5 Best International Spring Break Destinations for the Middle Class

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Spring break is right around the corner and you might be itching to plan a trip, something to look forward to while you endure the chilly winter season. With 2024 behind us, Americans are projected to spend more money on travel expenditures in 2025.  

The U.S. Travel Association predicts that travel expenditures in the U.S. will continue to grow, thanks in part to resilient consumer spending. For 2025, total U.S. travel spending is projected to grow 3.9% to $1.35 trillion, which is about equal to pre-pandemic 2019 levels (adjusted for inflation). Additional growth to $1.46 trillion is expected by 2028 (adjusted for inflation).

If you’re planning to spend money on travel this year and you’re still looking for the best spring break vacation, there are several destinations that certainly won’t disappoint.

Here are some of the best spring break destinations for the middle class, according to U.S. News & World Report and Condé Nast Traveler.

Saint Lucia

Spring is typically an optimal time to plan a trip to St. Lucia before the Caribbean island’s wet season which starts around June. Between March to May, daytime temperatures hover around the 80s, ideal for soaking up some sun at the beach or hiking the volcanic Pitons. If you opt to visit later in the spring, you might be able to score cheaper airfare and lower hotel rates.

Some of the best activities to do while visiting Saint Lucia include visiting The Pitons, The Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park and the Pigeon Island National Landmark.

Madrid, Spain

Spring is arguably the best time to visit this charming European capital if you’re looking to experience all that it has to offer while it’s comfortably warm outside. It can be very hot if you visit in the summer. If you want to avoid the biggest spring crowds, avoid visiting during the Semana Santa (Holy Week) in March or April.

Some of the best activities to do while visiting Madrid include visiting El Retiro Park, the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace of Madrid.

Kyoto, Japan

Famous for its cherry blossoms during March and April, this popular Japanese destination is one you won’t want to miss. The spring season in Kyoto is complemented by the stunning palaces and gardens which can be found throughout the city. If you are searching for an authentic Japanese experience, this city is the perfect place to start.

Some of the best activities to do in Kyoto include visiting the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Gion neighborhood. 

Costa Rica

The weather might be the best reason to visit Costa Rica in the spring. March and April are two of Costa Rica’s warmest and driest months, offering continuous sunshine and daytime temperatures generally in the high 70s to low 90s. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go zip-lining through the rainforest in Manuel Antonio National Park or take advantage of whitewater rafting tours on the Pacuare River. Meanwhile, May is the best time to go surfing thanks to optimal ocean conditions.

Some of the best activities to do while visiting Costa Rica include visiting the Nicoya Peninsula, Guanacaste and Manuel Antonio National Park.

Honolulu (Oahu), Hawaii

The city of Honolulu, located on Oahu, Hawaii’s third-largest island, takes the cake for one of the state’s best springtime travel destinations. In spring, daytime temperatures typically range from the 70s to 80s, offering optimal weather for lounging at picturesque beaches or going hiking.

In March, you can enjoy the Honolulu Festival’s cultural events which include parades and dance performances or visit in May to participate in traditional festivities like the Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawai’i and the Lei Day celebration.

Some of the best activities to do while visiting Honolulu include visiting Waikiki Beach, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the Diamond Head State Monument.

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