Bask in nature and culture at Ba Vi National Park near Hanoi, Vietnam. — ANH NGUYEN/Unsplash
Seasons in Malaysia are not as varied as in countries situated further away from the equator. However, despite our local “seasons” being limited to unbearably sunny and extremely rainy, we do have the option of momentarily escaping our borders to experience more diverse climates.
Typically, at this time of the year, it would entail a fall – or autumn – destination that offers cooler weather, seasonal food and an ombre of orange to red scenery that we simply won’t naturally encounter in our tropical country.
In Asia, South Korea and Japan are the usual fall destinations, thanks to their scenic tourist spots. But if you’re looking to expand beyond these two, here we’ve rounded up a few cool, pretty places that are more than worthy of a post or two on your social media.
Ba Vi National Park, Vietnam
Acutely aware of its potential as an autumn destination, Hanoi this year held its inaugural Autumn Festival to attract more tourists to visit during the fall season. While the Vietnamese capital comprises numerous charming districts, undoubtedly among the best to visit for fall foliage is the Ba Vi National Park.
It’s currently more popular with the locals than tourists, probably owing to it being located in the outskirts of the city, but it definitely deserves a visit – at the very least, once during autumn – for its breathtaking scenery. During this time, the park’s usual greenery is tinged with yellow and orange, making for perfect backdrops to picnics and pictures.
Hike to its highest peak, King Peak, to visit the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Temple. As its appellation dictates, the building is dedicated to the country’s revered former president, whose image is immortalised in a bronze statue that can be found in the temple’s main chamber.
A snapshot at the Great Wall Of China is made even greater with a fall foliage backdrop. — HANSON LU/Unsplash
Great Wall Of China, China
A historical landmark that requires no further introduction, everyone may already be familiar with the Great Wall Of China. But many have probably only seen it surrounded by acres of green, as tourists would often visit during the peak season – summer.
Come autumn, this turns into a sea of warm colours. With little rain and a milder temperature range of between 10°C and 20°C, autumn is the perfect season to leisurely stroll through the massive monument that snakes through the northern part of China without worrying about overheating and overcrowding.
However, it may be best to avoid visiting in early October. During the Golden Week – a dedicated holiday week in China – which kicks off nationwide on Oct 1 annually, the locals would be holidaying in throngs!
The Great Wall is divided into several sections, and among the more popular ones are Badaling (often frequented by locals), Mutianyu (preferred by foreign tourists as it is the most restored section), and Simatai (which offers arguably the most stunning autumn vista). The best and easiest way to access the Great Wall is from the city of Beijing.
The Bow Bridge at Central Park in New York exudes a romantic ambience in autumn. — CHARLIE YOON/Pixabay
Central Park, United States
There is a reason why New York City’s Central Park has served as the setting for plenty of movies and series: The iconic park is dotted with photogenic spots that make filmmaking and photo-taking a, well, walk in the park.
Although picturesque any time of the year, the fiery glow of autumn hues elevates the mise-en-scene. Interestingly, visiting the park later in the season may be more ideal for those looking for that perfect fall aesthetic.
It’s due to the fact that the park experiences a later foliage turn, thanks to the many tall buildings surrounding it that affect the leaves’ transformation.
Some of the more popular spots for fall photography are Bow Bridge, the most photographed bridge at the park; The Reservoir, the different kinds of cheery trees lining it providing various shades of autumn colours; and Conservatory Garden, where wedding photoshoots and ceremonies are a norm due to its romantic atmosphere.
Capture a few ethereal photos at The Glass Palace in El Retiro Park in Madrid. — YOAV AZIZ/Unsplash
El Retiro Park, Spain
Officially named Parque del Buen Retiro but more often referred to as El Retiro Park, Madrid’s most popular park was once used by the kings of Spain as their spiritual retreat. It was only in the year 1868 that it was finally open to the public.
Today it is enjoyed by visitors from all walks of life and from all four corners of the world. With its status as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the park is an excellent starting point for anyone visiting Spain’s capital city for the first time.
Conveniently located in the very centre of the city, it offers historical and cultural references, aside from scenic views.
One of the most popular places of interests at the park is the Glass Palace, also known as The Crystal Palace or Palacio De Cristal. When the trees around it change colours in autumn, it gives the palace an even more otherworldly look.
Autumn lends a warm glow to the historic Budapest. — KESZTHELYI TIMI/Unsplash
Budapest, Hungary
It’s no secret that Europe offers some of the most enchanting autumn landscapes. There is currently no airline that flies direct from Kuala Lumpur to Budapest, but those who are willing to endure a journey of over 15 hours via connecting flights to Hungary’s capital will be beautifully rewarded.
For stunning panoramic photos of the city in all its autumn glory, hike up the 235m-high Gellert Hill. The trail to the top begins from a set of stairs located near a bronze statue of the saint that the hill is named after.
Fancy a relaxing picnic surrounded by fall foliage? Margaret Island is a good option for that. Anthophiles would also appreciate the historic ELTE Fuveszkert – founded in 1771, it is Hungary’s oldest botanical garden.
For food enthusiasts, savour the local delicacies at the various festivals held during the season. These include The Palinka and Sausage Festival, The Chimney Cake Festival and The Budapest Wine Festival.
Tuscany turns truly picturesque when autumn rolls around. — WOLFGANG HASSELMANN/Unsplash
Tuscany, Italy
It can’t get any more scenic than a quaint Tuscan countryside painted with the colours of autumn. Vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see turn from a sea of green to one of fall palette; Instagram-worthy shots are easily attainable when the views, every which way, are postcard-like.
Other than taking in the beauty of the land, visitors to the Italian region can also partake in autumn-specific activities.
Being a season for harvest, September to October generally is the time when tourists (who must be part of a wine tour) have the opportunity to participate in grape harvesting, while olive harvesting is done from November onwards.
Food connoisseurs will delight in tasting wine at wineries, sampling olio nuovo (“new oil” or the first harvest of olive oil), and appreciating local cuisines at the numerous food festivals held throughout the season.
Whether it’s the views, the activities or the food, Tuscany will make for a memorable autumn getaway.
