Beyond the Beach: February's Travel Finds from Ancient Festivals to Urban Escapes
As winter's grip begins to loosen, the urge to travel stirs. For those seeking more than just sun, February and March offer rich cultural moments and serene escapes. Here are a few compelling destinations to consider.
In Russia, the ancient city of Veliky Novgorod hosts a Maslenitsa celebration from February 16-22 that feels genuinely timeless. The festival, marking the farewell to winter, transforms the historic center with vibrant fairs, traditional games, and an abundance of blini. The Akron Hotel, part of the Radisson Individuals collection, places guests steps from the main festivities at Pobedy-Sofiyskaya Square. For a modern twist on the classic pancake, the hotel's PrOun restaurant offers inventive versions with fillings like whitefish and leek. The celebration culminates with the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy at the Yaroslav's Court, a powerful, traditional spectacle.
For urban energy, Bangkok's Chatrium Grand Bangkok provides a prime base in Siam. Beyond the expected shopping, it's a short walk to the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre and the intriguing Jim Thompson House museum. Meanwhile, in Dubai, the recently renovated Anantara Downtown Dubai offers a surprising oasis of Thai-inspired hospitality amidst the city's towers, complete with a spa designed to counteract urban fatigue.
Travelers drawn to Italy can trace a cinematic path through Rome, Venice, and Milan with Minor Hotels' 'Chic in Italy' program. It includes crafting Venetian masks, Vespa tours in Rome, and vintage fashion hunting in Milan. In Paris, the new NH Collection Paris Ponthieu Champs-Élysées organizes unique experiences like private city tours in a classic Citroën DS.
For a complete disconnect, the Maldives remain a pinnacle of seclusion and luxury. Resorts like the new property on Fonimagoodhu Island focus on immersive design and exceptional dining, with eight restaurants and bars. Adding to the archipelago's culinary prestige, Michelin-starred Hong Kong chef Ming-Fai Choi will be a guest chef at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani this February, presenting his sustainable, innovative take on Chinese cuisine.
Whether it's participating in centuries-old traditions or finding peace in an overwater villa, the early-year travel calendar is full of depth and contrast.