international travel in march 2023

Where to travel in March

Ring in the start of spring with sea turtles and strong beer..

March, as they say, comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. While that old meteorological proverb isn’t always accurate, it does get at the month’s transitional nature—just on the cusp between the chilly winter and nature’s burst back to life. As many travelers head out of town on spring breaks , they have their pick of two very different experiences: embracing the last gasps of snow on the ski slopes, or heading for literally greener pastures, in the form of tropical beaches or gardens in full bloom. Here, 10 March adventures for every type of traveler.

For blossom watchers

Average temp: 68ºF high, 42ºF low

Cherry blossom season in D.C. may get most of the attention come spring, but California’s Central Valley has its own photogenic display when its almond, peach, and apricot trees erupt into delicate white and pink flowers. (The blossoms often peak from late February through mid-March, and the University of California has a lineup of the best driving routes.) Surrounded by this botanical display is underrated Merced , an agricultural hub that’s proving to be the little city that could, with a revitalized downtown that includes the Merced Multicultural Arts Center and Mainzer , an Art Deco cinema that hosts live music, drag shows, and trivia nights.

The coolest spot in town is the renovated El Capitan Hotel , which was built to serve travelers on their way to Yosemite in the '20s, about a 90-minute drive away on CA-140 E. The best way to experience Merced’s robust farming community is to enjoy the valley’s spoils at spots like the Merced Fruit Barn , which is also home to barnyard animals and exotic birds, and Vista Ranch , a vineyard and farmstand with an outdoor pizza oven.

Explore top attractions in Merced

Mendoza, Argentina

For adventurous oenophiles.

Average temp: 82ºF high, 59ºF low

One of the best times to visit this wine region , which is known for its bold Malbecs, is in March, during the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia. The massive harvest festival includes the crowning of a queen, a gaucho-filled parade, and a show in the Teatro Griego Frank Romero Day , a Greek-style amphitheater. To get in the spirit, you’ll want to book a stay at the new Susana Balbo Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites , which was opened in 2022 by one of the region’s pioneering female winemakers and her daughter.

In November 2023, Michelin announced its first Argentine guide, and it awarded four restaurants in Mendoza with one star: Azafrán Restó , where chef Sebastián Weigandt offers a contemporary take on classic dishes like Tomaticán stew (typically made with beef, tomatoes, corn, and onions); Brindillas Restaurant , which is revered for its modernist tasting menus; Casa Vigil , located on the vineyard of Alejando Vigil (a.k.a. “the Messi of Wine”); and Zonda Cocina de Paisaje , which shares land at Lagarde winery with organic fruit and vegetable gardens and olive groves that provide ingredients for simple, elegant meals.

Explore top attractions in Mendoza

Tulum, Mexico

For wellness-minded weekenders.

The Yucatán Peninsula’s boho beach enclave welcomed a shiny new international airport in December 2023, and March kicks off a slew of new direct flights from U.S. airports like Atlanta, Houston, and Chicago making it easier than ever to get to the beach. If you’re among that first wave of American tourists, you may be battling crowds, but there’s a reason March falls during the high season: Temperatures are moderate, humidity is low, and rain tends to stay away.

Returning guests will be impressed by the town’s newest resorts, like the sophisticated Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya and Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club , an adults-only all-inclusive with cenote-inspired architecture. Spring’s pleasant weather is a fantastic excuse to spend all your time off the beach, too, exploring wonders like the cliffside Tulum Archaeological Site , the magical Gran Cenote (a natural limestone sinkhole you can swim in), and Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to such tropical wildlife as crocodiles, spider monkeys, manatees, and even elusive jaguars.

Explore top attractions in Tulum

For wannabe marine biologists

Average temp: 88ºF high, 72ºF low

Dominica feels very different from its neighbors in the Caribbean, thanks to its rugged landscape of volcanic peaks, virgin rainforests, and black-sand beaches. The surrounding waters are one of the few places in the world where you can see sperm whales year round, and the island nation recently announced it would be establishing the planet’s first marine reserve dedicated to protecting these school-bus-sized creatures. While on the island, you can go on a whale-watching tour with Waitukubuli Adventure Tour Co. , a family-owned outfitter that also offers experiences like snorkeling over bubbling underwater geothermal springs, hiking to the tallest waterfall in the Eastern Caribbean, or visiting with the Indigenous Kalinago community.

March also kicks off the start of sea turtle season, when you can spot leatherbacks, hawksbills, and green turtles coming ashore at night to lay their eggs in the sand. At Rosalie Bay Eco Resort & Spa , you can often see turtles right outside your front door, and while here, you can go on educational turtle walks, aid in conservation efforts, and join in scheduled assisted hatchling releases.

Explore top attractions in Dominica

Maryland’s Eastern Shore

For women’s history buffs.

Average temp: 57ºF high, 36ºF low

Celebrate Women’s History Month with a visit to the Eastern Shore of Maryland , the stomping grounds of one of America’s fiercest heroines, Harriet Tubman, who was not only an abolitionist and Underground Railroad “conductor” but also an activist for women’s suffrage and even a Union Army spy. (No wonder she gets called “the Moses of her people.”) With its crab shacks and wildlife-filled marshes, this area marks the start of the 125-mile Tubman Byway, which winds for 98 miles up through Delaware and into Philadelphia and includes 40-plus points of interest. The showstopper is the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park , which opened in 2017 and includes exhibits about the people she rescued from enslavement and bronze statues depicting both quiet and heroic moments from her life.

Elsewhere, you can pay your respects at a sign that marks the site of her birth or drop by the Bucktown General Store, now a reservations-required museum, where in 1835 the shopkeeper threw an iron weight at a teenage Tubman’s head that left her with seizures and headaches for the rest of her life. To see her at her most triumphant, be sure to stop by the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center for a photo of the instantly iconic “Take My Hand” mural by Dorchester County artist Michael Rosato.

Explore top attractions on the Eastern Shore

Palm Beach, FL

For mid-century mavens.

Average temp: 80ºF high, 61ºF low

March marks the premiere of the new Apple TV+ series Palm Royale , about an underdog played by Kristen Wiig who tries to break into high society in 1969 Palm Beach. (The rest of the ensemble cast includes Ricky Martin, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, and Carol Burnett.) It’s not hard to get in that glamorous mid-century spirit yourself at places like The Colony Hotel , a pink palace that first debuted in 1947, and Worth Avenue , a palm-lined shopping district with Mediterranean Revival buildings designed by legendary architect Addison Mizner.

You could almost imagine the show’s ladies who lunch wandering through the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum , which occupies the Gilded Age estate of the founder of Standard Oil, and then taking afternoon tea in the Railcar 91 Tea Room. And when you’re done, save time to explore the gardens at The Society of the Four Arts , which were established in the 1930s and are still filled with lush tropical foliage.

For something completely different, late February and most of March also mean Major League Baseball Spring Training in this region; as part of the Grapefruit League, the Washington Nationals and the Houston Astros train at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach.

Explore top attractions in Palm Beach

Savannah, GA

For rowdy revelers.

Average temp: 70ºF high, 50ºF low

Savannah is one of the best spots in the country to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and 2024 marks the 200th anniversary of the holiday’s public observance in Georgia’s oldest city. The most colorful part of the festivities is the Greening of the Fountain in Forsyth Park , which transforms the 19th-century landmark and its four spouting triton figures with the use of buckets of emerald-hued dye. The city also hosts a parade that winds through the many historic squares that make this urban landscape unique. Tip: You can watch the parade from your balcony or the front porch of the Foley House Inn , which occupies one of the corners of Chippewa Square .

Savannah Tours and Tales also hosts a 90-minute, Irish-themed walking tour , with stops at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and Colonial Park Cemetery . During your visit to these parts, you’ll of course want to stop by one of the many Celtic-tinged watering holes, including O’Connell’s Irish Pub , which is decked out with Irish sports memorabilia year round, and McDonough’s Restaurant & Lounge , a favorite karaoke spot for locals. May we suggest some U2?

Explore top attractions in Savannah

Niseko, Japan

For powderhounds.

Average temp: 37ºF high, 19ºF low

Located on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido , the ski town of Niseko sits in the shadow of volcanic Mount Yotei , which often gets called the “Mount Fuji of the North” because of its uncanny resemblance to the iconic peak. The surrounding area is among the snowiest places on Earth, seeing an average of 45 feet—yes, feet —of powder a year, and while much of that falls in January and February, March is an ideal time to take advantage of smaller crowds on the slopes and in the village at the four resorts: Grand Hirafu , which is thrumming with energy and most developed; Niseko Village , which is a bit more intimate and perfect for more advanced skiers; Annupuri , which is old-school and less touristy; and Hanazono , which also offers non-skiing adventure activities, like snowmobiling and guided snowshoe tours.

Come March, the likelihood of clearer bluebird days increases, though you can also experience the mountain after dark, when the slopes are illuminated for night skiing. And, of course, there’s just as much to enjoy off the mountain, including a slew of traditional onsens (hot springs) like Goshiki and Yukichichibu .

Explore top attractions in Niseko

For beer fans

Average temp: 49ºF high, 33ºF low

The Bavarian capital will forever be synonymous with Oktoberfest , but it’s not the only beer festival to hit Munich’s cultural calendar each year. Come March, the city celebrates Starkbierzeit, or “strong beer season,” which traces its roots to the 16th century, when Paulaner monks began brewing heartier beers—nicknamed “liquid bread”—to get them through the Lenten fasting season. Running from March 1 to 24 this year, the festival will be held at Paulaner Nockherberg , where you can schedule a brewery tour, book a three-course dinner with master brewer Uli Schindler, or simply relax with a five-sample or ten-sample beer tasting.

Elsewhere around town, you can try Starkbierzeit at classic beer halls like Löwenbräukeller and Augustiner-Keller and continue your ale-themed vacation with a stay at Jugend- and Familienhotel Augustin : Located just across from the Oktoberfest grounds, it’s a sleek hotel with stylish bunk rooms and Augustiner Bräu bottles artfully integrated into its decor.

Explore top attractions in Munich

Huon Valley, Tasmania

For autumn enthusiasts.

Average temp: 63ºF high, 50ºF low

If you’re the kind of person who can’t get enough of the fall (you know who you are!), relive the magic by heading south of the equator, where March marks autumn’s start. Tasmania has historically been nicknamed the Apple Isle, and the Huon Valley, located about a half hour’s drive south of Hobart , is an agricultural hotspot known for growing some of the crispest, sweetest apples around, which are harvested here between February and May. You can enjoy the valley’s treasures at U-pick orchards or cideries like Willie Smith’s Apple Shed Huon Valley , Frank’s Cider House and Cafe , and Pagan Cider .

While here, plan a meal at The Kiln , a new restaurant in Ranelagh housed in an old wooden barn that was once used to dry hops; its wide-ranging menu includes dishes like Nepalese spiced soybean salad and confit wallaby, and the owners recently unveiled a new B&B, the Clifton Homestead next door. Beyond apples, the valley is also home to a high concentration of platypus, and while these duck-billed critters have a reputation for being elusive, you can often spot them in the town of Geeveston at the riverside Platypus Walk .

Explore top attractions in Huon Valley

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The best holiday destinations in March

By Sarah James

The slow slog to March is one that feels momentous. Finally, you made it to lighter days, you can put your thermals back in storage, breathe a sigh of optimistic relief, and celebrate with a trip away. Schools are in session so its prime for an adults-only escape, and the change of season means great deals are there for the taking. But where to go on holiday in March? Skiing is still an option, its shoulder season at beach escapes everywhere from the Indian Ocean to the Caribbean , and much of Europe is starting to defrost again. For more inspiration, see our picks for the best places to visit in March.

1. Chamonix, France

Temperature in March: 6°C high; 1°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Set on a mountainside below Mont Blanc, the ski resort town of Chamonix has bags of storybook appeal: churches sparkle under a frosting of snow, the windows of picturesque chalets glow with firelight, and shimmering pine trees look as if they've been plucked straight off a Christmas card. By March, the serious skiers have left to find cooler climes, and the weather is warm enough for lunching al fresco. You can still catch the last of the winter snow and accommodation is easier to find, whether you're after a romantic Airbnb for two or a cool new ski hotel for a post-piste party.

Where to stay: Retro Americana RockyPop is a great affordable option with fun communal areas (think table football, table tennis, games consoles, live music) and an excellent in-house ski rental shop. If you prefer an Airbnb, check into Studio Grace , a self-contained apartment that's connected to a larger chalet, but with its own private outdoor terrace.

2. Madrid, Spain

Temperature in March: 16°C high; 6°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Barcelona 's big sister sheds her winter skin in March. When the clocks go forward, as if by magic a wave of warmth sweeps the city and loosens up its reserved exterior. Madrid 's expansive parks burst into bloom and locals tumble out onto the streets to sip caipirinhas and dance till dawn. Temperatures stay around 20ºC (far more gentle than the capital's sizzling summers), meaning you can explore its world-class galleries, belle-époque mansions and designer boutiques without breaking a sweat. There are great traditional tapas to be had, but leave time to try the city's newer breed of stylish gastro bars. Just don't plan anything more than a siesta afterwards.

Where to stay: Family-owned 7 Islas – half hotel, half gallery with polished concrete floors and whitewashed walls. If you're after a view, reserve a room at The Principal Madrid Hotel , where the rooftop terrace overlooks the angel-topped dome of the city’s famous Metrópolis building. If you're travelling with a group, this airy Airbnb apartment sleeps six and is within walking distance of Madrid's top attractions. For more options, check our Madrid hotels roundup. CS

3. Rome, Italy

Temperature in March: 17° high; 6° low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

It’s the ultimate European city break for history buffs, foodies, and all-round Italophiles. However, if you’re yet to tick off the ancient metropolis’s major attractions , avoid the peak summer months. The sprawling Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain, and much of the Colosseum offer little to no respite from the sun, so breezy spring days are best. There’s so much to see that it’s easier to admit you’ll be back again before you know it – plan days accordingly to take everything in. Otherwise, get lost. Church-hop, roam around leafy parks as the flowerbeds bloom, and fuel the smartwatch-buzzing on-the-go from Rome’s best pizza spots. Just be careful with timings; if Easter falls in March, as it does in 2024, it’ll affect what’s open – and what’s really, really busy.

Where to stay: Cardo Roma , an Autograph Collection Hotel, opens in early 2024. It’s outside the city centre, so transport is needed, but the wellness and leisure facilities, plus the sleek, modern design, will have travellers checking into the 324 guestrooms and suites. For something a little closer to the action, join the fashion-conscious clientele at Palm Suites , a stone’s throw from the chaos of the Colosseum. CS

4. Lisbon, Portugal

Temperature in March: 18° high; 10° low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT

Alongside the usual selection of holiday treats and trinkets, it’s common to return from Lisbon with sore glutes – the Portuguese capital is known as The City of Seven Hills for good reason. Tackling the top sights during scorching summers is a sweaty affair, but in March, things are warming up just enough for it to be one of the most pleasant European city breaks. Marvel at the glitzy interiors of the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda, light a candle in The Cathedral of Saint Mary Major, and roam the Botanical Garden of Lisbon before finding a roadside spot for lunch. In the evening, don a light jacket and discover the city’s nightlife scene via a bar crawl down Rua Nova do Carvalho (Pink Street) or secure a spot at Red Frog, the only Lisbon bar to make the World’s 100 Best Bars list. Also, UK travellers have no time difference, so it’s a great place to try the digital nomad lifestyle.

Where to stay: 1908 Lisboa Hotel is centrally located and affordable, making it the perfect stay for first-timers likely to spend little time lounging around in fancy lobbies. Alternatively, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is one of the best hotels in Lisbon for aesthetes and all-round fans of glamorous stays – dinner at Michelin-starred chef Pedro Pena Bastos’s CURA is a must.

Temperature in March :12°C high; 8°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 1 hour 5 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

Ireland is one of those rare places that fully lives up to its reputation: incredibly green, windswept, raucous, and – more often than not – pelted by rain. What better time to visit than during the month that features an ode to St Patrick, the 'Apostle of Ireland'? Donegal ’s wild beaches and the looming Cliffs of Moher are movie-beautiful, and the elemental, towering sea crag of Kerry’s Skellig Michael was picked for a pivotal role in Star Wars . There’s nowhere cosier for a pint than the brightly painted pubs of Galway (wood-panelled Tigh Neachtain’s is a favourite), best paired with the riverside city’s famous oysters. In Dublin , the cobbled, Georgian capital, the docklands have lately gone from run-down to tech hub: the so-called Silicon Docks are now home to Facebook, Google and Airbnb HQs. The rooftop bar at the area’s Marker Hotel is where young Dublin comes for après-coding.

Where to stay: At part 13th-century castle, part French-inspired château Ashford Castle in County Mayo, one of our picks for the best hotels in Ireland .

6. Canary Islands, Spain

Temperature in March: 21°C high; 15°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 4 hours 6 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

Spain's tiny golden islands off the coast of North Africa are heavenly in early spring. The days are getting longer and sunnier and there's no sign of the peak-season crowds. We're excited by Lanzarote 's beautiful beaches, cool surf scene and amazing places to stay. We're captivated by Tenerife 's unexpected lunar landscapes and intrigued by the unsung Canaries: a whistle-stop tour could take you through Santa Cruz de la Palma's whitewashed Renaissance palaces, La Gomera's plunging ravines and Fuencaliente's sleepy volcanic craters bathed in early morning mist. To help plan your trip, see our guide to the best Canary Islands to visit .

Where to stay: For an unusual stay, book still-functioning 18th-century lighthouse Faro Punta Cumplida on the rugged north-east of La Palma . Ditching the all-inclusives and going small and local is better for the community, the environment and your holiday, too. Try the cottages on family-owned working vineyard Finca Malvasia in Lanzarote; or Tenerife’s gorgeous Garachico, a mercifully under-visited seaside village.

7. South Africa

Temperature in March: 27°C high; 21°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

For a high-octane safari adventure look to the tip of this mighty continent. South Africa has 19 national parks and the tail-end of wet season means fewer tour groups and lower costs if you can tolerate the odd afternoon shower. If you're hungry to see the big five, head to Kruger National Park in the north-east, while those yearning for Out of Africa -style romance should travel south to the lush Garden Route to track game on horseback. Or if you don't want to stray too far from the city, Little Karoo is the closest safari to Cape Town . When you're done, dust off at one of Cape Town's smartest hotels : the southern capital is at its best in March, mostly free of visitors and basking in the sun.

Where to stay: One of our favourite hotels in Africa is Grootbos Private Nature Reserve , a private and carbon-negative reserve just south of Cape Town. The lodges here are glassy and contemporary, while most of the food is grown on the 2,500-hectare site.

Temperature in March: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 7 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +3

Natural and understated, Oman couldn’t be more different to its neighbour on the Arabian Peninsula, the UAE. Where the latter has built a playground of space-age skyscrapers and bling-bling beach clubs, Oman has the pristine, dolphin-filled fjords of the Musandam Peninsula, Wadi Shab’s emerald waterfalls and Salalah’s misty greenery – a quirky anomaly in a region known for barren ruggedness (thank the Khareef, Salalah’s very own monsoon). Even Oman’s port capital Muscat keeps it classy with a backdrop of craggy brown mountains and the majestic, sandstone Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Not that Oman can’t do luxury – it’s just of a more low-key sort. See the Omani-style villas of ultra-secluded Six Senses Zighy Bay (where guests can paraglide into the hotel), or Anantara’s canyon-edge village in the remote Hajar Mountains. The perfect time to discover the Middle East’s unsung jewel? March falls neatly between the winter rush and stifling summer heat.

Where to stay: Our top picks include Six Senses Zighy Bay , Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort and The Chedi in Muscat . See more at our where to stay in Oman guide.

CNT Editors

Becky Lucas

James March

Anna Prendergast

9. Southeast Sicily, Italy

Temperature in March:  18°C high; 9°C low Season:  Spring Travel time from UK:  3 hours Time difference: GMT +1

If you’re seeking the warmest place in Italy in March, look to southeast Sicily . This eternally awe-inspiring island has Europe’s sunniest city in modern Catania and Europe’s hottest spot in ancient Syracuse. While there’s little chance of a heatwave in March, you’ll still get eight hours of sunshine a day, and the temperate Mediterranean spring climate is ideal for exploring the area’s baroque cities – Modica, Ragusa, Noto – and Greek and Roman remains. On warmer days, the dunes and lagoons of Vendicari Nature Reserve harbour some of the best (and quietest) beaches in all of Italy , along with a great diversity of birdlife returning from Africa in springtime.

Where to stay: In Ortigia, Hotel Gutowski is artful, welcoming and extraordinarily good value (doubles from £73). On the slopes of Etna outside Catania, shell-pink Monaci delle Terre Nere must be one of the most heart-stirringly romantic places to stay in Sicily. For stays by the Vendicari nature reserve, try thethinkingtraveller.com .

10. Delhi, India

Temperature: 30°C high; 16°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 9 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +4.30

Holi, the festival of colours, might now attract as many Hackney Instagrammers as devout Hindus, but the spring celebrations are, of course, at their best and brightest in India . Come March, the country’s capital erupts in a riot of rainbow powder, as Holi parties across the city pop with DJs, street food and clothes-ruining antics. After several showers, be sure to explore the city’s dichotomies: grand temples and dusty bazaars in Old Delhi , followed by New Delhi’s colonial pomp and G&Ts. For a taste of modern India, Hauz Khas Village (‘HKV’ to trendy young Delhiites) is a pedestrian-friendly hub of galleries, fashion boutiques, bars and bohemian cafés.

Where to stay: Modern-day, opulent hangout The Leela Palace is made of white marble, with soaring ceilings and a rooftop pool.

11. Malaga, Spain

Temperature in March:  19°C high; 9°C low Season:  Spring Travel time from UK:  2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

By March, Malaga is already sunny and warm enough for T-shirts and beach games, if not exactly scorchio quite yet. This pocket-sized city on Spain ’s Sunshine Coast has had something of a renaissance of late; no longer just a hop-off point for Marbella and other beach resorts, it’s worth a trip in its own right. Not least for its youthful and exuberant food and creative scenes: buzzy, affordable restaurants run by rising stars are packed with locals year-round, Antonio Banderas has revived the Teatro del Soho, the Lego-like Centre Pompidou sits on the newly redeveloped port. Meanwhile, the Old Town has interesting galleries and artisan boutiques to be found on its squares and sidestreets, as well as a museum dedicated to Malaga’s most famous son, Picasso. Then, of course, there are the beaches, stretching out either side of the town, with beach bars serving up sundowners and seafood, day and night.

Where to stay: The recently opened La Zambra hotel is a clean contemporary take on Andalucia located in the Mijas Costa area. Mijas Golf is nearby if that's your thing, but it's also worth a stay just for the Moorish patio, pool and spa offering as well.

12. Whistler, Canada

Temperature in March:  7°C high; –2°C low Season:  Ski season; spring Travel time from UK:  9 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT –8

The granddaddy of North American ski resorts does winter sports on a supersized scale. Up in the awe-inspiring Pacific Ranges above Vancouver, Whistler gets phenomenal snow in a winter season that runs November–May. The best month of all is March when you can expect bluebird powder days; it’s sunnier yet there’s still heavy snowfall, slopes and lifts are less busy, and rates are cheaper. In a resort that has committed to becoming carbon-neutral (including building a hydro plant to produce enough energy to power ski lifts, restaurants and snow cannons), there are a whole bunch of restaurants run with a sustainability ethos. Fine-dining Alta Bistro is perhaps the smartest of them, and the greenest: as well as all-seasonal, all-local ingredients, everything is ethically sourced, bought from nearby farms and makers, right down to the sustainably farmed wine. Plus, all organic waste gets composted at a local farm and they use renewable hydroelectric power.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler is the starriest hotel in town. Alternatively, and for the accomplished skier, Mabeyski arranges amazing off-the-beaten-piste winter adventures in British Columbia, including heliskiing and stays at spoiling lodges.

13. Cayman Islands

Temperature in March:  29°C high; 22°C low Season:  Dry Travel time from UK:  12 hours 45 minutes direct Time difference: GMT -5

At last, there’s a compelling reason to choose this archipelago over other Caribbean islands . Palm Heights is the Caymans’ first smart all-suite boutique hotel, and something entirely different for the Caribbean. Design is 1970s retro-Tropicana – bold in orange, tan and sunshine yellow, with an eclectic mix of vintage classic furniture and contemporary art. There’s a huge wellness centre with visiting athletes, superb restaurants headed up by New York chefs, and a diverse crowd of islanders as well as guests. The location is one of the best in the Caribbean, on icing-sugar Seven Mile Beach. March is the best month to go to the Cayman Islands – for weather, for watersports, and lower rates and fewer tourists between school holidays.

Where to stay: Take any of the 50 suites at Palm Heights – all are spacious, with separate living rooms, tiled breakfast/cocktail bars, and balconies overlooking the sea.

14. Essaouira, Morocco

Temperature in March:  20°C high; 14°C low Season:  Spring Travel time from UK:  3 hours 40 minutes (direct) Time difference: GMT +1

A couple of hours’ drive to the coast from Marrakech brings you to the cute seaside town of Essaouira , painted every shade of blue. Its Atlantic breakers and wide sandy stretches lure surfers and its bohemian vibe bring hippies. Plus, now its collection of cool galleries, boutiques and chic little places to stay and eat makes it a destination in its own right, whether for an early spring beach break or a Moroccan escape a little off the well-worn path.

Where to stay: On the edge of the Medina, Villa Maroc is a charming riad made up of four 18th-century houses, with 21 uniquely decorated rooms and suites (including a couple of two-bedroom family suites).

15. Sorrento, Italy

Temperature in March: 19°C high; 13°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Nothing brings a spring to the step quite like the sight of Italy ’s glorious Amalfi coast . Particularly in March, when its vertiginous twists are bathed in a daily average eight hours of sun. Cliffs plunge into the Tyrrhenian Sea, topped with grand palazzos and smart hotels. Narrow, Roman lanes are stuffed with limoncello stalls flogging the boozy spoils of Sorrento ’s famous fruit. Its snoozy air and pastel-coloured houses are pure Italian cinema: you might even swear you’ve seen a young Sophia Loren looking impossibly saucy by the quay. Do as the Italians do and spend the lazy, romantic days enjoying a long aperitivo . Don’t miss fresh fritto misto at Marina Grande, the town’s old fishing harbour, or Michelin-starred Il Buco in the cellars of an old monastery, where chef Peppe Aversa serves seasonal ingredients under a stone-hewn, vaulted ceiling. The sweet life, indeed.

Where to stay: Maison la Minervetta is a five-storey, upside-down hotel built into the cliff-side above Sorrento's pretty Marina Grande. For more options nearby, see our edit of the best Amalfi Coast hotels .

16. Las Vegas, USA

Temperature in March: 22°C high; 4°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

Sin City isn’t subtle. But you might call it an interesting anthropological study. What happens when you build an entire city dedicated to hedonism? Everyone goes nuts. Look no further than the Strip, where even early mornings see punters stumbling giddily past a dancing fountain and lava-spewing volcano, toting half-yards of booze. But when not ogling the spectacle, the city’s chequered history makes for fascinating discoveries. The Mob Museum, in the old courthouse, is a thorough chronicling of the mafia here, while the Neon Museum shows off retro, rescued signs from the earliest hotels and casinos. The slightly seedy Atomic Liquors bar also claims a place in Vegas lore: from its rooftop, drinkers would watch mushroom clouds billow out of nearby atomic testing sites in the 1950s. March weather in Las Vegas is like a good UK summer day. But a day in Vegas is like nowhere else on Earth.

Where to stay: At Resorts World Las Vegas , the first new resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in more than a decade. The super-sized spot comprises three distinct hotels as well as the Awana Spa and a bevvy of restaurants – the most notable being Wally's with its headline worthy $1000 steaks.

Temperature in March: 24°C high; 13°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: from 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

As well as being regarded as the Middle East’s most accessible country , Jordan just might be its most captivating. But then, it has many an unfair advantage. There’s the ancient, stone-carved city of Petra, a new wonder of the world; Jerash’s vast Greco-Roman ruins; the super-salty Dead Sea. Or joining a camel caravan to Wadi Rum, star of Lawrence of Arabia : a cinematic, rust-red desert valley dressed up with dramatic sandstone mountains and deep caverns. March is an excellent time to bound around. Daytime temperatures hang in the comfortable half of the 20s, while desert nights are warm enough for camping under the stars.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Amman , where a serene atmosphere is maintained by cool, calm neutrals and impeccable service.

Temperature in March: 24°C high; 8°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 12 hours 5 minutes Time difference: GMT +4.45

There’s no better time than spring to experience Nepal’s Himalayan charms. Flowers are blooming in the high mountains, dry and clear weather shows off generous views, and the days are warm but not sticky. It’s ideal for trekkers, although you needn’t summit Everest for elevated adventure: the Annapurna range offers excellent hikes through lowland villages and around high, glacial lakes. In Kathmandu, March’s Holi festival paints the town red, blue, yellow, purple and green, too. Exploitation of porters is a huge problem in Nepal, so be sure to book with a reputable tour company that enforces weight restrictions, and provides porters with terrain- and weather-appropriate gear and shelter, and fair pay. And we all saw those crazy pictures of the queues to summit Everest, so consider an off-the-beaten-track trekking route for a unique and more peaceful and sustainable experience.

Where to stay: Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu has become the stuff of legend – or stay at younger sister Dwarika's Resort , a spa on the ancient trade route to Tibet.

19. Valencia, Spain

Temperature in March: 19°C high; 7°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 2 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Spain ’s third largest city celebrates spring in typically fiery Spanish style. Which is to say, it sets everything on fire. March’s week-long Las Fallas festival sees Valencia display a host of giant, satirical papier-mâché sculptures (often nodding to topical political scandals and celebrity meltdowns), before they’re paraded around town and spectacularly set ablaze on the final night. In the lead-up, the whole city’s a party: parades, music, ear-busting fireworks, plus the hipster Ruzafa district puts on its own dazzling festival of lights. Better still, this appealing cosmopolitan port city isn’t short of spectacles by day. Alongside almost 3km of beaches and a vibrant old town, there’s the awesome futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, where buildings evoke the skeleton of a whale, a water lily, a giant eye and more. For more ideas, see our recommendations for things to do in Valencia .

Where to stay: El 16 Ruzafa has five apartments in an early-20th-century modernist building.

20. Puerto Rico

Temperature: 22°C high; 16°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 8 hours 58 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Kick off the month with a beach party on the shores of Puerto Rico . Only two hours from Miami , this Caribbean isle has long been the USA 's weekend playground. Expect a distinctly Latin flavour with a side of home comforts – Puerto Rico has the biggest shopping mall in the Caribbean and the largest virgin tropical rainforest. March is the best month to sample both sides of island life. The beaches lose their crowds and a light breeze rustles the palm trees, lifting the humidity and letting you sleep on the sand in Vieques. Those craving a faster pace can always go salsa dancing in Mayagüez, whale-watching in Rincón or wander the cobbled streets of old San Juan, Piña Colada in hand.

Where to stay: Close to Vieques’s beautiful beaches, Puerto Rican-owned Finca Victoria is a sustainably minded boutique hotel offering yoga, farm-sourced breakfasts and organic locally made bath goodies. For a villa stay, try The Horned Dorset Primavera featuring Moorish interiors and a French-influenced restaurant.

21. Mexico's West Coast

Temperature in March: 30°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

Mexico 's Pacific coast transplants Californian cool to a warmer climate with bigger waves – no wonder Hollywood heavyweights jet down to graze by the pool in Cabo . March is a fantastic time to visit, with prime conditions for whale-watching in Baja California , virtually no rain and rising temperatures. Chilled-out Sayulita draws travellers with its neon-bright shopfronts and wild beaches. Further south in Oaxaca , you'll find Puerto Escondido, a beach town where you can surf all day, party all night and browse contemporary art installations the morning after. If you fancy branching out during your stay, click here to see the hottest day-trips from Sayulita.

Where to stay: Check in to Cabo's One&Only Palmilla to star-spot over ceviche or head further north to Baja California Sur’s Todos Santos, where Paradero Todos Santos is a palm-tree oasis with an outdoor spa and half moon-shaped infinity pool.

22. Bermuda

Temperature in March: 21°C high; 16°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 7 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

Castaways in the 17th century were the first to see the startling beauty of this undiscovered island. Bermuda hasn't changed much since then with its pristine rose-pink sands and fiercely loyal locals who have a disdain for flashy resorts. Visit in March before the late spring price spike for warm waters and seven hours of daily sunshine. Watching a rosy sunset from the docks of the capital Hamilton, you'll feel as if you've accidentally stumbled on paradise.

Where to stay: At the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club , which has sat on the harbour of Bermuda’s capital since the late 19th century.

23. Fez, Morocco

Temperature in March: 21°C high; 8°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

Bigger than Marrakech , the imperial Moroccan city of Fez also comes first for authentic charm. Its eighth-century medina is a chaotic trip back in time to fragrant tanneries and wizened merchants; an extraordinary restoration project has lately breathed new life into old buildings. Less of a tourist circus than its medieval rival, Fez is nevertheless catching up in the sophistication stakes. Exciting chefs are also bringing modernity to the medina: El Bulli , Noma and French Laundry alum Najat Kaanache applies haute techniques to local-market finds at her intimate new restaurant Nur .

Where to stay: Parisian designer Christophe Pillet’s 50-bedroom, stone-clad Sahrai hotel has a covetable rooftop bar and Givenchy spa, while Dar Arsama riad is a chic blend of contemporary and traditional, hung with the curious art of Spanish owner Violeta Caldrés.

24. Vietnam

Temperature in March: 23°C high; 18°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 11 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +6

There's no better time to scale the length and breadth of this compelling country. Vietnam 's usually sticky humidity vanishes in March and dazzling sunshine heralds the driest month of the year. It's the ideal time to laze on the southern beaches but also optimum weather for trekking the craggy northern mountains. It's also still shoulder season, meaning you can see much more for less. Admire Ho Chi Minh 's French colonial architecture from a buzzing sky bar, explore Hanoi 's ancient pagodas, sail on the tranquil Mekong and take a rickety bike ride over the bridges of Hoi An in the gorgeous central region. Just up the coast is the Khoai Chau district, where the Chu Dong Tu festival takes place in March with processions of richly embroidered golden dragons and burning incense. It's a feast for the senses that won't be forgotten in a hurry.

Where to stay: We like Four Seasons The Nam Hai just outside pretty Hoi An, which has three-tiered swimming pools and bedrooms set in sleek villas. For a beach-side stay, Regent Phu Quoc is a luxury gem with all the trimmings for an idyllic long-haul fly-and-flop.

Temperature in March: 14°C high; 5°C low in Tokyo; -1°C high; -11°C low in Niseko Season: winter Travel time from UK: 14 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +8

March is a wonderful time to visit Japan. You might just miss peak cherry blossom season – it's more likely to fall at the very end of March into early April. But really, exactly when the cherry blossom will bloom is unpredictable, and growing ever more so. And skiing is possible in some parts of Japan throughout the month – we like Niseko, “the smartest area on Japan’s northernmost island, where the fluffy powder is the stuff of legends,” features director Toby Skinner says in our round-up of where to ski in March .

Where to stay: The Green Leaf is a classic ski-in, ski-out option. Kimamaya Boutique Hotel , meanwhile, is a small hangout with a glass-walled restaurant.

26. Sri Lanka

Temperature in March: 28°C high; 24°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 10 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +4.5

The teardrop island has grown stronger than ever in the past few years, and is officially back as a top choice destination for those craving tropical landscapes and serious sunshine. Hang out on the beach or go on adventures across national parks such as Yala National Park (where you might see leopards, elephants and crocodiles) and ancient ruins. You could spend days learning to surf, practising yoga or simply snacking your way through the country's culinary highlights – the choice is yours.

Where to stay: The best Sri Lanka hotels include Wild Coast Tented Lodge , in Yala, and Nine Skies , in the Hill Country.

27. The Maldives

Temperature in March: 30°C high; 27°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: from 10 hours Time difference: GMT +4

Night-snorkelling, island-hopping and the turquoise Indian Ocean lapping onto ice-white shores… when it comes to the Maldives the travel clichés flow as freely as the cocktails. While the island nation is idyllic year-round, March is a great time to spot manta rays and sharks or simply relish the temperate 30ºC days in a private beach hut. It's dreamy for the kids too – see our pick of the best family hotels in the Maldives . One of our favourites is Soneva Fushi with its technology-free zone called The Den, complete with tunnels, treasure maps and a pirate ship built for would-be Peter Pans and Wendys. A note: luxury retreats don’t tend to be the most sustainable of businesses, and even less so in the Maldives, where fresh water and waste management will always be challenges, and private flights and imported food are the norm. But some spots are giving it a go: Kudadoo Private Island runs entirely on solar power; Kuramathi Island Resort produces 70 per cent of its own herbs and salads in an onsite hydroponic garden; and Soneva Fushi is carbon-neutral and 90 per cent waste-free, with onsite plastic and glass recycling and composting.

Where to stay: Our top recommendations include Soneva Fushi , Kudadoo Private Island , Gili Lankanfushi. For a new address, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is the archipelago's most recent opening, featuring just 80 villas, split between over water (sunrise or sunset) and beach (properly hidden from each other by leafy vegetation) are supported by two restaurants. For more options, read our guide to the best hotels in the Maldives .

28. The Philippines

Temperature in March: 34°C high; 21°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 14 hours 7 minutes Time difference: GMT +7

This emerald archipelago is the perfect spot for unwinding after a long winter. A thatch-roofed villa in a private island resort is the ideal base from which to discover the winding rice terraces, quaint villages, coral reefs and deserted islands of the Philippines . In March the heat is more bearable on the beaches and in the bustling capital Manila . But those itching to get their feet wet should head to the Palawan islands - the real inspiration for Alex Garland's The Beach . Take a dip in a natural lagoon, or doze under the tilting coconut trees.

Where to stay: Harana Surf in Siargao draws a surfer-yogi crowd, or for something smarter try Nay Palad Hideaway , which has a swimming pontoon off the beach.

The top 7 destinations for travel in March 2024

UPDATED: This article was originally published in January 2018

You’ve decided you want to travel more this year (good on you), but you’re struggling to choose your next destination. Surely there’s an easier way than trawling through endless travel mags and guidebooks for the answers, right? That’s where our ultimate month-by-month travel guide comes in: your easily digestible list of places to visit, things to experience, and amazing weather to chase around the world.

Shining a light on March this time! European frosts are beginning to thaw, South America is starting to hot up and year-round destinations like Hong Kong and Dubai, make for easy travel wins. Whether you’re after rum tasting in Cuba, colourful chaos in India or orangutan spotting in Borneo, here’s your guide to where to travel in March.

Photo captured by Paul Cashman

Impossibly long and thin, this slither of South America offers a breathtakingly diverse range of natural scenery. From the red Mars-like plains of the Atacama Desert to the icy blue glaciers of Torres del Paine National Park, take your pick of stunning places to explore. It’s also home to cosmopolitan hubs like Santiago with its emerging food scene, and Valparaiso with its vivid street art displays and ties to Nobel prize-winning poet, Pablo Neruda.

Read more: 4 amazing destinations in Chile (that aren’t Patagonia)

March marks the start of Chile’s first shoulder season (March to May). The Patagonia crowds have subsided, the Lake District is ready to wow, and in vineyard country it’s time for the grape harvests and traditional vendimias (wine harvest festivals). Don’t forget to take a ride on Chile’s funiculars, too. They’re cheap, fun and can give beautiful landscape views.

• 4-day Santiago Short Break
• 9-day Premium Chile & Argentina
• 15-day Classic Hikes of Patagonia

Photo captured by Cliff Bielawski

More than cigars and vintage cars, this Caribbean giant is a vibrant mixture of history, culture and cuisine. Learn all about the pivotal role Che Guevara played in the revolution, salsa dance the night away at Trinidad’s famous Casa de la Musica , bask in the quiet beauty of Soroa, and enjoy strolling through the pastel-hued streets of Havana . Remember to sample a few of Cuba’s other specialities, including rum (of course), coffee and honey.

Read more: 6 dreamy beaches to visit in Cuba

Sunnier days, more manageable temperatures and slimmer chances of rain all play their part in attracting travellers to Cuba’s Caribbean shores this time of year. During the dry season, it’s especially important to try and book in advance to avoid disappointment (if at all possible).

• 8-day Beautiful Cuba
• 15-day Best of Cuba

Get to grips with Havana on an Urban Adventure day tour

Palm Islands in Dubai

A fair few of us would admit to thinking of Dubai is a mere layover, a place to take a breather en route to your final stop. But, at Intrepid we’re firm believers in the philosophy that: it’s the journey, not just the destination . So, if Dubai is part of your trip, embrace it! March is a great time to go as temperatures haven’t reached their peak yet and rain showers are few and far between.

Want to know what to expect from this surprising and opulent city? Take a trip to a man-made island carved like a tropical palm tree, soak up awe-inspiring vistas from the great heights of the Burj Khalifa, or lose yourself in one of the world’s biggest shopping malls. You can also take a trip back in time to the historic area of Bastakiya, exploring its spice and gold souqs.

Feeling inspired?

Photo captured by Sian Parker

Step out of the everyday and into the captivating Land of the Pharaohs this March. Egyptian springtime is getting underway, and dry days and daily temperatures of around 25°C can be expected. What better climate to set off and explore this country’s marvellous monuments, or set sail down the Nile?

Read more: What it’s really like cruising the Nile on an Intrepid tour

Get to grips with the mythology and mystery that ancient Egypt is shrouded in as you visit the Pyramids and Great Sphinx of Giza, and the tombs of iconic rulers in the Valley of the Kings. Or make your way through the maze-like marketplace of Cairo’s Khan al-Khalili Bazaar to shop for glass lanterns, jewellery and other traditional trinkets. You’ll love the feeling of being dwarfed by the two enormous rock temples of Abu Simbel, too.

• 8-day Egypt Adventure
• 12-day Egypt Experience
• 15-day Classic Egypt & Jordan

Baby orangutan in Borneo

Are you absolutely orangutan obsessed? Then Borneo, and particularly Sabah, should be the next destination you tick off your bucket list. March kickstarts Sabah’s dry season, meaning fewer visitors, lower levels of rainfall and increased chances of finding these gentle giants in their natural habitat. It’s also an ideal time of year for sunning yourself on the beaches of Gaya Island, Kota Kinabalu and Sipadan.

Read more: Another reason to visit Borneo – Malaysia’s Rainforest World Music Festival

If you’d describe yourself as a bit of a water baby, you’ll love the fact that March also brings keen snorkelers the chance to go swimming in search of the world’s largest fish, the whale shark. Lankayan Island is a hotspot for tracking down these graceful beasts and is amazing for diving amongst its rainbow-coloured reefs and sunken shipwrecks from times gone by.

• 10-day Classic Borneo
• 11-day Sabah Adventure
• 8-day Borneo Expedition to the Maliau Basin

6. Hong Kong

Photo by Florian Wehde via Unsplash

Hong Kong is yet another one of those places considered a stopover and not a destination in its own right. But, this bustling city gives you a fascinating window into what the future of modern China will look like. With its impressive skyline, varied foodie offerings, and many museums and concert halls, you’ll wish you were staying longer than a few days!

Read more: Here’s what you need to do, eat and drink in Hong Kong

This vibrant urban centre is split into a mass of different neighbourhoods, each with its own speciality and personality. Shop until you drop in Causeway Bay, dig into sophisticated dishes in SoHo, embrace your inner hipster in Sheung Wan, sample a craft beer or two in Kennedy Town and so much more. Aside from all this excitement, Hong Kong also has over 260 outlying islands – boasting abandoned villages, challenging rock climbing opportunities, and otherworldly scenery.

• 19-day China Experience

Photo captured by Deba Prasad Roy

Alright, you caught us. We’ve already recommended India as a fantastic country to travel to in November and December, but we’d be missing a trick if we didn’t mention it here too. Why, you ask? Two words – Holi Festival. Officially ushering in the spring, Holi is celebrated as the Festival of Love all over the sub-continent and is one of the most colourful times in the Indian calendar.

Read more: 5 great destinations for solo travel in India

Join locals in the streets as they shower each other with vibrantly coloured powders and water and watch the Holika Dahan (wood and dung bonfires) burn as good triumphs over evil. Plus, try traditional festival treats like puran poli (a sweet buttery flatbread) and dahi vada (vegetable fritters soaked in thick Indian yoghurt). Holi is a cultural experience not to be missed!

• 14-day Premium India in Depth
• 8-day India’s Golden Triangle
• 15-day Classic Rajasthan

Not looking to travel in March? No worries. Check out our other monthly destination guides:

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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15 Best Places to Travel in March 2024

These are the best places to visit in March in the United States and around the world.

Carlsbad, California

Austin, texas, denver, colorado, clearwater beach, florida, chicago, illinois, park city, utah, lake oconee, georgia, oahu, hawaii, okinawa, japan.

• Mexico City, Mexico

Florence, Italy

Mendoza, argentina.

Allard1/Getty Images

Spring arrives in March, but depending on where you are, it can still feel like winter — or an early summer. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape from chilly temperatures at home or a late-season ski trip, we’ve got you covered. From sunny Caribbean islands to snowy ski resorts, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best places to travel in March in the U.S. and around the world so you can start planning your next getaway.

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Thousands of visitors will head for this city by the Pacific as the Carlsbad Flower Fields open on March 1 with 55 acres of colorful Giant Tecolote ranunculus blooms. Visitors can also stroll through Carlsbad’s downtown, dine at excellent restaurants, visit Carlsbad Aquafarm for fresh oysters, and shop at local boutiques.  “March in Carlsbad brings sunshine-filled days and balmy weather perfect for beach walks, hikes around the lagoons, springtime surfs (wetsuit-clad), and visits to Legoland California Resort for families with little ones,” Kim Sidoriak, president and CEO of Visit Carlsbad, tells Travel + Leisure . New additions to Legoland this year are Dino Valley and Lego World Parade. 

Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Aviara features a kids pool with waterslides, an adults pool, a golf course, superb dining, and the new Miraval Life in Balance Spa . Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is set on 400 acres with golf, pools, and a spa. The Legoland Hotel and Legoland Castle Hotel are steps from the park.

Pgiam/Getty Images

The annual eight-day South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference and Festival arrives at the Austin Convention Center on March 8, with technology, culture, film, music, comedy, and notable speakers. Rodeo Austin is in town from March 8-23, and there’s live music, great food, and always plenty of things to do in Austin .  “March brings a vibrant energy to Austin, well beyond the excitement of SXSW. As a local and advocate for the city’s charm, I recommend visiting this month when the streets buzz with local flair, outdoor adventures are prime, and the culinary scene comes alive,” says Hotel ZaZa general manager, Jacob Weaver.

Where to Stay: Hotel ZaZa offers a convenient downtown location and Group Therapy , their signature restaurant overlooking Republic Square Park. Thompson Austin features a rooftop pool with cabanas.

Jeremy Poland/Getty Images

In March, the Mile High City is still chilly with daytime temperatures reaching the mid-60s and colder nights. It’s a beautiful time to be outdoors, and nearby, Colorado’s ski towns are still covered in snow. With museums, theater, breweries, and concerts at Red Rock Amphitheater , there are dozens of fun things to do in Denver at any time of year. A sure sign of spring is the beginning of baseball season, and Denver welcomes MLB’s Colorado Rockies to Coors Field and adjacent McGregor Square. 

Where to Stay: Voted one of the best hotels in Denver by T+L readers, The Rally Hotel is steps from the ballpark, and it’s lively and fun with a rooftop pool for summer. Other options include the Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver or Hotel Clio , a Luxury Collection Hotel, in the Cherry Creek North neighborhood.

Related : This Colorado City Sits One Mile Above Sea Level — and It's a Gateway to the Rocky Mountains

John Coletti/Getty Images

As one of the best beaches in the U.S. , Clearwater Beach is an idyllic destination once the weather begins to warm up in March. The Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary at the end of March and early April with its famous sand sculptures and family entertainment. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, historic Cleveland Street District, dolphin cruises, miles of beaches, and sunny weather in the high 70s make March in Clearwater Beach perfect for families and spring breakers. 

Where to Stay: The beachfront JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa opened in spring 2023. Nearby in St. Petersburg, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club , dating to 1925, features renovated guest rooms, golf, tennis, and a marina.

Cory Giguere/Travel + Leisure

Although spring arrives in March, the cold weather hangs on a bit longer in the Windy City, so bundle up and duck into one of Chicago’s best museums to warm up (and explore). There’s plenty to do both indoors and outside. “As the city’s vibrancy comes back after the winter, there are concerts, theater premieres, and, of course, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations all across Chicago,” according to Rebecca Correri, general manager at 21c Museum Hotel Chicago . St. Patrick’s Day is a big occasion in Chicago, when the Chicago River turns emerald green and the official Irish Parade takes place. Chicago’s food is legendary; from deep-dish pizza to five-star dining, foodies love the city’s cuisine.

Where to Stay: An artsy boutique hotel, 21c Museum Hotel Chicago is set in the River North neighborhood. The St. Regis Chicago opened in May 2023 for another luxe option. Just outside the city, the elegant Deer Path Inn is reminiscent of a 15th-century Tudor mansion.

Roman Tiraspolsky/Getty Images

Spring is a gorgeous time for skiing in Park City , with snow throughout March (and even later some years). Conveniently located less than an hour from Salt Lake City International Airport, the charming downtown is almost as much of a draw as the snowy slopes. Restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and a history museum make exploring fun after a day of skiing. There’s also snowboarding, snowmobiling, a toboggan-style mountain coaster, zip line, and ski lessons for all ages. Trails and slopes for all levels are available, from beginner to expert. 

Where to Stay: There are several wonderful hotels in Park City, including The Lodge at Blue Sky , Auberge Resorts Collection, Pendry Park City , and Waldorf Astoria Park City . Montage Deer Valley offers ski-in, ski-out access at Deer Valley Resort, and Washington Schoolhouse is a historic boutique.

Come Along on T+L’s Top U.S. Adventures

Ralph Daniel/Visit Georgia

Located in Greensboro about 75 miles east of Atlanta, Lake Oconee is a serene getaway in central Georgia. Boating, golf, hiking, and nearby Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds offer many ways to enjoy the early spring weather and gorgeous outdoors. At Sandy Creek, there’s fishing, kayaking, off-roading, archery, and sporting clay shooting. In the historic downtown, visitors will find antique stores, boutiques, restaurants, and a walking tour for those who want to discover more about Greensboro’s past. Six championship golf courses and the Kingdom at Lake Oconee provide golfers with opportunities for play, practice, equipment, and lessons. My husband and I spent a few days — and played a few rounds of golf — at Lake Oconee. He’s been asking me when we’re going back, so I just might see you there if you schedule a trip in March. 

Where to Stay: The recently renovated Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Lake Oconee offers lakeside dining, boating, a spa, guest rooms, suites, cottages, and the Lake House, with four bedrooms and a stunning lakefront location. RVs and campers are welcome at Lake Oconee KOA .

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Perfect weather in the mid-70s, gorgeous scenery, white-sand beaches, and a lively atmosphere make March a great time for a trip to Oahu. The island is celebrating the 28th Annual Honolulu Festival (March 8-10) with a parade, stage performances, food, music, and a craft fair. March is prime whale watching time, and a cruise to see the humpbacks is a thrilling experience. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, swimming, surfing, or just relaxing on the beach are more ways to enjoy the island. My first snorkeling experience was at Hanauma Bay, and I’ve returned several times since then; the marine life there is incredible. Visitors can learn about the history of the islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center or the fascinating Bishop Museum . At Wai Kai , there’s a lagoon, wave pool, kayaking, and more for family fun.

Where to Stay: The surf-themed Twin Fin and beachfront Alohilani are options near Waikiki Beach. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is a great option for families with activities for all ages. 

Related : Oahu Is Home to a Jaw-dropping Volcanic Crater, Luxury Hotels, and Some of the World's Most Famous Surf Beaches

T+L’s 2024 Destination of the Year sees its dry season in March, making this the ideal time to visit for some travelers (although the best time to visit Costa Rica largely depends on what you want to experience). “There’s really no bad time to visit Costa Rica,” says Trevor Ling, owner of Hotel Three Sixty. “Late February through March is characterized by the driest weather and spectacular wildlife sightings, like the annual humpback whale migration. This is when Osa Peninsula’s biodiversity really comes to life. Here on the Pacific Coast, March is also prime time for watching turtles hatch on our coastline’s pristine beaches.” Whether your goal is to see wildlife, beaches, rainforests, or small towns, you can find what you’re after in Costa Rica.

Where to Stay: Adults-only Hotel Three Sixty is located on the southwest coast along the Pacific. Enjoy panoramic views from the mountainside Origins Lodge or a beachfront villa at Costa Elena . Those looking for a seamless stay may want to choose one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica . 

The three-island archipelago just south of Italy features well-preserved medieval fortresses, archaeological sites, and museums. From March through May, the Malta Biennale will be celebrated with cultural events and festivities. “Malta is the hidden gem of the Mediterranean, and art and design lovers who visit our country in 2024 will see more events, exhibitions, and festivals than ever before,” according to Phyllis Muscat, CEO and board chair of MICAS (Malta International Contemporary Art Space). “This fall our new contemporary art museum will open within the old fortification walls above the marina, only a few minutes walk from the center of Valletta. MICAS will offer visitors an ambitious collection of international contemporary art.”

Where to Stay: AC Hotel St. Julian’s and Barceló Fortina Malta opened in 2023, and a Hard Rock Hotel and Hyatt Centric are expected to open in early 2024. 

Ippei Naoi/Getty Images

Spring arrives in March with flowers blooming and temperatures warming into the high 60s, perfect for being outdoors. Hiking in Keramashoto National Park , strolling along beaches, and enjoying colorful blossoms are among things to do. In Higashi Village, more than 50,000 azaleas bloom for the March Azalea Festival. The Netflix series, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones , has inspired travel to Okinawa, and visitors find incredible experiences like diving among coral reefs, learning about the islands’ history and traditions, and enjoying the delicious cuisine. Flights from major cities in Asia arrive at Okinawa’s Naha Airport.

Where to Stay: Hoshinoya Okinawa is an oceanside resort offering the Okinawa Blue Zone Stay, a three-day wellness experience. Halekulani Okinawa offers guest rooms and five villas with private pools. Homm Okinawa , a Banyan Tree Hotel, features spacious private villas. 

Mexico City, Mexico 

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

March is ideal for a trip to Mexico City, with dry weather, temperatures in the mid-70s, and the blooming of the purple jacarandas. It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s neighborhoods, from hip to historic, sample street food, and learn about the past. More than a museum, Casa Azul is the place where Frida Kahlo spent her early life and her time with Diego Rivera. Personal objects, folk art, photos, books, and paintings by both artists create a fascinating experience. I loved the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco during my visit a few years ago; seeing local families, tourists, and the colorful boats ( trajineras ) and flowers was such fun. 

Where to Stay: Hotel San Fernando is a boutique hotel in the Condesa neighborhood. Andaz Mexico City Condesa features the Cabuya Rooftop restaurant and bar. Colima 71 is in Colonia Roma Norte.

Related : How to Plan a Trip to Mexico City — Including the Best Restaurants, Hotels, and Things to Do 

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

March begins the shoulder season in Florence, after the winter months but ahead of spring and summer’s more popular tourist seasons. Visiting museums, restaurants, and piazzas is ideal in March, and with the right clothing, the cool weather can be comfortable. Florentine New Year , dating to the Middle Ages, is celebrated on March 25 with a procession through the city streets. Easter falls on March 31, and a unique tradition, the Explosion of the Cart , takes place. Claudio Meli, general manager of The Place tells T+L, “March is the perfect time to visit our beloved Florence and embrace some of our local traditions. One of my favorites is the Scoppio del Carro , or Exploding of the Cart. Outside of the Duomo, the cardinal of Florence lights a massive cart and fireworks are released, symbolizing the Holy Spirit.”

Where to Stay: The Place , a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Piazza Santa Maria Novella, will reopen in mid-March after a redesign. Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel , is located on Piazza della Repubblica. 

Edsel Querini/Getty Images

“The Harvest Festival in Mendoza is a captivating celebration that beautifully intertwines the rich viticultural heritage of the region with a vibrant display of culture and tradition. It’s a time when the vineyards come alive with the culmination of a year’s hard work, and the air is filled with the aroma of freshly harvested grapes,” Veronica Marquina, general manager at Cavas Wine Lodge, told T+L . “It’s a must-experience event that immerses visitors in the heart and soul of Mendoza’s wine culture.” The Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia (Feb.28-March 3) celebrates the harvest with music, dance, theater, and, of course, wine. This agricultural region where malbec is famously made is about 650 miles west of Buenos Aires.

Where to Stay: Cavas Wine Lodge , a Relais & Châteaux member, is a boutique property set in a 55-acre vineyard. The Vines Resort & Spa is set in the Uco Valley, and SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites features wines from Susana Balbo Winery .

Anish Punchayil sukumaran/Getty Images

Located in the Caribbean Sea, this island is shared by two nations: the Netherlands and France. Visitors cross the open border easily, and in St. Maarten (the Dutch side), they’ll find casinos, bars, shopping, and nightlife, while in St. Martin (the French side), excellent restaurants, beaches, and beautiful natural surroundings are abundant. The largest regatta in the Caribbean, the Heineken Regatta (Feb. 29-March 3), will bring yacht fans from around the world. SXM Music Festival (March 11-18) arrives for five nights of electronic music and dancing. Water sports, sailing, hiking, and zip lining are among the many things to do on St. Martin.

Where to Stay: La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel was voted among the best resorts in the Caribbean in our 2023 World’s Best Awards.

23 of the best places to travel to around the world in 2023

• Most countries have opened their borders after pandemic closures.
• See the world again in 2023 with big events, hotel openings, and new air routes planned.
• No matter your budget and travel style, here's where to go around the world in 2023.

If you've been putting international travel off, the new year is a great time to get back out into the world.

Many of the the last countries to open their borders amid the pandemic such as Japan , Thailand , and Bhutan , have done so at last, meaning travelers can put those passports to good use all around the world.

And booking data shows travelers are doing just that; travel insurance marketplace Squaremouth reported that nearly 90 percent of insured travel was for international destinations , marking the first time since COVID-19 that international travel matched pre-pandemic levels, per its data. Though, there's plenty to see at home in the US , too.

As more travelers take vacations, ongoing trends of wellness-focused travel  and extended-stay travel as a function of continuing remote work are expected to continue to drive those booking decisions.

As a travel writer, I stay on top of industry trends and newsworthy events happening at destinations all over the world. And as a frequent traveler — with a particular affinity for stamping up my passport — I have my own personal favorite locations and dream destinations that make compelling reasons to board planes in the coming year. 

In 2023 we'll see a slate of big cultural happenings and events, from the new International African American Museum that will open domestically to the expected arrival of the Grand Egyptian Museum right next to the pyramids.

With these references as inspiration, I put together recommendations for the best places to travel to around the world in 2023, no matter your style or budget.

Bhutan has reopened to tourists, now with renovations made to one of the greatest walks in the world.

High in the Himalayas, Bhutan reopened its border after a pandemic closure in early 2020.

Along with that, the 250-mile historic Trans-Bhutan Trail reopened for the first time in 60 years after years of extensive restoration. Spanning from Haa in the west of Bhutan to Trashigang in the east, the trail dates back to the 16th century , and was once the only way to travel across Bhutan.

It's a bucket list dream of mine to get a chance to traverse this path, recognized by many travel outlets such as Lonely Planet as one of the world's greatest walks in the world. It passes through stunning landscapes, 21 temples, 12 mountain passes, five suspension bridges, ancient fortresses, monasteries, and more than 400 historic sites .

In 2023, Western Australia will be the site of a spectacular celestial event.

On April 20, 2023, a total solar eclipse will be visible just off Western Australia's coast in Exmouth.

This special lunar event — when the moon obscures the face of the sun — usually happens out at sea , so spring will bring a rare opportunity to see this natural phenomenon by land.

The World Heritage-listed Ningaloo region is the most accessible land-based place on earth to view the spectacle. Plus, this lunar event will coincide with the start of whale shark season , and it's long been a dream of mine to swim with these gorgeous creatures.

Cayman Islands will become the only Caribbean destination served by nonstop flights from the West Coast.

Although the Caribbean isn't too far from the US West Coast geographically, I find it so daunting to plan trips there for my family from our home in Los Angeles, California.

That's because there have been a lack of direct flights to the region, which means a long and potentially arduous trip.

But that's now changed with the arrival of nonstop service on Cayman Airways from LAX to Owen Roberts International Airport in Grand Cayman.

It will be the Caribbean islands' only direct flight to service Los Angeles travelers and I think introductory fares are quite well priced, starting from $399 .

Home to the famous Seven Mile Beach , the Cayman Islands are on my list to visit in 2023. 

Several over-the-top, ultra-luxury resorts will open in Dubai.

I haven't been to Dubai yet, but as a fan of luxury hotels I am eager to join its robust traveler ranks.

Dubai is hardly under the radar. In fact, in 2022 it was the most-viewed destination on TikTok, with 82 billion views, according to the TikTok Travel Index 2022 . 

In 2023, I think it will only earn more interest as Emirates invests more than $2 billion to enhance its air service there, including revamping aircrafts, serving new menus, and more.

Additionally, the ultra-luxury resort Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is planned to open in 2023, and comes from the same brand behind the world-famous sailboat-inspired Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. The new hotel will take inspiration from a futuristic superyacht, according to its developer .

The five-star luxury hotel brand One&Only will also open a new property in Dubai with One Za'abeel that will have the world's longest cantilever building, a panoramic sky concourse that connects two towers floating 100 meters above the ground, as well as celebrity-chef restaurants, a statement swimming pool, and retail and entertainment, according to its website .

The new year will also bring the full opening of Atlantis, The Royal , a 43-story luxury resort spread across six towers with 17 on-site restaurants curated by celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs including three-Michelin-starred Björn Frantzén , and more than 90 swimming pools, including one on the 22nd floor with views of the Palm crescent. 

For an indulgent escape, Loire Valley, France, beckons with five-star chateaux.

One of my best friends now lives in France, and this is going to be a good year to plan a visit to see them, and the country.

That's because the new year marks the 600th anniversary of the birth of Louis XI , and many of the historic landmark chateaux across this UNESCO World Heritage Site region will commemorate with special exhibitions and activities. 

I particularly want to visit this area to check out recent hotel openings that include Château Louise de La Vallière , a new five-star Relais & Chateaux collection hotel nestled in a forest in the Loire Valley region, only a few minutes from Tours and Amboise.

Additionally, Fleur de Loire in the town of Blois, has five-star hotel and dining helmed by two-Michelin-starred Chef Christophe Hay. It's on my travel bucket list for its forthcoming expansion with spacious, contemporary rooms.

Japan is finally open after two years of pandemic closure.

After two years of border closure amid the pandemic, Japan reopened to travelers in late 2022.

Visitors will find an array of properties that opened while borders were closed, which have yet to be discovered by US travelers, including beachfront HOSHINOYA Okinawa , the traditional ryokan hot spring resorts KAI Yufuin and KAI Beppu designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, and family-friendly resort  RISONARE Osaka .

One that has yet to open but is expected to be Japan's largest hotel and entertainment complex, is the massive Tokyo Kabukicho Tower . It will have a cinema, two luxury hotels, a concert venue, an entertainment food hall, and more when it opens in 2023.

For foodies, Ace Hotel Kyoto will bring a Noma residency from March to May. Noma is a restaurant that has been named the best in the world by a panel of critics.

Las Vegas is one of my favorite cities in the world, and big events will take place here in 2023.

One of my absolute favorite cities in the world for its round-the-clock energy, great pools, and readily available craps and roulette, Las Vegas always dazzles me with a new schedule of spectacles every year. 

In November 2023, Sin City will go over the top when the Las Vegas Strip will transform into a racetrack as Formula 1 returns to the city for the first time in nearly 40 years. Race cars will drive along Las Vegas Boulevard as part of the race, and some of Sin City's most iconic landmarks — such as the Bellagio fountains — will become seating and viewpoints for guests to watch it all happen.

Travel to Bali, Indonesia, for a wellness-focused vacation.

I love Bali for its natural beauty, spiritual atmosphere, vegetarian-friendly food, and impeccable hospitality at some of the most incredible hotels I've ever seen.

In 2023, Bali will continue to be a go-to destination for wellness seekers, especially when it welcomes travelers from around the world in the spring for the Bali Spirit Festival , a four-day celebration of yoga, music, and dance.

While there, I suggest a visit to the island's cultural landmarks like Pura Gegar, one of the island's Hindu temples, or the Pasifika Museum , known for its extensive collection of art and cultural artifacts.

Travelers can book their own private villa at one of Bali's newest resorts, Marriott Vacation Club Bali Nusa Dua Terrace , which will soon open with apartment-style lodgings that I think are harder to come by in the area, and great for larger families and groups.

Mérida, Mexico, will soon have new green spaces and flight service.

I was charmed by Mérida in Mexico during a brief visit as part of a Yucatan Peninsula road trip, and am definitely due to go back to explore it further.

In 2023, I think it will be easier to travel to the area with a new daily flight to Mérida from Mexico City via Viva Aerobus . Once there, visit  La Plancha , a centrally-located park that will become a recreational space for Merida residents and visitors, that will work to purify Mérida's air while providing a pleasant green space, alongside the city's many other parks .

Just 15 minutes from Merida, the 18th-century Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana is my choice of where to stay, which has 36 new suites, a poolside snack bar, and an Olympic-length swimming pool. And in 2023, the hotel will open a fully-equipped fitness center and spa, too. 

I think the small Caribbean island of Canouan is under the radar — but not for long.

Even though I'm a career travel writer with a particular interest in luxurious, tropical destinations, I had never even heard of Canouan before this past summer.

Now that I've been, it's hard to imagine it will stay a secret much longer.

This small island is located within the Caribbean nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and it seems to me that it's somehow still off most US travelers' radar, but with major international brands' new presence , that may soon change.

For instance, on the island of just five square miles , there is now a luxury Mandarin Oriental resort , which recently took over the former Pink Sands Club, in addition to the exclusive, members-only Soho House , which opened a location on this remote island just over a year ago. I visited Soho House and loved it for an upscale getaway including a date night at the on-site restaurant with flavorful dishes and a breezy, beachy atmosphere.

Plan a visit to Istanbul in 2023 when Turkey celebrates a major milestone.

I love Istanbul, Turkey. I'm a fan of the heavily-spiced vegetarian food, and as a shopper, I've spent hours browsing the markets and shops.

Turkey saw record tourism in 2022 , and 2023 is gearing up to be even bigger as the country will celebrate its 100th anniversary of becoming a republic .

Istanbul is also the only city to span two continents , and the monthlong Istanbul Tulip Festival will take place in April across parks, events, and exhibitions. Just in time for the country's centennial, Istanbul's Maiden Tower — once a watchtower on a tiny Bosphorous island on the Asian side — is undergoing renovation and conversion as a museum with a 2023 opening. 

Thailand is finally reopen, with a schedule of cool festivals coming up in 2023.

With all COVID-19 border restrictions lifted in Thailand as of October 2022, the country is on my shortlist for a visit this coming year.

And the relaxed travel rules aren't the only reason I want to visit. 

Coming to Thailand for the first time in 2023 is America's hip-hop music festival, Rolling Loud , which will be held at the Legend Siam Amusement Park in Pattaya in April. At the same time is Songkranm , the festival of water that symbolizes the cleansing of spirit and body.

I'm also continually impressed by the number of luxury hotels in Bangkok, and Rosewood Bangkok recently reopened in the prime business and retail district of Ploenchit, which I think is an ideal destination for shoppers and foodies .

Digital nomads looking to make a move in 2023 should consider Portugal.

We loved our family tour of Portugal four years ago when we made our home base at the residential-like Martinhal luxury apartments in Lisbon, which I'd recommend to any families, groups, or individuals on a long-term stay. We also took side trips to magical, castle-filled places like Sintra , and I'd love to go back.

Recently, Portugal announced requirements for its highly anticipated "digital-nomad visa," which allows remote workers who make four times the national minimum wage (approximately $800 per month ) to live and work in the country. I think that makes the beautiful European nation an ideal destination for working remotely.

Go for an extended visit in 2023 and stay where I did, or look into  Rentyl Resorts , which offers the long-term comfort of a vacation home, such as kitchens and dining areas, with the services and amenities of a resort, like housekeeping service.

New trains and cable cars in Switzerland will bring incredible, must-see views.

Several events are scheduled to take place in Switzerland in 2023 that I think make it worth a visit.

For example, the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing is due to be completed in early 2023, and I would love to experience the cable car crossing for the incredible views from 4,000 meters of altitude . The new Matterhorn Glacier Ride II will form the last section of the crossing, connecting Zermatt and the Italian resort of Cervinia, and will operate year-round — not just in the ski resorts' popular snow seasons.

Also just opened is the GoldenPass Express , the realization of a 150-year-old idea to link Lake Geneva and the lakes of Thun and Brienz. It marks the first nonstop train route between Interlaken and Montreux. In the most elevated seating class, travelers sit in rotating seats for 360-degree views.

It's now also easier to get there. As part of Delta's recent expansion of service to European destinations, the airline will reinstate its service to Geneva , Switzerland. Previously paused in 1993, the new service will start in April 2023. 

"White Lotus" fans should go to Sicily to check into the real hotel where the TV show filmed.

HBO's "White Lotus" filmed its first season at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea when the resort was closed due to COVID-19. I was obsessed with the show, and had so much fun comparing the on-screen scenery with my real-life experience of the resort when I visited during a subsequent stay.

Next, I want to check into the White Lotus from the second season in Sicily, Italy.

Filming for the latest installment of the show shut down San Domenico Palace in Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel , and now Hotels.com reports that searches for the resort increased over 300 percent even before the season approached the dramatic finale that had my friends and I totally rapt.

I hope to check into this Four Seasons in 2023 to listen to piano music, dip into the infinity pool, and take way too many meals solely at the hotel restaurant.

I also think the hotel is well positioned to explore the area's culinary experiences and vineyards such as Gambino Winery and Cantine Florio , plus a spot of shopping in Noto, of course.

Glasgow, Scotland, will host a major cycling event in 2023.

I'm not a cycler, but since I love a great international spectacle, I'd consider a trip to Glasgow in Scotland in 2023 for the UCI Cycling World Championships , which will take place in the city.

It's the first event of its kind , where the world's greatest riders will come together to compete, with five venues in the city staging eight of the 13 world championship events.

Glasgow will also have several major hotel, restaurant, and museum openings in the coming year. I'm particularly excited about the boutique hotel and cocktail bar, House of Gods Glasgow ; Virgin Hotel Glasgow , which I think will be an ideal base for exploring the city; and Gotham Hotel , a luxury hotel planned for Blythswood Square that will have historic features of Glasgow's Georgian architecture intact.

Egypt's new, long-delayed museum is scheduled to open at long last.

After much anticipation and years of delay , the Grand Egyptian Museum , located on the Giza Plateau next to the Great Pyramids of Egypt is at last expected to open in 2023.

Seeing the pyramids and learning about their history in this museum is a longtime dream and travel bucket list item of mine. With an estimated 100,000 artifacts and jaw-dropping spectacles such as the 83-ton, 3,200-year-old statue of Ramses II , the museum alone is worthy of a trip across the globe, in my opinion.

The US dollar will go far in Croatia, and a new bridge eases travel.

My family's last major trip before COVID-19 was an unforgettable road trip around Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast where we enjoyed boat charters, beach clubs, and endless ice cream.

It was an absolute dream that I can't recommend enough, especially now that the country is adopting the euro in January . And with the currency now at parity with the US dollar , that means Americans' money will go far when visiting. 

Additionally, the new Pelješac Bridge connects the region of Southern Dalmatia with the rest of the country's mainland, cutting travel time down significantly along the Adriatic coastline. When we visited, we rented a car and enjoyed how much we could see of the Dalmatian Coast in short bursts from our home base of Dubrovnik, but we encountered tons of traffic, and I imagine the route is much easier with this new addition.

The bridge will also give easier access to Dubrovnik, ancient port city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its crystal blue waters and stunning coastline. 

In AlUla, ancient human history meets luxurious modern hospitality.

The desert area of AlUla is nestled in the unexplored northwestern deserts of Saudi Arabia, and its intrigue beckons me. Here, 200,000 years of human history meet modern arts and culture , exploration, adventure , and luxury hotels. 

The latter excites me, in particular. The new year brings luxury hotel openings from global brands, including Banyan Tree AlUla , which will be a luxury tented resort set against rock formations in the art-filled region of Ashar Valley for a vibe that blends the natural landscape with elevated service and amenities.

When you visit, check out heritage sites including Hegra, the sister city to Petra, Jordan, which is known for tombs and temples carved into sandstone cliffs .

And festival season takes place from December through March, with experiences focused on art, culture, wellness. A-list performances will take place at Maraya Concert Hall , which is the world's largest mirrored building that I think seems to blends into the desert sand.

One of my favorite destinations in the South, Charleston, South Carolina, will introduce a highly-anticipated new museum.

One of my favorite places in the US is Charleston, South Carolina, and the city will introduce new hotels, restaurants, and cultural destinations in 2023.

Most notably, the International African American Museum is scheduled for a January opening on Charleston's Gadsden's Wharf, with exhibits honoring the stories of the African American journey. It will explore culture and knowledge kept and adapted by Africans in the Americas, as well as their achievements throughout the state and country.

During your visit, I suggest a stay at the historic district's The Charleston Place hotel, which is revealing a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2023, and will also have complimentary guest shuttles to and from the new museum. 

The Phoenix and Scottsdale area is getting the Super Bowl, along with many other events and openings.

While my home city of Los Angeles had the Super Bowl this year, next year's big game will head to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona in February.

But I'd say that's far from the only reason to visit Phoenix. Beyond the game, the Greater Phoenix area is also hosting the MLB Cactus League Spring Training , as well as the Waste Management Phoenix Open , the best-attended golf tournament in the world with more than 700,000 fans in attendance.

Adding to the region's world-class hotel and resorts, Moxy Phoenix Downtown will open in the spring, and The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie will open in the fall on 20 acres with a view of Camelback Mountain and a 400-foot swimming pool.

I think Paris is a good value for Americans right now.

If you ask me, Paris is always a good idea, especially now that the euro is at parity with the US dollar . At the time of my last visit, it was closer to 1.4 dollars to a euro, and that made my travel budget feel quite tight.

But that's not the only reason I suggest a visit soon. In 2023, Paris will allow visitors the chance to stay at hotels such as The Hôtel de la Marine on Place de la Concorde, which opened to the public for the first time since The Revolution. It also served as the headquarters of France's navy ministry for over 200 years, and now its stately reception rooms and restaurant take over fully restored spaces.

Paris visitors may also view the recently-opened private art collection at the Bourse de Commerce , which houses contemporary works from the collection of the French billionaire François Pinault.

As an added reason to visit, French Bee now flies a cheap $217 nonstop route from Miami to Paris , according to the airline's site.

San Francisco just got its own equivalent of NYC's High Line.

I lived in San Francisco with friends around the Y2K era and always look for any reason to return.

In 2023 though, the city will mark a few milestones and celebrations that will be especially good reasons to plan a visit.

Key city landmarks will celebrate anniversaries, including the San Francisco Opera at 100 years, and the Ferry Building , which will mark 125 years. Visitors can also expect special programming and events throughout the year, such as the opera's grand finale concert and centennial anniversary dinner .

Elsewhere in the city, Presidio Tunnel Tops recently opened, comprising 14 acres of new national parkland . Designed by the same firm behind NYC's High Line , I think it's an ideal spot to take in views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Additionally, the newly opened Line Hotel San Francisco is an outpost of one of my favorite cool hotel brands and comes with a landscaped rooftop solarium that I think is worth a look.

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The 10 best places to visit in March 2024

From the Blue Mosque in Istanbul to the heavenly beaches of Mexico, these are the best places to travel in March

Spring has sprung (or at least limped trembling out the shadowy depths of February) and it’s time to celebrate new life with new horizons. What better time of year could there be to explore a destination you haven’t yet discovered?

Head to Borneo to meet the orangutans, or wrap up and to wander the streets and museums of Copenhagen . Haggle your way through the souks of Marrakech , or bask in the springtime sun of the glorious beaches of Mexico . Do those all sound like good ideas? Well, there’s plenty more where they came from - here’s our list of the very best holiday destinations of an March adventure.

RECOMMENDED: 🌟The best places in the world for stargazing 🌃The best city breaks in Europe for 2024 🎨The best cities in the world for culture 🌊The best places to visit in April 2024

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts.

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Best places to travel in March

1.  Istanbul

One of the world’s most fascinating cities, Istanbul has one foot in Europe and one in Asia , with the mighty Bosphorus strait dividing the city in two. While the Asian side is well worth a visit, most of the attractions can be found in the European part, from the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar to the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace and plenty, plenty more. March is generally pleasant weather-wise, with sunny days and mild temperatures.

🕌Discover the best things to do in Istanbul

2.  Sicily

Sure, we all know Italy as a summer vacation spot, but it does get pretty choker. Why not beat the start of the high season and head to Sicily for some springtime sun, before the temperatures reach their scorching summer heights? The breezy March weather will make for a much more enjoyable time to sample all the seafood and explore the gorgeous streets of Palermo and Catania. But it's not just the island’s cities that are worth a peruse - the vibrant town of Cefalu is home to some incredible ancient ruins and even a Norman cathedral.

🏩Discover the best hotels in Sicily

3.  Copenhagen

Straddling two coastal islands, Denmark ’s capital makes for an excellent city break in March. You’ll want to layer up— temperatures don’t tend to exceed 5C/41F—but it’s a small price to pay to avoid the seething tourist crowds that descend later in the year. Most of the main attractions are open, from the National Museum of Denmark to Amalienborg Palace.

🎨Discover the best things to do in Copenhagen

4.  Yucatan, Mexico

The frankly glorious Mexican state of Yucatan has more world-class things to see, do and experience than some entire countries, and March is a great time to visit. Laze on paradise beaches (take your pick from Tulum , Playa del Carmen ,  Riviera Maya  or nearby island Cozumel ), explore ancient Mayan ruins, walk around vibrant cities with stunning colonial architecture, and dive into gorgeous cenotes (azure sink-holes).

🏖️Discover the best things to do in Cozumel

5.  Palm Springs, California

This oasis of a city, located in the California desert about a two hour drive east from L.A. , is a brilliant spot to soak up some spring (or late winter) sunshine (expect 27C/80F). Other than lounging by a hotel pool, a must-do is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which will carry you on a rotating cable car through a majestic canyon before depositing you at a viewpoint which presents the entire Coachella Valley in all its glory.

🌵Discover the best things to do in Palm Springs

6.  Jaipur, India

Jaipur, aka the ‘Pink City’ on account of the blushed hue of its buildings, is one of India ’s top highlights, and March temperatures (around 30C/86F at the hottest part of the day) make it all the more agreeable. Highlights include the stupendously impressive palaces of Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal (the latter sits in the middle of a lake), and Nahargarh Fort, which is one of the finest in a country where there’s plenty of competition.

📍Discover the best things to do in Jaipur

7.  Marrakech

Pleasing alliterations aside, there are some huge pluses to visiting Morocco ’s Marrakech in March. The daytime temperatures lounge around a manageable 22C/72F, perfect for a city that begs to be explored on foot, with a tantalising maze of alleyways within the ancient medina walls (not to mention the enormous public square, Jemaa el-Fna, at the heart of it all). Get lost in one of the world’s best souks, and soak up the atmosphere of the street food stalls in the aforementioned square once evening falls.

🌤️Discover the best things to do in Marrakech

8.  Central America

March is one of the best times to visit Central America (the dry season runs from December to April), with balmy air and pleasant sea temperatures: Trek to Belize for splendid coral reefs; Guatemala has beautiful Lake Atitlan; Nicaragua, with its surfable volcanoes (bucket list anyone?); and Costa Rica 's jaw-dropping biodiversity. It’ll be a trip to remember.

🦜Discover the best things to do in Costa Rica

9.  Austin, Texas

The Texan capital has firmly established itself as the live music capital of the world (to borrow its self-awarded slogan), and the corresponding highlight that is SXSW occurs in March (March 10-19 in 2023, to be exact). Other than the music scene, there’s a huge amount to experience here, especially outdoors: the city boasts 300 or so parks , and many miles of urban walking and cycling trails . It’s also absurdly friendly, and has an awesome food truck scene.

🏜️Discover the best things to do in Austin

10.  Borneo

The South East Asian island of Borneo, shared between Indonesia , Malaysia and Brunei, forms one of the most wonderful natural environments Planet Earth has on offer. Its most famous residents are its orangutans, which can be seen in abundance in their natural jungle home, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit: you can swim with turtles, hike up mountains, and explore jaw-dropping caves.

🦧Discover 12 ways to be a sustainable tourist right now

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Best places to visit in march 2024.

Traveling in spring certainly has its perks. If you can brave cooler temperatures and the occasional rain shower, you'll likely be rewarded with fewer crowds and lower travel rates in many popular destinations, ranging from palm-fringed beaches to cities big and small. U.S. News considered factors like affordability, things to do, must-visit attractions, overall appeal and more to determine the best places to visit in March. Don't forget to cast your vote below to have a say in next year's ranking.

Iguazu Falls

Cinque terre, vancouver, canada, galapagos islands, big bend national park, luang prabang.

Visiting during Barcelona's shoulder season has its perks, including smaller crowds and lower rates on airfare and accommodations. Plus, average temperatures hover near the low 60s in March, so you won't overheat while exploring must-see sights such as Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) and Park Güell, a whimsical park designed by Antoni Gaudí. What's more, you can explore other popular Gaudí landmarks like Casa Batlló and Basílica de la Sagrada Família without hordes of tourists blocking your view. When you've worked up an appetite, venture to the quiet Gràcia neighborhood to sample authentic Catalan cuisine on a food tour.

Straddling the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is one of the largest waterfall systems in the world. While the natural beauty of the falls will take your breath away year-round, travelers who plan a trip in March enjoy the added bonus of fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures and cheaper accommodations. Remember to set aside time in your schedule for Iguazu's most dramatic feature, Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), a semicircular chasm fed by 14 of Iguazu's waterfalls.

Although March falls within Maui's peak season, its excellent weather (think: average daytime temps in the high 70s and low 80s) and prime conditions for water sports and wildlife viewing make it a superb time to visit. Experienced surfers can head to popular surf spots like Ho'okipa Beach and Pe'ahi (dubbed "Jaws") to hang ten, while beginners stick to the waves at Kaanapali Beach. Meanwhile, animal lovers can look for migrating humpback whales during a whale watching cruise. To save some coin, book your Maui hotel and airfare at least a few months in advance.

These five towns on the Italian Riviera are beautiful any time of year, but there are a few benefits to visiting in March. The cooler weather (think: average temperatures sit in the high 50s) makes it a perfect time to hike Cinque Terre's famous trails, although rain may cause some of the trails to close at times. Additionally, many local shops reopen after closing for winter. Since spring is one of Cinque Terre's shoulder seasons, you'll find fewer tourists this time of year, allowing you to comfortably explore the area on foot or by boat.

March marks the end of Cape Town, South Africa's busy summer season, when temperatures begin to drop and crowds thin out. Tourists who plan a March vacation will be rewarded with cheaper rates and pleasant temps in the mid-70s, perfect for exploring top sights like Table Mountain and Camps Bay Beach. Plus, fall kicks off Cape Town's wine harvest, which makes it a great time to explore the world-renowned Constantia Valley wine region . Many festivals and events are also held throughout the month, including the Cape Town Carnival.

Situated between two of Utah 's five main national parks, Moab is an outdoor adventure hub known for its awe-inspiring red rock formations. Travelers can admire them during visits to Arches National Park (where the world's densest concentration of natural sandstone arches resides) and Canyonlands National Park (which is the largest national park in the state). Travelers who time their trip for the beginning of the month will have the best chance of avoiding crowds while still enjoying comfortable weather in the 50s and 60s. Other must-do March activities include hiking, rock climbing, off-roading and camping.

Whether you're enjoying a show at the Vancouver International Dance Festival or admiring cherry blossoms in Queen Elizabeth Park, there are plenty of reasons to visit Vancouver in March. Spend your time on a walking or biking tour of popular neighborhoods like Granville Island and Yaletown, then ride the Skyride gondola to the top of Grouse Mountain for breathtaking views of the city. March temperatures in this Canadian vacation destination are mild in the low 50s, and although you'll likely experience some rainfall, this is a great time to score big on hotel deals.

The reasons for traveling to this German city in March are multifold. Although you'll have to deal with some chilly weather (average temperatures sit in the high 40s), visiting during this shoulder season means fewer crowds and lower prices. March also brings the city's annual Starkbierfest event, a traditional Bavarian beer festival, and St. Patrick's Day, one of the largest cultural events in Munich. When you're not engaging in the festivities, spend the rest of your time sightseeing at famous attractions like St. Peter's Church and the Munich Residenz, the largest city palace in Germany.

While you can spot wildlife in the Galápagos year-round, March is nesting season for animals like green sea turtles, iguanas and red-footed boobies. Keep an eye out near the water, too, as sea lions are known to hang on the beaches. And though March falls within the wet season (you'll want to bring an umbrella), there should still be ample warm, sunny days to enjoy the beach, particularly toward the end of the month.

Boasting 150-plus miles of hiking trails, Big Bend National Park in southwest Texas appeals to travelers with an affinity for the outdoors. Observe wildlife (including more than 450 species of birds), kayak along the Rio Grande or explore Big Bend while horseback riding. Keep in mind that spring is the park's busiest season, so you won't be the only one admiring the spectacular mountain views. Plan accordingly by allotting extra time for waiting in lines and booking your trip accommodations far in advance.  

One of Cozumel, Mexico's biggest draws is its abundance of aquatic activities. The country's largest Caribbean island is one of the best places to scuba dive thanks to its clear water and proximity to the world's second-largest barrier reef. To get in the water, head to Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park to dive, snorkel or swim with dolphins. If you'd rather stay dry, sign up for a glass-bottom boat tour or lounge on one of the island's white sand beaches. Because March is outside the Atlantic hurricane season, you'll enjoy plenty of warm, dry weather.

While the northern half of the world is entering spring, Southern Hemisphere destinations like Sydney are just beginning their fall season. This means travelers will encounter pleasant weather in March (average temperatures hover in the high 70s) that is perfect for taking in some of Sydney's most iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Other must-do activities include surfing and sunbathing at Bondi Beach and strolling through the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Australia's oldest botanical garden.

Visit Punta Mita, Mexico, in March if you want to relax while on vacation. This former fishing village in western Mexico's Riviera Nayarit area is now renowned for its opulent resorts, world-class golf courses and beautiful white sand beaches. Punta Mita's warm weather and clear blue water also make it an excellent place to go scuba diving, surfing and Jet Skiing. What's more, March is one of several months when humpback whales migrate through the region, so you'll want to save time for a whale watching excursion.

March falls within this Laotian city's dry season, meaning you can participate in top outdoor activities like climbing Mount Phousi and taking a boat tour to the Pak Ou Caves without the threat of rain. Plus, the warm weather in the 80s and 90s makes cooling off in the turquoise waters of Kuang Si Falls even more enjoyable. No trip to Luang Prabang would be complete without exploring some of the city's ancient Buddhist temples – Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Wisunarat are two can't-miss sites.  

Although March ushers in some of Jamaica's lowest temps, this time of year is by no means cold. Daytime highs comfortably sit in the mid-80s in March, making Jamaica an appealing destination to spring breakers and those in search of a warm-weather holiday. Vacationers can climb to the top of Dunn's River Falls or hike through Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park. Those looking for a more relaxing getaway can lounge on a variety of white sand beaches or unwind at one of the island's luxurious all-inclusive resorts .

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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March 2023 International Air Passenger Travel

—air passenger enplanements up 42% year over year in march 2023 —air passenger travel between the united states and europe up 59% in march 2023.

Data recently released by the National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) show that in March 2023 :

U.S.-international air traffic passenger enplanements 1 totaled:

• 19.687 million in March 2023, up 41.7% compared to March 2022, with enplanements reaching 92.3% of pre-pandemic March 2019 volume. 

Originating Non-Stop Air Travel in March 2023

• 4.285 million in March 2023, up 48.2% compared to March 2022.  
• This represents 82.4% of pre-pandemic March 2019 volume. 

On a related note, overseas visitor arrivals 2 (with stays of 1-night or more in the United States and visiting under certain visa types) totaled 2.158 million in March 2023, the seventeenth consecutive month overseas visitor arrivals exceeded 1.0 million. March overseas visitor arrivals reached 74.8% of pre-pandemic March 2019 volume, up from 68.8% in February 2022.

(See March I-94 Preliminary Release   https://www.trade.gov/i-94-arrivals-program )

• 5.642 million in March 2023, up 38.8% compared to March 2022 and exceeding March 2019 volume by 4.9%. 

World Region Highlights in February 2023 (APIS/I-92 arrivals + departures)

• Total air passenger travel (arrivals and departures) between the United States and other countries were led by Mexico 3.550 million, Canada 2.632 million, the United Kingdom 1.466 million, the Dominican Republic 917,000 and Germany 735,000.  
• Europe totaled 4.797 million passengers, up 58.7% over March 2022, and down only (-8.8%) compared to March 2019.  
• South/Central America/Caribbean totaled 5.208 million, up 18.6% over March 2022, and down only (-2.6%) compared to March 2019.  
• Asia totaled 1.893 million passengers, up 261.6% over March 2022, but still down (-39.2%) compared to March 2019.  
• Top U.S. ports serving international locations were New York (JFK) 2.600 million, Miami (MIA) 2.009 million, Los Angeles (LAX) 1.699 million, Newark (EWR) 1.109 million and Chicago (ORD) 1.031 million.  
• Top foreign ports serving U.S. locations were London Heathrow (LHR) 1.311 million, Cancun (CUN) 1.245 million, Toronto (YYZ) 1.079 million, Mexico City (MEX) 628,000 and Paris (CGD) 588,000.

1 APIS/ “I-92” (arrivals + departures)

2 ADIS/I-94 (with stays of 1-night or more in the United States and visiting under certain visa types)

Interested in an interactive data visualization of these statistics? Please visit our APIS/I-92 International Air Passenger Monitor for a more comprehensive and customizable experience.

I-92/APIS International Air Passengers The APIS/I-92 Program provides information on non-stop international air traffic between the United States and other countries. The data has been collected from the Department of Homeland Security - Customs and Border Protection’s Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) since July 2010. The APIS based “I-92” system provides air traffic data on the following parameters: number of passengers, by country, airport, scheduled or chartered, U.S. Flag, foreign flag, citizens and non-citizens. Visit the APIS/I-92 Data Program home page for more information on airline travel to and from the United States.  

10 Best Places to Travel in March

From the streets of valencia to chicago, these spring destinations are not to be missed..

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Screw the cleaning. Make spring the time to take a trip, and blow out the cobwebs in a much more fulfilling way. Even better, shoulder seasons like spring usually offer an affordable way to combine low-season hotel rates and fewer crowds with high-season weather, a canny workaround for any value-seeking traveler.

We’ve pulled together some of the places to visit in March, including an alternative to cherry blossom-spotting (hint: come hungry) to the Caribbean ’s toniest superyacht race and a pyromaniac’s delight of a festival in Europe.

Here are the 10 best places to visit in March.

80% of the world’s supply of almonds comes from California.

Photo by Reimar/Shutterstock

1. Modesto, California

March is great for: swapping cherry blossoms for a farmland stand-in.

California ’s agricultural heartlands are often eclipsed by their snazzier coastal counterparts , but pause to consider a trip to the Central Valley, home to some of America’s finest farmland—and in particular, almond groves.

The trees are planted across 1.5 million acres of land here, and a riot of pink and white flowers carpet the horizon from mid-February to mid-March. Modesto, a city with 120,000 acres of those groves, has cannily devised what it’s dubbed the Almond Blossom Cruise , a self-guided driving tour with two routes (and plenty of detours) that allow you to explore the area and see as many blossoms as you can; the western circuit is an hour or so, while the east will require up to three hours.

Stops include farm stands—pick up some tangy signature cheddar at Fiscalini —as well as restaurants and farms. Standouts include Rodin Farms and Roberts Ferry Nut Company, as both have groves that run right down to the parking lot line.

Where to stay

• Book now: DoubleTree by Hilton

The 260-room hotel downtown is an affordable base, right off Highway 99 and within walking distance of many local landmarks—don’t miss the superbly restored McHenry Mansion, a Victorian-Italianate masterpiece dating back to the 1880s.

How to get to Modesto

Southwest’s your best bet, as it uses the nearest airport, Sacramento, as one of its national hubs, connecting the Californian capital with countless cities across the country from Palm Springs and St. Louis to Portland, OR. From there, it’s a 90-minute drive or so.

It takes about 40 pounds of powder and two hours to transform Chicago’s waters into a dazzling emerald, using a secret formula about which the city is understandably territorial.

Photo by Benjamin Suter/Unsplash

2. Chicago, Illinois

March is great for: the ultimate Paddy’s party.

Is there anywhere else to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day other than Chicago ? After all, the Windy City goes beyond a massive parade (though there’s one of those, too.) No, the city, quite literally, transforms, as the main river here is dyed bright green on the Saturday before March 17 (this year, that’s March 15). It’s a fleeting change, as the ferocious water flows mean the color ebbs away within one to two days, so you’ll need to be here that weekend to see the maximum impact—take a cruise on the water for an up-close glimpse.

As for celebrations, there’s an endless assortment, whether the Irish American Heritage Center on the north side or the Shamrock’n The Block party in downtown’s West Loop, with a heated beer tent and lots of Irish dancing.

• Book now: 21C Museum Hotel

This funky boutique chainlet—now part of the Accor umbrella—is aptly named: Each of its sites acts as much as a gallery as a crash pad, a nod to the passions of its art-collecting philanthropist founders Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson. The four-year-old Chicago site is no exception, with work from local artists like Colleen Plumb ranged around the property, including its 10,000-square-foot onsite gallery.

How to get to Chicago

ORD is a hub for not one but two airlines, United and American, with ample service across the country. But don’t dismiss the smaller, nippier Midway (MDW), which Southwest services to the likes of Houston, Sarasota, and Charleston, South Carolina.

This Bucket Regatta is a reminder that St Barts is an outdoorsy, active destination, too, with almost three quarters of the land here designated as a green zone, and so precluded from construction.

Photo by Nancy Pauwels/Shutterstock

3. St. Barths

March is great for: seeing an alternative side to this party-powered island.

Sure, come to St. Barths to sashay ‘round the pool. But there are other reasons to visit this slice of France, just a short flight off the coast of St. Maarten—like the Bucket Regatta this month, which takes place from March 21-24.

This race is a four-day, invitation-only race that’s a point of pride for super-yachts worldwide. This year, there will be no yacht hop party, but instead a dockside bash at the Capitainerie on Saturday night for the ultimate mingler. If you’re not schmoozing or racing, though, it’s still a spectacular chance to see some of the world’s finest yachts performing at their peak, all on some of the bluest waters of the West Indies.

• Book now: Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa

The eight-year-old, 44-room property has a fitting sits on the eastern reaches of Grand Cul de Sac beach and with understated, ultra-luxe décor from French designer Sybille de Margerie.

How to get to St Barths

Book a flight to SXM in St Maarten—there are countless services from the U.S. on everything from Spirit (FLL) to Sun Country (MSP). From there, take the knuckle-biting puddle jumper over to SBH on Tradewinds. At just over 2,100 feet this is one of the shortest runways in the world, so you’ll be in a tiny plane piloted by a seasoned captain.

Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, is one place to catch independence day festivities.

Photo by Maurizio De Mattei/Shutterstock

March is great for: a green season celebration.

March 21 is a momentous annual day in the Namibian calendar, as it marks the state’s independence from South Africa. It won freedom in 1990 after more than two decades of fighting—today the occasion is marked by a colorful parade, where citizens march and sing the national anthem, Namibia, Land of the Brave, which was composed by a Kalahari desert-based musician in the wake of independence.

Unlike much of sub-Saharan Africa, Namibia has much less likelihood of torrential downpours during this time. Its version of the green season remains drier than most, with the landscape here creating the dramatic dunescapes that have become synonymous with the country for safari-seekers.

• Book now: Hoanib Valley Camp

The immersive desert experience that is the hallmark of Namibian safari is core to this six-tent camp made entirely from locally sourced materials. Stay here and the game drives focus on desert-adapted lions, elephants, and giraffes.

How to get to Namibia

There are several ways to reach the capital Windhoek (WDH), though none is direct. Consider flying into either Cape Town or Johannesburg and connecting from there, or opt for the Ethiopian Airlines service to Addis Ababa, with connection down to Namibia. Ethiopian connects its capital with Atlanta, Chicago, Newark, JFK, and Dulles.

Melbourne’s Fed Square is one of the main spots to get in on the foodie action.

Photo by Leonard Zhukovsky/Shutterstock

5. Melbourne, Australia

March is great for: foodie pilgrims with a hunger to explore.

Melbourne ‘s fantastic food scene is mostly thanks to the fact that the surrounding state is such a superb produce source—much of its raw materials need only travel a few miles to the city’s restaurants. That’s all celebrated with the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival , which runs from March 15-24 and sees more than 300 different events as part of its official schedule.

Fed Square downtown’s deeded over to bakers and pâtissiers, complete with a wood-fired oven pop-up, while record-breaking stunts like the World’s Longest Brunch and Lunch (tables running almost 2,000 feet through the main gardens here) are intended to be fun ways to sample the cooking of top local chefs like Andrew McConnell. He’ll helm the kitchen for lunch while Indian cuisine will be spotlighted during brunch, including creations from fine dining champ Helly Raichura.

• Book now: The Ritz Carlton Melbourne

The 257-room property opened in the spring of 2023 and is housed in Australia’s tallest building—views from the 80th floor sky lobby are superb out along the Yarra River and over Victoria Harbour.

How to get to Melbourne

MEL is one of the international long haul gateways in Oz, so there’s ample option—Qantas and United connect it with LAX thirteen times weekly, and there are also direct non-stops from Dallas and San Francisco.

The ninety or so islands on Saudi Arabia’s coast are pristine, and the mainland features sweeping dunes, ample historic sites and remarkable open countryside.

Photo by Yakov Oskanov/Shutterstock

6. The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

March is great for: a pioneering trip to a soon-to-explore spot.

Even though there’s enormous development planned in Saudi Arabia ‘s Red Sea— 50 hotels should be open within the next six years—the government aims to protect the reason it appeals, promising that the ground-up infrastructure will emphasize renewable energy and zero waste operations.

The peak period to visit ends in February, but the weather remains appealing this month thanks to the still-clear skies—ideal conditions for stargazing . Spend a night out in the dunes around a desert campfire, with local guides sharing stories and legends that connect the centuries-old culture here with the modern developments transforming Saudi Arabia at time-warping speed.

• Book now: Six Senses Southern Dunes

This property includes open-plan villas intended to connect guests with the surrounding sand dunes, plus a signature spa (which, by the way, is two floors and includes a fitness suite with views of the desert.)

How to get to Saudi Arabia

Right now, the best routing to this region is via Riyadh, with direct flights on Saudia from JFK; it’s a two-hour hop from there to RSI, the local airport for the Red Sea. The latter’s primed to welcome international flights at some point in 2024, which will make arrival even easier.

Colorado’s Winter Park allows snowboarding and end-of-season skiing when other, lower altitude spots are running low on powder.

Photo by Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock

7. Denver, Colorado

March is great for: late-season skiing and bargain dining..

March is typically the snowiest month of the year in the Mile High City , often logging just under a foot of powder. Climate change has made that less predictable, but there’s still a chance to see the city under a romantic white blanket; this is a place that can more than function even in the trickiest of winters.

You can also choose to stay inside for Denver Restaurant Week , running from March 1-10, with prix fixe meals at many of the top spots here for between $25 and $55 per person. And don’t dismiss the chance to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day here, either: there’s a parade that’s among one of the largest in the country, with around 10,000 marchers and 200,000 spectators—this year, it’s being held on Sunday, March 16.

• Book now: Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver

The three-year old, 264-room outpost of the funky, mid-market Centric brand has an outdoor rooftop with fireplaces for al fresco cocktails as well as a 1,000-square-foot Presidential Suite that occupies the entire 15th floor.

How to get to Denver

Denver is one of United’s prime hubs, so check your options with UA. The airline services dozens of cities countrywide from here, including Wichita, Kansas, and Little Rock, Arkansas.

Maipu Valley, in addition to Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley, account for the majority of Argentina’s wine output.

Photo by NiarKrad/Shutterstock

8. Mendoza, Argentina

March is great for: a southern hemisphere harvest festival.

More than 1,500 wineries are spread over the three growing areas of the Mendoza region: Maipu Valley, Luján de Cuyo, and Uco Valley. You’ll be able to sample and experience all of them in a single place during La Fiesta Nacional de Vendimia, a festival dating back to the 17th century that marks the beginning of the harvest season.

In early March, alongside parties, dance displays, and special dinners in local restaurants, the city hosts La Bendición de los Frutos, an event where a priest publicly blesses the harvest, as well as Via de la Reinas, a parade where a beauty queen from each of the 17 districts in the region rides around town on a specially designed float. This year, the festivities conclude on March 3, so barrel down at the start of the month to catch its climax.

• Book now: The Vines Resort & Spa

Stay at this property in the heart of the Valle de Uco, set on 1,500 acres of private vineyards estates, with 21 villas ranged around the property—the largest of them tops out at 2,700 square feet—and each of the modernist structures has an outdoor deck that’s a prime spot to sit and contemplate the Andes mountains.

How to get to Mendoza

Try the LATAM routing via Lima, Peru, from JFK, or São Paulo in Brazil, which is connected to multiple U.S. gateways on legacy carriers Delta, United, and American.

Visit Edmonton’s craft beer festival and try brews from the Alley Kat Brewing Company, Red Shed Malting malt house, or a pale ale from the father-son-run Six Corners Brew Works.

Photo by Ronnie Chua/Shutterstock

9. Edmonton, Canada

March is great for: homegrown delights from the hop-growing hub of Canada.

More than 16,000 square miles of the Canadian province of Alberta are prairies, and one key crop grown in this vast landscape is barley. From March 8-9, the product of prairie-grown barley is celebrated via the local Craft Beer festival . There’s a thriving craft beer scene here mostly thanks to the change in law back in 2013, which removed a cap on small producers; as a result, there are now more than 100 operating in the province.

This two-day fest celebrates their output, with tastings as well as seminars and cooking demos. Half-day passes start at $15 while a VIP+ weekend-long entry is around $188 per person.

Where to stay in Edmonton

• Book now: Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

The 198-room Fairmont Hotel Macdonald is a classic château-inspired hotel in the heart of the city right on the river dating back to 1915.

How to get to Edmonton

More than 10 U.S. gateways are directly connected with YEG here, including Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Nashville, Tennessee, and Phoenix, Arizona; they’re served by a raft of airlines, including WestJet and Flair.

Las Fallas started centuries ago, when carpenters burned the pieces of wood used to prop up their winter lights at the arrival of spring.

Photo by Helena GARCIA HUERTAS/Shutterstock

10. Valencia, Spain

March is great for: satire and starchitecture.

For one thing, Valencia’s food scene is impressive—this is the birthplace of paella , after all. The cityscape is jaw dropping, too: It has been world-leading in sustainability , earning the title of European Green Capital for 2024 from the European Commission.

If you needed another incentive to consider a trip, then, this month’s Las Fallas Festival should be the clincher. It’s the most important in the city’s calendar, and runs from March 1-19. During this time, the city is festooned with papier-mâché figures, known as ninots, both traditional or satirical. All but two of them—saved by public vote on March 15—will be burned at the festival’s conclusion, the event known as La Crema.

• Book now: Hospes Palau de la Mar Hotel

A one-time nobleman’s mansion right in the heart of the city is now a 66-room luxury hotel, set amid a large garden which was once home to his horses. The minimalist rooms combine whitewashed walls with rich chocolate wood fixtures.

How to get to Valencia

There are no direct, non-stop flights from the USA, so choose either to connect in Madrid, which is serviced by Iberia, American, and Air Europe to JFK, LAX, and DFW. Or go with Iberia’s partner British Airways, which has a wider network stateside. It’s a 2.5 hour flight from LHR to VLC.