"Summer is officially over!" declared a colleague on The Independent's travel desk as she arrived, wet to the core, at the office this week. And she wasn't mad about it. Her next words were, "Who wants a hot chocolate?". 

It seems that some of us on the desk are sun seekers, and others prefer cooler escapes where they can wrap up warm and get outside for brisk walks, perhaps with a cosy pub at the end as a reward. 

As it happens, this is a busy time of year for a travel desk. As we speak, global travel editor Annabel is wending her way around three US states, exploring the beaches of South Carolina, seeking to understand the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement in Alabama, and calling into Virginia's mountains, too.

Travel writer Amelia is plotting a break in a cosy cottage in the UK, and deputy travel editor Sophie Dickinson is off to Trabzon in Turkey: "I'm going for a truly off-the-beaten-path escape. The city, on the Black Sea coast, is renowned for its breathtaking national parks and mountainside monasteries. The plan is to make the most of the cooler weather and hike through the hills, stopping to take photos of the changing foliage. And, of course, sample the city's traditional, fortifying cuisine."

Greece is fabulous at this time of year, and assistant travel editor, Emilee has been writing up a few hotel reviews from a trip to Crete in July, her fingertips hovering over the 'book now' button on our list of best Greek island hotels.

Whether you're embracing autumn in the UK with a holiday in the Lake District and the Cotswolds, or plotting your next long-haul escape, we've holiday inspiration to tap into your every desire. 

Don't forget to complete your registration

We've noticed that you still have not completed your registration to The Independent. Registration is a free and easy way to support our journalism. It allows us to better understand our readers and tailor your experience.

By registering, you'll also gain access to a range of exclusive benefits, including:

Unlock these benefits by completing your registration today. 

Island gold

The Mediterranean Sea is at its warmest in September, having been cooking gently through the summer. It is a particularly good month to be in Malta, where the crowds are disappearing. Expect empty beaches and long, warm evenings this far south in the Med.

Harvest festival

Oktoberfest takes place as usual in Munich, 20 September-5 October. The Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart is a more authentic and less raucous celebration of harvest – running 26 September-12 October this autumn.

Save £250pp with Riviera Travel

Looking to be guided through Europe's highlights? Tour Europe for less with Riviera Travel's trips to holiday hotspots in Italy, France and Spain – now with up to £250 off per person. Learn more.

Get £300 off package holidays in the TUI sale 

Take advantage of the TUI sale for up to £300 off select package holidays using code "LH300". Whether looking long haul or planning a European beach break for next summer, there's a choice of discounted getaways to choose from. Learn more. 

Up to £720 off Royal Caribbean sailings 

Set sail with huge savings from Royal Caribbean on 2026 voyages across Europe. Journeys to the Greek isles, Norwegian fjords and walled Croatian cities have up to £720 off this weekend. Learn more.

Get your travel beauty routine sorted. The Beauty Drop Beauty Box, worth £178.40, is yours for just £40. Online only.

Available until stocks last.

READ

Let's get real

As a neurodiverse person, writer Rhiannon Picton-James finds family holidays a challenge. Here are her tips for making it work.

STAY

Captivated by Cairo

This boho neighbourhood is the perfect escape from the hustle of Egypt's busiest city.

I had set myself the task of not using trains, coaches or cars, leaving myself just the local bus networks to get around. A trip that would be a test for both my own patience and the transport that so many in the UK rely on on a daily basis.

Gabriel Stewart

Travel writer

DISCOVER 

Beep beep!

Our writer discovered a unique (and cheap) way to explore the Cotswolds by local bus

STAY

Cotswolds calling

The Cotswolds is lovely to visit in September – here are the best hotels, as chosen by our expert.

TRAVELSMART WEEKLY

Watch now: Embrace your wanderlust with The Independent's expert travel series

Could a five-day wellness retreat transform my gut health?

7 enchanting small towns and villages to visit in Tuscany

Beautiful hotels to enjoy Seville as the scorching temperatures ease

Our Pick: Today's Top Deals

Stay hydrated on your adventures and nab over 40% off Stanley's travel mug at Amazon.

Answr's award-winning hair removal drop is carry-on approved and perfect for travel! Use code: DEAL15 to save.

Oral-B Genius X is cheaper than ever – with a travel case that charges on the go.

Best travel cots for 2025, tried and tested by experts.

The Independent proudly partners with Refuge and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247

Join the conversation and follow us

Download the free Independent app

Please do not reply directly to this email

You are currently registered to receive The Independent's Travel newsletter.

To unsubscribe from The Independent's Travel newsletter, or to manage your email preferences please click here.

This e-mail was sent by Independent Digital News and Media Ltd, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH. Registered in England and Wales with company number 07320345

Read our privacy policy and cookie policy