So that you’ve obtained some trip days in January and also you’re questioning the place to spend them. Whether or not you’re craving a winter wonderland or tropical bliss, these are 10 greatest locations to go to in January around the globe:
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 necessary position within the character of town. Some buildings even date again to the 1600s!
In addition to 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 road artwork, and dwell music galore.
Beautiful landmarks and a thriving meals scene will be sure that you’ll have loads to discover in between winter actions like ice skating and snowboarding by 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 individuals, numerous 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 often already over by then. I like to recommend road-tripping from the crimson canyons of the Karoo and the wildlife of Golden Gate Highlands Nationwide Park to the rolling inexperienced hills of the Wild Coast and the colourful metropolis of Cape City. South Africa has loads 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’ll be able to: Uganda, Rwanda, and a few components of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Uganda, you are able to do it in Bwindi Impenetrable Nationwide Park, which is value a go to even in the event you aren’t going for the gorillas. Study the whole lot it’s essential to find out about gorilla trekking in Uganda right here.
So, why January? Uganda is on the equator, so there are only a few instances of yr that don’t see heavy rains — however January is one in every of them. Because it’s the driest month of the yr, it’s the very best alternative to discover Bwindi, Akkra, or anyplace else in Uganda.
4. California Deserts
Do you know that 25% of the state of California is desert? January makes for the perfect time to discover areas like Dying Valley, the Alabama Hills, Joshua Tree, and the Mojave, since a drop in temperatures within the winter signifies that they will truly be loved throughout the day! (To not point out: the Japanese Sierras coated in snow are a lovely sight!)
For those who’re up for an journey, comply with my California deserts street journey, and also you’ll see cool rock formations just like the one pictured, wind caves, lava tubes, and a few superb starry skies, in addition to get pleasure from awe-inspiring hikes. Bear in mind, although, that even the desert can get very chilly at evening.
5. Patagonia
For those who’ve seen me speak about Patagonia earlier than, it’s as a result of I lead BMTM Ladies’s Journey Excursions there! January would make a good time to go to, as a result of it’s proper in the course of Chilean/Argentinian summer season. Though that is excessive season, the big variety of actions out there signifies that you’ll nonetheless be capable of take full benefit of the area, maybe essentially the most beautiful in all of South America! Hike, trek, camp, and rock-climb to your coronary heart’s content material. Learn the good Patagonia itinerary right here.
6. Peru
Peru is a kind of international locations that often makes it to the highest of backpackers’ lists for its unimaginable surroundings, culturally wealthy cities, and unimaginable archeological websites. This South American gem is filled with journey, and it’s ready for you this January. You’ll be able to count on loads of sunshine this time of yr, as this month kicks off the dry season. Contemplating you’ll need to spend most of your time outside, exploring locations like Machu Picchu, Cusco, Huacachina, Rainbow Mountain, and the Peruvian Amazon, the solar is a welcome reward. Begin 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 quite a bit to like about this small island nation, however let’s begin with the picturesque seashores. From the turquoise waves of Eagle Seaside to the pink namesake birds of Flamingo Seaside, you’ll have your choose of the place you need to spend your days on the sand.
January is in the course of Aruba’s dry season, and although it’s a preferred time to go to, it’s a lot quieter than December. So in the event you’re planning a solo journey this January, Aruba is a superb alternative. Discover 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 awesome Southeast Asia journey. With January proper in the course of the dry season and the winter holidays behind you, you must have good climate, and the crowds shouldn’t be big. Spend anyplace from a number 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 completely 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 plenty of different idyllic islands, you’ll discover a few of the bluest waters. For those who’re into diving, the Philippines has excellent situations this month, and it’s additionally the start of whale shark season. Begin 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. Likelihood is, this unimaginable nation is already in your bucket record, however have you ever thought-about visiting in January?
There are a few the reason why that’s the very best time. To start with, the climate is unbelievable; it’s the dry season, so you’ll be able to count on 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 12 months or Tết Nguyên Đán. This vibrant vacation runs for a couple of week, with extravagant events and road festivals all through the nation. You’re in for a deal with whenever you go to in January, little doubt.
Discover extra concepts on learn how 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 without doubt one of the greatest on this planet. January is very excellent, as a result of town hosts the legendary Singapore Artwork Week. Plus, this yr (2023) Chinese language New 12 months falls on January 22, which means town will likely be in full celebration mode all month lengthy.
For those who’re turned off by Singapore’s fame of being an costly vacation spot, try these 10 free issues to do there. It’s also possible to 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 suitable time to discover. For those who’re dying to get outside throughout wintertime within the Northern Hemisphere, the South Island is without doubt one of the greatest locations to take action. It presents 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, be sure to plan your journey effectively prematurely to keep away from worth spikes. Begin 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 without doubt one of the rainiest months on the island, a January go to means you’ll be capable of see extra plentiful waterfalls. Among the greatest are Manoa, Lulumahu, and Aihualama. January can be peak browsing season on Oahu, so it’s the right time to take a surf lesson.
Maybe one of many largest perks of all is the decrease costs, because it’s off-season this time of yr, so you’ll be able to rating a deal on lodging and flights. Contemplating 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 shocking ambiance that’s at its greatest in January.
From exploring the Scorching Creek Geological Web site to using a gondola up Mammoth Mountain, there’s loads to do in Mammoth Lakes within the wintertime. Certain, you may need to hit the slopes, however that’s simply the tip of the iceberg right here.
15. Lake Tahoe, California
For those who 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. Because it’s probably the greatest locations within the US to ski, Lake Tahoe has some very good selections in relation to resorts. Probably the greatest is Heavenly Mountain Resort, which has slopes for newbies or superior skiers.
There are different stellar actions to get pleasure from, like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sleigh using. If that will get you excited to go to this January, try this record of wintry actions in Lake Tahoe.
16. Nevada
There’s a lot extra to Nevada than the Las Vegas Strip. For those who haven’t explored the Battle Born State, contemplate doing so this January. Most of Nevada is roofed in desert and plenty of components are just too sizzling to get pleasure from within the hotter months, so January’s cooler temperatures make it the perfect time for locations like Dying Valley, Purple Rock Canyon State Park, and Valley of Hearth 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 may have the possibility to see them with a fragile blanket of snow, which makes for an much more spectacular sight. Take into account taking a street journey by Nevada, utilizing this record of issues to do as your information.
17. Massive Bend Nationwide 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 under 40 levels.
The state’s Massive Bend Nationwide 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 fashionable parks like Yosemite, Yellowstone, or the Nice Smoky Mountains. Visiting Massive Bend Nationwide 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 make the most of these clear skies to absorb the unimaginable nighttime views.
18. The Bahamas
In terms of 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 light animals, however you can too swim with nurse sharks.
If that is on the high of your record of the place to go in January, don’t miss out on this record of issues to do within the Bahamas so you’ll be able to amp up your itinerary.
19. The Maldives
January is the last word time to go to the Maldives, due to optimum climate situations that amplify its magnificence. Presently of yr, you’ll have ample alternatives to snorkel, dive, and take a look at the blue whales that migrate right here. Though you gained’t be the one traveler with the intense concept to go to the Maldives throughout this month (it’s excessive season, in spite of everything), the attractive climate is value it. For those who’re turned off by the upper costs on lodging and flights, although, you will discover different methods to economize in your journey to the Maldives right here.
20. Zipolite, Mexico
Residence to Mexico’s solely legally nude seashore, Zipolite is without doubt one of the most unusual seashore locations within the nation. It’s additionally my favourite seashore within the state of Oaxaca, due to the large 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’ll be able to wager on having fun with the nice and cozy sunshine when you sit back on the seashore.
Discover out what else there’s to do in Zipolite right here.
21. Baja California, Mexico
For those who’re dying for a heat and sunny street journey this January, look no additional than Baja California in Mexico. Recognized for its big expanses of sentimental, sandy seashores and dramatic, rocky cliffs, Baja is a welcome escape from chilly, cloudy winter climate.
Although many vacationers keep on with 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 seems like a deal with.
Learn the way to get essentially the most out of your Baja California street journey right here.
22. Dominical, Costa Rica
Selecting the greatest seashore in Costa Rica is not 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. Certain, it’s excessive season in Costa Rica this time of yr, however it doesn’t get as crowded in Dominical as in different, extra fashionable seashore cities.
23. Scotland
Each 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. That is the perfect January journey for vacationers who love being immersed in a unique tradition.
24. Budapest, Hungary
There are a selection 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 could possibly spend weeks on finish exploring its greater than 200 museums, in addition to castles, elaborate church buildings, and different landmarks.
For those who care to enterprise outdoors, go ice skating on the large frozen lake within the metropolis park and — maybe the good exercise on this record — benefit from the nice variety of thermal baths! Despite the fact that temperatures will likely be within the 30s Fahrenheit with a number of clouds, you gained’t see a lot rain and snow, and the Previous World appeal of this stunning metropolis is effectively value carrying a giant coat for!
25. Finnish Lapland
The area of Lapland within the northernmost a part of Finland is maybe the closest you can 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
Though January is the coldest, darkest month of the yr all through Germany, it’s nonetheless a unbelievable time to go to. The Christmas season has handed, so in January you’ll be able to 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 awesome likelihood to go snowboarding or snowboarding on the Zugspitze, Belchen, and Harz Mountains.
Discover extra concepts for learn how to have an epic winter journey in Germany right here. Staying in Berlin? Discover the greatest winter actions in Berlin right here.
27. The Dolomites, Italy
Searching for a European ski paradise? You’ll discover it within the Dolomites. Although not as fashionable because the close by Swiss Alps, this vary is a favourite amongst powder fanatics due to the optimum snowboarding and snowboarding situations throughout the month of January, in addition to the jaw-dropping surroundings.
To get essentially the most out of your journey, I recommend beginning your journey in Venice and taking the extremely scenic Nice Dolomites Highway to get there. You’ll be able to select from dozens of fantastic ski resorts, with a collective complete of round 1,200 kilometers of runs. One of many top-rated resorts is Alta Badia, which is appropriate for skiers and snowboarders of all ranges.
28. Park Metropolis, Utah
For those who’re in any respect acquainted with Park Metropolis, it’s in all probability since you’ve heard that it’s Ski and Snowboard Central. Nicely, the rumors are true: Park Metropolis makes a unbelievable 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 onerous to get bored right here.
Maybe essentially the most distinctive factor to do is try Utah Olympic Park, residence to the 2002 Winter Olympics. There, you’ll be able to 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’ll be able to’t have anyplace else, which is why Park Metropolis is without doubt one of the greatest locations in January.
If you wish to broaden your journey, contemplate making it a cease on an extended street journey by 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 wish to witness some of the epic New 12 months’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 additional particular. Not solely that, however it’s summertime Down Below, which means you’ll get to benefit from the fireworks show with out shivering within the chilly, such as you may within the Northern Hemisphere.
30. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
As some of the lavish locations on this planet, Dubai is a superb choose in the event you’re on the lookout for luxurious this January. Since this desert oasis is heat one year of the yr, why not get pleasure from a dose of warmth and sunshine? Many vacationers love Dubai for its impeccable shows of contemporary structure, world-class museums and galleries, and plentiful meals and nightlife scene.
For those who’re questioning if Dubai is appropriate for a solo journey this January, try this information for feminine vacationers. It’s also possible to discover the greatest issues to do in Dubai right here.
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What locations are in your record of the very best locations to go to in January?
