Top 5 Spring Destinations: Sakura, Tulips, and More

From the Japanese cherry blossoms to tulips in the Netherlands, spring travel is one of the most beautiful times to travel all across the world. Here at reLAXsan travel isn't just our passion, it’s our mission to make your travel journey unforgettable. Here is a guide to the top 5 countries you need to visit in the spring time. Blooming landscapes, energetic festivals, and great weather combine for an optimal traveling season. Whether you're chasing culture, flowers, or seasonal food, let us help you plan out your next vacation. 

Japan

It’s hard to beat the stunning cherry blossom, or Sakura, laced landscapes of spring time in Japan. These unique trees flourish for about two weeks every spring and their vibrant pink flowers blanket over the already stunning Japanese temples, parks, and streets. Speaking from experience, heading to the Japanese cultural hub of Kyoto to witness these flowers in bloom can’t be missed. Kyoto hosts plentiful Sakura festivals, or Hanami, around the city; these festivals are primarily in parks. Hanami features food vendors, tranquil music, and no shortage of beautiful old Sakura trees. The mild temperatures of spring provide the perfect opportunity to explore all the wonders Japan has to offer. Spring time in Japan is not just a travel destination, rather a rich cultural experience that truly captures the essence of spring. 

South Africa

Want to live your Lion King dreams? From safari adventures to surfing at the beach, South Africa offers an outdoor adventure for everyone! South Africa is located in the Southern Hemisphere, meaning its seasons are opposite to those in the United States. When it’s spring in the U.S., it’s fall in South Africa, and vice versa. Summer in South Africa is both the peak of their tourism season and the peak of the humidity, with temperatures reaching 90°F.  Visiting South Africa in the springtime, which typically spans September to November, offers a truly unforgettable experience. For those interested in beach activities, spring time offers some of the best waves and greatest temperatures. Offering a vast assortment of hikes, Namaqualand region should be on your list, as colorful wild flowers bloom all across the region. For the nature lovers, South Africa offers premiere whale watching off the coast of Cape Town. South Africa should be on every adventurer's bucket-list!

Greece

Unlike most of Europe that suffers from harsh winters and unbearably hot summers, Greece is pretty temperate year round. This makes it a top travel destination for travelers across the globe, which means summers are peak travel season. A good way to bypass some extensive crowds is to visit during off-season or spring time! There are some great activities exclusive to Greece in the spring time, such as; trying seasonal dishes like Fava and Artichokes, experiencing the Orthodox Easter festivals, and exploring charming Greek towns without the hoards of crowds. Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins, hiking scenic trails, or relaxing on the serene beaches, Greece in the spring offers an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

United States

The USA is the 4th largest country by land mass, this makes for an incredibly diverse landscape across the country. Many states offer great spring time activities, it’s difficult to choose from the vast array of options. Washington, D.C. is a fantastic destination to visit in the spring, especially to experience the iconic National Cherry Blossom Festival. These trees were gifted to the United States by ex-Tokyo mayor Yukio Ozaki to celebrate the relationship between the two countries. A spring trip to the West Coast is a must, and driving along Highway 1 up the California Coast is the perfect way to experience it. The coastline is adorned with vibrant wildflowers blooming on the cliffs, offering breathtaking views and making the journey along the coast an unforgettable adventure. Maybe you want more of a big city feel, then go to Chicago in the spring time. Winters in Chicago are famously cold and dark, but as the city starts to thaw out, it truly comes alive once again. Expect vibrant festivals, an active baseball culture, and pub crawls. Whether you’re looking for nature or exploring a new city, the United States offers something for everyone!

Netherlands

Visiting the Netherlands in spring is an enchanting experience, as the country bursts into color with its world-famous tulip season. From March to May, the Dutch landscape transforms into a vibrant patchwork of blooming flowers, especially in places like Keukenhof Gardens and the Bollenstreek (Flower Strip), where millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths create a stunning display of colors. The King's Day celebration in April adds a lively cultural twist to spring, with the whole country dressed in orange, enjoying street festivals, parades, and music. In addition to the flowers and festivities, spring in the Netherlands offers fewer tourists compared to the summer months, allowing you to experience the country's beauty and charm in a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere. Whether you're admiring the flowers, enjoying local treats, or immersing yourself in Dutch culture, spring in the Netherlands is a genuinely magical time to visit.

What’s the best way to get to these destinations?

If you are a San Diego native, flights out of San Diego International Airport (SAN) can be both expensive and non-direct. That’s why we made it our mission to connect the San Diego community with Los Angeles International Airport. LAX is one of the major airports in the United States, connecting all of SoCal with over 160 global destinations. Our San Diego to LAX shuttle service makes the trip both reLAXing and affordable. Consider taking reLAXsan when traveling to take advantage of LAX’s direct and affordable flights!

Conclusion

Sakura in Japan, the wildflowers in South Africa, or the tulips in the Netherlands, all of these locations offer unique opportunities to witness nature’s beauty at its peak. Each destination brings something special to the table, whether it’s cultural experiences, natural wonders, or vibrant festivals. Springtime travel invites you to explore new landscapes, immerse yourself in rich traditions, and enjoy pleasant weather without the crowds of summer. Let reLAXsan help you embark on your next adventure, whether it’s exploring iconic cities or remote, stunning regions, ensuring your travel journey is as unforgettable as the destinations themselves.