May

1. 

   United States of America

   Fulfil that lifetime’s ambition of driving across the USA– with our unique selection of maps, you can take any route you’ve ever dreamt of! See the wonderful national parks of the Canyon country and take long drives through the desert – it’s surprisingly cool in May.

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2. 

   Isle of Wight

   Every May theIsle of Wighthosts the UK's largest walking festival – not surprising as the island has over 500 miles of well-maintained and signposted footpaths, around 30 miles of Heritage Coastline, and more than half of the island is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

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3. 

   Crete

   This is the perfect time of year to go to the Greek islandofCrete, the weather is not yet too hot for hiking and other outdoor activities, while the sea is warm enough for swimming, the wildflowers are in bloom and the holiday crowds are yet to arrive. Hike through Europe’s longest gorge – Samaria – a sensational trek, or visit the Minoan relics such as Knossos or Zakros palaces, or the charming ports and villages dotted around the island.

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4. 

   France

   France never fails to deliver as a stunning holiday destination, whether you’re after the southern beaches, mountain climbs, vineyard tours or crumbling castles. The weather is amiable in May, with average temperatures reaching up to 21˚C in some regions; perfect for a Gallic sojourn.Vive le France!

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5. 

   Sweden

   Experience endless days of sunshine inSwedenas it heads towards midsummer. With its dense forests and clear lakes, the country is perfect at this time of year for hiking, camping, cycling and kayaking. Or simply stroll round the vibrant cities ofStockholm, Gothenburg or Visby. Discover Sweden’s enchanting depths with these maps, guidebooks and travel literature.

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6. 

   Vietnam

   May is one of the best months to travel around Vietnam, as there is the best balance between the very different weather systems of the north and south, yet it is also one of the quietest times to travel in the country. Vietnam makes a great bargain long-haul destination, and lacks the holiday crowds of nearby Thailand, yet offers the same melting pot of dazzling temples, palm-fringed beaches and hill-tribe trekking. Start at the bottom, from Ho Chi Minh City and work your way north to reach Hanoi, or do it vice versa, either way, be sure to stop off at the beautiful towns of Hoi An and Hue, the sand dunes at Mui Ne, the beach life at Nha Trang and kitsch Dalat.

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7. 

   Boston (Massachusetts)

   Enjoy the mild days and blossoming trees in Boston during May. Wander the parks and riverside, browse second-hand bookstores, and sample the cafes and bars in this cutting-edge US city. The first or second Sunday of the month sees Boston’s MayFair, with food, arts and crafts stalls, live entertainment and children’s activities taking place around Harvard Square. While on the third Sunday in May, the 265-acre Arnold Arboretum hosts Lilac Sunday, when more than 400 varieties of lilac are in bloom and this is the only day of the year when visitors can picnic on the grass.

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8. 

   Kent

   Visit the Garden of England during May and you’ll be rewarded with blooms, birdsong and fine weather for rambles and day-trips. At the heart of Kent is the cathedral city of Canterbury, with medieval alleyways, museums, riverside gardens and ancient city walls to explore. In the rolling countryside there are plenty of opportunities for walking on the North Downs, or pottering round pretty villages, stately homes, castles and gardens. Or head for the coastal towns of Whitstable, Margate and Broadstairs for a taste of the traditional British seaside resort, and of course the White Cliffs of Dover are a must-see.

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