Spring is in the air, and with it, holiday plans for the year ahead are afoot. If you’re after a more luxurious getaway this year, then options abound – and to get you started, we’ve put together five top choices that promise maximum enjoyment and comfort for the duration of your stay. If sun, sea, great food and culture are the orders of the day, then look no further – these are the places to get your dose of respite and relaxation this year, and a little bit of action, too.
The Canaries
While many destinations don’t warm up until later in the year, you can always rely on the Canary Islands. With the resorts, bars and restaurants reopening after their winter hiatus, it’s a great time to visit, as although there will be plenty to keep you occupied, you’ll avoid the larger crowds that come with summer. With a mild climate and up to nine hours of sunshine every single day, take time out to enjoy its natural swimming pools, bliss out on the beach, and enjoy the delicious, fresh cuisine this popular destination has to offer in its multitude of beachfront restaurants.
Cyprus
This stunning Mediterranean Island enjoys a mild climate practically the whole year round, making it another great destination for a spring holiday. Enjoy the warm sunshine on its sandy coves or go inland to visit its superb wine regions and try some of the most sophisticated wines Cyprus has to offer. With a rich cultural heritage, Cyprus has far more to offer than just picturesque beaches, so if you’re keen to soak up a bit of culture then it will be worth your while to explore its museums and ancient archaeological sites.
Dominican Republic
If breath-taking beaches are what you seek, then the Caribbean is the obvious choice, and the stunning Dominican Republic should be your first port of call. While it is a popular spring break destination for American university students, it’s easy to find some quieter and classier resorts that cater to families and couples. To avoid the crowds, just avoid the Easter weekend! This amazing Caribbean island has pristine beaches and offers scuba diving and other water activities, and with five star accommodation and fresh, local cuisine yours for the taking, there’s no better place to while away your holiday.
Morocco
Morocco is a cultural hub, packed with incredible sights and sounds as well some truly unmissable scenery. Visit in spring to enjoy a unique blend of culture and adventure – exploring lively Marrakech is bound to be a highlight. As a country, Morocco is famed for its vibrant cuisine, and the herbs and spices that can be found in its renowned souks – so be sure to sample some mouth-watering local dishes, as well as stocking up on some ingredients that will help you to recreate them at home.
Morocco is truly a terrific place to visit, but as with any new destination, it pays to do your research and so that you can be careful to avoid dangerous situations. For instance, there have been some reports of theft and aggressive behaviour in crowded marketplaces, so steps such as taking out holiday travel insurance will protect you from untoward incidences.
Andalusia, Spain
Bask under the Andalusia sun, where the delights of the region are in full force in springtime. Packed with must-visit cities including Seville, Granada, Cordoba and Cadiz, you could easily spend several weeks exploring this picturesque and culture-packed region, so we’d advise allowing plenty of time if you plan to see all the sights.
Seville is Andalusia’s capital city, and boasting the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, it’s also the birthplace of flamenco dancing. Don’t miss Granada’s largest tourist draw; the Alhambra, with magnificent architectural details, showing the city’s Arab influences. While in Cordoba, the Mosque-Cathedral, reflecting Spain’s rich history, is well worth a visit – and if you’re looking for a stunning beach location so you can get your fill of R&R, then look no further than Cadiz, which boasts some of the very best beaches in Southern Spain.
Planning your next trip can be exciting as the adventure itself, and having something to look forward to is a great way to stay positive when life gets tough. Whichever destination you choose, you’re bound to have a memorable experience – just be sure to plan ahead, stay safe and ensure that medical and travel coverage is taken care of before you go. Getting holiday travel insurance leaves you free to relax and enjoy your trip – so with all your plans in place, it’s time to gear up for a great spring getaway.
