Travel in Color: Spring Greens!
Top international spring travel destinations
Baskets of fresh greens at a local market in Hanoi, Vietnam
The Grass Is Always Greener…
In these parts of the internet, green is the real MVP of the color wheel. In summer, it’s bold and thriving. In fall, it politely steps aside to let the autumn leaves have their moment. In winter, it cozies up as a holiday essential. But spring? Spring is when green really takes center stage.
It’s the color of fresh starts, new adventures, and that matcha latte you grab in the airport lounge before your flight. It’s rolling hills, tropical rainforests, and the first signs of life when you wake from what feels like a long winter nap.
Welcome to Travel in Color, where each post in this series highlights a new shade of I-want-to-go-to-there. First up: green. This season, we’ve selected destinations so lush they don’t need a green screen — plus travel-inspired finds to match. Let’s get you inspired for your next spring getaway!
> Read more about spring travel destinations
Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!
Spring in Ireland
If green had a VIP section, Ireland would be front and center. With rolling pastures, moss-covered castles, and the world’s most iconic St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, this breathtaking European destination is practically a Pinterest board come to life.
Why Visit Ireland in Spring?
Road trip the Wild Atlantic Way and explore its jaw-dropping coastal landscapes, from rugged cliffs to hidden beaches.
Expect cool but pleasant temps (50s–60s°F), with a mix of sun and showers — perfect for spotting rainbows over the Cliffs of Moher.
Explore Ireland’s beautiful green countryside where shamrocks, moss-covered castles, and cute little lambs bring spring to life.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the right way — with a pint of Guinness in a cozy pub. Plus, check out the Galway Food Festival, Belfast TradFest, and lively Easter celebrations.
What to pack for spring in Ireland:
A classic Aran knit sweater (ideal for that effortlessly windswept, "lost in the moors" aesthetic)
A stylish yet practical pair of green Hunter boots for countryside strolls and cliffside adventures. (Technically Scottish, but the Irish won’t hold it against you.)
A captivating book about Ireland’s history, like Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland
Ireland Travel Tip:
Spring falls just before peak tourist season, meaning you’ll have castles, cliffs, and charming villages (mostly) to yourself. Head to County Kerry for postcard-worthy landscapes—trust us, those rolling hills are even better when they’re all yours.
> Read more about traveling to Ireland
Get on the list.
Ahh… a vacation in your inbox. Subscribe to open occasional emails filled with fun & helpful travel content.
Spring in Vietnam
Vietnam is a sensory overload in the best way possible, and its green game is strong — especially spring in Northern Vietnam. Picture freshly planted rice terraces in the countryside, towering limestone karsts along the coast, and Hanoi’s street markets overflowing with fragrant herbs ready to be wrapped into fresh spring rolls. Spring in Vietnam is adventure, culture, and flavor at its best.
Why Visit Northern Vietnam in Spring?
Sip egg coffee in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where sidewalk cafés hum with life. Spring’s mild weather makes it the perfect time to get lost in Hanoi’s historic streets.
Cruise Ha Long Bay — or opt for Ninh Binh, where towering limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald-green waters.
Trek through Sapa or motorbike the Ha Giang Loop, where winding roads lead to panoramic views of rice terraces, deep valleys, and surreal limestone peaks.
Celebrate Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) if you visit in early spring. The entire country bursts into color with lantern festivals, flower markets, and family feasts.
What to pack for spring in Vietnam:
A lightweight, packable rain jacket – Spring showers are no joke, and you don’t want to be caught in one mid-adventure.
A classic pair of polarized Ray-Bans (Just don’t be shocked when you see knock-offs in Hanoi for a fraction of the price.)
Vietnam Travel Tip:
Vietnam’s street food is elite — in our opinion, the best chefs serve up life-changing meals right on the sidewalks. Vietnamese cuisine is all about fresh, fragrant flavors — think baskets of mint, basil, and cilantro to accompany incredibly delicious bowls of pho and bun cha. Be spontaneous, be adventurous — we guarantee you’ll have the best meals and the time of your life.
Spring in Costa Rica
Costa Rica in spring is a tropical dream come true. Think emerald rainforests, misty cloud forests, and beaches so lush they look straight out of a travel magazine. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, zip-lining through the jungle, or sipping a fresh coconut by the ocean, Costa Rica delivers green in every shade imaginable.
Why Visit Costa Rica in Spring?
Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest, where you can walk among treetops on hanging bridges and spot exotic wildlife.
Relax on Costa Rica’s stunning green-backed beaches, from the jungle-fringed shores of Manuel Antonio to the turquoise waters of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Hike around Arenal Volcano, where vibrant greenery meets bubbling hot springs and breathtaking lava fields.
Encounter Costa Rica’s famous wildlife, including sloths, toucans, and brightly colored tree frogs (it doesn’t get more photogenic than this).
What to pack for spring in Costa Rica:
A waterproof backpack (for rainforest hikes and unexpected tropical downpours).
A stylish swimsuit — perfect for volcanic hot springs and sunny spring days at the beach
Costa Rica Travel Tip:
For an off-the-grid adventure, head to the Osa Peninsula — one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and far from the usual tourist trail. Home to lush rainforests, secluded beaches, and Corcovado National Park, it’s the ultimate paradise for nature lovers, where you can spot scarlet macaws, jaguars (if you’re lucky), and tapirs in their natural habitat.
Spring in Japan
Spring in Japan is pure magic. From iconic cherry blossoms, bamboo forests, pristine Japanese gardens, and so much more — Japan is a photographer’s dream. Are tourists everywhere? Yes. Is it still worth it? Japan is always worth it.
Why Visit Japan in Spring?
See Japan’s famous cherry blossoms in full bloom, from Tokyo’s Ueno Park to Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path. Bonus points if you enjoy them with a 7/11 picnic!
Stroll through Kyoto’s moss-covered temples and bamboo forests — get there early to enjoy less crowds and more zen
Indulge in fresh matcha everything, from velvety lattes to traditional wagashi sweets in Uji, Japan’s matcha capital.
Take in stunning views of Mount Fuji, surrounded by fresh spring greenery and pink blossoms.
What to pack for spring in Japan:
Colorful Baggu travel bags — Traveling is just more fun with cute accessories that keep your essentials neat and easy to find.
A packable picnic blanket (because hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is best enjoyed with snacks and a good drink).
Japan Travel Tip:
Step off the beaten path and explore some of Tokyo’s lesser-known neighborhoods. Areas like Kichijoji and Yanaka offer charming streets, hidden temples, and peaceful parks where you can soak in the vibrant greenery without the crowds. It’s a great way to experience Tokyo’s spring magic at a slower pace.
