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Tropical respite

It sounds nice to fly to a tropical archipelago when most of the Northern Hemisphere is still suffering from the cold. Trinidad and Tobago is a good choice, and a two-day annual carnival beginning Feb 21 will be a bonus with cozy Caribbean flavor. The carnival, which started in the late-18th century, is filled with costumed pageantry and different styles of music. Join the dancing squad and enjoy premium drink and food - especially the local seafood. The country offers a multicultural and multi-religious environment. Details at www.ncctt.org.

Good times in Goa

It's the best season for travelling to Goa, India's smallest state, before the temperature gets higher. Less crowded than many cities in the country, this region of India remains a popular seaside resort. You can visit historic sites and enjoy unique local dancing and theater as well as the traditional cuisine with its epicurean influences from its Hindu, Muslim and Portuguese past. The cozy beaches are a perfect place to spend honeymoons, while the river-valley jungles offer a chance for wildlife exploration. More information on www.goaindiatourism.org.

Fruity magic

The French seaside town of Menton will become a hub for citrus joy in the coming days. During the Menton Lemon Festival, which is from Feb 17 to March 7, large floats of lemons and oranges will pass through the streets, and Sunday's Parade of Golden Fruit and the eerie Thursday evening Moonlit Parade are the highlights of the fete. More than 200, 000 people will join this exploration for a frenzy of vitamin C. More information on www.feteducitron.com.

Tuning up in Oz

Australia's late summer is the season for music festivals. The music-mad folks all over the country will hold a series of shows along the coast in cities from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide to Perth. The Soundwave Festival at the end of February creates strong and loud rhythms, while the Future Music Festival combines dance and electronic acts. Details on www.australia.com.

China Daily - Agencies

(China Daily 02/05/2012 page16)