March Adventures and Travel Inspiration

From cherry blossom in Japan to Holi in India and quieter escapes before peak season, Maggie shares her favourite spring destinations and smart travel tips.

Spring Travel Inspiration

We’re finally into spring and it’s wonderful to see the lighter mornings and evenings and colourful spring flowers.

I’m not loving the fairly constant rain we’ve had, and on rainy days when you’re thinking it’s time for a quick getaway, here are just a few suggestions for where to head in March.

Where to Visit in March

Japan – Cherry Blossom Season

Head to Japan for the wonderful spring blooms. As well as Japan’s famous cherry blossom season, which starts in Okinawa in the south from the beginning of March and moves north, blossom season at the end of March into early April is spectacular.

For flowers closer to home, how about a great city break to Amsterdam? Tulip season marks the start of spring in Holland and runs from late March into mid-May, with peak blooms around mid-April.

Visit the stunning Keukenhof Gardens, with millions of bulbs, and enjoy the colourful 40km Flower Route and the Flower Parade.

India and Nepal – Holi Festival

For colour of a different kind, March is time for Holi – the Festival of Colours, celebrated in India and Nepal.

The festival celebrates love, good triumphing over evil and new beginnings, marking the start of spring.

People throw coloured powders at each other as part of the festivities in a vibrant and joyous celebration that brings communities together. Expect lots of fun — but don’t wear your best clothes!

Italy, the Middle East and Jordan

If you’re looking for something quieter, there are wonderful places to visit in March before the summer crowds arrive.

Italy’s beautiful Amalfi Coast is wonderfully quiet at this time of year before the peak season begins.

Temperatures in the Middle East are also very comfortable during this season, making it ideal to visit destinations such as Jordan, where you can explore incredible sites like Petra and Wadi Rum.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia and neighbouring New Zealand are also fantastic destinations at this time of year.

Their summer peak season is ending, temperatures remain pleasant and destinations are much quieter.

Himalayan Adventures

Now is also one of the best times to visit many of the Himalayan regions.

Whether it’s some of the best trekking in the world, relaxed cultural tours or discovering wonderful wildlife, spring is a perfect time to visit destinations such as Bhutan, India and Nepal.

Tibet is also ideal for travel from April onwards.

Visiting China Just Got Easier

Visa rules for travellers visiting China have recently changed, making it easier than ever to visit.

With its hugely diverse and stunning country and culture, it’s definitely one to add to your travel list.

UK and Irish passport holders, along with nationals from many European and worldwide countries, can now visit mainland China visa-free.

If you’re visiting Tibet, you will still need a travel permit and visa rules differ slightly — just ask us for details.

Multi-Destination Breaks

With so many destinations available, it can be hard to choose.

If you can’t make up your mind, how about a multi-destination break?

I’m currently busy planning itineraries to Nepal, India, Bhutan and Tibet, combining the best experiences in each region for travellers who book with us.

It’s About the Journey as Well as the Destination

If you’re flying long haul, for example to Australia or New Zealand, consider breaking the journey with a mini adventure along the way.

Stopover destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bali, Malaysia, Los Angeles, New York or San Francisco can transform a long journey into a fabulous adventure before you even reach your final destination.

Getting the Basics Right

Some of the most important aspects of your trip are often the least exciting, but they make your journey run more smoothly.

Before travelling, check:

• Your passport validity
• Visa requirements
• Any required vaccinations
• Currency or travel money
• Airport parking if needed
• Transfers to your hotel
• Local SIM card or eSIM
• Travel insurance

Travel insurance is particularly important. Ideally, it should be arranged at the time of booking so you are protected if anything unexpected happens.

Summertime Planning

Of course, you may be planning ahead for your summer break.

Now is the moment to start researching options as airlines release flights up to 11 months in advance.

Many tour operators take bookings even earlier, and there are often great last-minute deals if you’re flexible with destinations, dates or routes.

Latest News

I’ve been busy working on a few new projects recently and I’m delighted to share that we will be opening our first public-facing office very soon, while also growing the team.

Look out for updates on our social channels over the next few weeks or sign up to our newsletter via the link on our website for the latest news, travel tips, competitions and offers.

If you’re looking to treat yourself or someone special to a trip, keep an eye on our website for promotions in March and beyond.

Our offers change regularly, so if you don’t see what you’re looking for, just ask — or we can tailor a holiday designed just for you.

Plan Your Next Adventure

For fantastic UK and worldwide trips visit:

www.latitude55escapes.com
Email: hello@latitude55escapes.com

For wonderful Himalayan adventures visit:

www.one-himalaya.com
Email: hello@one-himalaya.com
Tel: +44 (0)28 2076 8975