Enliven dark November days with a getaway in the sunshine, whether in Asia, the Middle East or the Caribbean. Our Gurus have put together a terrific selection of urban boltholes, seaside resorts and jungle hideaways in Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia, as well as stylish hotels in glittering Abu Dhabi, and the magical Caribbean islands. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic honeymoon, a pre-Christmas holiday as a family, or gathering for fabulous food and drinks with friends in a special corner of the world, our list of where's hot in November is the ideal inspiration for a trip to remember. 

Cambodia

© Shinta Mani Wild

November marks the beginning of Cambodia's dry season, with the end of the monsoon rains heralding lush green landscapes. Discover the country's spectacular heritage sites with a few nights in Siem Reap, unwind on beautiful beaches, hide away in the jungle, or join foodies and partygoers in Cambodia's buzzy urban hubs. This is a terrific destination for adventurers, romantics and families alike — and lovely for a pre-Christmas holiday. 

• Shinta Mani Wild is tucked away in the Cardamom Mountains of Sihanouk Province. A magical experience for nature lovers and fans of absolute indulgence, this exceptional escape offers 15 lavish tented suites, as well as a hip bar and fabulous cuisine. There's a strong focus on conservation, wildlife-centred excursions aplenty, and an admirable creative spirit. 
• Maison Polanka, a gorgeous little hideaway close to the centre of Siem Reap, is made up of guest rooms, two-bedroom suites, a cottage and a four-bedroom villa. Expect traditional Khmer design with woven textiles, wooden antiques and a retro-cool feel. A swimming pool and great restaurant sit amongst verdant gardens.
• Six Senses Krabey Island has forty suites and villas, each with its own pool. Clean lines, crisp linens and floor-to-ceiling windows characterise this contemporary private island escape. There's a cinema under the stars, multiple eateries, water sports aplenty and the obligatory Six Senses Spa. Superb.
• Jaya House River Park, another Siem Reap favourite, exemplifies 1960s Cambodian Modernism. Design fans will adore the 36 chic rooms and suites which sit around the vast swimming pool. Highlights include the soothing spa, cracking cuisine and friendly service. There's a strong environmental focus, too.

The Caribbean

If warmth and sunshine sit at the top of your November travel wish list, look no further than the Caribbean. Active families will adore the plethora of water sports on offer in calm, clear seas, whilst romantic couples can enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, candlelit dinners and opulent suites at some of the best places to stay in the Caribbean. We've highlighted four of our favourite hotels to get you started: a heritage house on lovely Antigua, Ian Fleming's iconic Jamaican writing retreat, and family-focused resorts on St Lucia and Bonaire. 

• Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort is a brilliant family holiday choice. Set in St Lucia's Soufrière, the resort offers a fabulous kids' club, as well as tennis courts and water sports. Kick back at the spa, sip craft cocktails or retreat to suites with private plunge pools. Ideal for active travellers. 
• GoldenEye in Jamaica needs little to no introduction. The Oracabessa hideaway, where Ian Fleming famously penned James Bond, is now an indulgent luxury hotel with sea-facing villas and cottages. Two restaurants, a spa and an infinity pool await at this classic, glamorous idyll. 
• Sorobon Luxury Beach Resort faces blue seas on Bonaire's beautiful Sorobon Lagoon. A family-friendly spot known for its excellent kite and windsurfing opportunities, the resort offers airy cottages decorated in pale, earthy tones, with outdoor showers and shaded terraces. Swap stories over food and drinks at the Reef Bar. 
• The Great House is a rare Caribbean hotel with eight spacious, traditional guest rooms in a former family home. Adults-only, the house is set on a historic sugar plantation and offers farm-to-table dining, rejuvenating massages, and yoga classes. Quiet, characterful and quirky, this is a unique Antigua stay.

Malaysia

November falls just before the start of Malaysia's peak season, making it a brilliant choice for a quieter holiday without the crowds. Rains are more likely, and cooler temperatures will appeal to on-foot explorers touring Kuala Lumpur, or exploring the heritage streets of Penang's George Town. We wouldn't recommend a beach-focused Malaysian trip at this time of year, but this is when characterful small hotels set within lush gardens come into their own; our charming Langkawi favourite is not to be missed!  

• Alila Bangsar has chic minimalist interiors with expansive views over the increasingly trendy KL neighbourhoods of Bangsar & Brickfields. A soothing urban base for well-heeled couples with teak furnishings and crisp white linens in sleek guest rooms, plus a stylish rooftop pool and two wonderful eateries. 
• The Prestige offers something distinctly different from the smaller heritage hotels for which George Town has become known. Close to the city's port, this high-rise hotel promises a contemporary reimagining of Victorian design, with lots of glass, brass details, warm greens and dusky pink tones. There's a rooftop pool, multiple events spaces, a popular Glasshouse Restaurant, and a buzzy arcade. 
• Bon Ton Resort is a quirky, intimate choice in lovely Langkawi. Surrounded by mature gardens, eight stilted heritage houses offer wooden four-posters topped with handwoven textiles. Nam, one of the island's best eateries, specialises in fresh and zingy Asian fusion cuisine. For easygoing romantics. 
• The Chow Kit, situated in Kuala Lumpur's former red-light district, fuses old-school glamour with great value for a memorable city stay. Deep red and green rooms and suites include rattan, wood, brass and velvet elements. The hotel prides itself on its collaborations with artisan partners, its guided neighbourhood tours, and its terrific cocktails. The desserts are a real treat, too. 

Abu Dhabi

The UAE is a wonderful November destination. Expect warm sunshine during the day, and balmy evenings perfect for admiring glittering stars and city skylines with your toes in the sand. Dubai has become hugely popular, but we'd encourage holidaymakers to consider Abu Dhabi, too. Now home to the impressive Abu Dhabi Louvre, the city boasts expansive beach resorts and slick urban hotels fit for trendy couples or fun-loving families. Our Gurus have also chosen a luxurious desert escape for those dreaming of a more timeless Emirati experience. 

• Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas will be a sure-fire hit with families, couples and groups of friends looking for a luxurious beach resort within easy reach of the city. With four swimming pools, a superb spa, gym and tennis court, there's plenty to delight active holidaymakers. The Championship Saadiyat Island Golf Course is right on your doorstep, and excellent restaurants abound. 
• Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers towers above Abu Dhabi's Corniche. A city icon, this 581-room high-rise hotel offers stunning Gulf views from full-length windows, contemporary bedrooms and marble bathrooms with enormous tubs. There are 12 restaurants, three swimming pools and a 74th-floor observation deck. A five-star stay facing a private stretch of beach. 
• Telal Resort Al Ain is a marvellous desert retreat. Striking stone-built suites and villas have private pools and interiors inspired by traditional Emirati design, with woven textiles, hand-carved wooden furniture and romantic draped ceilings. Camel rides, falconry experiences and sandboarding on the dunes will thrill guests of all ages. There's a serene spa, too, and evenings are spent gathered around the fire.
• The Abu Dhabi EDITION is a sleek, design-lover's dream on the upmarket Al Bateen Marina. The hotel boasts 198 rooms and suites with polished oak floors, pale white and cream interiors, and modern art pieces inspired by the desert. Rejuvenating spa treatments, rooftop cocktails, delicious cuisine and a glamorous buzz add to the appeal. 

Thailand

Thailand's cooler season starts in November, when the humidity begins to fall, and the air is crisp. Bangkok's markets and side streets are bustling but not nearly as hot and sticky as at other times of the year, so a few nights in the city at the beginning or end of your trip come highly recommended. The Gulf of Thailand will still be rainy, but those willing to risk the monsoon showers will be rewarded with great rates and a more laid-back experience in coastal hubs like Hua Hin or Ko Samui — ideal for a relaxed escape before the buzz of Christmas back at home. 

• Hotel Gahn promises just 20 guest rooms with lush jungle views, big tubs and draped four-posters. Nods to the region's Peranakan heritage can be spotted throughout this Khao Lak hotel, not least in the Michelin‑recommended restaurant, where Southern Thai dishes are inspired by old family recipes. There's a pool, gym and hot tub, too. 
• The StandardX Bangkok is a design-led hotel within easy reach of the iconic Khao San Road. Pared-back interiors feature modern art pieces, a largely monochromatic colour palette interspersed with bright pops of colour, and cosy beds. Reasonable rates, a rooftop bar, swimming pool and mouth-watering Thai fare complete the picture. 
• Putahracsa, three hours' drive from Bangkok in Hua Hin, has airy guest rooms with clean lines and indulgent bathrooms. The best boast private pools. Step across the street to the resort's Oceanside beach club and restaurant, where fusion fare, craft cocktails and DJ beats await. Lively and attractive.
• Mantra Samui is an adults-only gem in legendary Ko Samui. Set on a leafy hilltop with views over Bo Phut Bay, it's the ideal choice for romantics or groups of friends seeking effortless modern style and plenty of space. Expect earthy tones in guest rooms with draped four-posters and free-standing tubs. There's an infinity pool, spa, gym and lovely restaurant, too. Elegant and grown-up. 

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include Where's Hot in August.
• Alternatively, check out our list of Great Hotels for European Winter Sun.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.