As the year winds down and the chill of late autumn starts to roll in, holidays in November 2021 offer the perfect excuse to slow things down and soak in some well-deserved leisure. Whether you’re looking to bask in tropical sunshine, cozy up in mountain lodges, or simply enjoy a serene weekend escape, November presents a golden opportunity to travel smart, recharge, and explore.
In this lifestyle-oriented guide, we’ll walk you through the full holiday calendar for November 2021, explore regional variations, and serve up inspired recommendations for vacation spots, weekend getaways, and ways to truly relax this month.
Holiday Calendar – November 2021
Here’s a snapshot of key public holidays in various parts of the world in November 2021. This can help you plan around long weekends or national observances for your dream escape:
United States
- November 2 (Tuesday) – Election Day (varies by state)
- November 11 (Thursday) – Veterans Day (Federal Holiday)
- November 25 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving Day
- November 26 (Friday) – Day after Thanksgiving (often observed as a holiday)
United Kingdom
- No national public holidays, but November 5 (Guy Fawkes Night) is widely celebrated.
India
- November 4 (Thursday) – Diwali (Deepavali)
- November 5 (Friday) – Govardhan Puja
- November 6 (Saturday) – Bhai Dooj
- November 19 (Friday) – Guru Nanak Jayanti
Australia
- November 2 (Tuesday) – Melbourne Cup Day (Victoria only)
- November 25 (Thursday) – Thanksgiving is not a holiday here, but some expats celebrate privately.
Canada
- November 11 (Thursday) – Remembrance Day (Federal holiday; observed in some provinces)
Other International Observances
- November 1 (Monday) – All Saints’ Day (widely observed in Catholic-majority countries like Spain, France, the Philippines)
- November 30 (Tuesday) – St. Andrew’s Day (Scotland)
Top Vacation Spots for November 2021
Looking to stretch those holiday dates into an actual vacation? November is shoulder season in many parts of the world, which means fewer crowds and better deals. Here are five stunning destinations to consider:
1. Maui, Hawaii – Tropical Bliss Before Winter
Warm, sunny, and just the right amount of breezy, Maui is ideal in November. The island is less crowded before the winter holiday surge, and the weather is perfect for snorkeling, hiking, or just lounging by the beach.
Perfect for: Couples, families, solo travelers
Activities: Road to Hana, whale watching (starts late November), surf lessons
2. Udaipur, India – Royal Getaway During Diwali
November is magical in India, especially in Rajasthan, where Diwali celebrations light up the cities. Udaipur, with its lakes and palaces, offers a luxurious cultural experience and a taste of royal Indian hospitality.
Perfect for: Cultural travelers, photography enthusiasts
Activities: Palace tours, Diwali fireworks, traditional cuisine
3. Lisbon, Portugal – European Charm Without the Rush
Lisbon in November enjoys milder weather and fewer tourists, giving you the perfect chance to experience authentic Portuguese life. Explore its historic neighborhoods, dine on seafood by the coast, and enjoy the stunning sunsets over the Atlantic.
Perfect for: Urban explorers, food lovers
Activities: Alfama district walks, fado music nights, tram rides
4. Queenstown, New Zealand – Springtime in the Southern Hemisphere
While the north prepares for winter, Queenstown is bursting with spring blooms. Outdoor lovers can enjoy everything from bungee jumping and paragliding to wine tasting in nearby vineyards.
Perfect for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers
Activities: Hiking, lake cruises, adrenaline sports
5. Sedona, Arizona – Desert Calm and Canyon Colors
If spiritual wellness and spectacular views are your jam, Sedona in November is serene and invigorating. The red rocks glow in the autumn light, and the weather is ideal for trails, spas, and soul-searching.
Perfect for: Wellness travelers, weekenders
Activities: Vortex hikes, yoga retreats, jeep tours
Weekend Getaway Ideas
Can’t swing a full-blown vacation? No worries. A well-planned weekend trip can offer the refresh you need. Here are some quick ideas for regional mini-breaks:
- From New York City: Head to the Catskills for cozy cabins and fall foliage.
- From London: Explore the Cotswolds for countryside charm and fireside pubs.
- From Delhi: A quick escape to Rishikesh offers peace, river views, and yoga by the Ganges.
- From Sydney: Try the Blue Mountains for a nature break, or the Hunter Valley for wine.
Relaxation Without Leaving Home
For those staying put this November, relaxation doesn’t need to take a back seat. Here are some home-friendly ways to turn your time off into a rejuvenating experience:
- Digital Detox Day: Pick one holiday date to go completely offline. No emails, no social scrolls. Just rest.
- Home Spa Rituals: Create a DIY spa experience with essential oils, candles, and soft playlists.
- Gourmet Stay-In: Cook or order a festive meal that matches a destination you’ve been dreaming of—Moroccan tagine, Thai curry, or Italian risotto.
- Reading Retreat: Pick up a couple of novels, pour a warm drink, and turn your couch into a literary lounge.
Regional Travel Tips
Each region has its own travel quirks in November:
- Asia: Diwali and wedding season make November bustling. Book accommodations early.
- Europe: Tourist numbers dwindle, making it a great time for budget-friendly travel. Just pack layers!
- North America: Thanksgiving week sees major domestic travel. Plan around it or embrace the rush.
- Southern Hemisphere: Spring blossoms bring perfect weather. Best for outdoor adventures.
Packing Essentials for November Travel
- Layered Clothing: From desert nights to mountain breezes, temperature swings are common.
- Travel Insurance: Weather changes, cancellations, and COVID-related issues still make coverage essential.
- Festive Attire: Diwali, Thanksgiving, or other local festivals might call for something a little special.
- Comfort Kit: Think neck pillow, eye mask, headphones—especially for long flights or road trips.
Wrapping Up: November Done Right
Whether you’re diving into festive celebrations or escaping into a hidden corner of the world, holidays in November 2021 give you the chance to reset before the year’s end rush. With the right mix of planning and spontaneity, November can be your month to unwind, reconnect, and explore—no passport stamps required.
So grab your calendar, circle those long weekends, and start dreaming up your perfect November retreat. The world (or at least your part of it) is ready to welcome you.
