So you’ve received some trip days in January and also you’re questioning the place to spend them. Whether you’re craving a winter wonderland or tropical bliss, these are 10 greatest locations to go to in January all over the world:
1. Montréal, Canada
Montréal is the second largest metropolis in Canada, situated within the French-speaking province of Québec. It’s like a style of Europe with out leaving North America, because the French affect performs an vital position within the character of town. Some buildings even date again to the 1600s!
Besides its distinctive historical past and tradition, Montréal has a enjoyable, hip spirit, with greater than 100 festivals all year long — a lot of which fall within the month of January — plus numerous museums, tons of superior avenue artwork, and stay music galore.
Gorgeous landmarks and a thriving meals scene will make sure that you’ll have lots to discover in between winter actions like ice skating and snowboarding by way of town’s huge park. Montréal is one in every of my favourite wintertime locations, and January is prime time to go to.
2. South Africa
Nicknamed “the Rainbow Nation,” South Africa is residence to pleasant folks, various landscapes, and tons of journey. North American winter is South African summer season, so January means each good climate and low crowds, because the locals’ summer season break is normally already over by then. I like to recommend road-tripping from the crimson canyons of the Karoo and the wildlife of Golden Gate Highlands National Park to the rolling inexperienced hills of the Wild Coast and the colourful metropolis of Cape Town. South Africa has lots that’s simply ready to be explored!
3. Uganda
If you’re dreaming of gorilla trekking, there are solely three locations on this planet the place you may: Uganda, Rwanda, and a few components of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Uganda, you are able to do it in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is value a go to even in case you aren’t going for the gorillas. Learn the whole lot you should learn about gorilla trekking in Uganda right here.
So, why January? Uganda is on the equator, so there are only a few occasions of yr that don’t see heavy rains — however January is one in every of them. As it’s the driest month of the yr, it’s the most effective alternative to discover Bwindi, Akkra, or wherever else in Uganda.
4. California Deserts
Did you already know that 25% of the state of California is desert? January makes for the best time to discover areas like Death Valley, the Alabama Hills, Joshua Tree, and the Mojave, since a drop in temperatures within the winter signifies that they’ll truly be loved throughout the day! (Not to say: the Eastern Sierras coated in snow are a stupendous sight!)
If you’re up for an journey, comply with my California deserts highway journey, and also you’ll see cool rock formations just like the one pictured, wind caves, lava tubes, and a few wonderful starry skies, in addition to get pleasure from awe-inspiring hikes. Keep in thoughts, although, that even the desert can get very chilly at night time.
5. Patagonia
If you’ve seen me speak about Patagonia earlier than, it’s as a result of I lead BMTM Women’s Adventure Tours there! January would make a good time to go to, as a result of it’s proper in the midst of Chilean/Argentinian summer season. Although that is excessive season, the big variety of actions obtainable signifies that you’ll nonetheless have the ability to take full benefit of the area, maybe probably the most beautiful in all of South America! Hike, trek, camp, and rock-climb to your coronary heart’s content material. Read the excellent Patagonia itinerary right here.
6. Peru
Peru is a kind of international locations that normally makes it to the highest of backpackers’ lists for its unimaginable surroundings, culturally wealthy cities, and unimaginable archeological websites. This South American gem is stuffed with journey, and it’s ready for you this January. You can anticipate loads of sunshine this time of yr, as this month kicks off the dry season. Considering you’ll need to spend most of your time outdoor, exploring locations like Machu Picchu, Cusco, Huacachina, Rainbow Mountain, and the Peruvian Amazon, the solar is a welcome reward. Start planning your Peru itinerary right here.
7. Aruba
Dreaming of a tropical island paradise to flee to this winter? Look no additional than Aruba. There’s rather a lot to like about this small island nation, however let’s begin with the picturesque seashores. From the turquoise waves of Eagle Beach to the pink namesake birds of Flamingo Beach, you’ll have your choose of the place you need to spend your days on the sand.
January is in the midst of Aruba’s dry season, and although it’s a preferred time to go to, it’s a lot quieter than December. So in case you’re planning a solo journey this January, Aruba is a superb selection. Find out why right here. Don’t miss out on this full Aruba information both.
8. Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos
Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos every have their very own distinctive character, however collectively, the trio make for an excellent Southeast Asia journey. With January proper in the midst of the dry season and the winter holidays behind you, you need to have good climate, and the crowds shouldn’t be enormous. Spend wherever from a couple of days to a month or extra exploring the waterfalls of Thailand, the caves and mountains of Laos, and the jungle and temples of Cambodia. You’ll discover that each Laos and Cambodia are much less crowded and touristy than Thailand, however every brings one thing totally different to the desk, in order that they’re all value visiting!
9. Philippines
January is the optimum time for island-hopping within the Philippines, as a result of it’s the center of dry season and there’s loads of heat sunshine. From Coron to El Nido and lots of different idyllic islands, you’ll discover a few of the bluest waters. If you’re into diving, the Philippines has ultimate situations this month, and it’s additionally the start of whale shark season. Start planning your Philippines itinerary right here.
10. Vietnam
Vietnam has lengthy been a backpacker’s paradise due to its cultural richness, attractive landscapes, scrumptious meals, and low costs. Chances are, this unimaginable nation is already in your bucket checklist, however have you ever thought of visiting in January?
There are a few the reason why that’s the most effective time. First of all, the climate is incredible; it’s the dry season, so you may anticipate heat and sunny days with out as a lot humidity because the wet season. January can be when Vietnam’s most important celebration occurs, the Lunar New Year or Tết Nguyên Đán. This vibrant vacation runs for a couple of week, with extravagant events and avenue festivals all through the nation. You’re in for a deal with whenever you go to in January, little doubt.
Find extra concepts on the best way to spend your time in Vietnam right here.
11. Singapore
Any time of yr is an effective time to drop in on Singapore. Its jaw-dropping structure and fashionable facilities are a sight to see, and the meals scene is likely one of the greatest on this planet. January is very ultimate, as a result of town hosts the legendary Singapore Art Week. Plus, this yr (2023) Chinese New Year falls on January 22, that means town can be in full celebration mode all month lengthy.
If you’re turned off by Singapore’s status of being an costly vacation spot, try these 10 free issues to do there. You also can discover a native’s information to Singapore right here.
12. South Island, New Zealand
January is the heights of summer season in New Zealand, making it simply the best time to discover. If you’re dying to get outdoor throughout wintertime within the Northern Hemisphere, the South Island is likely one of the greatest locations to take action. It provides some spectacular hikes, attractive blue lakes, and a rugged shoreline match for a postcard.
Since January sees a few of the greatest climate of the yr, make sure that to plan your journey nicely upfront to keep away from worth spikes. Start planning your South Island itinerary right here.
13. Oahu, Hawai’i
If winter wonderlands aren’t your jam this January, contemplate embarking on a tropical escape to Oahu. Since December is likely one of the rainiest months on the island, a January go to means you’ll have the ability to see extra plentiful waterfalls. Some of the most effective are Manoa, Lulumahu, and Aihualama. January can be peak browsing season on Oahu, so it’s the right time to take a surf lesson.
Perhaps one of many greatest perks of all is the decrease costs, because it’s off-season this time of yr, so you may rating a deal on lodging and flights. Considering how a lot there’s to do on Oahu, these financial savings imply you’ll have extra to spend on actions.
14. Mammoth Lakes, California
Mammoth Lakes is extra than simply an idyllic snowboarding vacation spot for keen snow lovers. This space of California excessive up within the mountains has some breathtaking sights that tackle a magical essence within the winter. Snow-capped peaks, glowing bushes, and steam rising up from sizzling springs create a surprising environment that’s at its greatest in January.
From exploring the Hot Creek Geological Site to driving a gondola up Mammoth Mountain, there’s lots to do in Mammoth Lakes within the wintertime. Sure, you would possibly need to hit the slopes, however that’s simply the tip of the iceberg right here.
15. Lake Tahoe, California
If you thought California was all about sunshine and seashores, suppose once more. Lake Tahoe is a dream in January, with freshly fallen snow and loads of wintry bliss. As it’s probably the greatest locations within the US to ski, Lake Tahoe has some excellent decisions with regards to resorts. One of the most effective is Heavenly Mountain Resort, which has slopes for newcomers or superior skiers.
There are different stellar actions to get pleasure from, like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sleigh driving. If that will get you excited to go to this January, try this checklist of wintry actions in Lake Tahoe.
16. Nevada
There’s a lot extra to Nevada than the Las Vegas Strip. If you haven’t explored the Battle Born State, contemplate doing so this January. Most of Nevada is roofed in desert and lots of components are just too sizzling to get pleasure from within the hotter months, so January’s cooler temperatures make it the best time for locations like Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon State Park, and Valley of Fire State Park, all of that are a day journey from Las Vegas.
Nevada’s desert landscapes and rock formations are beautiful any time of yr, however in January, you’ve the possibility to see them with a fragile blanket of snow, which makes for an much more spectacular sight. Consider taking a highway journey by way of Nevada, utilizing this checklist of issues to do as your information.
17. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Let’s face it: Texas doesn’t ever actually get that chilly within the winter. January is its coldest month, however temperatures not often dip beneath 40 levels.
The state’s Big Bend National Park is maybe some of the underrated within the nation. Even throughout excessive season, from February to April, the crowds are sparse in comparison with extra common parks like Yosemite, Yellowstone, or the Great Smoky Mountains. Visiting Big Bend National Park in January means you’ll discover loads of solitude and people quintessentially Texan, wide-open areas. January can be prime time for stargazing in West Texas, so reap the benefits of these clear skies to absorb the unimaginable nighttime views.
18. The Bahamas
When it involves apparent island getaways, few locations come to thoughts as rapidly because the Bahamas. There are greater than 700 islands and cays to select from, however my favourite is Staniel Cay. This tiny island is a part of the Exumas, a sequence most well-known for its swimming pigs. Not solely are you able to hang around with these mild animals, however it’s also possible to swim with nurse sharks.
If that is on the high of your checklist of the place to go in January, don’t miss out on this checklist of issues to do within the Bahamas so you may amp up your itinerary.
19. The Maldives
January is the final word time to go to the Maldives, due to optimum climate situations that amplify its magnificence. At this time of yr, you’ll have ample alternatives to snorkel, dive, and take a look at the blue whales that migrate right here. Although you received’t be the one traveler with the intense thought to go to the Maldives throughout this month (it’s excessive season, in spite of everything), the gorgeous climate is value it. If you’re turned off by the upper costs on lodging and flights, although, you could find different methods to save cash in your journey to the Maldives right here.
20. Zipolite, Mexico
Home to Mexico’s solely legally nude seaside, Zipolite is likely one of the most original seaside locations within the nation. It’s additionally my favourite seaside within the state of Oaxaca, due to the massive swaths of sand and completely surfable waves.
Zipolite can be some of the laid-back coastal cities, and the hype hasn’t caught on but. Even throughout excessive season in January, it nonetheless stays comparatively quiet in comparison with different Mexican seashores. This month sees little rain, too, so you may wager on having fun with the nice and cozy sunshine when you sit back on the seaside.
Find out what else there’s to do in Zipolite right here.
21. Baja California, Mexico
If you’re dying for a heat and sunny highway journey this January, look no additional than Baja California in Mexico. Known for its enormous expanses of soppy, sandy seashores and dramatic, rocky cliffs, Baja is a welcome escape from chilly, cloudy winter climate.
Though many vacationers follow Cabo San Lucas and La Paz, there are many different hidden gems, just like the Santa Rita sizzling springs and Santiago. Since January is peak season for tourism right here, discovering these “secret” locations appears like a deal with.
Find out the best way to get probably the most out of your Baja California highway journey right here.
22. Dominical, Costa Rica
Choosing the greatest seaside in Costa Rica isn’t any simple feat, however my favourite goes to Dominical on the Pacific coast. This chill city is correct between two uber-popular locations: Manuel Antonio and Uvita. I like the easy-breezy vibe right here and watching surfers within the distance whereas I relaxed on shore.
January is the optimum time to go to Dominical, as there’s plentiful sunshine and little rain. Sure, it’s excessive season in Costa Rica this time of yr, nevertheless it doesn’t get as crowded in Dominical as in different, extra common seaside cities.
23. Scotland
Every January on Scotland’s Shetland Islands, 12 fire-focused festivals happen throughout the Up Helly Aa celebration. This spectacle of fiery torches and mystical parades is nothing in need of spectacular, attracting guests from everywhere in the United Kingdom and past to bear witness to one of many longest-standing traditions within the nation. This is the best January journey for vacationers who love being immersed in a special tradition.
24. Budapest, Hungary
There are a variety of perks to touring Europe in January: the low season signifies that costs are the bottom they’ll be all yr, vacationers are few and much between, and a blanket of the white stuff makes the whole lot appear like a snow globe. Budapest, particularly, makes for probably the greatest January locations due to its abundance of indoor actions. You might spend weeks on finish exploring its greater than 200 museums, in addition to castles, elaborate church buildings, and different landmarks.
If you care to enterprise outdoors, go ice skating on the massive frozen lake within the metropolis park and — maybe the good exercise on this checklist — benefit from the nice variety of thermal baths! Even although temperatures can be within the 30s Fahrenheit with a lot of clouds, you received’t see a lot rain and snow, and the Old World allure of this lovely metropolis is nicely value sporting a giant coat for!
25. Finnish Lapland
The area of Lapland within the northernmost a part of Finland is maybe the closest you would ever get to a winter wonderland. Not solely does the beautiful snowy panorama appear like a scene out of a Hallmark Christmas film, it permits for some distinctive adventures, like snowmobiling, dogsledding, and even a journey in a reindeer-drawn carriage. January is the right time of yr to remain in an ice lodge, check out a sauna, and search for the northern lights in Lapland!
26. Germany
Although January is the coldest, darkest month of the yr all through Germany, it’s nonetheless a incredible time to go to. The Christmas season has handed, so in January you may snag a deal on lodging, because it’s the off-season for tourism. The nation additionally has a magical high quality within the winter, with snow-dusted castles and glittering icy forests. It’s additionally an excellent likelihood to go snowboarding or snowboarding on the Zugspitze, Belchen, and Harz Mountains.
Find extra concepts for the best way to have an epic winter journey in Germany right here. Staying in Berlin? Find the greatest winter actions in Berlin right here.
27. The Dolomites, Italy
Looking for a European ski paradise? You’ll discover it within the Dolomites. Though not as common because the close by Swiss Alps, this vary is a favourite amongst powder fans due to the optimum snowboarding and snowboarding situations throughout the month of January, in addition to the jaw-dropping surroundings.
To get probably the most out of your journey, I counsel beginning your journey in Venice and taking the extremely scenic Great Dolomites Road to get there. You can select from dozens of wonderful ski resorts, with a collective whole of round 1,200 kilometers of runs. One of the top-rated resorts is Alta Badia, which is appropriate for skiers and snowboarders of all ranges.
28. Park City, Utah
If you’re in any respect conversant in Park City, it’s most likely since you’ve heard that it’s Ski and Snowboard Central. Well, the rumors are true: Park City makes a incredible vacation spot for winter sports activities. That’s not all this cool mountain city has to supply, although: from a bustling foods and drinks scene to a quaint downtown with an abundance of retailers and galleries, it’s laborious to get bored right here.
Perhaps probably the most distinctive factor to do is try Utah Olympic Park, residence to the 2002 Winter Olympics. There, you may go bobsledding at greater than 70 miles per hour and even journey a tube down one of many ski jumps! Now that’s an journey you may’t have wherever else, which is why Park City is likely one of the greatest locations in January.
If you need to develop your journey, contemplate making it a cease on an extended highway journey by way of Utah. From the crimson rock arches close to Moab to the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, you’re certain to have an epic journey.
29. Sydney, Australia
If you need to witness some of the epic New Year’s celebrations on this planet, head to Sydney, Australia. Aussies are literally among the many first to ring within the new yr due to the nation’s place on the globe, which implies celebrating right here is further particular. Not solely that, nevertheless it’s summertime Down Under, that means you’ll get to benefit from the fireworks show with out shivering within the chilly, such as you would possibly within the Northern Hemisphere.
30. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
As some of the lavish locations on this planet, Dubai is a superb choose in case you’re on the lookout for luxurious this January. Since this desert oasis is heat three hundred and sixty five days of the yr, why not get pleasure from a dose of warmth and sunshine? Many vacationers love Dubai for its impeccable shows of recent structure, world-class museums and galleries, and plentiful meals and nightlife scene.
If you’re questioning if Dubai is appropriate for a solo journey this January, try this information for feminine vacationers. You also can discover the greatest issues to do in Dubai right here.
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What locations are in your checklist of the most effective locations to go to in January?