August is one of the hottest months of the year in Northern Hemisphere destinations and with increasing heatwaves in recent years it can be stifling. It can be busy, too, as travellers take their last chance to enjoy a summer trip.
But it is not all bad news. Several destinations around the world come into their own in August, offering unique festivals, outdoor adventures and wildlife events to in-the-know-travellers. Here are seven of the best places to travel to in August.
Cape Whale Coast, South Africa
At the southern tip of Africa is Cape Whale Coast, a place well worth a visit in August when the Southern Hemisphere country's winter weather is almost gone and spring is on the horizon. It is the start of whale watching season in this coastal region of the Western Cape, which stretches from Rooiels to Quoin Point.
Southern right whales can be spotted from the water or the coastline as they make their way to the Atlantic Ocean from the colder Antarctica waters. This region is also a haven for birdlife and low season means it won't be filled with other tourists. Hermanus has seaside vibes and outdoor adventures and Arniston is the place to go to drink in stunning natural views.
Cartagena, Colombia
Having shaken off much of its troubled history, Colombia is no longer deserving of its once negative reputation and Emirates recently launched flights to the South American destination from Dubai, via Miami. The country’s coastal Caribbean gem of Cartagena is a fusion of colour, culture and culinary delights with weather averaging around 30°C in August. It can be humid, but this city is less crowded and costs less in August thanks to reduced demand for flights, accommodation and tours.
There's plenty to explore, including a Unesco-listed Old Town that's home to the San Felipe de Barajas Castle and Bolivar Square. A day trip to the nearby Rosario Islands is a good idea for a cooler, breezier escape and time spent exploring great beaches. Tourists flock to Totumo Mud Volcano, the world's smallest volcano, but avoid dunking your head under the warm mud there: it is not how the locals do it.
Edinburgh, Scotland
One of the world’s most beautiful cities, Scotland’s capital comes alive every August when international crowds descend upon its hilly streets for the annual Fringe, the world’s largest performance arts festival that booms with comedy gold. This year more than 1,600 shows are on the programme, with everything from cabaret and comedy to children’s theatre, musical and spoken word performances.
While it’s certain to be crowded, it’s well worth spending a few days in the capital to soak up the festive atmosphere. For accommodation, stays at Virgin Edinburgh, a buzzy spot in the heart of the action, or The Balmoral, a stalwart city escape on Princess Street, are worth considering.
Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city known for its shopping, culture and booming live music scene, is an easy train ride away. To the north, locations like St Andrews and Loch Ness boast uncrowded beaches and glasslike lochs – the perfect antidote to time in the big city.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal comes alive with festivals, events and tourists every summer. Visiting the Quebecois city towards the end of August will mean missing the worst of the crowds while getting all the perks of summer at slightly lower prices.
The beauty of Old Montreal, where pedestrianised streets brim with patios every summer, is worth exploring. And the popular Underground City can be used to escape the sun when exploring downtown.
There are plenty of free activities to check out, from summer markets and pop-up entertainment spaces to the International First Peoples' Festival, where travellers can learn more about Canada's indigenous cultures. Food festival vibes and views of the St Lawrence River can be enjoyed at the Old Port of Montreal and the skies light up every week with themed pyrotechnic displays as part of L'International des Feux Loto-Quebec fireworks competition.
South Greenland
Greenland is the world's largest island and one of the least visited destinations on the planet, but it's a great option for August, especially for those seeking cooler climes.
South Greenland has rolling hills, mountains and midnight sun, plus an abundance of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.
Flights from Denmark or Iceland arrive in Narsarsuaq. It is worth exploring this town with its towering fir trees and glowing ice caps. A boat trip to Itilleq followed by a hike to Igaliku, one of the island's most beautiful villages where colourful houses sit on bright green grass beside a milky-blue fjord, is a great way to spend a day.
Days can be also spent hiking, kayaking, climbing and visiting nearby beauty sites, including the Qoorog Ice Fjord, and the Tunulliarfik Fjord waterfalls. And while nights can get cold, daytime temperatures are pleasant, sometimes reaching up to 20°C.
Greenland's history can be explored by visiting the region's ancient ruins, while a few days in Qassiarsuk allows visitors to embrace Norse culture blended with that of the town's modern-day sheep farmers.
Tasmania, Australia
It is winter down under, but don't let that put you off visiting the Australian island state that is Tasmania. Travellers can expect to enjoy crisp, cool days with average highs of 12°C, and without the crowds seen in summertime.
Several off-season events take place in August, including the delicious Chocolate Winterfest in Latrobe and the week-long science and art extravaganza that is the Beaker Street Festival. Trips to the beach aren't off the menu either, as long as warm clothes and a camp fire are included.
The West Coast Wilderness Railway offers a ride through mist-covered rainforests, and adventure also awaits on cruises from Macquarie Harbour – Australia's second-largest natural harbour. The island's long winter nights can be enjoyed in the Cradle Mountain region – stargazing and looking out for the southern lights of the Aurora Australis .
Valley of Flowers, India
In the hills of Chamoli in India's northern state of Uttarakhand is a national park that only opens to travellers for a few months of the year. Encased in snow for most of the year, the Valley of Flowers is accessible from June to September, which also happens to be one of the best times of year to see its flowers in bloom, with the alpine meadows carpeted in shades of pink, lilac, yellow and blue.
This high-altitude Himalayan valley isn't an easy place to get to – travellers need to tackle a multi-day trek from Joshimath and monsoons can easily disrupt travel plans – but a visit here, when the valley is in full bloom in early August, offers a spellbinding showcase of nature as poppies, orchids, marigolds, daises and anemones glow in front of a background of white mountain peaks. Deer, foxes, sheep, brown bears and, occasionally, snow leopards can be spotted in a park that is also alive with wildlife.
The National Archives, Abu Dhabi
Founded over 50 years ago, the National Archives collects valuable historical material relating to the UAE, and is the oldest and richest archive relating to the Arabian Gulf.
Much of the material can be viewed on line at the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive - https://www.agda.ae/en
A Long Way Home by Peter Carey
Faber & Faber
UAE tour of the Netherlands
UAE squad: Rohan Mustafa (captain), Shaiman Anwar, Ghulam Shabber, Mohammed Qasim, Rameez Shahzad, Mohammed Usman, Adnan Mufti, Chirag Suri, Ahmed Raza, Imran Haider, Mohammed Naveed, Amjad Javed, Zahoor Khan, Qadeer Ahmed
Fixtures:
Monday, 1st 50-over match
Wednesday, 2nd 50-over match
Thursday, 3rd 50-over match
if you go
The flights
Etihad flies direct from Abu Dhabi to San Francisco from Dh5,760 return including taxes.
The car
Etihad Guest members get a 10 per cent worldwide discount when booking with Hertz, as well as earning miles on their rentals (more at www.hertz.com/etihad). A week's car hire costs from Dh1,500 including taxes.
The hotels
Along the route, Motel 6 (www.motel6.com) offers good value and comfort, with rooms from $55 (Dh202) per night including taxes. In Portland, the Jupiter Hotel (https://jupiterhotel.com/) has rooms from $165 (Dh606) per night including taxes. The Society Hotel https://thesocietyhotel.com/ has rooms from $130 (Dh478) per night including taxes.
More info
To keep up with constant developments in Portland, visit www.travelportland.com
If you go...
Flying
There is no simple way to get to Punta Arenas from the UAE, with flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi requiring at least two connections to reach this part of Patagonia. Flights start from about Dh6,250.
Touring
Chile Nativo offers the amended Los Dientes trek with expert guides and porters who are met in Puerto Williams on Isla Navarino. The trip starts and ends in Punta Arenas and lasts for six days in total. Prices start from Dh8,795.
RESULTS
5pm: Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 1,600m
Winner: Raghida, Szczepan Mazur (jockey), Ibrahim Al Hadhrami (trainer)
5.30pm: Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 1,600m
Winner: AF Alareeq, Connor Beasley, Ahmed Al Mehairbi
6pm: Arabian Triple Crown Round-2 Group 3 (PA) Dh300,000 2,200m
Winner: Basmah, Fabrice Veron, Eric Lemartinel
6.30pm: Liwa Oasis Group 2 (PA) Dh300,000 1,400m
Winner: AF Alwajel, Tadhg O’Shea, Ernst Oertel
7pm: Wathba Stallions Cup Handicap (PA) Dh70,000 1,600m
Winner: SS Jalmod, Richard Mullen, Satish Seemar
7.30pm: Handicap (TB) Dh100,000 1,600m
Winner: Trolius, Ryan Powell, Simon Crisford
Australia World Cup squad
Aaron Finch (capt), Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Steve Smith, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Lyon, Adam Zampa
Brief scores:
Manchester City 2
Gundogan 27', De Bruyne 85'
Crystal Palace 3
Schlupp 33', Townsend 35', Milivojevic 51' (pen)
Man of the Match: Andros Townsend (Crystal Palace)
if you go
The flights
The closest international airport to the TMB trail is Geneva (just over an hour’s drive from the French ski town of Chamonix where most people start and end the walk). Direct flights from the UAE to Geneva are available with Etihad and Emirates from about Dh2,790 including taxes.
The trek
The Tour du Mont Blanc takes about 10 to 14 days to complete if walked in its entirety, but by using the services of a tour operator such as Raw Travel, a shorter “highlights” version allows you to complete the best of the route in a week, from Dh6,750 per person. The trails are blocked by snow from about late October to early May. Most people walk in July and August, but be warned that trails are often uncomfortably busy at this time and it can be very hot. The prime months are June and September.
MATCH INFO
Uefa Champions League quarter-final second leg:
Juventus 1 Ajax 2
Ajax advance 3-2 on aggregate
Scoreline
Real Madrid 1
Ronaldo (53')
Atletico Madrid 1
Griezmann (57')
Emergency phone numbers in the UAE
Estijaba – 8001717 – number to call to request coronavirus testing
Ministry of Health and Prevention – 80011111
Dubai Health Authority – 800342 – The number to book a free video or voice consultation with a doctor or connect to a local health centre
Emirates airline – 600555555
Etihad Airways – 600555666
Ambulance – 998
Knowledge and Human Development Authority – 8005432 ext. 4 for Covid-19 queries
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
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EXPATS
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Sonchiriya
Director: Abhishek Chaubey
Producer: RSVP Movies, Azure Entertainment
Cast: Sushant Singh Rajput, Manoj Bajpayee, Ashutosh Rana, Bhumi Pednekar, Ranvir Shorey
Rating: 3/5
Benefits of first-time home buyers' scheme
- Priority access to new homes from participating developers
- Discounts on sales price of off-plan units
- Flexible payment plans from developers
- Mortgages with better interest rates, faster approval times and reduced fees
- DLD registration fee can be paid through banks or credit cards at zero interest rates
THE%20SPECS
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UAE SQUAD
UAE team
1. Chris Jones-Griffiths 2. Gio Fourie 3. Craig Nutt 4. Daniel Perry 5. Isaac Porter 6. Matt Mills 7. Hamish Anderson 8. Jaen Botes 9. Barry Dwyer 10. Luke Stevenson (captain) 11. Sean Carey 12. Andrew Powell 13. Saki Naisau 14. Thinus Steyn 15. Matt Richards
Replacements
16. Lukas Waddington 17. Murray Reason 18. Ahmed Moosa 19. Stephen Ferguson 20. Sean Stevens 21. Ed Armitage 22. Kini Natuna 23. Majid Al Balooshi
Our legal consultants
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
How Filipinos in the UAE invest
A recent survey of 10,000 Filipino expatriates in the UAE found that 82 per cent have plans to invest, primarily in property. This is significantly higher than the 2014 poll showing only two out of 10 Filipinos planned to invest.
Fifty-five percent said they plan to invest in property, according to the poll conducted by the New Perspective Media Group, organiser of the Philippine Property and Investment Exhibition. Acquiring a franchised business or starting up a small business was preferred by 25 per cent and 15 per cent said they will invest in mutual funds. The rest said they are keen to invest in insurance (3 per cent) and gold (2 per cent).
Of the 5,500 respondents who preferred property as their primary investment, 54 per cent said they plan to make the purchase within the next year. Manila was the top location, preferred by 53 per cent.
Isle of Dogs
Director: Wes Anderson
Starring: Bryan Cranston, Liev Schreiber, Ed Norton, Greta Gerwig, Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Scarlett Johansson
Three stars
What's in the deal?
Agreement aims to boost trade by £25.5bn a year in the long run, compared with a total of £42.6bn in 2024
India will slash levies on medical devices, machinery, cosmetics, soft drinks and lamb.
India will also cut automotive tariffs to 10% under a quota from over 100% currently.
Indian employees in the UK will receive three years exemption from social security payments
India expects 99% of exports to benefit from zero duty, raising opportunities for textiles, marine products, footwear and jewellery
Under-21 European Championship Final
Germany 1 Spain 0
Weiser (40')
It Was Just an Accident
Director: Jafar Panahi
Stars: Vahid Mobasseri, Mariam Afshari, Ebrahim Azizi, Hadis Pakbaten, Majid Panahi, Mohamad Ali Elyasmehr
Rating: 4/5
More from Rashmee Roshan Lall
MATCH INFO
Manchester United 1 (Fernandes pen 2') Tottenham Hotspur 6 (Ndombele 4', Son 7' & 37' Kane (30' & pen 79, Aurier 51')
Man of the match Son Heung-min (Tottenham)
What%20is%20cystic%20fibrosis%3F
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Name: Brendalle Belaza
From: Crossing Rubber, Philippines
Arrived in the UAE: 2007
Favourite place in Abu Dhabi: NYUAD campus
Favourite photography style: Street photography
Favourite book: Harry Potter
Manchester United v Club America
When: Thursday, 9pm Arizona time (Friday UAE, 8am)
Read more about the coronavirus
How to vote in the UAE
1) Download your ballot https://www.fvap.gov/
2) Take it to the US Embassy
3) Deadline is October 15
4) The embassy will ensure all ballots reach the US in time for the November 3 poll
BRAZIL%20SQUAD
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German intelligence warnings
- 2002: "Hezbollah supporters feared becoming a target of security services because of the effects of [9/11] ... discussions on Hezbollah policy moved from mosques into smaller circles in private homes." Supporters in Germany: 800
- 2013: "Financial and logistical support from Germany for Hezbollah in Lebanon supports the armed struggle against Israel ... Hezbollah supporters in Germany hold back from actions that would gain publicity." Supporters in Germany: 950
- 2023: "It must be reckoned with that Hezbollah will continue to plan terrorist actions outside the Middle East against Israel or Israeli interests." Supporters in Germany: 1,250
Source: Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution
The Sand Castle
Director: Matty Brown
Stars: Nadine Labaki, Ziad Bakri, Zain Al Rafeea, Riman Al Rafeea
Rating: 2.5/5
Election pledges on migration
CDU: "Now is the time to control the German borders and enforce strict border rejections"
SPD: "Border closures and blanket rejections at internal borders contradict the spirit of a common area of freedom"
The specs
- Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
- Power: 640hp
- Torque: 760nm
- On sale: 2026
- Price: Not announced yet
Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958-1989
Director: Goran Hugo Olsson
Rating: 5/5
Killing of Qassem Suleimani
'Moonshot'
Director: Chris Winterbauer
Stars: Lana Condor and Cole Sprouse
Rating: 3/5
Expert advice
“Join in with a group like Cycle Safe Dubai or TrainYAS, where you’ll meet like-minded people and always have support on hand.”
Stewart Howison, co-founder of Cycle Safe Dubai and owner of Revolution Cycles
“When you sweat a lot, you lose a lot of salt and other electrolytes from your body. If your electrolytes drop enough, you will be at risk of cramping. To prevent salt deficiency, simply add an electrolyte mix to your water.”
Cornelia Gloor, head of RAK Hospital’s Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy Centre
“Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can ride as fast or as far during the summer as you do in cooler weather. The heat will make you expend more energy to maintain a speed that might normally be comfortable, so pace yourself when riding during the hotter parts of the day.”
Chandrashekar Nandi, physiotherapist at Burjeel Hospital in Dubai
Dunki
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'Downton Abbey: A New Era'
Director: Simon Curtis
Cast: Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter and Phyllis Logan
Rating: 4/5
How to help
Send “thenational” to the following numbers or call the hotline on: 0502955999
2289 – Dh10
2252 – Dh 50
6025 – Dh20
6027 – Dh 100
6026 – Dh 200
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