Rio de Janeiro

WHY During summer, the most-popular season to visit Rio, "the city becomes very, very crowded," says Boulding. "With milder temperatures and fewer visitors, October is a much more pleasant time to visit. The climb to the top of the statue of Christ the Redeemer can be quite a trial, but the breathtaking views are worth it."

EXPERT TIP "Take sensible precautions," says Boulding. "You won’t want to be wearing jewellery or carrying your wallet in your back pocket." WHERE ELSE THIS MONTH Morocco for great travelling conditions: "Summer can be stifling hot; in winter, you can get snow. October offers pleasant weather for travelling," says Thornton, who also nominates Dubrovnik for uncrowded travel: "Travelling in October gives you the opportunity to experience the real Dubrovnik: to talk to the locals, roam through the iconic sights and wander the streets."