Photo credit Isaac Quesada and Fred Nassar
Cheapest places to holiday in May
May is, arguably, one of the best months of the year to take a break, across the globe. Mainly, because you can take advantage of the May Bank Holidays, but you’ve just missed the rush of the Easter season. Then, there’s absolutely gorgeous weather, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean.
You’re likely to find bargains too, for hotels, flights, cruises and all-inclusive deals, as prices drop after April. Get ready to pack your beach towel, don’t forget your flip flops and make the most of marvellous May.
Beach Holidays
Are you ready for perfect temperatures, long, sunny days and sparkling oceans simply begging you to jump in? May brings all that and more, across many of the world’s premier beach destinations.
Costa de la Luz, Spain
The ‘Coast of Light’ is a land of golden beaches, pine trees, secluded coves and historic cities. Here, you can take advantage of onshore winds to kiteboard in Tarifa, indulge in the sounds of flamenco and enjoy the sherry triangle in the towns of Jerez, Cadiz and Sanlucar de Barrameda. After exploring the unspoilt beauty of Zahora and Bolonia beaches, discover the fascinating history, ruins and architecture of Cadiz city.
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Sicily, Italy
May is one of Sicily’s driest months, making it a sunny time to visit for you! The only problem is, with so much to experience, it’s hard to know where to start. Discover Greek temples, Baroque palazzos and Norman churches one minute, and gaze in awe at Mount Etna the next. Visit Palermo, Siracusa and Catania for history, taste local wines in the country, spend days exploring beaches of otherworldly beauty and enjoy the delectable, fresh cuisine.
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Antalya, Turkey
It’s starting to seriously heat up, come May in Antalya. One of Turkey’s main beach resorts, the ‘Turkish Riviera’s’ leafy streets, bustling marina, historical attractions and fantastic restaurants make it a tourist heaven. The Taurus Mountains watch over the action and the beaches offer fine white sand and luminescent water. Whatever you love to do on holidays, from sports to hiking, to cocktails by the pool and dancing, you’ll find it in Antalya.
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Cayman Islands, Caribbean
You’ll just miss the soaring heat in the Cayman Islands, when you visit in May. Plus, you might be lucky enough to find a deal that actually makes a trip to the Caribbean affordable. Snorkel on marine-life filled reefs, drink rum punch on the beach, swim with stingrays, hike through stunning landscapes and enjoy mega-resorts with fantastic facilities.
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Long Haul Holidays
Peru, South America
If you’re looking for adventure, mystery and culture, Peru delivers. May announces the start of the dry season, so it’s one of the best months to travel. Of course, there’s magical Machu Picchu and other archaeological gems of the Inca Empire. Mix that with lush jungles, the peaks of the Andes, colourful markets and outdoor activities from white-water rafting to dune-buggy rides - and you’ve got yourself the adventure of a lifetime.
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Costa Rica, South America
May is a low season in Costa Rica, however, the rain usually holds off until later in the month, so it’s worth trying to catch a bargain travel deal. This is a wonderland for nature lovers, which might explain why it’s been voted as the ‘world’s happiest place to live’. Forests, waterfalls, volcanoes, gorges and beaches greet you at every turn - not to mention the coffee, which is among the best in the world.
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Borneo, Malaysia
The weather is near-perfect in Borneo during May, making it a great time to go Orangutan spotting! True wilderness among ancient forests await, with the heights of Mount Kinabulu, pristine beaches and exotic wildlife. Explore traditional cultures, taste delectable cuisine at night markets and go on a tour to spend a day with Orangutans.
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Japan, East Asia
You may be lucky enough to catch the end of the Cherry Blossom season, during May in Japan. Tokyo’s science fiction skyline, world-class shopping and exotic cuisine are a ‘must-do’. Discover Kyoto’s stunning ancient sites, soak in natural hot springs, hike in the northern alps and stay at a traditional Japanese inn to delve into a fascinating culture.
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City Breaks
Florence, Italy
Mild temperatures in May makes strolling through the splendour of Florence truly magical. The birthplace of the Renaissance is a cultural dream, with the Palazzo Vecchio, the Galleria dell’Accademia and Florence Cathedral, highlights among many. Discover the art of Michelangelo, shop in designer boutiques, delight in gelato and trek into the breath-taking landscapes of the Tuscan Hills.
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Budapest, Hungary
When you’re looking for a cheap city break, Budapest still tops budget-friendly destinations in Europe. May sees warmer weather, making city strolls pleasant. Buda offers the gorgeous historical castle district, with medieval streets, museums and Roman ruins. Pest is a vibrant district, with shops, antique stores, restaurants, cafes and riverside promenades.
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UK Holidays
Devon, England
May brings the start of sunnier weather in Devon, so you can explore the wonderful Jurassic Coast in comfort. If you want picnics, pints in pubs, surf and windswept moors, Devon is the place for you. Visit Torquay for touristy beach fun and the pretty towns of Dartmouth and Salcombe. To get off the beaten path into nature, head to Dartmoor and Exmoor.
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The Isle of Mull, Scotland
You have a fairly good chance of sunny days, on the Isle of Mull in May. The second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides is a wildlife haven, with over 250 different bird species, including the White-tailed Eagle. There’s also Minke whales, porpoises and dolphins. Here, you can go cycling or pony trekking through dramatic scenery, walk up mighty Ben More Mountain, visit the unique capital, Tobermory and admire the 13th century Duart Castle.
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With so many choices for destinations offering fantastic weather and great prices, the only problems you’ll have with a May holiday, is choosing the best one for you! Make sure you keep checking your inbox for incredible deals on flights, hotels and cruises, to keep your travel budget happy.
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