Escape Magazine Winter 2024

ALTERNATIVE SAKURA As April approaches, crowds flock to see delicate pink cherry blossoms cover trees across Japan. Tokyo and Kyoto burst at the seams, while Kansai and Mount Yoshino rise to the top of many people’s agendas. But these are far from the only places to witness this spectacular seasonal sight. Close to the major cities, Takayama is filled with captivating locations, including the iconic Nakabashi Bridge, Hida Gokoku Shrine at the foot of Mount Kinka, and the Kitayama Walking Path. On the coast, Kanazawa illuminates Kenroku-en, one of the three great gardens of Japan, enhancing the view for those who come to enjoy the bloom each evening. Further north and away from the crowds, Sendai’s magnificent castle in Aobayama Park, Kakunodate’s charming samurai district, and the specially-lit Hirosaki Park in Aomori all provide fantastic backdrops to Japan’s natural wonder.

THAILAND’S SMALLER ISLANDS Golden shores and a welcome as warm as the afternoon sun make Thailand one of the best beach destinations in the world. Millions travel to the exciting resorts of Phuket and Koh Samui, while Thailand’s smaller islands offer charm and adventure for those who look beyond the usual. Barefoot luxury hotels like Zeavola invite guests to Koh Phi Phi, an archipelago with pristine sands and lively towns for easy days and party nights. In the heart of Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Yai maintains a castaway atmosphere complemented by elegant hotels such as Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas and Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa. Quiet Koh Lanta offers sensational snorkelling and a waterfall-filled rainforest, providing an ideal backdrop for wellness retreats at the award-winning Layana.

A little extra travel reaps great rewards at this enchanting time of year.

A short sail from the coast makes it easy to upgrade a Thai beach holiday to an Andaman Island escape.

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