Where to go on holiday in March 2012

Bangkok river scene

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Best March holidays for… cities

Short haul: Cologne, Germany

The Dom, one of Germany’s most visited attractions, is only one example of the rich history and architecture that exists in Cologne. The city boasts 12 Romanesque churches, 36 museums, more than 100 art galleries and 30 stages on which theater is performed. A boat tour along the Rhine provides panoramic views of the entire city.

Cologne evening cityscape
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If shopping and relaxation is what you’re interested in, Cologne’s Schildergasse is the most visited shopping mall in Germany. There are also a number of thermal spas and saunas scattered throughout the city, including the Claudius Therme thermal spa that replicates the Roman bathing experience.

Top off your day with a beer that’s sure to be refreshing, as Cologne has more breweries than any other European cities. The local Kölsch beer is infamous.

Long haul: Bangkok, Thailand

What better way to experience a city than through its cuisine? The Bangkok International Food Fair will travel to three different areas of the city throughout March providing food, drink and entertainment to visitors. In between bites, Bangkok offers much to see. The Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple are just two of the city’s many historical sites. Visit the Rose Garden for a cultural experience, where daily dancing and Thai boxing shows are performed.

Enjoy city views by taking a river cruise down the Chao Phraya River, the country’s principle river. Gain an understanding of the waterway’s importance to the Thai people by visiting a floating market. If time permits, travel outside of Bangkok to Damnoen Sadkuak for a more colorful and atmospheric market experience.

Best March holidays for… beaches

Short haul: Canary Islands, Spain

With 1,500km (932 miles) of coastline among these seven diverse islands, there’s something for everyone. Visit Las Palmas, arguably the most beautiful island offering the opportunity to sunbathe on the black-sand beach of Puerto Naos during the day. Once the sun goes down, head to Roque de los Muchachos for an incredible stargazing experience.

Experience the Canary Island nightlife
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Tenerife is the largest of the islands with a large range of activities. Rip through the Atlantic Ocean by boat, jet ski, surf board, sail or swim and keep an eye out for the whales and dolphins that populate the area. After a day in the water, take in a Canarian folklore show or head to one of the nightclubs in lively Playa de las Américas for a dose of the island’s legendary nightlife.

Long haul: Cayman Islands, Caribbean

The wide sandy beaches and crystal blue waters are only the beginning of the beauty that exists on the Cayman Islands. Dive into the Caribbean waters to see the plethora of coral reefs, marine creatures and ship wrecks. Visit Stingray City where you can swim and snorkel with these fearless creatures which will eat squid right out of your hand.

Ship wrecks off the Cayman Islands
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Walk down the popular Seven Mile Beach to experience the essence of the island. From there, it’s an easy walk to the Blow Holes, a premier photo op spot, where incoming waves erupt and crash into the rocks in a hypnotic manner.

Wander over to George Town to pick up a souvenir where duty-free goods and small boutiques are prevalent. There are hand-made jewellery pieces, local foods and a collection of clothing items that anyone back home would appreciate.

Best March holidays for… outdoors

Short haul: Val d’Isere, France

With 300km (186 miles) of terrain, there’s room for plenty of winter sports activities at Val d’Isere. The popular French resort caters to skiers of all abilities, while there are a number of ski schools available for novices and intermediates.

Popular French ski resort Val d'Isere
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The Oakley Valpark snowpark offers everything from jumps to rails for those who dream about catching big air, and the Alpine Race Stadium allows thrill-seekers to test their speed.

If you choose to break away from the slopes, the resort offers guests the opportunity to ice skate, dogsled, parasail, ice climb and snowmobile. Continue your mountain adventure through the night by staying in Val d’Isere’s igloo village at an altitude of 2400m (7,874 ft.)

Long haul: Maui, Hawaii

Don’t be fooled by this Hawaiian island’s calm waters and white sandy beaches, there are incredible adventures to be had here. Explore the island’s many coves by kayak and don’t forget a scuba mask, as Maui’s rich marine life offers fantastic dive and snorkelling opportunities.

See Maui's marine wildlife
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Explore Haleakala volcano by mountain biking down the side of it, paragliding over it, or hiking within its dormant crater where there are 43 km (27 miles) of hiking trails, plus camping sites and cabins where you can stay the night.

See more of Maui by helicopter. The acres of sugar and pineapple plantations, jagged cliffs, and glistening waterfalls make it impossible to look away. Take a drive down Kahekili Highway to see even more waterfalls, as well as sharp lava coastlines, rolling pastures and ancient Hawaiian temples.