The World In Bloom and Beyond
Easter In Italy
When I think of spring, I think of Easter. With Easter celebrations coming up, have you ever thought of taking your celebrations abroad? Easter in Italy is called Pasqua. The experience of Pasqua in Italy is joyous and very holy. There are many Easter celebrations that truly show and bring out the culture of Italy. The streets come alive with festivals and religious processions. The processions date back centuries and when witnessing them you’ll see religious figures carried throughout the streets. A significant procession is the Good Friday procession in Rome which is led by the Pope. Another century-old tradition is Scoppio del Carro, the "Explosion of the Cart." The conclusion of Easter Sunday services in the glorious Duomo marks the thrilling beginning of the coppio del Carro. A towering beautiful wooden structure, rigged with firecrackers, bursts into a vibrant fountain of fireworks and a dazzling spray of sparks. Popular easter foods you would come across are sweets like colomba di pasqua, which is a doveshaped cake, delicious chocolate eggs, and a lot of lamb! During this spring time, one of Italy’s most beautiful blooms is poppies. There are many breathtaking sights of poppy fields which is found most in Tuscany. Another presentation of the beautiful flowers in Italy is found in Rome at the Pantheon during Pentecost. Inside this renown building thousands of vibrant red rose petals begin to fall from the ceiling, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This 'rain of roses' symbolizes the descent of the Holy Spirit and transforms the space into a truly moving experience.
Semana Santa in Marbella, Spain
Spring in Marbella is truly delightful known for its luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches. The natural surroundings are beautiful, with flowers in full bloom. Easter in Marbella, Spain, is another unique experience. There they celebrate Semana Santa. Marbella also hosts elaborate processions. These events have a strong Spanish tradition and offer a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. Overall, spring in Marbella provides a wonderful balance of pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and cultural experiences, making it a highly recommended time to visit.
Cherry Blossoms in Japan
The arrival of spring in Japan means the arrival of the famous cherry blossoms. The blossoms are referred to in Japan as “sakura,” and the sight of these blossoms is a truly must-see spectacle. A canopy of soft pink or white flowers with a sweet perfume that is just the perfect scent of spring. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are transformed during this season, drawing visitors from around the world. A part of this tradition is the cherished practice of, hanami, which is flower viewing where locals and tourists alike gather in droves under the flowering cherry trees to celebrate the cherry blossoms’ beauty with picnics, food, drink, and joyful companionship.
India's Holi FestivalFor a spring trip filled with color, energy, and cultural celebration, consider the Holi Festival in India. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi marks the arrival of spring with joyful street celebrations where people throw vibrant powders while dancing to traditional music with family and friends. Beyond the celebration itself, travelers can explore India’s rich history and visit stunning landmarks like the Taj Mahal. A Holi trip is a joyful, once-in-a-lifetime way to welcome spring with open arms and a splash of color.
Tulip Time in the NetherlandsSpring in the Netherlands is a season of color and charm, especially when millions of tulips bloom across the countryside. Amsterdam offers plenty to explore from historic canals and world-renowned museums like the Van Gogh Museum to powerful landmarks like the Anne Frank House. What lies beyond the city is just as captivating. Day trips reveal endless tulip fields, iconic windmills, and hands-on experiences like wooden clog making and visits to cheese farming factories. A visit to Keukenhof Gardens, the world’s largest flower garden, is also spring highlight. To experience the season in full bloom, I recommend taking AmaWaterways’ Tulip Time Cruise to really dive into the spring of the Netherlands.
Spring is a time of wonder and exploration. Whether you're drawn to cultural celebrations, natural beauty, or vibrant festivals, there's a spring destination waiting for you. Start planning your trip now with VIP Travel Experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.
