Spring may have sprung but our coats are still firmly on. If the novelty of layering and hat wearing has worn off, and your summer sandals are looking a little sad in the darkest depths of your wardrobe, we have you covered. Head south like the birds and retreat to warmer climates where the sun is reliable, the seas are inviting, and swaying hammocks just insist you sink into them with a good book. Ready for a slice of summer? Read on to find out where’s hot in March...
1
Egypt
When we asked ourselves where’s hot in March, Egypt was our first answer. The climate here is blissfully balmy with temperatures reaching comfortable highs of 25°C, and with over ten long hours of sunshine a day, you can enjoy a boost of Vitamin D, and the perfect combination of sun, style and culture. Lose yourself in the colourful bustle of Luxor’s souks, get up close and personal with the primordial Pyramids of Giza, and marvel at Abu Simbel’s towering temples. If you’re dreaming of an itinerary jam-packed with exciting excursions, the country’s offering of tantalizingly rich ancient history is more than enough to fill your boots (or sandals) with. Or, if a slower pace is more your speed, a cruise down the Nile aboard our vintage paddle steamer, the elegant Steam Ship Sudan, is sure to hit the spot. Glide through the stunningly fertile Nile Valley, sipping icy cocktails and relaxing on the sun-drenched deck as impressive temples, such as the Karnak Complex and Dendera Temple, drift past.
2
Jamaica
Jamaica gets a yes from us all year round, but particularly in March. With the promise of little rainfall, sunny skies and balmy evenings, Jamaica is the ultimate springtime retreat. Retrace Bob Marley’s footsteps in the country’s charming yet chaotic capital of Kingston; get away from it all in the misty peaks of the Blue Mountains; and find a quiet spot on the silky sand of Doctor’s Cave Beach. If you find yourself tapping along to the country’s soundtrack of rum-infused reggae, head down to Tuff Gong Recording Studio for a private tour or grab a table at Escape 24/7 Bar and Grill to hear the latest beats. A couple of rum punches and Red Stripes in and you’ll see why Kingston is UNESCO’s Creative City of Music. While it may be trickier to enter and enjoy Jamaica in all its glory this month due to restrictions, curfews, and closures, rest assured that when you do, plates of spicy jerk chicken, and a cold ginger beer will be waiting for you.
3
Maldives
Oh, the Maldives – one of the only places you are most likely to forget that winter is even a season. Home to perhaps the most beautiful beaches in the world, this pristine archipelago scores high when it comes to climate consistency. Drowsy and sun-bleached all year round, spend your days lounging under coconut trees, cycling around azure atolls, and diving down to dazzling coral reefs and mysterious caves. The Maldivians are a friendly bunch too. Take a day trip to Hithadhoo or Keyhodoo, where tourism is surprisingly sparse, and you will see why the Maldives hold such a special place in many travellers’ hearts.
4
Sri Lanka
Where’s hot in March you ask? Why Sri Lanka of course. Even with spring temperatures of 26°C, the ‘Island of Serendipity’ is still relatively overlooked by even the most intrepid travellers. From treetop safari stays in Wilpattu National Park and beachfront bolt holes on Mirissa’s crescent coast, to scenic train rides through hillside cities, dense paddies and past iconic temples, Sri Lanka is simply irresistible. And given the country is so accessible, you don’t have to pick just one side of its cultural triangle to explore – you can do it all. Did we mention they make tea too?
5
Florida
There is a reason Florida is called ‘The Sunshine State’ and Miami ‘The Magic City’… because it shines all year round. While many flock to Miami’s chalk-white shores and beachfront bars, the coastal metropolis is much more than a student spring break destination. Wynwood is the hippie hub and birthplace of Miami’s contemporary art scene, Ocean Drive is the quintessential 1980s Art Deco boulevard – complete with a pastel trim that makes it even more Instagram-worthy – Little Havana has Hispanic heart and festival fever, while Key Biscayne offers dreamy subtropical solitude. You’re also only an hour plane ride away from historic Havana too, where coffee runs strong but time runs slow.