So much to do, so many places to see, but so little time to do it all. That's where Destination Unknown comes into play. At the beginning of each month, HuffPost Canada Travel will be putting together a list that offers something for everyone — those on a budget, those looking for something unique or those simply looking to get away. Curious? Good. A sense of wanderlust is always healthy. So, without further ado, here's May's Destination Unknown round-up.
If globe-trotters were Goldilocks, then May would have to be the baby bear in this traveller's tale. After all, everything about May feels just right. The weather's not too hot, not too cold; the days don't feel too long or too short -- and there's even a couple of holidays to break up any possible monotony.
Sure, with such perfect conditions, would-be travellers could just stay at home and soak up the sun in their own backyards. But that would mean missing out on May's bounty of travel-friendly destinations. There's a lot -- from the city of Ottawa which looks to wow visitors with its annual tulip festival to New Orleans' world-renowned jazz festival. For those looking to enjoy the best scenery, Scotland will be at its finest during the next few weeks. To see what else May has on tap for possible travel ideas, check out the gallery below.
The best place to travel to in May. Slideshow text follows for mobile readers.
Ottawa, Canada.
Canada's capital is usually home to members of Parliament and playoff-contending hockey teams. But from May 3 to May 20, the city swells with tourists looking to take in the beauty of the Canadian Tulip Festival. Sometimes known as Tulipmania, the tradition got its roots (no pun intended) after the people of Holland sent over 10, 000 tulip bulbs as a thank you for keeping the Royal Dutch Family safe during World War II. Holland then sent another 20,000 tulip bulbs the following years, turning it into Canada's tulip capital. Fast forward to 2013 and one country's thank you gift to another has evolved into a festival not only involving tulips but airborne parades, tea parties and event treasure hunts as well.
New Orleans, United States
If tulips aren't your thing, New Orleans offers something for the globe-trotting music lover. For the first five days in May, (and the last three days of April) New Orleans draws thousands of musicians, chefs and craftspeople and welcomes another 400,000 visitors each year. Located in Fair Grounds Race Course near the French Quarter, the festival offers not only the musical stylings of jazz legends like B.B. King but also feature acts like The Black Keys, Maroon 5 and John Mayer.
Scotland's West And North Coast
For the adventure-traveller, May is the time to explore one of Europe's underrated regions thanks to the plentiful sunshine and warmth, nurturing the countless blooming flowers that speckle the countryside. Temperatures reach the high teens, making it just right for exploring the country's three island regions: Orkney, Hebrides as well as Argyll & The Isles, each with their own charms, wildlife and attractions.
The Algarve, Portugal
For the traveller looking to take it easy, Portugal's most southern point on the mainland has lots to offer. To start, the weather is consistently stellar during May with 10 hours, on average, of daily sunshine, temperatures in the low 20s and little rainfall. The climate's perfect for swimming or lounging on the beach -- or a game of tennis by any one of the nearby villas, notes the Daily Telegraph.
The Island Of Crete, Greece
Looking for something more Mediterranean? Then head to Greece in May. The island of Crete is at its best during May thanks to its mild climate and diverse geography: hotel views are not only gorgeous but varied between stunning beaches, impressive moutainscapes, rolling valleys and steep gorges. Crete is divided into four prefectures: Chania, known for its turquoise waters; Rethymno known for its sun-soaked beaches; Heraklion, famed for its archaeological sites and museums and Lassithi, with its charming harbour.
Tokyo, Japan
May can be a tough time for travellers heading to Asia since most of the continent is entering its down season due to areas with either high humidity or above average rainfall. The one exception during May is Japan, which enjoys mild temperatures accompanied by gardens in full bloom and green mountains. It's best to visit later in the month thanks to Golden Week. The series of four national holidays in seven days makes for hectic travelling. For city dwellers, Tokyo is always a popular choice with a vibrant night life, plenty of shopping in the Shibuya district and a rich culinary experience.