The Here Magazine staff is chomping at the bit for almost-spring travel, and while any month is a good month to pack your bags and experience something outside your normal routine, certain places feel like they were made for certain months of year.
March has its own smattering of choice destinations, but no matter what kind of trip you’re looking for, we’ve got your travel inspiration right here. See below for where we’re going this month, plus our picks for the best last minute vacations and extended stays for March.
Best Last Minute March Destinations:
Aurora, New York
Staying local may not sound the most glamorous, but it really works for the last-minute traveler—you can pick your destination based on your mood, or where your friends are, or in pursuit of a single great restaurant or beautiful hike, then just hop in a car and drive. And if you’re anything like me, you haven’t seen much of your home state anyway. I just spent a weekend in upstate New York—four hours outside the city there’s a different world. It’s quiet, it’s serene, and in it I had the sidewalks to myself. Spending the weekend at a grand old house, with uninterrupted views of Cayuga Lake and round-the-clock fires, was just as refreshing as any beachside option. Plus, no tourists! —Chloe Scheffe, Editorial Designer
Guatemala City, Guatemala
If I were to spontaneously jet off anywhere in the next weekend or two, I’d go to Guatemala. According to SkyScanner, flights are super cheap right now, and hotels are reasonable. I’ve had a travel crush on Guatemala ever since we published this Like a Local—it seems like such a vibrant place with so much to discover. —Annie Werner, Managing Editor, Digital
Miami, Florida
It’s freezing in New York and flights from JFK to MIA are never all that expensive. I’m planning to soak up the sun and try as many Japanese restaurants as possible during my three day weekend, including stops at Hiden, Kaido, and Sushi Garage. —Ally Betker, Editorial Director
March’s Best Extended Getaways :
Joshua Tree, California
Most of my travel recommendations include wide open spaces. In March, the trails in Joshua Tree come alive with wildflowers, and it’s the perfect time of year to enjoy good weather and fewer crowds. You’ll have plenty of hikes to choose from, everything from easy to moderately-strenuous, and they’ll all come with incredible views. My favorite is the 49 Palms Oasis Trail that leads you from the burnt-orange rock of the desert to towering palm trees so big and green you’ll feel like it’s a literal mirage. Don’t miss the sunset at the Jumbo Rocks Campground or the hike amongst the Joshua Trees on the Barker Dam trail. Just remember that whatever trail you end on, leave no trace behind. If you find yourself in need a of little more civilization, Palm Springs is a short drive away and will give you more boutique hotels, restaurants, and Instagram squares than you could possibly think of. —Eunice Cancino, Associate Manager, Social Media
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City forever! It’s not a crazy long flight, but CDMX has so much to offer—from tons of art museums to outdoor spaces to world class food—that it’s definitely worth staying as long as possible. —AB
Seoul, South Korea.
I love Seoul—it has everything. Great food, excellent shopping, unparalleled spa tourism, and super fun night life. What many people don’t know is that it’s also a great place to see cherry blossoms in bloom this time of year. Whereas Japan can get nuttier (and more expensive) during the sakura, Seoul stays relatively calm. The weather will oscillate between light-jacket and winter weather, but you’ll be busied soaking up all the beauty (and fun) that Seoul has to offer. —AW
Barbados
Barbados isn’t super far and we’re approaching the end of their really busy season, so the island should be a little less crowded. Take a surf lesson and explore the work of local artists like Sheena Rose and the Fresh Milk collective. —Emma Glassman-Hughes, Senior Associate Print Editor
Amsterdam, Netherlands
I can’t stop thinking about Amsterdam. I was last there from late Summer through early Fall, and I’ve dreamt about going back in Spring ever since. The city is built for biking—being outside is a way of life. In the daytime, skip the tulip markets in favor of Vondelpark (the Central Park of Amsterdam), the Hortus Botanicus (an expansive botanical garden), Droog (a design store and exhibition space with a gorgeous garden courtyard), or a day trip to The Hague. At night, stay on your bike, enjoy the charm of the city lights reflected in the canals, and stop for a pint and a slice of apple pie at Winkel 43. Don’t say no to the whipped cream. —CS
Where We’re Going This Month:
Melbourne, Australia
I’m off to Melbourne at the end of the month, where I’ll be working on stories for our upcoming issue. It’s supposedly the most liveable city in the world, and I’m excited to put that to the test. —AB
Barcelona, Spain
It’s been on my bucket list forever and my friend and I found a cheap flight back in November. I don’t think right now is considered the “best” time of year for Barca—we won’t be able to enjoy the beaches as much since the weather will be more in the 70s. I’m staying at Casa Bonay for a few days and then doing an Airbnb in the Gothic Quarter. I’m also super stoked about our reservation at Bodega 1900, the ultimate Spanish foodie experience. Looking forward to leather-jacket-weather, tapas, and taking in all the gorgeous art and architecture that fills this city. —AW
Suzhou and Shanghai, China
I’m heading there for two weeks and I’m so excited to experience the contrast of Suzhou, a city known for its picturesque canals and traditional architecture, and Shanghai, a megacity brimming with urban energy. Bring on the street food! —EGH
Suzhou and Shanghai, China
I’m also going to China! It’s been nearly ten years since I was last there, and I’m looking forward to seeing it as an adult. I’m curious how much overlap there will be between the two trips, or if it’ll feel like an entirely new place because I’m essentially an entirely different person. I remember being in awe of the buildings—on this trip, as with the first one, I’ll definitely be paying attention to the architecture. —CS
Bushwick, Brooklyn
I never thought I’d be the one to opt for a staycation but after a long search for a new home, I finally settled into my place in Bushwick and nothing sounds better than couchsurfing and long strolls on the sidewalk. I’m new to the neighborhood and can’t wait to check out all the great nightlife (House of Yes, Elsewhere, Pearl’s Billy & Social Club) and some awesome restaurants (Bun’ker, Faro). And it’ll be nice to check out all the cool street art the neighborhood is known for beyond the walk to my train. —EC