British holidaymakers have found their perfect escape route from autumn gloom, and it's shaped like a banana. Travel experts identified a curved stretch of destinations spanning Europe and North Africa that's become the go-to for sun-seekers.
This "Holiday Banana" includes beloved spots like Majorca, Malta, Morocco, Portugal's Algarve region, and Turkey's Antalya. It turns out these warm-weather havens are where Britons flock when they're desperate to dodge grey skies and rainy commutes. The travel pros have also shared the best deals going to these locations.
The numbers speak for themselves - these sunny spots make up almost 40 per cent of all bookings after summer ends.
Travel experts at lastminute.com suggested it is down to people chasing those precious extra hours of daylight and balmy temperatures to shake off their back-to-work blues.
Majorca is one of the most popular tourist destinations for Britons, even in September
| PASome places in this sun-soaked curve are still hitting a scorching 35°C, according to Met Office data for destinations like Marrakesh. It's no wonder Britons can't resist booking trips to these warm retreats when September rolls around.
The appeal is obvious - while the UK settles into autumn drizzle, these destinations offer proper sunshine and beach weather.
Each destination brings its own special charm. Majorca promises beaches during the day and cocktail bars after dark. Malta combines historical sites with pristine coves and crystal-clear waters.
Morocco's Marrakesh tempts visitors with bustling souks, endless sunshine and trendy rooftop spots. The Algarve coastline in Portugal is perfect for both surfing enthusiasts and sunbathers alike.
Turkey's Antalya rounds out the banana with family-friendly resorts and stunning turquoise seas. Whether you are looking for cultural exploration, yoga retreats, lively nightlife, or simply lounging by the pool, these hotspots deliver.
Head of Brand for lastminute.com, Zoe Fidler, said: "Our holiday banana reflects the UK's favourite escapes and the best bit is you can book them at the last minute and still get a great value deal.
"At lastminute.com, we make it easy (and affordable) to get away from grey UK skies and the back to school rush - with our great value curated holiday packages, so it's never too late to grab some sunshine." The experts have shared their top deals for these destinations.
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Marrakesh is another great option at this time of year, the experts revealed
| GETTYMajorca
- Swimming pool, Adults only
- 7-night stay for 2 travellers
- 27 Sept - 4 Oct from London
- From £448pp
Malta
4* AX Sunny Coast Resort & Spa
- Swimming pool, Seafront
- 4-night stay for 2 travellers
- 22 Sep - 26 Sept from London
- From £397pp
OR
4* AX Sunny Coast Resort & Spa
- Swimming pool, Seafront
- 4-night stay for 4 travellers (2 adults, 2 children)
- 27 Oct - 31 Oct from London
- From £468pp
Marrakech
4* Aqua Mirage Club & Aqua Parc
- All-inclusive, Swimming pool
- 4-night stay for 2 travellers
- 13 Oct - 17 Oct from London
- From £341pp
Algarve
- Swimming pool, Seafront
- 7-night stay for 2 travellers
- 4 Oct - 11 Oct from London
- From £318pp
OR
- Swimming pool, Seafront
- 4-night stay for 4 travellers (2 adults, 2 children)
- 25 Oct - 1 Nov from London
- From £563pp
Antalya
- All-Inclusive, Swimming pool, Seafront
- 7-night stay for 2 travellers
- 27 Sept - 4 Oct from London
- From £403pp