Can you feel it? The afternoon sun is shining just a bit brighter. Shadows are changing. In New England, remnants of winter snow dot the landscape, but the earth is soft. I expect to see the tips of daffodil and crocus shoots peeking through the soil sooner rather than later.

I love this time of year. It’s full of fresh potential and new beginnings. I feel a welcome “lightness” all around. People seem friendlier. I’m in less of a hurry. I have time to chat with strangers in the market, but I seem to get more accomplished.

Spring has a way of shedding new light on familiar people and places; that’s a pattern reflected in our destination coverage this month as Richard Newton explores the lesser-known side of the Canary Islands and puts a family spin on São Paulo. Hilary Nangle steps out of her comfort zone to get an up-close look at South African wildlife in its natural environment, and Diana Rowe checks out the nightlife in Tel Aviv. Sharon King Hoge takes a Day Off in Ningbo, and Megan Rowe reports on the business climate in Munich. Dale Leatherman guides us through a business day in Dubai, and Allison Voigts checks out Seattle.

Speaking of new beginnings, this issue also marks the start of our annual silent auction to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Let the bidding begin!