Jose Ramos
January is a great time to travel, whether you're looking to escape the cold or embrace it. If you're seeking winter sun, head to the Caribbean, with Barbados' Platinum Coast offering powder-soft sand and gentle, lapping waves. Alternatively, for a beach destination with fewer crowds, try the East Cape in Baja California, Mexico, which has superb beaches and fishing. If you're after a city break, Dubai offers luxury and adventure, with mild temperatures and ideal beach weather in January.
If you're looking to ski, Park City in Utah is one of the United States' top winter sports destinations, with ample opportunities for skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. For a more off-the-beaten-path ski destination, try Andermatt in Switzerland, which features 110 miles of trails and some of the world's deepest powder.
If you're looking to avoid the winter chills, Thailand is a great option, with Koh Lanta offering blue skies and warm temperatures. For something more adventurous, Antarctica is the ultimate bucket-list trip, with January being the height of its summer, offering 24-hour daylight and epic wildlife sightings.
Whether you're seeking winter sun or snow, January is a great time to travel and explore new destinations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Argentina, Australia, Barbados, Bonaire, Canada, Cape Verde, Costa Rica, Dubai, Hawaii, India, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Morocco, Norway, Panama, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States, Vietnam |
| Weather | Cold, dry, mild, warm, humid, rainy, sunny |
| Activities | Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, hiking, snorkelling, kayaking, sailing, surfing, wildlife spotting, shopping, dining, dog sledding, rock climbing, exploring ruins, golfing, fishing, paragliding, swimming, boating, tasting local cuisine, visiting museums, galleries, theatres, and more |
| Events | St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival, Three Kings Day, Mardi Gras, New Orleans Carnival, Australian Open, Sundance Film Festival, Maha Kumbh Mela, Chinese New Year, and more |
What You'll Learn
Beach breaks: Maui, Hawaii, and Barbados
If you're looking for a beach break in January, Maui, Hawaii, and Barbados are all great options.
Maui is a great choice for those seeking a mix of beach relaxation and outdoor adventure. January is peak whale season, so you can go on a humpback whale-spotting tour from Kaanapali or Wailea. For a change of scenery, drive the Road to Hana to see waterfalls and the black sand beaches of Waianapanapa State Park. Catch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park—the early wake-up call will be worth it! Maui also offers fresh poke from Tamura's Market and mai tais at Mama's Fish House, all with stunning ocean views.
For a luxurious stay, consider the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, which recently underwent a $350 million renovation. The new Kilolani Spa is the largest in Hawaii.
Hawaii's Lana'i island is another great option for a tranquil beach getaway. This small island offers rugged hills, secluded beaches, and the charming small town of Lānaʻi City. With about 400 miles of four-wheel-drive trails, Lānaʻi is a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. January is peak whale-watching season, and you can spot humpbacks from the shore or on boat tours. Sweetheart Rock and Hulopoe Beach are also great spots for hiking and snorkelling or tidepooling, respectively. Lana'i also has a unique history as the "Pineapple Island," once home to Dole pineapple plantations.
For accommodation, the Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi offers a stunning location and luxurious guest rooms, while Sensei Lānaʻi, an adults-only Four Seasons Resort, curates personalised wellness experiences. For a tranquil boutique experience, Hotel Lānaʻi in Lānaʻi City provides individually designed guest rooms.
Barbados is another excellent choice for a beach getaway in January. The island offers the Platinum Coast, one of the longest stretches of powder-soft sand, coupled with gentle, lapping waves. Barbados also has all-inclusive resorts perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation. For more active pursuits, there's snorkelling to explore sunken ships, rum tasting at St Nicholas Abbey, and tram tours of Harrison's Cave.
Sandals Royal Barbados is an excellent option for adults-only accommodation, offering direct beach access and complimentary snorkelling and diving. First Choice also offers a range of spa-centred resorts, beachside all-inclusives, and self-catering apartments.
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City breaks: Melbourne, Australia, and Singapore
If you're looking for a city break in January, Melbourne and Singapore are two destinations that won't disappoint.
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is a vibrant city with a diverse range of attractions. January is one of the warmest months in the city, with daily high temperatures ranging from 76°F to 78°F. The city offers a mix of cultural and natural experiences. You can explore the laneways and street art, visit museums and galleries, or enjoy the city's green spaces. Melbourne is also a foodie's paradise, with a variety of cuisines to tantalise your taste buds.
Singapore
Singapore, on the other hand, is a tiny tropical island located just 85 miles from the equator. The city offers a unique blend of cultures, with Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other nationalities co-existing harmoniously. January is one of the wettest and windiest months in Singapore, but that doesn't deter visitors. The city comes alive with colourful celebrations and festivals, including Pongal, Thaipusam, and Chinese New Year. The average temperature in January is a comfortable 27°C, making it a great time to explore the city's nature reserves and wildlife attractions, such as Bird Paradise and the Singapore Zoo.
So, whether you're looking for a vibrant city break filled with cultural experiences or a tropical getaway with a mix of nature and nightlife, Melbourne and Singapore are excellent choices for a January escape.
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Nature breaks: Everglades National Park, Florida, and Banff National Park, Canada
Everglades National Park, Florida
The Everglades National Park is a great place to visit in January, with the breeze keeping mosquitoes away. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, crocodiles, and manatees. The dry season from December to April is the prime time for alligator viewing, and the cooler, dryer weather means fewer bugs. The Anhinga Trail is a great option for those wanting to see alligators and other wildlife, with visitors spotting five alligators, various bird species, and beautiful landscapes. The Ernest Coe Visitor Center is also worth a visit, offering informative exhibits and serving as a great primer for the Anhinga Trail.
Banff National Park, Canada
Banff National Park, Canada's first national park, is a great winter destination, offering rugged beauty and natural landmarks such as the Mistaya River and Peyto Lake. The park is a mosaic of Rocky Mountains, deep valleys, glaciers, and tranquil lakes. The Banff Gondola offers stunning bird's-eye views of the surrounding landscape, including Banff Town and the Bow Valley. The park also features numerous trails, such as the three-mile hike up Tunnel Mountain and the Lake Louise Shoreline Trail. Banff has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences in the town of Banff. The Upper Hot Springs, for example, offer year-round soaking in a warm, outdoor pool.
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Adventure breaks: Kangaroo Island, Australia, and Dubai, UAE
If you're looking for an adventure break in January, here are two destinations to consider: Kangaroo Island, Australia, and Dubai, UAE.
Kangaroo Island, Australia
Kangaroo Island is a great option for those seeking a nature-filled getaway. Over a third of the island is protected by nature reserves, making it home to thousands of sea lions, koalas, birds, and other native Australian wildlife. You can take guided bushwalks, explore the diverse natural habitats, and enjoy the abundant flora and fauna. The island also offers a vast coastline for exploration, with opportunities to visit secluded beaches and spectacular coastlines.
One of the highlights of Kangaroo Island is the Flinders Chase National Park, a protected area on the west end of the island. Here, you can discover the iconic Remarkable Rocks, granite boulders dramatically balanced on the cliff's edge, plunging 75 meters into the Southern Ocean. You can also visit Cape du Couedic, home to a colony of 10,000 fur seals.
Another must-see is the Seal Bay Conservation Park, where you can walk among the sea lions as they bask on the beach and sand dunes. For a unique dining experience, enjoy gourmet-style picnic lunches in secluded areas surrounded by the sounds of birdlife and the nearby sea.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai in January offers pleasant weather, ideal for both beachgoers and city explorers. With temperatures reaching around 24°C during the day and cooling off to about 18°C in the evenings, you can comfortably stroll through the city or relax on the beach. Dubai is known for its luxurious accommodations, with options ranging from the iconic Atlantis The Palm to more affordable choices like the Citymax Hotel.
If you're looking for adventure, Dubai has plenty to offer. You can explore the desert just beyond the city, drink tea in a Bedouin tent, and ride through the sand dunes in a 4x4. The city also boasts impressive architecture, including the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
For a unique dining experience, Dubai offers a variety of celebrity restaurants serving up culinary delights from around the world. The city also has several malls, souks, and markets to explore, including the Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world.
Whether you're seeking nature and wildlife in Kangaroo Island or the glitz and glamour of Dubai, these destinations will surely provide an unforgettable adventure-filled break in January.
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Cultural breaks: Marrakesh, Morocco, and Buenos Aires, Argentina
Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh is a great destination for a sunny winter break, with January temperatures reaching around 20°C. The city offers a unique cultural experience, with its medina, souks, and riads. Here are some things to do in Marrakesh in January:
- Visit the beautiful tiled Ben Youssef Madrasa, a restored 14th-century Islamic university and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the desert, followed by a traditional Berber breakfast.
- Experience a traditional hammam massage in one of the city's elaborate spas.
- Explore the El Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum, a zen-like garden designed by the artist Jacques Majorelle and renovated by Yves Saint-Laurent.
- Discover the Badi and Bahia Palaces, featuring stunning mosaic frescoes and paintings.
- Go shopping in the famous souks of Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square at the heart of the medina.
- Watch the sunset from one of the many rooftop bars and restaurants, with views of the red city bathed in a warm glow.
- Visit the historic Bacha Coffee Shop, a must-see spot in Marrakesh with a vibrant courtyard interior.
- Celebrate the Amazigh New Year, a traditional Berber celebration with music, dancing, poetry, and traditional food.
- Run the Marrakech Marathon, a prestigious annual event that attracts runners from all over the world.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a vibrant and lively capital, offering a unique blend of culture and gastronomy. January is a great time to visit, as the city is quieter and you can enjoy its attractions without the usual crowds. Here are some cultural experiences to enjoy in Buenos Aires in January:
- Experience the tango, with shows and private lessons available throughout the city.
- Explore the Tigre Delta, the fifth-largest delta in the world, and enjoy the warm weather and summer activities.
- Tour the heart of Buenos Aires, including Plaza de Mayo, the San Telmo neighbourhood, and the La Boca neighbourhood, home to the Boca Juniors soccer stadium.
- Attend cultural events such as the Amor de Verano (Summer Love) cycle at the Centro Cultural Recoleta, featuring live concerts, theatre performances, and art and literature workshops.
- Stroll through Puerto Madero, one of the most modern and exclusive neighbourhoods, and enjoy its architecture and green spaces.
- Discover Buenos Aires from the river with a boat tour on the Rio de la Plata, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Listen to emerging artists at the Usina del Arte in the La Boca neighbourhood, one of the city's most important cultural centres.
- Visit the Rosedal, a beautiful park with over 100 species of roses, and enjoy the outdoor cinema during the summer months.
- Celebrate the Lunar New Year in Chinatown, with colourful music, dances, parades, and traditional Chinese food and products.
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Frequently asked questions
If you're looking for snow in January, try Whistler, Canada, where you can expect around 80 inches of snowfall. Aspen, Colorado, is another good option, with daily average temperatures near or below freezing.
If you're looking for sun, try the British Virgin Islands, where average temperatures are in the high 70s and low 80s. Maui, Hawaii, is another good option, with peak whale season in January.
If you're looking to experience a different culture, try Marrakesh, Morocco, where you can explore the medina and take excursions to see snow-capped peaks in the Atlas Mountains. Singapore is another option, with its world-famous hawker centres, Gardens by the Bay, and the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.
If you're interested in seeing wildlife, try Kangaroo Island, Australia, which is home to wallabies, koalas, echidnas, and kangaroos. You could also try Kenya's Amboseli National Park, where you can see elephants in the wild with the peak of Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
If you're looking for a city break, London is a good option, with mild temperatures and plenty of indoor activities, from museums to West End theatre. Dubai is another good option, with its mix of luxury and adventure, and mild temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
