The lazy, hazy days of summer are drawing to a close, but September is just around the corner and you're desperate for one last warm adventure. So where do you go? We've put together a list of perfect early Autumn getaways both in Europe and further afield...

Zanzibar

Step off the boat or plane onto the Zanzibar Archipelago and you’re transported through time and place. This is one of the world's great cultural crossroads, where Africa meets Arabia meets the Indian Ocean. Whether an experienced or novice diver, make sure you give it a shot here as it's particularly good off the south coast between September and February. With its tropical tableau and unique culture, plus an active beach-party scene for those that want it, the Zanzibar Archipelago offers a fascinating and highly enjoyable East African Indian Ocean experience.

New York

September has to be the best time to visit the Big Apple. The temperature has dropped to a pleasant mid-twenties, the tourist level has ebbed to become bearable, and new Autumn styles are emerging for some ultimate fashionista people watching. Oktoberfest, Climate Week, Fashion Week and Labor Day are just some of the cool things happening to entertain you throughout the month. Make sure to take a trip over to Long Island too so you can escape to the white sandy beaches and gorgeous vineyards.

San Francsico

Beautiful wineries, warm weather and some magical charm make San Francisco a must see city. In September, the temperatures have dropped to a bearable mid-twenties and there are fewer tourist crowds to impose on your sight-seeing. San Francisco Fringe Festival is also on in Septmember - a marathon of 40-plus shows with low price tickets and a wide variety of alternative, classical, comedy, cabaret and new theater open to all performers on a non-curated basis - get your tickets now!

Santorini

Ahhh, the beautiful Greek island of Santorini. Famous for it's dramatic views and stunning sunsets from Oia town. A definite go to European destination that combines beautiful beaches, spectacular scenery, ancient cities, amazing restaurants, some of the world's best wine, and an active volcano. Make sure you bring adaquate spending money as it will set you back a euro or two.

Budapest

A grand and romantic city, with a complex history and beautiful architecture. September is the driest month in the city, and the days still warm making it a prime sightseeing month. The evenings may be drawing in, but as night falls its cool neighbourhood 'ruin pubs' are lit up by fairylights and full to the brim with a young sleek cocktail drinking crowd n numerous pop-up bars set in crumbling buildings. Ideal autumn pursuits: a wallow in its thermal baths, or sweet pastries and strudel in its wonderful cafés.

Barcelona

La Merce, Europe’s biggest street party, is just one of the awesome fiestas that takes place every year in Barcelona in September. You've also got plenty of wine tours to choose from, and of course the beach to enjoy some serious chill time. A city with the best of both worlds! 

Zimbabwe

The ultimate safari spot with dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife. The original ultimate safari heavyweight is back in the game and is becoming the safari destination to watch. There are some fantastic new lodges opening up in Zimbabwe's exceptional and little-visited national parks, and right beside the Victoria Falls. 

Morocco

Morocco saturates the senses. See Marrakech’s chaotic medinas; the raggedly isolated mud-wall towns of the High Atlas; Essaouira’s salty sea air and sun-dappled surf. All are at their finest in September. As the summer sizzle mellows, both Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts remain bikini-balmy, while the winter chill that grasps desert nights and mountain villages is yet to take hold.

Albania

It might not quite be the “new Croatia” just yet, but that’s part of the appeal — this Balkan gem has so far managed to remain largely off-radar. In summer, the beaches are packed with fugitives from Tirana — but come September they’re back at work, while the climate stays Mediterranean and the Adriatic warm.

Sicily

When isn't there a good time to go to Sicily? The warm wind that blows across the Mediterranean from Africa keeps Italy's sunniest, most richly cultured island hot well into autumn (you might still get a heatwave), though its wild and beautiful beaches are never crowded in September. Memorable meals are to be had everywhere - September is a fine time for fruit and produce from Etna's rich national park; and there's no problem getting a room in Sicily's most charming boutique hotels.