April marks a seasonal change worldwide, presenting an opportune time to discover historical landmarks, embark on thrilling escapades, and relish in locally grown produce. It’s the perfect time for an unforgettable excursion, so prepare your travel documents and luggage – here’s our April travel guide.
South Korea
Think cherry blossoms only bloom in Japan? Think again. South Korea also offers stunning displays of cherry blossoms. Seoul hosts several flower festivals in April, featuring dreamy blooms at Seokchon Lake, Yeouido Island, and Changgyeonggung Palace. In the southern city of Busan, Jinhae is a picturesque port city surrounded by cherry blossoms. And in Gyeongju, the former capital of the ancient Silla dynasty, visitors can run in the annual Cherry Blossom Marathon while taking in the many temples, tombs, pagodas, and palaces that the city has to offer. Get ready to pack your bags and experience the beauty of spring in South Korea.
Dominica
Dominica, sets itself apart from other Caribbean countries. Instead of the typical luxurious resorts, this tropical paradise is characterised by black sand and lush jungle, showcasing an authentic and rustic atmosphere. Hiking is a popular activity here, which is not commonly associated with the region. Moreover, Dominica is renowned for the abundant marine life, with approximately 200 sperm whales, porpoises and dolphins that can be seen year-round, as well as migrating humpback whales passing through from January to April. Sea turtles, including leatherbacks, loggerheads, greens, and hawksbills, also nest here from March to October.
Rome, Italy
If you’re a history enthusiast, you might want to consider visiting Rome during its birthday celebrations. The Eternal City was established on 21 April 753 BCE, and every year it commemorates the occasion with festivities, illuminations and lots of fireworks. In addition to the celebrations, April and May are ideal months to visit Rome. It is a sightseeing city, and it’s much better to do it during the mild spring days rather than in the middle of winter or peak summer when it’s busier and more expensive. Seasonal attractions are open, and menus are packed with delicious spring delicacies such as asparagus and artichokes. The quintessential dish of the season, vignarola, is a Roman specialty that combines peas, fava beans, lettuce, and artichokes.
Peloponnese, Greece
Located in the southern part of mainland Greece, the mountainous Peloponnese peninsula was once the heartland of the Spartans and is a treasure trove of history and fertile land. For a pleasant experience, visit during the mild and sunny spring season to explore the ruins of Olympia, Mycenae, and Epidaurus in comfortable temperatures and indulge in the local cuisine. Specialties include Kalamata olives, tsakoniki eggplant, roast suckling pig, and the protected-origin vanilla fir honey from the Menalon Mountains. This region is more community-focused than mass-market, with family-run food tours, guesthouses, and tavernas where you can enjoy authentic flavours. The wine is exceptional as well, with superb reds from Nemea and sweet white Malvasia from Monemvasia waiting to be tasted.
Wairarapa, New Zealand
During grape-harvest season, when the vines turn orange and await picking, join the locals in raising a glass in the Wairarapa Wine Region, just an hour’s drive northeast of New Zealand’s capital city. This area boasts a similar climate to Burgundy and a wild, undiscovered ambiance. Martinborough, the charming old town at the heart of the wine industry, offers family-owned vineyards that produce top-quality pinot noir. While Luna has a restaurant on-site, Nga Waka and Schubert provide more intimate options. Gourmet tours and food-wine pairing experiences are available, combining visits to some of the 20-plus vineyards with beer from the region’s craft breweries and world-class cheese platters. Alternatively, take a self-guided cycling tour of the vineyards, as the cellar doors are conveniently located close to one another and easy to reach by bike.
With such dreamy destinations, each offering its own unique appeal – how will you choose? Either way, we know you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.
