This text is part of the special Pleasures notebook
It’s not just the climate that determines the right time to stay in a given destination, but it’s still an excellent indicator! Some ideas for upcoming departures…
A flowery spring
From the outset, the cherry blossoms, which appear in successive waves from the south to the north of Japan from March onwards, are a once-in-a-lifetime proposition. Too far? Too expensive? At the time of the almond trees in bloom, Italy is also particularly spectacular! Since 1934, a festival has been held there celebrating the splendor of the tree and local folklore. In Agrigento, the country of Pirandello, in Sicily, also the Italian capital of culture this year, the Sagra del Mandorlo in Fiore programs parades and dances by international troupes, all in the imposing setting of the Valley of the Temples. The event will probably take place from March 9 to 16, and we can count on the Sicilians to cook up some special food!
Post-pandemic, Bhutan has greatly simplified the requirements for access to its territory: all you need is a visa (US$40) and a contribution to a fund intended for sustainable development (US$100 per day per visitor), one of the keys to its “gross national happiness”. Either way, the months of April to July are simply breathtaking in the Himalayan kingdom, as the scarlet flowers of rhododendrons adorn the valleys, mark several hiking trails and illuminate the gardens of temples and monasteries. One more splendor in this country from which we never quite return.
A summer of mountains and wonders
Overheard at a holiday dinner: “There are really too many people on the Greek islands; Next summer, I’m going to Switzerland! » The influence of the film Shepherds by Sophie Deraspe, transposed to the Helvetii, no doubt! Still, in order to be sure not to come across too many of our fellow human beings, let’s choose a region that is as traditional as it is off the beaten track: the Appenzellerland. And over here, a rolling landscape, which undulates from Lake Constance to the Alpstein massif. Smart little houses that look like they came straight out of a fairy tale. Good cheese and great hikes. The Swiss tourist office recommends a brand new hotel in Appenzell, the Appenzeller Huus Quell, dedicated to the well-being of its guests and the environment.
Are we more sea than mountain? So, let’s head to Morocco in August! After exploring the sublime city of Marrakech, where Air Transat drops us off after a direct flight, we take the road to the small seaside town of Essaouira. Beach, culture, gastronomy: we have so much baraka that even the refreshing trade winds are there!
An autumn on the road
With climate change leading to temperatures above seasonal norms, heading to Portugal, Spain, Italy or the Adriatic coast in October means sunshine and mild weather. As a bonus, hotel rates are then lower. In Croatia, it is truffle month in Istria and Dalmatia, and you can still visit the wild beaches of the islands. Off the coast of Split, Solta is home to a 300-year-old castle converted into a boutique hotel, the Martinis Marchi. What a beautiful base camp from which to visit winegrowers, olive growers, beekeepers and island painters!
In Australia, let’s travel the Great Ocean Road in November and December, before the traffic jams of the southern summer! Holy Grail of road trippeux”, the country’s emblematic road hugs the south-east coast for almost 245 km, from Torquay to Allansford. It is famous for its breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, the charming villages it passes through and the natural attractions to which it facilitates access, such as the Twelve Apostles. In Apollo Bay, the Wildlife Wonders excursion is an opportunity to see koalas, kangaroos and potoroos up close. In this same location, you can treat yourself to the luxury of a sleep at the Chocolate Gannets, the adorable villas of a Quebec couple!
A winter of well-being
Slowly but surely, the busy Riviera Maya, which stretches from Cancun to Tulum, Mexico, is transforming into a vast theme park. As proof, the popular Xel-Ha, Xcaret and Vidanta World! For those looking for a destination with a strong local identity, we recommend Oaxaca, followed by a seaside stopover in Puerto Escondido, on the Pacific coast. The first city is famous for its street food; the second is a haven for surfers and other sea lovers. And in both, Grupo Habita has just inaugurated some nice little hotels of totally mexicanaor Otro and Humano. To discover!
When we think of Utah, we think of powder skiing, but we could also imagine a grandiose desert! And this is exactly what Camp Sarika offers, the glamping from the Amangiri Hotel. Surrounded by several national parks (Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Monument Valley, Glen Canyon-Lake Powell), it is intended to be a base for hikers, astronomy enthusiasts and other travelers curious about the traditions of the Navajos. During the festive period, there are guided hikes, meditation sessions to the sound of Tibetan bowls and a seasonal gourmet meal. The climate? Azure skies and around 13°C during the day. At the Camp, the pavilions and heated swimming pools as well as the patio braziers guarantee comfort, even in this lunar environment.
This content was produced by the Special Publications team at Dutyrelating to marketing. The writing of the Duty did not take part.
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