May is a prime holiday month – the weather is improving, summer is around the corner, and holidays are cheaper. It’s the ideal time for individuals, couples, friendship groups or families with adult children to get away during the school term, when tourist areas are generally much quieter, and the temperatures haven’t reached that scorching summer high.
The other great thing about a May getaway is that there’s usually good availability – so if you haven’t booked a holiday yet, you’ll find there’s still plenty of choice, even as we head towards the end of April.
In fact, I’ve found that the recent better weather in the UK has prompted clients to contact me to talk about booking a last-minute May break. And you may want to do the same – particularly with the May bank holidays coming up, meaning you have to take fewer days out of your holiday allocation.
Top reasons to book a May holiday
It may be a while since you were on holiday – or you may have had some early winter sun at the start of the year, and be ready to top up your vitamin D, or explore somewhere new. Here are my top 7 reasons to book a holiday for this time of year:
- Flights and accommodation are cheaper, and there’s better choice.
- As it’s out of the ‘main’ holiday season, you can find some great special offers!
- Europe is warming up nicely, without the extreme heat of summer.
- Get ahead of the game by exploring new destinations.
- Avoid the summer crowds at the airport, the beach and major attractions.
- Getting around and eating out is much more relaxed.
- The spring season is a time of early festivals and special events.
The best 5 European destinations for May
Many places are simply charming in early spring. You see local towns and villages at their best – with gorgeous spring blossoms, early fruits, green shoots and fantastic produce.
Even better, all these places are much quieter than at the height of the season, so you can really enjoy your time. I know, because it’s one of my favourite times of year to travel and experience new destinations.
My top picks are:
- Turkey – this is a beautiful country that straddles two incredible cultures, and has something for everyone. Its incredible history, blended with wonderful architecture, idyllic beaches and plenty of countryside makes it a great destination for a late spring holiday. From astounding water sport experiences to exquisite food, you won’t regret a trip to Turkey.
- Crete – I confess that Crete is one of my favourite islands. It has the perfect climate in early May, which allows you to explore everything that it has to offer. Whether that’s relaxing in a taverna, playing on the amazing beaches, enjoying the local music and culture or exploring historic towns, I find Crete to be a real oasis.
- Rhodes – another Greek island that really suits May travel, because the temperatures are warm enough to enjoy the water without being so hot you can’t go outside. Rhodes is very popular with tourists, of course, but if you haven’t been before, or if you’ve been in the height of summer and battled the crowds, you’ll love its quieter side. Its classic white buildings, Byzantine churches and wonderful beaches make it a classic destination.
- Cyprus – this is a popular destination for winter sun-seekers, and it’s also a lovely destination for a May getaway. The temperatures – which are warm anyway – are really improving by this time of the year, so you’ll get that much-needed Mediterranean sun without the danger of super-high temperatures. Whatever your passions – sun-worshipping, historical sites, local culture, great nightlife – Cyprus can deliver.
- Umbria – if you’ve read my recent article in Premier Magazine, you’ll know that I absolutely loved Umbria. Quieter than its touristy neighbours, this beautiful region of Italy is known as ‘The Green Heart of Italy’ and at this time of year, it’s easy to see why. Umbria’s landscape is just beautiful, and the food is second to none. It’s a fabulous place to explore, relax and unwind.
Why book your May Getaway with me?
It can be tricky to book a last-minute holiday, and I can help you find exactly what you want. With access to 5-star hotels, great experiences and more, I can put together a May holiday itinerary that ticks all your boxes. Booking at short notice doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the quality of holiday you love – contact me now and we can get started!
As a Personal Travel Consultant, I am able to organise fantastic holidays all over the world that are completely ABTA and ATOL protected. Also being part of the Hays Travel Group, I have the backing and resource of the largest independent travel group in the UK – meaning great service and prices!