Somehow, it’s already October. As promised, the HAP Guide on “Where to Visit in October” awaits below.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City — one of the world’s highest metropolises (7,349 feet above sea level, to be exact) — is known for its outranking design scene, abundance of delicious restaurant, ubiquitous displays of Mexican culture, and long list of attractions. One of our favorite must-visits is the Frida Kahlo Museum — which sits in the beloved Mexican artist’s former cobalt blue home — which recounts her life story, as well as showcases her and then-husband Diego Rivera’s most prized artwork. Those looking to delve into the city’s fashion and art scene should head to Colonia Roma — CDMX’s creative heartthrob — and walk down Calle Colima, with its plethora of independent boutiques plus galleries carrying trappings from some of the country’s best designers and artists.
Why visit in October: With Day of the Dead celebrations kicking off as early as October 22, planning your trip at the end of the month guarantees front row seats to participate in the festive El Día de los Muertos parades that take place in the city until the official holiday’s end on November 2.
Where to stay: Casa Polanco is a beautifully restored Spanish Revival mansion residing in the chic Mexico City neighborhood, Polanco, The 19-key stay boasts spacious suites, classic retro furnishings, and antique Mexican artworks. Replete with amenities such as an outdoor cocktail terrace, gym and an exclusive rooftop spa, the newly renovated hotel is the perfect base for forthcoming guests who would like to explore Mexico City and all its splendors.
Saranac Lake, New York
Located in the Adirondacks, this quaint New York village is named after its resident three lakes: the Upper, Middle and Lower Saranac lakes. Adventure is available during any season at Saranac Lake, with its medley of outdoor activities for all: hiking trails, paddling routes, ice fishing… you name it. Those looking for a more relaxing getaway can leisurely grab a cup of coffee at the Origin Cafe and shop at the Village Mercantile in the afternoon.
Why visit in October: Offering an abundance of scenic viewpoints, Saranac Lake is the perfect leaf-peeping destination and fall Instagram photo opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Where to stay: Situated on 75 acres, The Point Resort was constructed by the Rockefellers in the 19th century to serve as a luxurious, log-cabin stay. Spread throughout the four cabins, each of the 11 guest rooms sports stone-wood burning fireplaces, hand-crafted timber bed frames, and expansive views of Saranac Lake. With cozy campfires, gourmet meals, and lakefront activities, The Point Resort is a classic mountain getaway.
Salem, Massachusetts
Infamously known for its 1692 witch trials, Salem is a historic city along the northern coast of Massachusetts. Visit the world renowned Peabody Essex Museum and landmark Witch House building — where Judge Jonathan Corwin, who conducted the trials, lived — which is the only building still standing with direct ties to 17th-century events. There’s no other town in the USA that celebrates spooky season quite like Salem does with its month-long walking tours, witchy shops and historic sites.
Why visit in October: Whether you’re about the spooky season or not, this New England city has near-perfect fall weather during the month of October and a plethora of fun activities to celebrate the season.
Where to stay: Set in the heart of Salem’s central historic district, The Merchant is a boutique hotel styled around its shipping port history. Fun fact: George Washington spent the night here in what is now called the “George Washington King Deluxe” room while celebrating the 1789 Salem election. Notice unique primary color palettes dressing spacious guest rooms with modern trappings, plush bedding and heated bathroom floors throughout.
Asbury Park, New Jersey
This recently-turned-hip seaside Jersey Shore town is credited with raising rock icons Jon Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen. (Remember Springsteen’s album “Greetings from Asbury Park?”). The city’s booming live music scene hosts venues such as The Stone Pony and Paramount Theatre, each site with interesting music backgrounds. Strolling down the Asbury Park Boardwalk, visitors can expect beach town bars, eclectic boutiques and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Why visit in October: Motown Legends the Commodores are performing at Asbury Lanes on October 8, for a fun evening in the city that lives and breathes live music. It’s also kind of the last month to actually enjoy the beach sans a hardcore sweater?
Where to stay: The Asbury Hotel is an eclectic boutique hotel that invites guests to relax along the Jersey Shore. Scandinavian minimalism and tributes to Asbury Park’s provenance permeate the space: light-hued furnishings, libraries stocking topical reads, and a clutch of records that pay homage to the town’s illustrious rock & roll history are what you can expect. A neighbor to vintage bowling alley and legendary concert venue, Asbury Lanes, this hotel is an ideal fit for a fun-filled weekend.
Sonoma County, California
Sonoma County is part of Northern Californian wine country; its acclaimed food & wine scene plus picturesque rolling hills comprising top-notch vineyards are just a few of its famous hallmarks. Just 30 miles north of San Francisco, tourists will find over 425 wineries, towering redwood forests and inviting small towns such as Healdsburg or Petaluma between county lines. This gem-like California stretch of land is a must-visit spot if you’re a wine connoisseur and food enthusiast.
Why visit in October: Savor the finest wine and scrumptious bites at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair on October 15. Plus, the weather couldn’t be more ideal with temperatures in the mid-to-high 70s — perfect for frolicking through an outdoor wine festival for the day.
Where to stay: With 33-studio style guestrooms, Harmon Guest House is an eco-chic stay that’s a short walk from the lively Healdsburg Plaza. Focused on maximizing sustainability best practices, the hotel goes above and beyond with eco-friendly hospitality tactics: harvested rainwater supporting its irrigation needs plus furnishings assembled via recycled materials are two examples among many. To soak up the close-to-perfect California autumnal warmth, guests can lounge at the buzzy indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and sip some of the region’s finest wines.
Namib Desert, Namibia, Africa
Often regarded as the oldest desert in the world, the Namib Desert is a vast, coastal sandscape in the Southern African nation of Namibia. Contrary to any preconceived notions you might have about desert, the Namib is not your typical scorching hot desert, rather it’s known to be a cold coastal landscape. As for wildlife sightings, this endless stretch of sand dunes is home to the greatest number of free-roaming cheetahs in Africa.
Why visit in October: October marks the last month of Namibia’s winter, meaning the temperatures begin to rise and the skies begin to clear up (the stargazing here is out-of-this-world).
Where to stay: Calling the ancient Namib Desert its home, Little Kulala — part of Wilderness Safaris — is an elevated safari camp-like resort along the Auab riverbed. The 11-climate-controlled suites boast private plunge pools, outdoor terraces and roll-out beds fit for sleeping under the stars.
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