Nice Weather Alert! Plan a Spring Getaway in These Great International Spots Dhinesh Manuel May 8, 2024 International Travel, Travel Tips Spring is a fabulous time to explore the world around you. After all, this season offers generally pleasant weather throughout the Northern Hemisphere. The spring shoulder season also boasts smaller crowds and better prices before the busy summer travel time gets started. What’s not to like, right? That’s why we have come up with a handy list of amazing international destinations to consider if you were thinking about planning a spring getaway to remember. Dublin, Ireland Dublin Castle from Dubh Linn gardens, Dublin, Ireland Faster than you can say “What’s the Craic?”, you can down pints of Guinness at a number of cozy pubs, take in the amazing architecture of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and laze around and watch the world go by at St. Stephen’s Green. Dublin is a compact city with a thriving social scene, and full of friendly locals who just want to be your new best friends. That is if you still remember all their names in the morning! Head to Dublin after the popular St. Patrick’s Day travel season to enjoy good deals with all of the classic fun of this Irish travel destination. While you will likely encounter cool and wet conditions at the start of the season, drier weather and warmer temperatures are in store for the end of the spring. Sip a pint on a pub patio, explore the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, pack a picnic and head to St. Stephen’s Green, or visit the Temple Bar Markets. Paris, France Spring in Paris, Cherry Tree, Eiffel Tower Paris really comes alive during the spring months, making it a great time to explore this romantic city. Flowers are in full bloom, the temperatures are rising, and the French are out in full force enjoying the beauty of the city. This is a perfect time to take a stroll through the charming cobbled streets of Montmartre, to sip on a coffee and enjoy a pastry at a sidewalk café, and to explore the various gardens and parks that dot the landscape of the quintessential City of Lights. London, England Big Ben, Westminster Bridge, London Sure, London might be a tad drizzly, but you can still have plenty of fun over March by riding the London Eye observation wheel, watching the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, and taking some Instagram-worthy selfies with Big Ben in the background. The diverse city is also a foodie’s paradise, with everything from high-class fusion fare to tasty street treats up for grabs. Stuff your face full of succulent savory pies, delicious fish & chips, and down it with a few cold lagers. Thanks to a bevy of sprawling parks and gardens, London is a particularly great city to visit during the spring. Good outdoor spaces to include in your London springtime bucket list include St. James Park, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, The Regent’s Park, and Kew Gardens. The warmer evenings will provide for a great opportunity to book a cruise down the River Thames to take in the splendor of the city’s famous landmarks by water. Cancun, Mexico Cancun, Mexico You don’t have to venture too far to get to a beach paradise! Heading south of the border to Cancun means you can have an amazing time without breaking the bank. True, you might encounter a few boisterous spring breakers, but once you find your quiet spot you’ll be happy to kick your feet up at an all-inclusive resort and to be pampered the way you deserve. This travel hot spot sure has everything that you are looking for in a beach vacation. Cancun also offers maximum versatility with the option of all-inclusive resorts, timeshare rentals, and premium hotel accommodations. Spring is also the best time of the year to spot wildlife such as whale sharks and sea turtles without the added heat and humidity of the summer, so be sure to take advantage of that too! Lisbon, Portugal Rossio Square, Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon has established itself as one of the hottest European cities for tourists in recent years. Located on the Atlantic Ocean, this coastal city offers sweeping views of the water, quaint alleyways, and fresh seafood. Be sure to save room in your stomach for the famous Portuguese pastries known locally as pasteles de nata. All of this is served up with a special type of Portuguese hospitality that will make you feel right at home. Tokyo, Japan Chureito Pagoda, Mt. Fuji, Japan Tokyo in spring? Think cherry blossoms! Amidst the hustle of this brightly-lit metropolis, you can find its historic temples like the Meiji Shinto Shrine and the Sensoji Temple, search out some amazing sushi at the Tsukiji market, and pick up some cool gadgets at the tech and anime heaven of Akihabara. No matter your hobbies, Tokyo will definitely surprise you with quirkier attractions too, like cat cafes, restaurants with ninjas flying around, and cosplay go-karting. So go ahead and feed your geek side. Barcelona, Spain Park Guëll, Barcelona, Spain If sangrías and siestas are not the perfect combo for a relaxing holiday, then we don’t know what is! Barcelona is full of great art, nightlife, and people. Located in the heart of Catalonia, this Spanish city is the perfect mix of modern city amenities and a rich history. You can spend all day admiring the architectural works of Antoni Gaudi, whose creations dot the city, from its Sagrada Familia church to the more colorful Park Guëll. Take a stroll through the lively Las Rambas pedestrian avenue, take a minute to visit the Picasso museum, and don’t forget to try as many different, delectable food as you can. Even better, it may be even warm enough for a trip to the beach during the spring months! You May Also Like: Safe Travels for Spring Break! 5 Safety Tips to Know Before You Go Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam, Netherlands Lastly, Amsterdam is synonymous with colorful tulips, making spring a natural time to explore this city in the Netherlands. This Dutch city sees a variety of weather conditions in the spring months, making it important to bring layers and pack for the possibility of rain. The good news is that Amsterdam also boasts a number of fantastic indoor attractions, including the Heineken Experience, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the Rijksmuseum. FAQs: Q: What are the visa requirements for these international destinations? A: Visa requirements vary by country and the nationality of the traveler. It’s recommended to check with the official embassy website of the destination country or consult with a travel expert to ensure all entry requirements are met before booking your trip. Q: Are there any health advisories or vaccinations needed before traveling to these destinations? A: Certain destinations may require vaccinations or have health advisories, especially in the current global health climate. Travelers should consult their healthcare provider or a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before departure to get the most current advice and vaccinations. Q: What are the average costs for accommodations in these cities during the spring? A: Costs can vary widely depending on the location and type of accommodation. Budget options like hostels may cost around $20-50 per night, while mid-range hotels typically range from $100 to $200 per night. Luxury accommodations can exceed $300 per night. Q: What currency is used in these destinations and are credit cards widely accepted? A: Each destination uses its own currency, such as the Euro in Paris and the Yen in Tokyo. Major credit cards are widely accepted in most urban areas, but it’s a good idea to have some local currency for smaller purchases and in less touristy locations. Q: What is the best way to get around in these cities? A: Public transportation systems are excellent in most of these cities. Options like the Metro in Paris, the Underground in London, and the JR Rail in Tokyo are convenient and cost-effective. For more flexibility, renting a car or using rideshare apps are also viable options. Q: Are these destinations suitable for travelers with disabilities? A: Many of these cities are improving accessibility for travelers with disabilities, offering wheelchair-accessible public transport, attractions, and accommodations. However, it’s advisable to contact service providers directly to confirm specific needs can be accommodated. Have any other preferred destination that shines like no other in spring? Let us know in our comments section below!
