Spring Travel Guide

Where to Go this Spring Break!

By Hend Seif El Din

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its beautiful tropical beaches and its stunning scenery; no wonder it’s a favorite! It extends from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, hence, stunning beaches! This small strip of land houses an array of options guaranteeing that every visitor will fall in love with at least one aspect!

Costa Rica’s territorial division includes seven provinces, namely San José, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste, Puntarenas and Limón. Combined, they offer an very attractive tourist destination, including lush rain forests, volcanoes, rivers and mountains. Even though its territory is very small, Costa Rica is within the top 20 richest countries in biodiversity on the planet in terms of species density! Divers will also immensely enjoy Costa Rica. According to Rodale’s Scuba Magazine, it has been ranked as one of the top five destinations around the world for advanced scuba diving.

Marrakesh, Morocco

The name, Marrakesh, when traced back to its berber origin, literally means “land of God.” The third largest city in Morocco, it lies near the foothills of the Atlas mountains, a few hours away from the Sahara desert, creating an incredible scenic contrast. Divided into two parts, the historical city–or the medina–and the –Gueliz or the Ville Nouvelle–which is the modernized European district, past truly meets the present, offering all the beautiful aspects of a historical city as well as shopping areas and modern restaurants.

Cancún

Located in the southeastern part of Mexico on the Caribbean sea, Cancún is known for its great weather, wild nightlife, as well as incredible activities. Home to the world’s second largest barrier reef, it is the ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also enjoy golfing and fishing, and later at night wine and dine at one of its cozy restaurants.

Holland

Spring comes with all shades and hues in Holland! Visit Keukenhof or stroll around one of its many flower markets to enjoy the array of breathtaking flowers, which you definitely won’t get to see anywhere else!

More than seven million flowers bloom at Keukenhof (yes, seven million!), and while you’re at it, don’t miss the world’s most beautiful flower parade. The estate, which dates back to 1642, boasts a 32 hectare park overflowing with stunning flower bulbs. Stop by Amsterdam to check out the floating flower market and–not to mention–the wide array of museums and architectural beauties.

Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are an archipelago of British Crown Dependincies in the English Channel, off the French coast of Normandy. Including two separate bailiwicks, the Bailiwick of Guernsey and the Bailiwick of Jersey, the Islands are considered the remnants of the Duchy of Normandy. Visit its beautiful islands for the ultimate island-hopping experience. Jersey is definitely the island of opposites, merging the gap between cosmopolitan city life and laid-back beach holidays. Guernsey comes with beautiful scenery and over 5000 years of history. Alderney is ideal for those looking for a more peaceful destination, it lies close to France but isn’t as “touristy.” Herm boasts stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and charming scenes, while Sark literally has no cars! It is the epitome of relaxation.

Valletta, Malta

Known as the Fortress City, or the “city built by gentlemen for gentlemen,” Valletta is the capital of Malta, also the commercial heart of the Islands. Named after its founder, Jean Parisot de la Valette, the incredible city grew on the rock of the Mount Sceberras peninsula. Valletta is one of the most concentrated historic spots in the world, busy by day while retaining a timeless, classic atmosphere. Its narrow streets are home to some of Europe’s finest churches and artworks. Fall in love with its charming narrow streets filled with tiny shops and cafés; in the mood for shopping? The city’s main streets are home to the world’s most renowned international brands.

Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is largely unexplored, making the unexploited frontier a sight for sore eyes! Filled with wonderful scenery and idyllic beauty, the sword-shaped island is home to stunning beaches, lagoons and perfect limestone cliffs. Many of its areas are relatively unaffected by tourists, including the charming fishing village of San Vicente and Long Beach, one of the purest stretches of sand in the world. Southern Palawan contains the remains of a Neolithic community in the Tabon Caves as well as turtle sanctuaries.