Guide & Tips
Where to Go in May?
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The lily of the valley is in bloom, bees are extending their antennae to forage—there’s no doubt, it’s May! Spring is now well established, and with it, the first warm days arrive.
However, it must be acknowledged that rain often makes an appearance during this fifth month of the year. If the March showers linger and you wish to enjoy summer-like weather a few weeks early, hesitate no more! A wide range of activities awaits you: lounging on a sunbed by the sea while sipping a tropical cocktail, observing a varied and exceptional fauna and flora, or taking morning hikes under the gentle rising sun.
You know the saying, "In May, do as you please"? So, don’t wait any longer and let Corsair guide you to unforgettable holidays in May!
How to Choose a Destination for Traveling in May?
In May, the calendar is perfect for escaping! Indeed, there are many public holidays allowing for extended weekends and vacations without using up all your leave days! It’s an ideal month for traveling!
Another major advantage of choosing May for your trip is the school holidays. In mainland France, May is perfectly positioned between two school break periods, ensuring fewer tourists departing from France. In other words: more tranquility! Considering this, May may not be ideal for family travel, but it’s perfect for a romantic getaway with your partner.
Finally, don’t forget to check the calendar of cultural activities offered at your chosen destination to adjust your travel dates accordingly.
Seasonality
May in mainland France is not always a promise of sunny days and summer-like temperatures. Gloomy weather persists, and a raincoat is often still necessary! However, there are destinations where the season is ideal for traveling in May.
In Mauritius, for example, winter—synonymous with the dry season—has just begun, offering tourists a multitude of opportunities under radiant sunshine: relaxation on the paradise beach of Flic en Flac or hiking on Morne Brabant. However, don’t be mistaken—this is not the case everywhere! In May, Ivory Coast, although in the dry season, is characterized by high humidity coupled with very high temperatures, making it a less favorable destination at this time. For visiting Abidjan’s treasures, January is preferable!
Tourist Crowds
Crowd levels are an essential, if not indispensable, factor to consider when planning a trip. Heavy crowds can sometimes disrupt your plans and, in the worst cases, spoil the much-anticipated vacation!
Indeed, if you’re envisioning a romantic setting or a private encounter with sea turtles, the Terre de Blues Festival in Marie-Galante, with its numerous blues, reggae, and zouk concerts, may not be to your liking!
On the other hand, the tranquility of late May on the paradisiacal beaches of Mayotte, such as N'Goula, will allow you to enjoy a peaceful Robinson Crusoe experience!
Departure Preparations
Before leaving, some last-minute adjustments may be added to your long list of things to prepare. To avoid the risk of postponing your trip, we advise you to plan ahead. May, known for its public holidays and long weekends, can cause administrative offices to be completely shut down for several days.
Allow several weeks to renew your passport. Opting for online procedures can be a very simple way to bypass the problem: no more waiting in long lines, easier access to the information you need, all without leaving your home!
Finally, before booking your vacation, be sure to check the safety situation in your destination country. On the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs website, under the "Traveling Abroad" section, you will find safety information, current events, and valuable contact details for consulates and embassies that may be useful to you.
Mayotte and Its Unmissable Coral Reef
Located in the Indian Ocean at the entrance to the Mozambique Channel, Mayotte has nothing to envy from other overseas territories. Yet, it remains less popular than its Réunion and Mauritius cousins. The island boasts no less than 160 kilometers of coral reef and is home to one of the largest lagoons in the world.
Not to be missed: Moya Beach. The program includes daytime relaxation and a nighttime excursion at dusk to observe the turtle nesting. It’s truly a dazzling spectacle!
Did you know? Numerous poaching activities, especially of turtle eggs, occur on the island. Associations like Oulanga Na Nyamba work to protect these marine animals and organize excursions that respect the local fauna and flora. You can participate and support this cause.
Finally, if you want to be amazed and take in breathtaking sights, join the Underwater Image Festival held at the end of May. For four days, imagery takes center stage! With the sea as its theme, enjoy outdoor film screenings and take part in competitions featuring both still images, such as photography and drawing, and animated ones, like films and short movies.
Now, just let Corsair carry you to paradise — the Mahorais are waiting for you!
Réunion Island: A Journey Between Sea and Mountains
A true gem of the Indian Ocean, Réunion Island proudly enjoys great popularity. Tourism thrives year-round. Between sea and mountains, relaxation and adventure, the island manages to satisfy all kinds of visitors! Note: in May, the weather is pleasant but not too hot, making it ideal for sightseeing and hiking.
During the first half of May, local children are on vacation. So, if you’re seeking tranquility, plan your trip for the second half of the month. Our recommendation: don’t hesitate to visit the Bassin des Aigrettes waterfall. Usually very crowded, visiting it during a quieter period can offer you a whole new experience, such as swimming in the crystal-clear water at the base of the falls. But beware, the water is cold!
For dance enthusiasts, get ready to move to vibrant rhythms. The Sakifo Musik Festival, held every May, will delight you. Meaning “just right” in Réunion Creole, it’s a lively mix of genres catering to all tastes: reggae, funk, African music… The festival lasts three days and encourages cultural exchange and fusion.
If you want to be amazed on Réunion Island, book now with our Train + Air offer serving major French cities. Paradise is just a click away!
