There are tons of people who never really travel in January but you don’t have to be one of them and while Covid-19 has grounded all travel and vacations, it can’t hurt to do a little travel dreaming, right? And when travel does resume – whichever year that may be – we’ll have the perfect month to month bucket list.
January is the perfect time to travel because airfare is cheaper and destinations are less crowded as most people make their way back home and start resuming with everyday life. Truth is, there is no better way to beat the post December blues than with a beautiful destination vacation to start of the year! There are ample places to visit with warm sunshine so if you’re wondering where to go in any January then check out our list of handpicked places that are perfect to visit.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands is a great visit in January and it also means cheaper prices at this time of year! Be sure to visit: Gran Canaria, Teide National Park, El Medano and Roque Nublo.
Bali, Indonesia
The warm weather in Bali never ends but you can be sure to find quieter beaches and less crowds almost everywhere. You’ll also get better hotel rates all round. Be sure to visit: Tanah Lot, Seminyak, Ubud and Mount Batur.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua is known for its stunning beaches, tropical forests, volcanic cliffs and ideal surf conditions. January is no different. Be sure to visit: San Juan del Sur, Ometepe Island, Corn Islands, Apoyo Lagoon, Granada, and Leon.
Hokkaido, Japan
January is the best time of the year for skiing! It’s pretty cold but be sure to visit the Niseko resort and end your day with a soak in a traditional Japanese onsen. Key attractions include Noboribetsu Onsen, seafood from Otaru, sea of clouds at Unkai Terrace and the Blue Pond in Furano.
India
India is known for its beautiful culture, delicious food and colorful festivals. A trip to India is one for the soul with all the religious temples you’ll be able to visit. There are also tons of markets where you can interact with the locals and shop! Be sure to attend the Jaipur Literary Festival in January, visit the Taj Mahal, and swim at the beaches in Goa.
Cambodia
Cambodia is known for its warm weather, serene beaches and beautiful landscapes. You’ll also have endless temples to visit. Be sure to visit: Siem Riep, Virachey National Kampot and Kratie.
Phuket
Phuket is known for its golden beaches that offer tons of water sports. You’ll also find an endless array of bustling markets, and as with any lively city in the East, the nightlife is amazing. Be sure to visit: Soi Bangla Road, Patong Beach, Phi Phi, Kata Noi Beach and James Bond Island.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. There are endless heritage monuments and you’ll never be short on nature and wildlife. Key attractions include: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple, Yala National Park and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Maldives
The Maldives is one of those honeymoon destinations with its many islands to explore and crystal blue waters filled with fascinating reefs and marine life. January is no different. Be sure to visit: Ithaa underwater aquarium restaurant, stay in a water bungalow and experience the diving, snorkeling and fishing cruises.
Dubai
With World class amusement parks, endless souks and some of the best shopping malls in the world, Dubai is a must visit. Key attractions include: A desert safari, Jumeirah Beach and the Underwater Zoo.
Morocco
Morocco is one place with a vibrant city life all year round. It’s also known for its colorful markets and a hidden secret – a 12th century mosque hidden high up in the Atlas Mountains. Key attractions include Majorelle Gardens, Menara Gardens, the Atlas Mountains and the many souks.
Seychelles
Like any other island destination, the Seychelles is known for its beautiful beaches and serene islands. December can be pretty packed with tourists but come January, things start to quieten down. Be sure to visit Vallee de Mai and try island hopping. Don’t miss out on scuba diving and snorkelling in some of the world’s most crystal-clear beaches.
Bruges
Bruges is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe and is known for its picturesque canals century old buildings and endless colonial structures. Be sure to visit the Lake of Love, try the canal cruises and ride on a vintage horse carriage.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famed for its lush rainforests, gorgeous coastlines, forest trails and of course… picturesque waterfalls! January is the perfect time to visit the Nicoya Peninsula trek, Arenal Hanging Bridges Ecological reserve, Irazu Volcano and go on the Monteverde cloud forest hike.
Australia
There’s so much to see and do in Australia but January is perfect for go on one of the many hiking trails and seeing as much wildlife as you can. It’s also a great time to go snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef! Be sure to make the drive down to the Reef if you’re not staying close by and also explore the Gold Coast and, if you’re lucky, experience New Years in Sydney.
