1. Casablanca, Morocco
Hop aboard new flights
Why go? Immortalised on the big screen in 1942, Casablanca is worth seeing in real life too – something that’s set to get easier, thanks to new flights from Royal Air Maroc. The city has a diverse heritage, from the alleys of its Old Medina to the 1930s chic of Mohammed V place. Don’t miss the remarkable Hassan II Mosque, which perches on an outcrop overlooking the Atlantic. It could be the start of a beautiful friendship...
Where to stay: Moroccan House Casablanca has a riad feel. Doubles from €75.
Getting there: From 27 March, Royal Air Maroc will fly Gatwick-Casablanca non-stop three times a week.
2. Chicago, USA
Toast Paddy, stateside
Why go? Outside Ireland, Chicago is one of the top spots to celebrate St Patrick’s Day (17 Mar). The Chicago River has been dyed shamrock green since 1962, and the main procession along Columbus Drive is still the biggest deal. But there are alternatives. The South Side Irish St Patrick’s Day parade along Western Avenue is held a week earlier, on 10 March, with more emphasis on community, charity, faith and heritage.
Where to stay: Boutique B&B Villa d’Citta is near the Lincoln Park area and a couple of blocks from the Metro. Doubles from $179.
Getting there: Various airlines fly UK-Chicago. Fares in March start from around £400 return.
3. Moscow, Russia
Easy access to Russia
Why go? Russia’s decadent capital is well worth checking out – especially now budget airline easyJet have made it even more accessible with the launch of two new daily flights! Wander through Red Square, past the Kremlin and the iconic domes of St Basil’s cathedral. Take the subway out to Gorky Park, which stretches along the banks of the Moscow River: the ice sculptures should still be twinkling – and you can test your skating skills.
Where to stay: Stay in a flat with a kitchen to save eating out at Moscow’s notorious pricey eateries. Moscow Apartments has central stays from £96pn.
Getting there: easyJet’s new 4hr flights from Gatwick. Prices from £125rtn.
4. Guernsey, Channel Islands
Whet your appetite
Why go? Discover Guernsey’s culture and landscapes on its new calendar of ‘Tasty Walks’ across March and April. Work up an appetite for Saturday lunch along the wild, rugged coastline on A West Coast Wander, meet Guernsey’s Uninvited Guests over afternoon tea (Tues and Thurs), and walk through 1,000 years of history on A Stitch in Time (Mon). See visitguernsey.com
Where to stay: Abbey Court Hotel is handy for St Peter Port and buses around the island. Rooms from £40 pppn B&B.
Getting there: Take the 45min flight from mainland UK or the ferry from Poole/Portsmouth; combined SailRail fares are available. See www.seat61.com.
