By Jeanene Tracy
Easter rolls around once a year, and if you like adventure, it is a great time to travel to places you’ve never dared to go.
Regardless of your religious persuasion, there is a city to dedicate your long weekend to.
Amsterdam In Bloom
There is nothing that represents The Netherlands more than a flowering field of tulips in spring. Well, maybe windmills and clogs, but if you love all things nature and are ready for a flourishing frenzy, head straight to Amsterdam this Easter. For gardens and fields, check out Keukenhof Gardens which are 25 miles from the city.
Safari In South Africa
If you are feeling adventurous and your proclamation is to wild animals, pack your insect repellant and malaria tablets and head off on a safari in South Africa. April is the best time to avoid the crowds, you will be on the cusp of the wet season when the rain will start to taper off, and are more likely to spot big cats and game gathering around watering holes.
It’s not the height of animal spotting, but the payoff is not sharing the views with masses of people doing the same as you. Prices will be lower than the peak season, and it is cooler at night making sleep easier, giving you the energy to explore this geographical wonderland.
Eclectic Egypt
April is when the temperature starts to rise in Egypt, with a maximum of 30°C during the day and cooling down to 20°C overnight, making it the perfect climate for exploring. Egypt celebrates the beginning of spring with a tradition called Sham El Nisim the day after Easter. People of all religions come together in parks to colour eggs and eat salted fish so get your clan together to join the masses.
If you want to celebrate the biblical meaning of Easter, spend ten days walking in the footsteps of Jesus. Starting in Egypt and crossing into Israel, you can live out many moments from the Bible, while guided through historical landmarks. If your religion is music, pack your sunglasses and tent and book your tickets for the 3Alganoob Festival, to enjoy three days of music on the banks of the mystical Red Sea at the Concorde Royal Resort. If you take your singing voice with you, line up for the open mic each night!
Religion In Rome
When it comes to the epicentre of Easter, Rome would have to be the heartbeat of the celebrations. The Vatican is the most revered Catholic house and becomes the centre of attention at Easter. If you are going to celebrate Easter through the lens of religion, there’s no better place. Don’t miss one of the many services taking place throughout the weekend in St.Peter’s Basilica, and be in early to claim a pew.
Join the religious pilgrimage from the Colosseum to Palatine Hill at 21.15 on Good Friday, where Pope Francis will carry the cross and guide the procession, stopping at fourteen Stations of the Cross. This is a pretty unique, free experience, but make sure you get there well before it begins so you can clinch your spot, as you can imagine, Easter attracts hordes of people ready to be a part of the festivities.
Passion In Paris
Traditionally a city oozing romance and love, at Easter it is bursting at the seams with passion, amour and chocolate! So why not smother a loved one with gifts from one of the many chocolatiers around town, including Maison Lenôtre, Angelina, Fauchon, and La Maison du Chocolat. Be sure to book a special Easter brunch at the Palace Hotel, Hôtel de Crillon or the Royal Monceau, all offering delicious epicurean experiences. If art is your doctrine, step into one of the many art galleries, or enjoy the art adorning the streets as you are swept off your feet by the alluring city of love.
Whether you are religious or not, there is something for everyone to do on your elongated weekend of celebrations. Pack your suitcase, and book your house-sitter, you’ve got places to be and far too much to see!