10 places to go in May

The Danube Delta is paradise for birdwatchers, and during May the Romanian port of Tulcea becomes a meeting point for thousands of migrating birds. These join the plentiful resident population creating an abundance of varied birdlife, including the world’s largest known breeding group of white pelicans. The best vantage point is from a houseboat, gliding effortless through the delta. We stay on board these floating barge-style hotels on our Best of Romania tour – you can wake up early and watch the birds right from the deck.

Moldova is particularly low on the tourist radar but visit in May and you’ll find it wonderfully devoid of crowds. Our Moldova Short Break is a great alternative to a spring city break and takes in the Victory Day celebrations of the Trans-Dneister people on 26 May. The region is part of Moldova, but its residents consider themselves an independent country. During the festival, military parades are followed by people dressed in traditional folk attire carrying photographs of their lost relatives and laying floral arrangements on the war memorials. It’s a poignant occasion but the atmosphere is reflective, rather than mournful.

May is dry season in Peru, meaning sunny days, a high chance of clear blue skies and lush, green landscapes as the rainy season draws to a close. It also means chilly nights, so you’ll want to pack wisely – plenty of down and thermal layers – if you’re planning an Inca Trail trek. It’s also the start of peak trekking season; although the trails will be less crowded at this time of year, you’ll still need to book your trip in advance so the correct trekking permits can be obtained in good time.

Uzbekistan is a land of great contrasts, and its weather is particularly varied from freezing winters to red-hot summers. Travel in May and you’ll time your trip perfectly for the pleasant shoulder season, which is typically warm and dry but less oppressive – this is a desert region, after all. It’s the perfect weather for exploring the azure-tiled buildings of Samarkand and the beautifully-preserved city of Khiva on a Silk Road tour.

Perennially-popular Portugal may be favoured in the high summer months of July and August, but May is the start of the summer season with pleasant, rising temperatures and a blissful lack of tourists. Choose a walking trip to Portugal during May and you’ll likely enjoy bright sunny days, blooming wildflowers and great temperatures for walking, with the promise of summer just around the corner.