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Spring Break

Easter spring break holiday ideas

Fly to the sun this Easter

FLORIDA

Why go?
When only cloudless blue skies will do, the Sunshine State offers a tasty mix of rollercoasters, shopping, natural wonders, golden sands and balmy temperatures during spring. Kick back in Miami where art, restaurants, bars and beach life reign supreme, visit the tropical Florida Keys or drive north to Orlando’s epic attractions. If you’re after rest and relaxation, avoid Miami in March when the ‘spring break’ parties are in town. For retail therapy, Simon Shopping’s Sawgrass Mills has more than 350 stores, including luxury boutiques and brand outlets and is located 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale. These malls can be huge so the Simon Shopping mobile app, which has maps and deals, plus where to eat and drink is pretty handy.

www.simon.com

Where to stay
Fly-drives are ever popular in the Sunshine State and it’s easy to mix fly-and-flop beach time with thrill-a-minute attractions. In the Florida Keys, there are a plethora of beach homes and rentals to choose from. On the Gulf Coast, waterfront homes and hotels have a traditional Floridian appeal and the long, sandy beaches are some of the best in the state. Of course, most visitors like to enjoy a little Florida style and glamour alongside the beach and theme parks. If staying in Miami, check in at Loews iconic Art Deco hotel, which is located slap bang in the centre of the action. Loews has direct access to Miami beach and is a couple of minutes’ scenic walk oceanside to Ocean Drive. The hotel’s restaurants, pools and spa also offer some great opportunities to relax in the sunshine with family or friends – and as you’d expect from a Miami institution, the brunch at the hotel’s Preston’s Market is unreal.

IBIZA

Why go?
Forget the hedonistic tales of dawn raves, the White Isle is at its best in spring (with some of the western Med’s best temperatures) and has a treasure trove of quiet sandy beaches and beautiful villages to explore. An influx of luxury hotels, yoga retreats, contemporary guest houses, beach clubs and stylish dining options has made this Balearic beauty increasingly popular with couples and families, particularly early and late in the season when prices are lower.

Where to stay
Looking for a cool couples retreat? Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay will reopen just before Easter and has a new collection of rooftop suites with private terraces and Jacuzzis offering unspoilt 360° views of beautiful Talamanca Bay. The hotel’s iconic restaurants will top off a fantastic stay.
www.nobuhotelibizabay.com

Spring Break
Nobu

MALLORCA

Why go?
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, heaps of attractions, spring festivals, shopping and superb family hotels, Mallorca ticks many boxes. Enjoy a city break by the sea in the capital of Palma, or for more local character, Alcúdia on the northern coast boasts a stylish harbour and is surrounded by golden beaches and restful coves. The Balearic island is also a magnet for cyclists, hikers and outdoorsy travellers during spring.

Where to stay
Run by families, for families, Zafiro Palace Hotel Alcúdia is open from February to November and lies near the medieval town of Alcúdia. The hotel offers six swim-up pools, a kids’ pool with pirate ship, dancing and kids activity programmes, kids clubs, an adults only area, two indoor pools and is five minutes from the Zafiro golf course.
www.zafirohotels.com

GOCEK, TURKEY

Why go?
Spring temperatures in Turkey are some of the best in Europe. Widely touted as the ‘new’ Kalkan, Gocek is a picturesque harbour town on the south coast of Turkey and perfect for a relaxing holiday. Located around 20 minutes-drive from Dalaman airport, speedy transfers won’t eat into your precious holiday time either. Head out on a traditional gulet boat tour to explore the emerald islands lying offshore, take to the water on kayaks and paddleboards, scuba dive and snorkel or hit the weekly local markets for leather goods and wonderful spices.

Where to stay
Open all year round, D-Resort Gocek is a small 103-room hotel with an idyllic spa, and its own private beach and marina. There are savings of up to 30% for early bird January and February booking.
www.dresortgocek.com

Spring Break
D-Resort Gocek