Destinations

The best holiday destinations for March

Here are our top picks for avoiding the tourist hoards and getting away.
Tasmania

Tasmania

If you’re looking to book a last minute getaway this March, here are the destinations that should be on your list. Whether you’re keen for snow or dying for some proper sun (thanks a bunch, Kiwi summer), these are the places for you.

Best tropical escape: Bermuda

This British island territory in the North Atlantic is world renowned for its pink sand beaches, but also has an interesting cultural make up, sporting a combination of British, American, Caribbean, Portuguese and African traditions. With warm turquoise waters, amazing diving, pastel coloured houses and many crumbling ruins, there’s plenty to keep you occupied – whatever you’re into.

Best staycation: Martinborough

At the heart of the classic Kiwi wine trial lies Martinborough, home of some of the world’s best Pinot Noir. Full of colonial charm, wineries and even a quaint village square that wouldn’t be out of place in Europe, this is a great spot for a break closer to home. Take a tour or hire a bike and visit the various picturesque wineries of the region, and if you’ve got the cash – stay at The Martinborough Hotel for true colonial chic.

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Best for backpackers: Vietnam

Anyone who has travelled the beauty that is Vietnam will know one of the few downsides is the country’s humidity. But in March, that stickiness that causes you to sweat as soon as you leave the shower makes way for dry heat that allows for a more pleasurable travelling experience. Lounge on the southern beaches, trek through Hanoi’s ancient pagodas, ride across the bridges of Hoi An, or take part in the Chu Dong Tu festival in Khoai Chau – the country is your oyster.

Best for a wild week: Las Vegas

If you’ve never visited Sin City, March is arguably one of the best times to go. It’s no longer so hot you can’t bear to be outside, but warm enough to make pool parties the order of the day. At night, head to one of the many entertainment options available, and just remember to gamble sensibly if you’re heading to a casino.

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Best for hot hot heat: Adelaide

If you’re bemoaning the fact that New Zealand’s summer never properly arrived, take a trip across the ditch to Adelaide, where temperatures still hit the late twenties day after day. Adelaide often takes a back-seat to the more culturally impressive Melbourne or Sydney, but it’s got plenty to offer. From church spires to gorgeous beaches, hip bars to cool art galleries – this is a great spot for a long weekend away.

Best for rugged wilderness: Tasmania

Australia’s island state is a rugged wilderness made up of mountains, bush, beaches and shimmering lakes. Go rafting on the Franklin river, walk Cradle Mountain and the Overland Track, or enjoy the world-class food scene in Hobart. There’s also beautiful beaches, amazing wildlife (fancy meeting a Tasmanian devil?) and a fascinating history behind this Australian isle – with much of the countries population being able to trace their ancestry back to the original 10,000 ‘founding families’ who came from Britain.

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Best for chill factor: Canary Islands

Spanish owned Canary Islands off the coast of North Africa can be horrific in the height of the European summer, when tourists descend on them for cheap package holidays in the sun. But before the season gets started, the Canaries are still warm, sunny and chilled – without the crowds. Dramatic mountains, quaint towns, and stunning beaches make up these wondrous volcanic islands, while the cities offer pretty architecture and fine dining. Flying from Auckland will mean changing in Madrid – which is also beautiful in the spring months.

Best for snow: French Alps

As most of France is still shedding the last shivers of winter, take advantage of the cold and head to the picturesque Alps. With charming ski towns such as Chamonix and Megeve to choose from, March is a great time to get some serious snow sports underway. What’s best is that by March the main tourist hoards have left, and it’s sunny enough during the day to enjoy lunch outside without freezing.

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