Where to Go in March

Superb weather conditions, thinning crowds, and festivals to celebrate the local culture are among the great highlights you can expect when visiting Maui in March. Head to Lahaina to celebrate the majestic marine animals at the Lahaina Whale and Ocean Arts Festival. Watch talented artists put their best work on display and dance along to local musicians.

Join the fun at the Prince Kuhio Festival to hear more Hawaiian music, dance the hula and witness colourful art exhibits. March is also the perfect time in Maui to smell the radiant flora beginning to bloom – roses, lilies, and the famous jacaranda trees are just a few to see.

Muscat in March means life-changing expeditions before the arrival of the scorching summer. Waltz along the seaside Mutrah Corniche and marvel at the rugged mountains overlooking the city. Stop by Mutrah Souq to pick up souvenirs and enjoy an authentic meal. Climb the rugged hills and admire impressive views of the harbour from the Mutrah Fort. The ancient military fortress was built in the 16th century and is still used today.

Crank up the adventure during your trip to Muscat with an expedition to the Wahiba Sands. Grab a sandboard and hit the dunes for a thrill of a lifetime in the middle of the desert. 

When the unbearable winter just won’t let up, travelling to the balmy Caribbean island of Antigua can be a perfect escape. Warm temperatures and less rainfall mean more time to relax on the pristine white sands of its 365 beaches – one for every day of the year! The turquoise waters of Dogwood Beach are a wonderful place to sink your toes into the sand or grab a snorkel and explore the underwater world. For a touch of luxury, Galley Bay offers an all-inclusive resort and spa facility where you can soothingly unwind.

If you’re after scenic viewpoints, venture to Shirley Heights for a truly picturesque sunset. Mount Obama, formerly Boggy Peak, is the highest point on the island and offers a challenging hike to enjoy its grand views.

March in Goa is a fine time to hit the fantastic beaches, with the added benefit of several spiritual festivals and exciting parties. Holi is a fun-filled spectacle where people gather in the streets to playfully cover each other in colourful powders. Join the bonfires the night before to celebrate the destruction of evil before welcoming the arrival of spring. Holi parties in Goa are a crazy affair and can be spotted anywhere from hotels to the beaches.

Head to Vasco, Panjim or Mapusa to watch the entertaining parades of Shigmo Festival. Behold elaborate costumes, massive floats and authentic dances of Hindu folklore. Sri Morjaee Temple in Morjim takes centre stage for the Phalgun (12th Hindu month) celebration of Kalas Utsav. Locals and visitors of various backgrounds are welcomed to partake in the cultural and religious festivities.

Chicago’s grandiose St. Patrick’s Day celebration makes the headlines in March. The temperature is gradually warming up but make sure you pack some warm clothes – it's called the Windy City for a reason! The annual green dyeing of the Chicago River kicks off the fun and every downtown neighbourhood is sparkling in Irish decorations. Chicago doubles the St. Patrick’s Day fun with 2 parades, one downtown and the other in the south side. After completing your Irish-themed pub crawls, it's time to lace up your running shoes for the Shamrock Shuffle.  

If glugging Guinness isn't your thing, take an invigorating dive into Lake Michigan by participating in the Chicago Polar Plunge. Feeling peckish? Satisfy your taste buds during your March trip to Chicago by trying local specialities, such as deep dish pizza and Italian beef Chicago sandwiches.