It’s Springtime in the Northern Hemisphere. For many including me, Spring is their favorite season of the year. As the ground warms and the Spring Flowers bloom in a kaleidoscope of Easter egg like colors and the smell of daffodils, tulips and hyacinths fill the air, I am reminded of various places in the world where you can travel to see Spring flowers in bloom. Spring brings joy, travel brings joy, the two are interconnected. Below are some of the best places in the world to see Spring flowers in bloom.
Nepal –Rhododendrons
The days are longer and warmer in Spring and Rhododendrons, the national flower of Nepal, bloom vibrantly in the higher elevations during this time. Nepal isn’t the first place you think of travelling to see Spring flowers but with over 32 varieties of Rhododendrons, it shouldn’t be missed. There are four major areas for Rhododendron treks, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking in Annapurna Region, Milke Danda in remote eastern Nepal nestled in the foothills of the Himalaya, the Upper Tamur River, the Langtang valley closer to Kathmandu and the Makulu Barun National park. Most of the treks are easy hikes, trekking through mountainside villages perched at the edges of great Rhododendron forests with vistas of the Himalayan landscape above. Best time to travel to see the Rhododendrons in full bloom is March and April. Trekking and flowers – what could be better?
Japan – Cherry Blossoms
Most people know of the cherry blossoms of Japan and the festivals that take place during this season. The significance of the cherry blossom to the Japanese culture can be traced back in time It’s a time when families and friends get together for the centuries old tradition of cherry blossom viewing. The cherry blossoms signify beauty and renewal and the cycle of life and death. As the blossoms permeate through the air, there is no where that these beautiful flowers are treasured more than in Japan. To make the most of your trip to Japan be sure to immerse yourself in the culture, learn about the ritualised world of the geisha, stay in a Ryokan – a traditional, small family run sleeping establishment with home cooked food or perhaps sample Japan’s food stalls of Yakitori. There are many highlights of Japan, these are just some of them. …..
Holland – Tulips
When you think of Holland, Tulips come to mind, they are interconnected. Rows of fields are sewn with every color imaginable and the landscape is transformed into a patchwork splash of color. The best place to see Tulips in Holland is in Keukenhof. Keukenhof is a park with 7 million bulbs and is surrounded by a Tulip field. Tulips are at their best in mid April although the season runs from March to May. Combine your love of flowers with a River cruise. Many operators are now scheduling their departures around the peak Tulip blooming times. It’s a fantastic way to see the field of tulips in some of the smaller towns along the River. Or why not try a bike tour - there really is no better way to see field of Tulips than by Bicycle. Cycle by fields of color, get some exercise and take in the cultural sites along the way.
South Africa – Wildflowers of Namaqualand
The spring flowers of Namaqualand have a worldwide reputation. Once a year the desert turns into a sea of of colors from orange, pink, purple, yellow and all shades in between. Spring in this region (the Southern hemisphere), starts in mid August and the flower seasons peaks mid to late August, however this can change from year to year as it is dependent on the Winter rains. This transformation of color explosion happens only once a year, after which the region transforms back into a desert, arid and dry. Why not make the most out of your time in South Africa with a search for the “Big 5” in Kruger National park and the famous Sabi Sands region.
One of the joys of travel is creating lasting memories. Keep these places in mind for your next Spring travel trip!