Where to go when

Head to Beijing before the extreme cold hits. See the Great Wall, Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace, but make sure to also experience the quieter, traditional side of Beijing with its narrow hutongs, street side dining and local neighbourhoods . Fill up on Peking duck, dumplings and hearty noodles.

With wonderful scenic landscapes, azure seas, delectable cuisine and charmingly French villages, visiting Provence is like stepping into a picture-postcard. September is a great time to go on a self-dive tour. Fewer tourists and lazy sunshine add to the relaxed ambience and feeling of freedom.

Malaysian Borneo is a region of superlatives being home to Asia’s tallest peak (Mt. Kinabalu) and arguably its finest diving (Sipadan). Enjoy diving and hiking before coming face to face with orangutans. Alternatively, you can just kick-back beachside at one of the island’s many resorts and completely unwind.

In the enticing Philippines archipelago of 7,000 islands there are more idyllic beaches than you could possibly visit, simmering volcanoes, pristine coral reef and steamy jungle. Let Lightfoot Travel advise you on the best island to suit your requirements and pack for barefoot fun, relaxation, and a welcoming culture. Leave space for great memories.

Keep the summer coming in the Golden State of California. Beach fans will adore the coastline, nature lovers will feel at home in the forests, and city dwellers can get an urban fix with glitz in Hollywood. September is an excellent month for a road trip where you can own the west coast with the roof down, obviously.

Though Machu Picchu put Peru on the map, the country is home to a profusion of beautiful landscapes and rich diversity, making it one of the most enthralling countries in South America. September is a great month to explore Lake Titicaca, the Amazon River, and hike through the Sacred Valley.

For somewhere a little less obvious, the karst mountains of Guilin and the neighbouring town of Yangshuo are an insanely beautiful part of China depicted in countless Chinese scrolls. Sail down the Li River on a bamboo raft, cycle through rice paddies and feast on Guilin noodles that are famous throughout China.

Though off the beaten track, Northwest Argentina remains amongst the most enchanting parts of South America. Colonial cities, sand dunes, multi-coloured hills and volcanoes await, making it a playground for the active, adventurous and curious. The high-altitude vineyards producing some of Argentina’s finest wine are also well worth a look.

Overrun by wildlife, a holiday to Zimbabwe guarantees close encounters with the nature and a fascinating insight into the animal kingdom. Safaris aside, the mighty Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba, Matopos National Park and Hwange National Park are all just as exciting to experience.

Barcelona is a brilliant all-round destination that mixes beach, culture, city and - of course - delicious tapas. Get there in September after the summer crowds have gone, explore the quaint pedestrian La Rambla, marvel at the modernista architecture and art, wander the parks, and immerse yourself in Catalan culture. Flamenco, optional.