Top 5: Autumn island escapes

Mallorca is a popular winter sun escape

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Best for lazy days: Cyprus

Cyprus makes for a relaxing holiday
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An uplifting cocktail of bubbling resorts, ancient ruins and tranquil little towns, Cyprus offers an island escape to fit all. As October arrives, the throngs of tourists that have been scampering around the island all summer begin to subside, and Cyprus lends itself more to lazy days basking in the sunshine than dancing ‘til dawn. For a relaxing break, explore the café culture of Nicosia, and indulge in gentle wanders around a fascinating selection of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Best for getting active: Mallorca

Mallorca is a popular winter sun escape
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The Balearic Islands’ largest member is a prime European spot for a winter island escape. Sandy strips line the north and east coasts, while the south features a more rugged landscape, enjoyed by those who don’t mind a little hike in the search of their perfectly secluded bay. Mallorca is a favoured European rock-climbing destination, with conditions for all abilities. Sailing is also popular.

Best for an exotic getaway: Fiji

With its dipping palms, balmy breezes and white sands, Fiji is the archetypal island escape. October is a glorious month to visit exotic Fiji - before the rainy season kicks off, and before holidaying Australians come flooding in. Diwali Festival, held either late October or early November, is a colourful experience, and those after a splash of entertainment will enjoy Suva’s nightspots; Victoria Parade is lined with restaurants, nightclubs and bars.

Best for diving: St Maarten

St Maarten is a mecca for divers
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Sun-lovers, water babies, and sailors alike find St Maarten an alluring Caribbean getaway. This idyllic destination boasts delicious coastline, on which to frolic, bake, or get active. St Maarten is loved by divers; the excellent diving conditions feature striking coral reefs located close to the shore. One of the most popular dive sites is the wreck of HMS Proselyte, a British man-of-war which sank in 1801.

Best for culture: Bali

Beautiful Bali is rich in culture
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Welcoming Bali is a striking island paradise of rolling rice paddies, tropical rainforest and sweeping beaches, topped with hulking volcanoes. A sprinkling of resorts rings the coastline, offering a wealth of world-class facilities and hotels. As rich in culture as natural assets, Bali is home to one of the world's largest Hindu communities, whose lively processions and flurry of temples are set at some of the island's most dramatic locations.