The outbreak of war in Iran has significantly disrupted travel plans for many British tourists, rendering numerous popular destinations in the Middle East and Mediterranean temporarily inaccessible. As a result, travel expert Annabelle Thorpe has compiled a list of six alternative destinations for those seeking to rearrange their March holidays, offering unique cultural experiences and pleasant early spring weather.
Athens: A Crowd-Free Greek Escape
Annabelle Thorpe recommends swapping Cyprus for Athens, the iconic Greek capital. March is considered shoulder season in Athens, meaning fewer crowds and more pleasant temperatures, typically hovering around 16-17°C. This allows visitors to explore famous landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon in a virtually crowd-free environment. Direct flights are available from five UK airports: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City, with carriers including easyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air.
Seville: Moorish Charm and Spring Blooms
For those who had planned a trip to Istanbul, Seville in southern Spain presents an excellent alternative. The city is renowned for its Moorish palace, Gothic cathedrals, and flamenco dancing. In March, daytime highs reach around 22°C, providing a cool contrast before the stifling summer heat. Visitors can enjoy blooming orange trees and preparations for Easter festivities. Direct flights to Seville depart from most London airports, as well as Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.
Tunis: A Blend of Mediterranean and Arab Heritage
If Amman, Jordan, was on your itinerary, consider Tunis, the capital of Tunisia. This ancient city offers a captivating blend of Mediterranean charm, French colonial history, and Arab heritage. Highlights include a UNESCO-listed medina and the ancient ruins of Carthage, with daytime temperatures around 20°C. Direct flights are available from Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, and Stansted, primarily with Tunisair.
Marrakech: Vibrant Souks and Botanical Gardens
Instead of the glitzy malls of the UAE, Annabelle Thorpe suggests exploring Marrakech's world-famous medina. Here, visitors can shop for cashmere shawls, handmade jewellery, antiques, and spices. Beyond the hectic souks, attractions include Jardin Majorelle, a one-hectare botanical garden, and the bustling Jemaa El Fna Square. March temperatures can reach 25°C, but many riads feature pools for cooling off. Direct flights to Marrakech are offered from major London hubs, Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool's John Lennon Airport.
Gran Canaria: Sun-Drenched Beaches and Nightlife
With Bodrum's proximity to the war zone making it less viable, Gran Canaria emerges as a compelling alternative. As the third-largest Canary Island, it boasts March highs of around 22°C, along with sun-drenched beaches, duty-free shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Over 15 UK airports provide direct flights to Las Palmas, including London hubs, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, and Bristol.
Nice: French Riviera Elegance
For those drawn to Dubai's city-beach combination, Nice on the French Riviera offers a sophisticated alternative. The Promenade des Anglais stretches along a four-mile seafront, complemented by open-air bars and restaurants. Direct flights are available from most London airports, as well as Manchester, Edinburgh, and Belfast.
These six destinations provide viable and enriching alternatives for British tourists whose March travel plans have been affected by the Iran war, ensuring memorable getaways despite the geopolitical disruptions.
