Where to relax in Asia May. Asia in May: blooming, warm, mysterious

Thailand has been the most popular Asian destination for decades. Travelers from all over the world come here to enjoy the fine white sand on the beaches and groves of coconut palms.

Popular resorts: Phuket island, Krabi province, Pattaya, Koh Samui

Specialties: Tom Yum Soup, Sam Tam Papaya Salad, Chicken Curry, Stir-fried Pat Thai Noodles

pros

quality service
beautiful landscapes
a variety of entertainment
a lot of interesting places
friendly Thais
good beaches

Minuses

high prices in popular resorts
molesting swindlers, street thieves, transvestites

Vietnam

Vietnam remains one of the cheapest Asian countries. Travelers who come here for the first time are surprised for a long time at first, and then they simply stop paying attention to prices.

Popular cities and resorts of Vietnam: Hanoi, Ha Long, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet

Specialties: Pho burdock rice soup, rice noodles, snail dishes, Vietnamese spring rolls, sticky rice, pomelo fruit salad

pros

low prices
many old temples
beautiful landscapes
Vietnamese are warm to Russians

Minuses

low level of service

Cambodia

Many choose Cambodia for a short trip from Thailand. The country attracts with low prices, non-tourist atmosphere and, of course, the ruins of Angkor.

Popular cities and resorts: Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Siam Reap, Angkor

Specialties: fish curry, samrong tree drink, herb rice, banana rice, fish soup

pros

low prices
exotic country, unpopular resort
stunning angkor

Minuses

underdeveloped service and infrastructure
scammers, dishonest taxi drivers and merchants
poverty and desolation can scare away

Laos

Laos is one of the poorest landlocked countries in Southeast Asia. However, she attracts with her innocence, mountain scenery and tropical forests.

Popular cities and resorts: Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, Pakse, Vang Vieng, Luang Namtha

Specialties: Tam Som - papaya salad, Mom-mo sauerkraut, spicy Lam soup.

pros

very beautiful nature
low fraud
friendly people
calm life

Minuses

no access to the sea
poor service
poverty and desolation can scare away

Malaysia

Malaysia is an amazing country, yet not very popular, divided into two parts by the South China Sea. First of all, it attracts with its long coastline and rich culture.

Popular cities and resorts: Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, Sipadan

Specialties: Laksa - soup with noodles, rice with coconut milk, veal with lemongrass.

pros

good beaches
many interesting places
a pleasant combination of unpopularity and development
interesting islamic culture

Minuses

partial ban on alcohol and nightlife

Indonesia

Among the many islands of Indonesia, anyone can find a suitable one for themselves - it is impossible to see Indonesia at once. The most popular, of course, is the island of Bali.

Popular resorts: Bali, Java, Lombok, Lembongan, Sumatra, Timor

Specialties: fried noodles and rice, Gado-Gado vegetable dish, coconut curry, rice and palm wine.

pros

a variety of entertainment
many interesting places
good beaches
beautiful nature

Minuses

expensive vacation
difficult driving in tourist places

Singapore

Singapore is a unique city-state. People do not come here for the beaches, although the country has access to the sea and islands. Entertainment and shopping are the main activities here.

Popular cities and resorts: Singapore, Pulau Ubin Islands, Pulau Tekong, Sentosa

Specialties: chili crab, thin dough flatbread, carrot cake, laksa soup, pork ribs in herb broth.

pros

unusual sights
highly developed country
variety of entertainment and shopping
unique mixed culture

Minuses

expensive vacation
dirty beaches
severity of laws

Philippines

One of the most popular beach destinations is the Philippines. The country is scattered on islands, developed resorts with good service, skyscrapers in large cities, mild climate and diving.

Popular cities and resorts: Manila, Boracay Islands, Cebu, Bohol, Palawan, Mindoro, Negros, Mactan, Mindanao, Panglao.

Specialties: meat dishes, soup with dumplings, edobo, Lehon pork, oxtails.

pros

large selection of resorts
a variety of entertainment
good beaches

Minuses

inflated prices in resort areas
lack of vibrant culture
reputation as an unsafe country

Where to go: practice

	Visa	Flight	Country chip	dry season
	Up to 30 days not required	Direct flight from 9 o'clock	Entertainment and beaches	November-February
	Up to 15 days not required	Direct flight from 9 o'clock	Untainted culture	November-May
Cambodia		Approximately 20 hours (with transfer)	Temples of Angkor	November-March
	Up to 15 days not required	Approximately 20 hours (with transfer)		November-March
Malaysia	Up to 30 days not required	From 14 hours (with transfer)	A little bit of everything	November-February
Indonesia	On the border ($25)	Direct flight from 12 noon	Downshifting	March-September
Singapore		Direct flight from 10 hours	Entertainment and shopping	June-September
Philippines	Up to 30 days not required	From 15 hours with transfer	Nice secluded beaches	December-April

Photo: thinkstockphotos.com, flickr.com

For a European person, Asia is a fabulous and mysterious side of the world. People come here for impressions, for new knowledge, for answers to unsolvable riddles. And also to the warm sea or ocean, for exotic entertainment and culinary delights.

Asia begins immediately after the Bosphorus. Turkey is a well-known country for the mass tourist. Unfortunately, few people perceive the countries of Central Asia as a vacation option. Of the distant countries, Thailand is best known, but Cambodia or Vietnam are rarely considered as the final destination of a flight to the sea.

One of the most important attractions of traveling to Asia is the price of food and accommodation. They are unusually attractive and able to inspire tourists with the most modest budgets. Despite the long and expensive flight. In return, a trip to Asia gives the tourist the opportunity to save on accommodation and food so much that the high cost of the flight will not look so hopeless.

How to make your visit to an Asian country informal, exclusive and inexpensive? Which countries give chances to tourists with a small wallet? What can you see, where to visit? We have dedicated this article to answering these important questions.

Turkey: a country where "all inclusive"

Tourists love resorts in Turkey for their low cost of living, inexpensive food and fun entertainment. The abundance of ancient ruins, the secular nature of the state (all Muslim attractions are available for tourists), sandy beaches and the opportunity to relax on an all-inclusive basis are the main lures for mass tourists. It is impossible not to add the knowledge of the staff of hotels and restaurants in Russian, which makes it easier for our travelers to resort life.

Hagia Sophia Museum - a symbol of the "golden age" of Byzantium, is located in the historical center of Istanbul.

An independent trip to the resorts of Turkey is associated with many troubles. But as a result, the tourist pays more than the average tour offered by tour operators - 200 euros / week. So much is a trip alone, food - only breakfast, accommodation in a 3 * hotel, out of season.

An independent flight to Antalya and back will cost the same two hundred euros (the cheapest is with PEGASUS). Accommodation in a modest hotel - from 13 euros / day (91 euros / week) for a double room with breakfast.

Lunch in a modest restaurant will not cost more than 6-7 euros per person. If you eat on your own (many hotels have kitchens), then the daily food consumption will not exceed 5-6 euros. In this case, it is better to make purchases at the bazaars, and buy only dairy products and semi-finished products in supermarkets.

Excursions to any place of interest for tourists can be bought at tourist kiosks (in no case from street vendors!). A one-day tour to Ephesus or Didim with lunch included will cost about fifty euros per person.

Uzbekistan: Star of the East

A well-known country from Soviet times, today it is perhaps the most developed and tourist-friendly country in the Central Asian region. If the capital - Tashkent - is not too interesting for travelers, then Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand are able to satisfy the taste of the most sophisticated traveler, not to mention the novice tourist. Ancient mosques, mausoleums, palaces of emirs, boundless bazaars, delicious cuisine and a warm climate - what else does a traveler need?

Registan Square in Samarkand.

If you eat at numerous national street restaurants or coffee houses, then lunch will cost you no more than 4-5 euros. The fees for visiting attractions and museums are so low that you can hardly spend more than 5 euros in a week, visiting two or three establishments daily.

The police in Uzbekistan are very strict, tourists here feel protected and protected. It is also worth adding that all the stories about the incredible hospitality of the Uzbeks are true! You will certainly have many friends.

The climate here is hot, especially in summer. Therefore, for a visit, it is better to choose spring or autumn, when the temperature does not break records and you can not only get a good tan, but also enjoy admiring mosques, medieval quarters, abundant bazaars and green gardens.

Flight from Moscow to Samarkand and back - 400 euros (the cheapest is UTair). Accommodation - from 21 euros / day (for two people in a guest house near the historical center), breakfast - 3 euros.

India: home of the Buddha

One of the most exotic and culturally rich countries in the world. Here it is interesting how big cities as well as in small towns. People often come here just to live and observe the life of people who neglect earthly goods. On the other hand, many tourists are shocked by a visit to this country, the worldview of Indians and Europeans is so different.

Bengal tiger in one of the national parks of India.

The sights of India are so numerous and diverse that it is difficult to choose a dozen or twenty of the most outstanding. Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, ancient palaces and fortresses, the sacred Ganges and National parks with rhinos and tigers - it's hard to list them all.

India will be of interest to lovers of antiquity, admirers of natural beauties, seekers of the meaning of life and those who prefer a serene pastime on the beach. To save on transport, it is best to rent a scooter for the duration of the visit, it costs 50 euros / week. The vast majority of attractions are free. But in museums and cultural centers, entrance tickets can cost up to 10 euros.

You can eat at street stalls (if your stomach is healthy and you can tolerate spices easily) - a huge portion of a vegetarian dish of rice and vegetables is less than 1 euro. If you prefer European cuisine, moderately spicy, then lunch in a restaurant will cost from 7 euros per person.

A visa to India for tourists costs 60 US dollars. You can apply for it on the Internet.

Flight from Moscow to Mumbai and back outside the season (April-September) - 415 euros (Turkish Airlines).

Housing in India is very cheap, but if you want to live in a room without bugs, but with air conditioning, you will have to pay from 10 euros per day (double room in city hotels of 2-3 * level).

Vietnam: a small country with big opportunities

Vietnam is not often seen budget tourists as a recreation option. Completely wrong! Holidays in this picturesque and hospitable country are cheaper than in vaunted Thailand.

Russians can spend two weeks in Vietnam every year without a visa. The country offers tourists not only perfectly clean beaches and a warm, clear sea, but also many of the most unexpected cultural and historical monuments, a unique cuisine, good-natured and smiling local people. And in Vietnam, unusually low prices for food and accommodation in a hotel or guest house.

Flight from Moscow to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh and back - from 424 euros (offer from Emirates).

Double room in a modest but clean and modern hotel - from 8 euros / day.

Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Mui Ne, Nha Trang - the names of the most attractive resort places in Vietnam say little to a budget tourist. Behind them are hidden unusually beautiful places, cozy restaurants, comfortable hotels, original festivals, green parks and Buddhist pagodas.

Long Son Pagoda (Nha Trang).

Eating in street cafes and eateries, you can easily meet 6-8 euros per day. Lunch in an expensive restaurant - 12-15 euros. Fruit in the country of victorious socialism is so cheap that many tourists switch to a fruit diet and spend no more than three or four euros per day on food. Transportation costs can be easily minimized if you rent a bike - 30 euros / week.

Sightseeing in organized groups, accompanied by a guide - from 35 euros for a day trip, including meals. Tour around the country (5 days) - 180-220 euros.

In Vietnam, street crime is almost completely absent. The level of security here is very high, and the police work very efficiently.

Entrance to a beach party or a nightclub - from 2 euros.

Similar prices, entertainment and attractions in Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos. But air tickets to these countries will cost no less than 500 euros. In Sri Lanka, Nepal, and even in China, the budget tourist will also feel confident and carefree.

Each of these countries has a lot of exotic entertainment, affordable housing and tasty food. The main thing is to visit these countries not during the high tourist season, but book tickets and hotels no later than six months in advance.

Mountains can only be better beach holiday. Or better this way: there is time for the mountains, but there must be time for the beach. AT last years European winter resorts are losing popularity, giving the palm to the hot beaches of Asia. But Asia is big and the weather in different parts of it is different. Where to go to truly relax, and not sit in an exotic hut, fleeing the monsoons and downpours? We made an overview of places where the weather is good in winter, where you can go on your own or by buying a tour. Where you can sunbathe and swim together, with a company, with children. We present you 12 resorts in Asia for every taste, color, interest and budget.

Of course, you can just lie on the beach, but it is better to combine business with pleasure. Ancient temples, jungle cities, fantastic shows, new tastes and aromas. And all this, as a rule, is located some 1-1.5 km from that very luxurious white sand beach. Read short review 12 of the best Asian resorts, where there is time for the sea, entertainment and relaxation for the whole family.

Bali

They wrote about Bali, talked, shouted, made films. This is probably the most desirable island in the world. Not that big, but almost perfect. Weddings, romantic vacations for lovers, the most fabulous dinners on the beach are held here, and parents with children come here. Bali has everything that lovers of the sea, sun and unhurried lazy rest can like. It's fabulous beautiful place, a tropical paradise and a corner of earthly delights. And yet, there are good-natured dolphins and a good wave for surfers. If you have not been to Bali yet, then you should consider this option.

You can find and book a flight to Bali (Denpaser) here.

Housing cost: from € 25 per night.

goa

First of all: Goa is not an island, as many people think. This is the western coast, a former colony founded by the Portuguese. Let it not be so White sand, and the sea is the most common warm sea. But, you can combine your vacation with a visit to the snow-white Catholic churches, see the old fort in Chapora. The relics of Saint Francis are kept here. There is a very colorful old town. Goa is the spirit of freedom with the scent of the ocean breeze. And most importantly - a well-developed tourist infrastructure. Shops, service and lots of housing offers. From expensive hotels to simple guesthouses.

You can find and book a flight to GOA (Dabolim) here.

Housing cost: from € 15 per night.

Sri Lanka

Yes, this is Ceylon. Motherland delicious tea. But, - not the only thing that will surprise you with the island. It is a very beautiful nature, ancient architecture and a very pleasant environment. Here you can take a walk on, dive on a coral reef, go windsurfing. Here you will be offered to feel for yourself what real Ayurvedic medicine is. Warm, gentle and very clean sea will appeal to everyone: there are calm family beaches and for surfers. Don't forget the abundance of tropical fruits. You can’t gain extra pounds from such a lazy rest.

You can find and book a flight to Sri Lanka (Colombo) here.

Housing cost: from € 15 per night.

Phuket

The most popular beach town in Thailand. Here really for every taste and color, as they say. Want an active nightlife right on the beach? Then you are in Patong. If your priority is calm measured days with your family, then the quiet beach of Nai Harnom will become ideal option. For a stormy romantic adventure, Karon is suitable with a picturesque cape, cafes, places for the solitude of a couple in love. By the way, we do not recommend swimming far into the sea, it can be dangerous. There is not only active life, but there is a predatory fauna.

You can find and book a flight to Phuket here.

Housing cost: from € 22 per night.

Langkawi

Beaches squeezing in Golden ring tropical hills in all shades of green. Here it is, the island of Langkawi in Malaysia. Here you should always be on your guard, otherwise the little monkeys will easily steal your towel, camera or cap. You will need a camera, especially during the flowering period of red jasmine. Here you can enjoy fresh papaya, yellow watermelons and rambutans and exotic durian. The best freshly squeezed juices, fruit and even alcoholic cocktails await you in the bars. The food is delicious, Asian-style spicy. Lots of fish, noodles and, of course, where without spicy curry?

You can find and book a flight to Kuala Lumpur here. From KL to Langkawi can be reached by local airlines, ferry, bus or train.

Housing cost: from € 17 per night.

Maldives

You don't need shoes here, but Bad mood you can immediately forget. The Maldives is not one island, but 1200. A whole archipelago of small islands covered with amazing white sand. It's not even so much sand as shells crushed by the ocean. Some islands are larger, with larger hotels or bungalow complexes. And there are very small ones, only 1-2 houses on stilts. They don’t really like TVs here, there is little Internet. Yes, all this is not so necessary on vacation, when you can swim, walk, look at incredibly beautiful birds and butterflies, go scuba diving. Take a day or two of aromatherapy at the spa. Here they really know how to do a massage, which brings even the most inveterate hard worker back to life.

You can find and book a flight to the Maldives (Male, Hulule Atoll) here.

Housing cost: from € 34 per night.

Koh Samui

It was opened relatively recently. Just something in the 1970s. Tourists on a boat quite by accident swam into these waters. And they could not hold back the cries of admiration. The island looked as if no one had ever been here. Paradise island with coconut trees and a couple of huts. Very soon, a riot of construction began. Everyone wanted to invest in this new paradise for Europeans. No wonder, because there is clean white sand, an amazing blue sea, green jungles come right to the shore. Only 50 years have passed and now Koh Samui has become a luxurious resort in Thailand. It has not lost its charm, and hotel owners are careful about this.

You can find and book a flight to Koh Samui via Bangkok here.

Housing cost: from € 21 per night.

Vung Tau

An excellent solution for those who appreciate the rest "50/50". The resort is far enough away from the noisy big cities of Vietnam. But not so far away that you can't visit Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon. It is warm, beautiful, tasty and very interesting here. You have the opportunity to take a break from beach life, plunging into city life. Vietnam is a very beautiful country, it is worth visiting.

here. From Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau can be reached by speedboat or bus.

Housing cost: from € 9 per night.

Hainan

China also has beautiful tropical islands. Previously, by the way, objectionable nobles were exiled here to live away from the capital and secular pleasures. Now, tourists are tearing off tickets to this best resort in China with their hands. All 12 months of the year there is a season here, a warm sea and a lot of interesting things. Let's not forget that this is the best health resort in the whole Celestial Empire. Here you can improve your health, strengthen your immune system and prepare for life “after the holidays”.

You can find and book a flight to Hainan (airport in the city of Sanya) here.

Housing cost: from € 12 per night.

Kerala

Now let's move to the Arabian Sea in South India. Here is another famous resort. Kerala or the Kerala Coast, the resort of Varkala in particular, looks like someone worked hard to perfect it in Photoshop. White sand, tall palm trees with coconuts, unhurried days in blue light during the day, pink sunsets, clear air. It is convenient to enter the sea, the descent is gentle. It is said that Ayurveda was born here. So, welcome to spa treatments, massages, all kinds of relaxing treatments. For almost 5,000 years, masters of oriental medicine have been polishing their skills here. Not only the body is treated here, but also the spirit. Do not pass by the offer to relieve stress right on the seashore.

You can find and book a flight to Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala here.

Housing cost: from € 13 per night.

Sihanoukville

On the shores of the Gulf of Thailand is the one and only resort of Cambodia. Yes, he is only one, but what a! 500 km closer to the equator than Thailand resorts. But, unlike Pattaya, it is calm and rather secluded here. Although, the laurels of the famous neighbor do not allow Sihanoukville to sleep peacefully. Perhaps another 10 years, and we will not recognize Sihanoukville. It will become the "Pattaya of the future". If you need to visit Cuba before the arrival of McDonald's, then you should go to Sihanoukville before it becomes the second Pattaya.

Find and book flights to Phnom Penh, the nearest airport to Sihanoukville can here.

Housing cost: from € 18 per night.

Phan Thiet

Only 200 km from Ho Chi Minh City. But, there are such roads that count on 4 hours minimum. An increasingly popular resort in Vietnam among Russians in recent years. So, if you wanted to be away from your native speech, this will not work here. There are many cheerful youth couples, adventurers on their own, lovely English elderly couples. In short, there is a very diverse audience. This is because Phan Thiet can offer an excellent holiday for all categories of tourists. Pleasant climate, warm sea all year round. What else can you dream of?

You can find and book a flight to Ho Chi Minh City here. From Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet can be reached by taxi, bus and train.

Housing cost: from € 9 per night.

All these resorts are suitable for winter holidays. But we must remember that the islands are in the sea, and where the sea, there is the monsoon period. On one side of the island it is warm and dry, on the other it is windy and unpleasant. Specify the details - they are the key to a relaxing holiday.

If you decide to buy a ticket at a travel agency and you have been made a “profitable” offer at a very low price, check for yourself if there are any monsoons during this period, in this particular place. The weather on the islands is very different: on one coast - paradise, on the opposite - boredom.

Relax in pleasure, but choose the place carefully!

expectations

One of the largest ports in the world and the largest in South Korea. A settlement has existed on this site since the 3rd century, but today skyscrapers are the dominant component in the landscape of Busan.

Reality

For the most part, tourists prefer to spend time in Haeundae - an area located in the east of the city, with a minimum of Korean specifics and a good (according to some sources - the best in South Korea) beach.

Don't miss

Very picturesque Buddhist temples of Pomos and Yenguns - the first is located in the mountains, the second - by the sea. Pomosa offers educational programs to all who are interested, meaning that participants will spend the night in the temple premises in order to get to know the daily life of the monks. It's also hard to miss sights like the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, designed to remind locals and tourists of the Korean War. If you wish, you can also get out of the city and go to a fishing village - not for the sake of buying fish (this can be done in Busan itself, where there are huge fish markets), but to stand by the sea with a fishing rod.

Souvenir

Since this is a port, you can buy anything, and cheaper. There is an area here called "Texas", with a mass of shops equipped with people from their former USSR, so even a jar of sprats can become a souvenir.

In some countries, September is the end of the beach season, in others, beach holidays are in full swing. Somewhere already autumn comes into its own, and not far away the summer vacation continues.
The Free Travelers Club offers you an overview of ideas for holidays in different countries at the beginning of autumn, which will help you make the right decision!

Do you want to go to the sea? In September, the seas cool down. But each sea cools down in its turn - read the section beach holiday and choose a place where it will be comfortable for you in September.

Are you more into discovering the sights than lounging on a warm beach? In September, all of Europe is open to you. The exception is Scandinavia, where it is already really autumn rainy weather. In chapter Excursion rest You will find interesting events in September and you will be able to choose your idea for an autumn holiday!

But first, let's list the countries, where you should not relax in September:
In Bulgaria, the beach season closes by September 10 (but you can choose a balneological resort for recovery).
If in the south of Croatia you can still swim until mid-September, in the north it is no longer comfortable. It is better to go to Southeast Asia from the end of October, it is not worth it earlier - it is now the rainy season there.

Beach holidays at sea

Those who can't stand the heat can breathe a sigh of relief - hooray, velvet season! In general, everything is similar to August, but the hot air has been replaced by a warm autumn sun. The temperature rarely rises above 30°C. Until September 20, all resorts in Europe are open to you. And this best time for recreation with children of preschool age.

Features of a beach holiday in September:
- in countries where the beach season ends, prices for accommodation, food and entertainment are falling;
- there are fewer people on the beaches, there is no need to push through the sea between groups of people;
- you can spend more time in the sun without fear of unpleasant consequences.

Weather, which should be taken into account when planning a beach holiday in September.
The Black Sea cools down faster, somewhere after September 15 - and at the end of the month it will already be cold in the resorts of Bulgaria and Romania.
The Mediterranean Sea will still be quite warm until the end of September (average temperature +26°C).
In the south of Europe - in Spain, Italy, Greece, it is quite possible to swim even in cloudy weather. And you will certainly have at least a couple of cloudy days, at the end of September it starts to rain.
It is even cooler on the northern coast of Italy and in Croatia. For a trip with children, it is better to choose more southern resorts.

If you want the warmth that turns into October - Israel, Terife, Jordan, Morocco are waiting for you.

The beach season in September ends in Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Tunisia, Bali.

Greece

If you have a choice, it is better to come to Greece with children in September, when the summer heat subsides. And it is better to go to Crete - small islands are more blown by the winds, and therefore it is cooler there.

September in Greece is a wonderful time when you can immediately enjoy a beach holiday, sightseeing and gastronomic tourism.
On September 8, Greece celebrates both the Nativity of the Virgin (it is honored as an important Orthodox holiday), and the Day of the Battle of Spetses between the Greek rebels and the Ottoman Empire (1822). In the bay of Spetses - a mock battle, fireworks, and then you can take part in a festive feast.

From interesting events September, the most significant are the Festival of Arts in Corfu - (exhibitions, performances, concerts) and the International Fair in Thessaloniki (achievements of modern technologies).

Cyprus

In September, there are already fewer vacationers, prices are lower, and the entertainment is the same: diving, windsurfing, clubs, discos, attractions, restaurants, a huge water park. Cyprus is a resort for both youth parties and families with children.

Until September 15 we sunbathe - the sandy beaches of Cyprus are very clean, many are marked with the Blue Good of the EU. Air temperature 28-31°C, water temperature 26°C and minimal chance of precipitation.

And then you can devote time to excursions - you will have time for everything. There are not so many historical monuments here, mostly Orthodox churches of the Middle Ages. But there are enough picturesque corners (although there is not much greenery on the island): for example, the legendary bay where Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam.

And, of course, the holidays!
At the beginning of September, you will still find the most interesting Grape Festival - a wine festival in Limassol: you can try the best Cypriot wines (including homemade ones), take part in their production yourself (yes, trample grapes in a vat).

And also:
- Ice cream festival in Nicosia;
- Arts Festival takes place in Ayia Napa (3 days of exhibitions, artisan shops and goodies);
- Cypriot stage of the World Rally Championship;
- Nicosia International Arts Festival (artists, sculptors and graphic designers).

Spain

In early September, there is still a full-fledged summer here with a guarantee of sunburn, but without heat and stuffiness.
But by the end of the month, the water becomes colder and only the northerners will be able to swim.
Recall that in Spain there are several resort areas:
· continental (Barcelona, Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, Costa de la Luz, Costa Brava, Costa Dorada) - it often gets cold here in the second half of September, it starts to rain.
Island (Tenerife ( Northern part islands), Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, located in the Canaries in the Atlantic, as well as Ibiza and Mallorca in the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean) - a cold current also comes here at the end of September.

Conclusion: if you need a beach holiday, do it before September 15th. Then you can switch your attention to excursions - those who have studied the course of the Club of Free Travelers "To Europe by Train" inexpensively and easily get from anywhere in Europe to Barcelona or find other attractions of Catalonia and Valencia.

France

Many people aspire to Cote d'Azur in September, to get a bronze-golden tan under the soft rays of an already cool sun.

Fashionable Nice hid behind the Alps from the autumn winds, and it's still summer there. The air temperature in September is from +21 to +26°C, the temperature is up to +26°C.

Read about what interesting things are happening in France in September in the "Excursion rest" section.

African countries: Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt

Tunisia

Weather in September: air temperature +30°C, water temperature +24°C.
The closer to the end of the month, the more rainy. And in such weather, no tanning, no excursions.
Excursion programs - traditional exotic: trips to the desert and camel riding.

But independent travelers can find a lot of interesting things. For example, here is an unusual architecture: old houses in Moorish style, underground dwellings up to 10 meters deep in Matmata.
It will be interesting for children: in Sousse there is the "House of Ice Cream" Casa Delgelata (more than 100 varieties of this dessert), there is a Disney Land - Carthage Land, and ostriches are bred in the "Sidi bou Ali" reserve.
Please note that Islam is practiced here.
The level of service is lower than in European resorts. But the traders are less intrusive than in Egypt.

In September, it is worth visiting the Date Festival in the Erfoud area on the border with the desert. It lasts 3 days: tasting, Berber tents, folk dances and music, huge dromedary camels.
Few people know English - grab a French phrasebook.
The country is Muslim, consider the traditions of the owners.

Jordan

In September, mild pleasant warmth reigns here, the summer heat has finally subsided, and the water remains warm (+ 28°C).
Autumn is the most successful season for recreation here, so prices are quite high - but lower than in neighboring Israel.
People come here to SPA-centers on the coast Dead Sea. And in the resorts of the Red Sea you can go diving and spearfishing coral reefs Gulf of Aqaba.
Of the sights - of course, ancient city Petra (in 2007 it was included among the new 7 wonders of the world).
Muslim country, many already familiar rules: do not appear with alcohol bottles in public places, walk with open hands and kneeling is only allowed on site.

Popular places of mass recreation: visa-free Turkey and Egypt.

Egypt

September is the most beachy, the most ideal month.
The heat is gradually subsiding. During the day, comfortable heat up to + 34ºС, water up to + 29ºС, at night a pleasant coolness is not lower than + 18ºС.
Best time to visit: late September - early October.
But... Recall that the Russian Foreign Ministry recommended to refrain from trips to Egyptian resorts.
We also do not advise you to risk going there - cases of kidnapping of tourists have become more frequent and there is a real threat of terrorist attacks. After all, the world is big, and there are still so many places to relax!

It is very warm - the air temperature is up to + 34ºС, by the end of September it drops to 28-29 ºС, the water is up to +29 ºС.
But still, put warm clothes in your suitcase - in September it is cool in the evenings, up to 23-21ºС.
And the closer to October, the more likely it is to rain. So don't plan to come back with a bronzed tan.
Keep in mind that in September hotels are already in need of minor repairs, the staff is tired, and part of the entertainment infrastructure is already being phased out.
But the weather allows you to leave the air conditioning zone and go on excursions.

Holidays and festivals of September in Turkey:
- The International Istanbul Biennale (contemporary art exhibition) is held a year later, in 2013 it will take place from September 14 to October 20 under the slogan "Mom, am I a barbarian?"
- International Fair in the business center of the country Izmir (the cultural program includes film screenings, sports competitions, concerts and performances).
- Trojan festival in Canakkale (acquaintance with ancient Troy);
- Watermelon Festival in the city of Diyarbakir (north-east of the country);
- Manisa Grape Festival
- Festival of pottery in Avanos (Cappadocia region).

Israel

The beginning of September is considered the "low" season here - the school year begins, parents take their children to school. But there are still traditionally a lot of tourists, because this is the best time for a good rest: it is warm, but there is no sweltering heat. From time to time there are short-term rains, but not serious - it is easy to do without an umbrella.

But to do without protective equipment is still not recommended.
On the coast of the Red Sea during the day + 37 ° C, at night 25 ° C, water 25 ° C.
It is more comfortable on the Dead Sea: about 33°C during the day, 25°C at night, water 28°C.
The most low temperature in the Mediterranean - in Tel Aviv and Haifa during the day 28 ° C, at night 23 at night 25 ° C, water 28 ° C. + 28 ° C.

September cultural events in Israel:
- Jerusalem International Chamber Music Festival;
- the beginning of the season of art exhibitions in Tel Aviv (on the opening day - everything is free).

Fans of eco-tourism should definitely go to the Agmon ha-Hula park: it's time for bird flights.
But most importantly, Rosh Hashanah is celebrated in Israel in September - New Year! And many Jews strive to celebrate the holiday in the Holy Land (there may not be free places in hotels). The rituals associated with the holiday are also observed by many secular residents, so September 6 will be a “cyclist's holiday” - public transport does not work.

September 14 - Yom Kippur, Day of Atonement or Judgment Day. Public transport does not work, planes do not fly, TV and radio stations do not broadcast. And not only this! It is forbidden to work, eat, wash, wear cosmetics and ... leather shoes.
Keep this in mind when planning your trip!

Beach holidays in Asia: China, Bali

China

The most popular beach holiday is on the island of Hainan, which managed to get the title of "Chinese Hawaii". Trips for this purpose to Baidaihe, Dalian and Qingdao are possible.

According to statistics, August-September in Hainan is the rainy season, and the golden season begins in November. Air temperature +30°C, water +29°C.
The region is traditionally considered a "typhoon corridor", which is why windsurfers have chosen the island. Both rains and typhoons usually do not overshadow the rest, except that the equipment of divers dries longer.

In September you will be able to see one of the most favorite holidays in China - moon and harvest festival. The weekend lasts three days. In 2013, this Mid-Autumn Festival will fall on September 19th, when the moon is said to be at its brightest and roundest.

The symbol of the holiday is moon cakes (round cakes made from ground lotus seeds and crushed sesame seeds with sweet fillings), houses are decorated with colored animal figures and paper lanterns. Children are allowed to go to bed late: by the light of the moon they read poetry, light lanterns in parks and fields. And the lovers ask the gods to unite them.

Excursion rest

Europe is especially popular during the velvet season. But the Europeans themselves prefer to take a vacation in September, so it will not be possible to save money. Summer cafes are still open, people are happy to wear summer clothes - and only the calendar marks the arrival of autumn.
Think in advance about the Schengen visa.

The weather in Europe in September is comfortable for travel: in the UK it is not yet too rainy, in Italy it is not too hot anymore. Tour season is in full swing. As mentioned in the review, you can choose any country except Scandinavian.
We offer an overview of interesting events in September, and the choice depends only on your individual preferences!

Slovakia

You can visit castles and beautiful corners of nature - in early September you can still swim in the lakes, rent a catamaran, enjoy national cuisine(feature - meat and poultry dishes).

But at the same time, be sure to remember: Slovakia is a country of viticulture, so a visit to winemaking holidays should be included in the plan for visiting historical and architectural sights in September.

The largest one is "Vinobranie" in Pezinka: festivities with music, songs, dances, competitions of Slovak wines, a beautiful ceremony of "hammering a mountain" (a plot of land for a vineyard).

In early September, one of the most spectacular events will take place - Coronation Day: a carnival procession, a theatrical performance repeats in detail the real rite of enthronement.

Czech

The weather in September strongly invites you to take walks and enjoy the warmth of the passing summer. We draw your attention to the interesting holidays of the beginning of autumn.
In 2013, due to the summer flood, the date of the Night of Museums in Prague was postponed - it will take place on September 14th.

Historical and ethnographic festivals:
- from 13 to 15 September "Taboritsky meetings" (dedicated to the commander Jan Zizka): concerts, theatrical performances, costumed torchlight processions. And you can taste medieval dishes!
- on the same weekend, the ethnographic festival of eastern Moravia (Moravské Slovácko) in Uherske Hradiste: also a procession in national clothes, wine festivals, folklore performances
- the last weekend of September "Goose Celebrations" in Moravian Boskovice: fair, goose feather products and delicious goose dishes.
Wine festivals are a long line of "wine" celebrations that the Czech Republic is famous for:
- "Palavsko winery" in Mikulov: a lot of wine and folklore;
- Grape Harvest Festival in Znojmo: historical performance, procession with torches through the whole city, fireworks at night;
- Festival of young wine in Melnik: Renaissance castle, wine cellars of the 14th century and young wine "burchak";
- Prague Wine Festival, where you can compare the best wines of Europe and vote for the winner.
- Beer festival in Pilsen, where brewers from the cities of the Czech Republic, Germany and Scotland come together.
– The beer festival on Černá Hora (that is the name of the Moravian brewery near Brno), it is called “Beer Pilgrimage”.
– The Karlštejn Winemaking Festival completes this whole series: knightly battles, medieval musicians, lessons of ancient dances.

But the Czech Republic cannot be judged only by wine and beer festivals - look at art festivals too.
For example, from September 5 to 19, 2013, the International Organ Festival in Olomouc (Moravska Filharmonie Olomouc) will be held: recognized virtuoso performers and connoisseurs of the organ from all over the world.

Montenegro

The beach season in Montenegro ends on August 30 bright holiday"Petrovachka night".
But you can make a road trip, enjoy nature, weather and plan the route in such a way as to visit autumn events and holidays.
- Days of Shirun in Budva: a fishing holiday in the picturesque Budva Riviera
- Tennis tournament in Budva: young participants from European countries;
- Adriatic Cup in parachuting in Herceg Novi);
- the regional hip-hop festival is interesting for young people. "Asfaltiranje": from 6 to 8 September in Podgorica.

Germany

Germany in September - of course, this is the famous Oktoberfirst in Munich, one of the most famous beer festivals. Beer for the holiday is brewed only by Munich breweries!

Oktoberfest has been celebrated since 1810, and in 2013 it is celebrated from September 21 to October 06.
Lesser-known Wine Festivals in September are held almost everywhere in Germany - such a month of September.
Choose: "Stuttgarter Weindorf" (Swabia region), the cities of the Ahr region (Arweiler - a district in Germany), Baden (southwest Germany) and Wiesbaden, Boppard, Weyer (Palatinate), Mainz, Rüdesheim, Freiburg, Heilbronn, Deidesheim (region Kernen-Stetten), Nordheim, Bernkastel-Kues, Bensheim (Bergstrasse district) and others.

Art holidays:
- The Beethoven Festival in 2013 will take place from September 6 to October 5: for a whole month in front of the house of Ludwig van Beethoven in Bonn, his works are performed.
- Berlin Art Week from 17 to 22 September: 2013 will see two trade fairs and numerous cultural events.
And just interesting holidays and exhibitions:
- Pyronale Fireworks Championship September 6-7;
- IFA Berlin Consumer Electronics Show September 6-11: new items from all leading manufacturers.
- Open Monuments Day 7-8 September in Berlin.
- Frankfurt Motor Show September 12-22: one of the largest European car shows in Europe. In even years - trucks in Hannover, in odd years - cars and motorcycles in Frankfurt.
- "Lights of the Rhine": a festival of fireworks and historical celebrations on the water. It starts in May in Bonn, and in September you will have time to see the holidays in Oberwesel on September 14, as well as the cities of San Goar and San Goarhausen on September 21.

France

France in September is, first of all, the provinces: the grape harvest ends and the holidays begin. Please note: hotels are overcrowded, tourists rush to try the wine of the new harvest.

The most popular wine holidays in September:
- Festival of the grape harvest in Champagne: the most massive and the most gourmet,
- The Clairette Festival in Dieu: named after the sparkling wine variety for which this town at the foot of the Alps is famous;
- Arbois Grape Harvest Festival: a beautiful sight when grapes are brought to the city center;
- Medoc marathon in Bordeaux: race through the vineyards, festivities, fireworks;
- Festival of Chassel in Moissac: according to the name of the grape variety, which is considered the best for winemaking;
- Festival of wine presses in Chenov: the ancient city celebrates the day of installation of the first presses brought by the Dukes of Burgundy;
- Wine and folklore festivals in Dijon are held simultaneously in early September.

Do you know that French gastronomy is on the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List? In 2013, the Gastronomy Festival is held from 20 to 22 September: tasting, special menus in restaurants, street performances, excursions to farms.

Art holidays:
- Charleville International Puppet Theater Festival, the last third of September: there is no competition and strict selection, but there are puppets from different times and countries. The language of the festival changes every year, and the puppeteers specially create new performances!
- Festival of piano music Piano aux Jacobins in the Jacobin monastery of Toulouse;
- The Autumn Festival (“Festival de l’Automne”) has been held in Paris since 1972: novelties of cinema, theater, painting, music;
- "National Heritage Days": a unique open day, when you can get into usually closed historical buildings and private mansions;
- The Biennale of Antiques and at the same time the festival d'Ile de France: 30 in the historical places of Paris.

Interesting events of September in France:
- The annual flea market in Lille (Braderie de Lille) from September 7 to 8: the streets of the city turn into a real colorful market;
- and also the international triathlon, the international festival of pleasure yachts, the international festival of military music.
All at once and do not list: France knows how to relax!

exotic destinations.

Spring in the Southern Hemisphere is just beginning. AT South America and Africa is getting good weather.
Kenya, Madagascar, Mexico, Mozambique, Nepal, Peru, Tanzania, Sri Lanka are waiting for you.

Tanzania

Coast of the Indian Ocean, southeast Africa, just south of the equator.
Air temperature in September 25-30°C
Tanzania has a lot of the very best: Africa's highest mountain Kilimanjaro, Africa's largest lake Victoria, the world's longest and one of the deepest (together with Baikal) freshwater lake Tanganyika.
Zanzibar island, trips to native villages, safaris - and just a beach holiday.

Cuba

The air temperature in September is about 30°C, the water temperature caribbean 24-26°C. In September, the dry season is here, although it is unusually wet for us: almost 80%. However, tropical showers are not excluded.

There are no festivals, holidays and carnivals in September in Cuba, but this holiday country is good without that. You can just wander around coastal towns, parks and reserves, fish in the ocean, water ski, yacht, and generally everything that floats.
You will surely like open and cheerful Cubans, and you will remember their songs and dances for a long time.

Ski holidays

The season hasn't started yet. Year-round resorts in recent years prefer not to provoke the melting of glaciers and refuse summer skiing. But some are still open in September:
- Austrian Sölden in the Ötztal valley;
- French Tin;
- Swiss Zermatt and Saas-Fee with the highest mountain lifts.
And there is an opportunity to ski in Finland - there are two year-round underground tunnels for cross-country skiing.

We wish all independent travelers a busy holiday in September, interesting routes - and we are waiting for your feedback!
Your stories about trips during the velvet season will help other travelers to spend an unforgettable autumn vacation.