Summer has been and gone, the mosquito bites have died down, but the travel bug has still got you itching. Sound familiar? We’ve got the remedy. While you’ve been trying to work out what day the clocks go back, we’ve been working out the best and most underrated travel destinations for your autumnal escape.
The Lofoten Islands, Norway
Photo Credit: Terje Rakke
After months of constant daylight, autumn arrives and the sun sets on the Lofoten Islands. While summer travellers might be attracted by the prospect of daylight at midnight, we think that watching the sun finally go down behind the snow-capped mountains is worth the wait. Scattered off the north coast of Norway, this archipelago is home to some of the most impressive scenery that the Arctic Circle has to offer. October may be the best month to go as the weather is still suitable for hiking, but, unlike in summer, you could catch a glimpse of the northern lights. Just get there before the sun sets for the long winter.
What to pack: This design is inspired by the German word ‘waldeinsamkeit’ which describes the feeling of being alone in the woods. Put on this t-shirt and go for a wander in the great outdoors where only the crackling of the copper leaves will breach the peace.
Essaouira, Morocco
Photo Credit: Pexels
Often referred to as ‘The Windy City’, Essaouira’s sea breeze makes it the perfect location for water-sports enthusiasts. In October and November, the wind dies down slightly, welcoming visitors who are less experienced with waves. For those who prefer to stick to dry land, the cooler temperatures of the autumn months are ideal for exploring the old Portuguese ramparts or the stalls of the spice souk. This coastal town is also a hub for Moroccan art, so if you need a break from the sun, you can head for the shade of local galleries.
What to pack: With the Portuguese words ‘ondas’ (waves) and ‘vento’ (wind), could there be a better suited design to wear in Essaouira? Throw on this organic cotton tee when you get out of the water and it’ll keep you in the mood until the waves pull you back in.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Photo Credit: Myanmar Times
The white sands of Thai islands and the modern skyscrapers of Singapore are well known to travellers of South East Asia, but few destinations in this area can hold a candle to the culture and natural beauty on offer in Laos. Despite its small size, the UNESCO-protected town of Luang Prabang is overflowing with unforgettable sights, sounds, smells, and tastes. After exploring the astounding architecture of the many temples, lovers of ethically-made fashion can take a weaving class at the local craft centre, Ock Pop Tok. Autumn is the dry season, so you can enjoy the views of the sun-soaked Mekong river at dusk without getting soaked yourself.
What to pack: Literally meaning ‘walking in beauty’, ‘Hózhó’ is a Navajo word that encompasses harmony, balance, beauty, and order — all of which can be found in abundance in Luang Prabang and its surroundings.
Serranía de la Macarena, Colombia
Photo credit: Mario Carvajal
If we were to compose our own list of the wonders of the world, Caño Cristales may just win first place. This river has been named ‘the liquid rainbow’ because of the red, yellow, orange, blue, and green tones that colour its flowing waters. From July through to the end of November, the light and the water levels make it possible to appreciate this spectacle. Flanking the river is the Serranía de la Macarena, a natural park which has been described as one of the most biodiverse places on earth. The jaw-dropping flora and fauna are worth the voyage from the nearby town, La Macarena.
What to pack: Animal lovers will be spoiled by sightings of a huge range of species in this natural park, so we’d recommend they blend in with their surroundings in this safari tee, which features the names of animals in 6 different languages.
Kotor, Montenegro
Photo credit: Pixabay / Mesuttoker
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the city of Kotor is a must-see. This fortified town attracts travellers with its medieval architecture. The city was planned as a labyrinth to make it easier to defend, which means that a stroll through the streets is an adventure in itself. Kotor is built along a bay, so visitors can alternate between biking or hiking on Mount Lovcen and water sports in the Adriatic Sea. Thrill-seekers can even take a day-trip to Tara River Canyon, and go rafting along the deepest river canyon in Europe.
What to pack: From the top of Mount Lovcen, you can savour the taste of freedom, and what better way to do it than clad in our Spanish Freedom in the Mountain sweatshirt.
