On the Road with Lonely Planet: March Edition

From getting swept up in the lively rhythms of Carnival in the Caribbean to thrifting in Sweden, we’ve enjoyed some magical trips this month. But to celebrate St Patrick’s Day on Sunday, March 17, we kick this newsletter off with highlights from a gloriously dramatic road trip along Ireland’s west coast. If you need further encouragement to go to Ireland this year, we’ve also handpicked the best places for you to visit , as well as the most beautiful beaches (some look out of this world ??) and, finally, we’re bringing you to you the most authentic pubs in Dublin — away from the tourist traps. Lá Fhéile Pádraig (Happy St Patrick’s Day).

– Sasha Brady , Editor

The magic of Ireland's west coast

I took a week-long road trip through Kerry and West Cork ’s dramatic scenery, complete with mountain tunnels, dinosaur footprints and creamy pints in a pub-slash-hardware store . My drive started with a loop around the spectacular Slea Head near Dingle and followed the coast down through Cahersiveen. There, I had some great Thai food in a beautiful miniature rainforest setting before finishing in Skibbereen and Castletownshend.

– Alison Killilea , Product Editor

Read more: Best road trips in Ireland

An unforgettable party in Trinidad

I’ve dreamed of attending Trinidad and Tobago 's Carnival for 20 years. In college, my Trini friends often shared stories of the vibrant colors, the infectious music and the unbeatable lively atmosphere. Turns out, they weren’t exaggerating. Carnival was a magical, unforgettable trip for me. And though I loved dressing up for Mas on Carnival Tuesday, being covered in paint and mud for J’ouvert was a highlight.?

– Alicia Johnson , Destination Editor

Read more: Start planning for next year's Carnival

Making snow angels in the Arctic Circle

It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore the Arctic Circle in Lapland – traveling from Rovaniemi , Finland to Kiruna , Sweden then to Troms? , Norway! I embraced the adventure (and cold) and tried ice floating, snowmobiling, dog sledding and cold plunging. My tip: pack lots of wool, plus hand and toe warmers!

– Deepa Lakshmin , Social Media Director

Read more: The best cold-weather destinations

St-Martin & Sint Maarten: one island, two vibes

The Caribbean tropical paradise of St-Martin and Sint Maarten washed my winter blues away. The French side offers a laid-back lifestyle, pristine beaches and fine dining, while the Dutch side brings nightlife, shopping and the hustle and bustle of the cruise port.?

– Anne Zalatoris , Senior Manager, Media Operations

Read more: Choose your next Caribbean vacation

Thrifting and treats in Gothenburg, Sweden

I visited Gothenburg for a weekend break in February. For the freshest seafood, Fiskbar 17 is a must-visit dining experience. Its prawn sandwich has been voted one of the best dishes in the city. Stroll through the charming Haga district for the most picturesque setting and the tastiest pastries.

– Aoife Breslin , Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Read more: Should you visit Sweden or Norway

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