall forecast, autumn peaks around the end of October, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly! Do also look out for the 2017 fall forecast when it comes out later this year.

2. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Gorgeous natural landscapes and rustic stone architecture come together in perfect harmony in Bosnia, which is easily one of the most attractive, underrated and affordable destinations on this list 😍

Between October and December, you can also expect cooler temperatures, breezier days and more affordable accommodation rates!

What’s more, traditional Bosnian cuisine is absolutely sumptuous, so check out these 11 best Muslim-friendly eateries in Bosnia to dine like a true Bosnian 😋

3. Kyoto, Japan

The cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is most spectacular in the autumn when the trees are ablaze with fiery hues of orange, yellow, and bright red.

Take a leisurely stroll through one of Kyoto’s tranquil Japanese gardens or explore the many temples dotting the city–you’ll be swept away by the sheer beauty of the fall foliage 😍

For the best chance at catching the vibrant fall colours, pay a visit to Kyoto from mid October to mid December (fall peaks in mid November!)

4. Lombok, Indonesia

Sometimes you just need to give yourself a good island vacay to relax those tired muscles (especially at the end of a long year!)

But there’s no need to go all the way to the Caribbean for that–with its crystal clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Lombok is the perfect destination for that much-needed island getaway 😉
Head down between October and November to take advantage of the off-season perks: cheaper accommodation rates and lesser crowds!

The weather is also much more pleasant during these months; rainy season in Lombok is much drier than nearby Bali, with lesser rainfall. You won’t need to worry about the weather being a dampener (get it?) 😛

5. Melbourne

If warmer climates are more your thing even during the generally colder end-of-year weather, then a trip to the land down under will give you exactly what you’re looking for 😌

While most of the world experiences autumn, winter, or the wet season at the end of the year, Australia greets the balmy weather of spring from September to November!

It’s almost a crime not to visit Melbourne’s popular Brighton Beach for some fun under the sun. Be sure to snap that picture-perfect, insta-worthy shot of the colourful bathing boxes lining the beach!

6. Switzerland

There’s really no better time to visit Switzerland than in winter, when the whole country transforms into a snowy-white winter wonderland! Just picture yourself making snow angels and building snowmen in all that snow 😍

Stay in one of Switzerland’s traditional wooden houses for an authentic Swiss experience, or hop onto the Glacier Express to catch the most scenic wintry views of the Swiss Alps!

Winter starts quite late in Switzerland (during the second half of December), so be sure to plan your visit to coincide with it 😌

7. London, U.K.

Ah, the land of tea and biscuits! 😋 London is one of those destinations that you fall in love with and never want to leave, if you had your way.

October is one of the best times to visit the iconic capital of the United Kingdom: the leaves begin to turn into the familiar autumn hues and tourist crowds have more or less dissipated.

Go on a walk through one of London’s abundant parks, stroll through the picturesque Little Venice, or explore London’s quiet boroughs at the peak of autumn 😍

8. Andalusia, Spain

From the exquisite Alhambra in Granada to the stunning Real Alcazar in Seville, the grandeur and magnificence of Muslim Spain is definitely unforgettably breathtaking.

#HHWT Tip: The Nasrid Palaces within the Alhambra are especially stunning at night, when the whole place seems to glow with an otherworldly beauty 😍

Still need convincing? Check out the best places to immerse yourself in Spain’s Islamic history here!

9. Auckland, New Zealand

Just like neighbouring Melbourne, Auckland’s springtime only comes around towards the end of the year, so if you’re looking for a relaxing year-end holiday that won’t leave you freezing, this is your best choice 😊

Here’s a lesser known secret: if you missed your chance to catch the sakura blossoms in Japan and South Korea earlier this year, you can still catch them in Auckland from September to December! 😍

And as if that isn’t enough, you can also head over the Great Barrier Island to have those gorgeous beaches all to yourself.

10. Iceland

Seeing the emerald green glow of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) is definitely something you HAVE to have on your bucket list! 😍

The surreal landscapes of Iceland hold some of your best chances at catching this once-in-a-lifetime natural light show, especially from October onwards.