Spring is so close we can almost taste it – but sadly, not close enough to bring with it that much-needed warm sunshine. While London continues to experience single-digit temperatures (and the rest of the UK enjoys a flurry of snow here and there), it’s fair to say our expectations of an early spring heatwave have been well and truly dampened. So, if your requirement for a healthy dose of Vitamin D has become more of a need than a want (we hear you), here’s where to travel in March for some guaranteed sunshine this month – and our favourite luxury hotels to book while you’re there. 

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Average temperature in March: 28°C

The first few months of the year is the best time to travel to the island of Phu Quoc, which belongs to Vietnam, but is actually closer to Cambodia. Compared to the monsoon season which dominates the south of the country from June to August, and the north between September and November, the weather in March is more settled where travellers can enjoy temperatures often reaching 30°C.

Phu Quoc is a beautiful tropical island that’s also an accredited UNESCO biosphere, providing the ideal antidote when twinned with a trip to the bustling cities of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh. While the coastline is a huge draw, travellers can also explore the Phu Quoc National Park, visit local farms, wildlife parks or local night markets.

Where to stay: The Regent Phu Quoc

One of the most luxurious hotels on the island, the all-villa-and-suites resort of The Regent fringes the island’s best beach, treating guests to breathtaking views of the azure waters and lush landscapes. Head to the spa for a rejuvenating treatment, ranging from locally-inspired massages to relaxing treatments using Biologique Recherche and Bastien Gonzalez products. Alongside the spa, guests can enjoy the highlife with an excursion on the resort’s catamaran, providing access to coral reefs and the chance to cruise during sunsets. Kids in tow? The Regent caters to all ages with a plethora of activities – think sports, games, crafts – and a mini-indoor cinema to keep them entertained. 

The culinary offering is also a highlight, where guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the history of the island via the Oku restaurant, serving contemporary Japanese-French cuisine, and speakeasy Bar Jade that transports guests back to an era of luxury train travel in south-east Asia. Elsewhere, enjoy sensory culinary experiences like the blind tasting dinner, Bar Jade’s signature cocktail class, latte art workshop, and dinner with a private chef. 

 From £356 per night, visit phuquoc.regenthotels.com

Limassol, Cyprus

Average temperature in March: 21°C

Much like the Canary Islands, Cyprus has a reputation as a great winter holiday destination. Promising at least eight hours of sunshine per day in March and mild temperatures, head to Paphos for beach trips, the Troodos Mountains for hiking and exploring Byzantine churches, and the hills of Limassol for local vineyards and wineries. The latter is the second-largest city on the island after the capital of Nicosia, and is famous for the centuries-old Limassol Castle – a must-visit for history buffs. 

Where to stay: Parklane Limassol

Boasting an unrivalled culinary offering, Parklane is home to no less than six bars and restaurants, including the famed Mediterranean restaurant groups of LPM and Nammos, and the picturesque Il Teatro, overlooking one of the three outdoor pools while serving fresh Italian fare fringed by lemon trees. Inside the hotel, accommodation ranges from beautiful adults-only lifestyle suites to seafront villas with secluded private pools, as well as other family friendly options. New for this month, the existing kids club has been rebranded as an award-winning Explorers Club, providing endless entertainment to little ones while adults while away an afternoon on the beach or in The Kalloni Spa. The latter boasts an array of dedicated Thalassotherapy treatments and a varied treatment menu focused on detoxing and rejuvenation, with a pool that replicates the salinity of the Dead Sea. 

From £239 per night, visit parklanecyprus.com

Seville, Spain

Average temperature in March: 21°C

For many, Seville is a no-go come the summer. The Andalusian capital becomes one of the hottest destinations in Europe in June and July, with temperatures during the past few summers peaking at 43°C. So naturally, for those who don’t want to holiday in the extreme heat, spring is the best season to visit Seville. Go in March to explore the city’s 13th-century Islamic castles, 14th-century palaces and 15th-century squares, as well as its range of authentic eateries and impressive bars. 

Where to stay: Corral Del Rey

Less than a 10-minute walk from Seville’s UNESCO-protected Old Town is Corral del Rey – a former palace home which has been tastefully transformed into a soothing 17-bedroom bolthole that boasts many of its original features, including marble columns, Mudéjar-style doors and ancient timber beams. Each bedroom is a quirky mix of natural textures – stone, wood, marble – individual furniture and high-tech mod cons, all providing a welcome rest from the heat outside. 

From £282 per night, visit corraldelrey.com

Cancún, Mexico

Average temperature in March: 29°C

One of the most popular holiday destinations in Mexico, Cancún is famous for its beaches, five-star hotels and nightlife. If you’re unphased by the 10-hour flight, this is one of the warmest and sunniest spots to visit in March but you’ll want to dodge the American spring-breakers by staying in a luxurious hotel during your stay. Venture outside to enjoy sandy Mexican beaches and go underwater to discover some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving spots in the world, including the Museo Subacuático de Arte that features more than 500 underwater sculptures. Also don’t miss the pyramids of Chichen Itza, situated on the outskirts of the city, for a cultural and historical lesson on the area’s sacred Maya heritage.

Where to stay: Waldorf Astoria Cancún

Occupying 100 acres of prime beachfront real estate on the Riviera Maya, the Waldorf Astoria’s Mexican outpost promises a more refined experience than you might expect from this party paradise. Each of its 150 rooms and suites offer expansive sea views, while its lagoon-style pool, elegant spa and five restaurants and bars, serving everything from authentic Mexican classics to fine dining seafood, mean you may just never want to leave...

From £556 per night, visit hilton.com

Los Angeles, California, USA

Average temperature in March: 21°C

The Golden State has long been a destination for Londoners seeking a slice of the high life on America’s West Coast. It’s the playground of the rich and famous (so expect price tags to match) but is also home to the nation’s film industry, with attractions such as Hollywood Boulevard and, of course, the Walk of Fame. There’s plenty to do in Los Angeles, but we’d recommend hiking to the Griffith Observatory for unparalleled views of the sprawling Californian city, and cycle the Strand: the 22-mile bike path that follows nearly the entirety of LA’s westward-facing coastline. You’d have certainly earned your tacos and rosé wine after that. 

Where to stay: The Beverly Hills Hotel

Known as The Pink Palace, this luxury hotel is a stone’s throw away from Sunset Boulevard and has been made famous for the prestigious names on its guestbook, from Marilyn Munroe to Elizabeth Taylor. Now over a century old, this landmark hotel is still going strong thanks to its undeniable allure, impeccable interiors, jaw-dropping suites, and pink parasol-lined pool where you can dine on a Caesar salad and Californian wine. Head over to The Polo Lounge for the full restaurant experience and don’t forget to don your shades – this is the place to be and be seen in Hollywood… 

From £1,000 per night, visit dorchestercollection.com

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