After a deep winter hibernation, these next months offer that sweet in-between, when the world seems to come alive again – and that, of course, calls for a sunny escape. Whether you’re looking for soon-to-melt snowy peaks, seafood lunches by the sea, late-night cultural encounters or scenic landscapes to inspire and lift the spirits, this season you don’t need to choose one singular experience: our destination edit, from coastlines to capitals and savannahs to sacred spots, is all about versatile travel.
South Tyrol, Italy
Between its Alpine summits and Mediterranean shores, South Tyrol is a buy-one-get-one destination. In March and early April, the Dolomites are still blanketed in snow, with peaceful slopes and elegant resorts promising sunny ski days followed by cosy evenings sipping local white wines. Head down into the valleys, though, and the mood shifts completely: apple orchards are in bloom, hiking trails are open, vineyards have come back to life, and the scent of Alpine-Italian dishes wafts from restaurant terraces. In May, the Natz Schabs Blossom Festival celebrates the season with orchard walks, herb workshops and cycling tours. So, pistes or petals? Here, you can have both.
Our Tip: On 18 April, head to Lana for the Delights from Local Farms event, where the village’s car-free centre becomes a stage for Tyrolean cuisine: more than 50 farmers, winemakers and restaurateurs present their produce, wines and wild herb dishes that blend culinary tradition with contemporary flavours.
Okinawa, Japan
Whether you arrive in early or late spring, the Okinawan archipelago has something special in store. March still offers the chance to see humpback whales offshore as the migration season ends. And with temperatures rising, the clear waters become ideal for snorkelling and diving among coral reefs and at the famous Blue Cave.
Meanwhile, on land, April puts on a stunning show with the Iejima Lily Festival, which sees thousands of white lilies bloom against the azure sea. In May, the lively Naga Haarii dragon boat races commemorate centuries of maritime tradition – a must-attend for visitors. Add to that coastal cycling routes and dramatic views from Cape Hedo, and you have an atmosphere that’s serene and festive all at once.
Our Tip: Eat like a local with Okinawa soba, fresh mozuku seaweed and goya champuru (a stir-fry of bitter melon mixed with tofu) – all of which are made with the nutrient-rich, indigenous vegetables that support the island residents’ famously long, healthy lives.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
This time of year, Buenos Aires turns a new leaf, both literally and metaphorically. As autumn arrives, with colourful foliage and crisp air in tow, it’s prime time to explore the Argentine capital on foot and enjoy its many artistic spaces – now free of the summer tourist herds.
Culture takes centre stage this season at the renowned Buenos Aires International Book Fair, Latin America’s second-most-important such event, which brings writers and readers together for talks, signings and discussions. Across the city, art fairs and new exhibitions keep creativity alive, while in the San Telmo and La Boca neighbourhoods, tango shows and traditional milongas heat up the cool autumn evenings. Between museum visits and independent film screenings, pause for a buttery medialuna or a dulce de leche alfajor, as Buenos Aires’ culture is best savoured with a traditional dessert.
Our Tip: Make book-buying a theatrical experience at El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore. Housed in a former 1919 opera house, this extraordinary shop preserves the original frescoed ceiling, ornate balconies and red velvet stage curtains while providing visitors with reading nooks and a cafe, as well as thousands of different reading materials of all types and genres.
Botswana
Botswana’s rainy season is saying goodbye, and the country is putting a fresh face forward – one that’s green and full of life. It’s the shoulder season, which means fewer crowds and lower prices, but the landscapes are as beautiful as ever. In the Okavango Delta, water channels glitter under clearer skies, and brisk mornings set the scene for game drives. The grass is also slowly drying, which makes animals easier to spot – especially in Chobe National Park, where an impressive number of elephants lumber along the river. The wide horizons of the Makgadikgadi Pans are still verdant from the rains, and the winged fauna flying about is spectacular, so make sure to pack your binoculars. Over in Linyanti, lions, leopards and herds of elephants turn every safari into a National Geographic show.
Our Tip: Want to add a touch of art and archeology to your safari experience? Consider the ancient rock paintings of Tsodilo Hills – sometimes called the “Louvre of the Desert” – to take in visual stories dating back thousands of years. Suddenly a simple walk among the hills becomes a journey through the spiritual and creative history of humanity.
Mallorca, Spain
While much of Europe waits impatiently for the winter clouds to lift, spring in Mallorca is full of light. Particularly in March, the Mediterranean sun returns with a gentle glow that’s warm enough for seaside lunches in Palma, yet cool enough for relaxed walks through the charming old town beneath the towers of La Seu Cathedral. The soft sunlight renders the Serra de Tramuntana mountains especially stunning, particularly around villages like Valldemossa, framed by orange blossoms and olive groves.
Spring also brings celebration: Palma’s Fira del Ram generates nostalgic fairground fun, while the Fira del Fang in Marratxí showcases Mallorcan ceramics with unique handmade pieces, masterclasses and live demonstrations by local artisans. Throw in some fresh seafood, rosé alfresco and nearly empty beaches, and this otherwise booming Balearic island starts to feel like a well-kept secret – best enjoyed before the masses arrive.
Our Tip: For unique souvenir shopping, head to the Saturday market in Santanyí, where food, crafts and boho fashion fill the cobblestone streets. In Palma, browse Santa Catalina Market for just-landed seafood, and shop the island’s famous handmade shoes at Carmina.
Indian Himalayas
Particularly in April, the Indian Himalayas welcome the season in the most life-affirming way. The days are warm, the nights are cool, and the skies are often clear enough to see glaciers glistening across miles of peaks. It’s the perfect moment to explore the lush valleys and picturesque trails before the busier summer season begins. In Sikkim and Ladakh, colourful Buddhist monasteries such as the Tathagata Tsal stand against dramatic mountain backdrops, full of quiet spirituality and ancient tradition. Nature lovers may even spot rare wildlife in Khangchendzonga National Park, from the Himalayan blue sheep to the elusive snow leopard. With mountain passes slowly opening and rhododendrons and magnolia trees beginning to bloom, April promises adventure, culture and breathtaking views, all in one unforgettable journey.
Our Tip: For an offbeat vibe, consider countryside stays like Yangsum Heritage Farm near Rinchenpong, a fully organic farm-lodge with yurt-like rooms, farm-to-table meals and wide-angle views of Mount Khangchendzonga, the third-highest peak in the world.
