1. New Zealand
As spring arrives in New Zealand, temperatures start to rise and the country begins to thaw. Snowmelt feeds waterfalls and rivers, making for excellent white-water rafting. The valleys are at their greenest, with wildflowers starting to bloom and newborn lambs skipping in the fields.
As with any time of year in New Zealand, rain is possible, but you’ll find September is far quieter than the summer months and you’ll have your pick of the best places to stay. Off the coast, you can take boat trips to spot orcas, while warmer temperatures on the North Island are ideal for following walking tracks through national parks while there are fewer visitors.
- Don't miss: Scenic New Zealand for non-drivers
- Flight time: 26 hours via LA or 25 hours via Hong Kong
- Time difference: UTC +12
- September Temperature (Day): 10 to 17°C, depending on region
- September rainfall: 33 to 484mm, varies by region