March is on its way, and Musement takes a look at nine destinations where you should travel during this unpredictable month.
In some places, March can be iffy. Spring may arrive in a timely manner or winter might decide to linger a little bit longer, which makes March a perfect time to travel…so long as inclement weather conditions don’t delay your flight. Here are eight cities we suggest visiting this month.
1. Rio de Janeiro
Not only does Rio de Janeiro boast year-round beach-friendly climes, but this year’s Carnival celebrations also take place from 1 – 9 March. A grand spectacle of the highest level, Rio’s Carnival offers plenty of festivities for travelers in search of some rollicking revelry. In addition, the Brazilian metropolis offers plenty to keep travelers satiated: must-see sites like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, scenic beaches, lively nightlife, flavorsome gastronomy, fascinating history, and plenty of artsy institutions for those in need of a culture fix.
2. Los Angeles
The City of Angels is quite comfortable, consistently warm and pretty much always sunny. Explore Hollywood, Los Angeles‘ celebrity stomping ground, by bike, or get the ultimate movie experience on a tour of Universal Studios, the world’s largest working movie studio! Pretty Woman fans will be delighted to shop–or window shop–on Rodeo Drive, the high-end shopping thoroughfare. As you stroll, keep an eye out for some familiar faces. If the kids are with you, a day at Disneyland is always a good way to keep them happy as is a visit to the Pacific Park amusement park on the Santa Monica Pier, a great spot to watch the sunset.
3. Dublin
There’s no better place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than the Irish capital where the celebrations take place 14-18 March. Check out the official website for more info. Thanks to that singular Irish hospitality, Dublin always feels like home. When in town, be sure to take a tour of the Guinness Storehouse located inside the 18-century St. James Gate Brewery, where you will not only learn how the classic stout is made but also get to taste some, too. Don’t miss the Irish Whiskey Museum, which explores the history of Ireland’s most famous distillate. However, there’s more to Dublin than booze! Visit the EPIC Irish Immigration Museum to see how the Irish influenced the world, take a stroll through Glasnevin Cemetery, and catch a show at the Abbey Theatre.
4. Austin
With plenty of options to keep your dance card full, you’ll start planning a trip back to Austin before you leave. This food lover’s paradise boasts seemingly countless live music venues and a fantastic party scene. Although 6th Street is known as the place to party, Rainy Street offers some adequate competition. Don’t forget to grab a bite at one of the thousand-plus food trailers that serve everything from sushi to quesadillas, and be sure to check out the 358-acre Zilker Park, where you can hike and then cool off in the much loved Barton Springs Pool.
5. Amsterdam
March in Amsterdam means that the crowds have dwindled, so travelers can explore the city sans crowds! Aside from the usual exciting entertainment that may come to mind when you think of Amsterdam, such as ganja coffee shops, the Red Light District and the Heineken Experience, the city is chock full of culture and history. Visit the Van Gogh Museumand the Rijksmuseum in Museumplein where you can snap a fun picture in front of the iconic ‘I amsterdam’ sign.
6. Key West
If you’re looking for somewhere paradisiacal, the Florida Keys offer turquoise waters, sandy beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly faces. Drive the scenic Overseas Highway from Miami to arrive in Key West, a beloved winter destination of many notables including Harry S. Truman. The former president built his own Little White House here in 1890, which was then frequented by many of his successors. You can also visit Ernest Hemingway’s beautiful Spanish-colonial style mansion. After being acquainted with some local history, relax in a hammock on the beach or explore the Key West Aquarium.
7. Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is adorned with culture, history and good times. Strolling the streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town feels as if you are breathing in a cultural masterpiece. Take an authentic Whiskey Tour to sample the distillate in its homeland, explore the majestic Edinburgh Castle with its spectacular city views, become immersed in Scottish folklore and legends, and head out of the city on a day trip to discover the beautiful Highlands and the mysterious Loch Ness. Finally, be sure to try ‘haggis’, a traditional Scottish dish that’s delicious….just not suitable for vegetarians.
8. Bordeaux
Also known as ‘Port de la lune’ (Port of the Moon), Bordeaux is a wine lover’s paradise and definitely a fantastic March destination. Although the temperatures are moderate in March, there is nothing that can keep the French from enjoying a delicious meal al fresco. Taste the region’s wines during a Garonne River cruise that winds through the city, and discover the history, culture and the ins and outs of winemaking at La Cité du Vin wine museum. Also celebrated for its cuisine, Bordeaux has many wonderful restaurants such as La Boite a Huitres known for the ‘best oysters in Bordeaux’.
9. Verona
The city that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is intrinsically romantic with its balconies, frescoed buildings and traditional Italian restaurants with their centuries-old decor. A symbol of ‘eternal love’, Verona was nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a city tour to learn about its depth of history that includes an impressive Roman Amphitheatre and medieval city fortifications. Explore the culinary traditions of the Veronese and pair your delicious meal with a local wine like Valipolicella or Amarone.