Travel Solo In January: Best Destinations To Explore

January is the perfect time for a solo adventure. Whether you're looking for winter sun or snow, here are some of the best places to travel alone this month.

For winter sun, Lanzarote in the Canary Islands is a great choice, with guaranteed sunshine and gorgeous beaches. Or head to Thailand, where you can spot wild cherry blossom trees in Chiang Mai and sunbathe and snorkel on the islands of the Andaman Sea, such as Koh Tao.

If you're looking for snow, how about Finland? You can kick off the new year by watching the Northern Lights dance across Finnish Lapland and learning the ways of a Sami reindeer herder. Or try Breckenridge, Colorado, a historic gold-mining town and the perfect spot to experience the quintessential US ski town.

For something in between, there's always Barcelona, where you can explore the city's fascinating architecture, art and culture without the crowds.

Thailand: Chiang Mai for temples and Koh Tao for snorkelling and spotting turtles

Thailand is a great destination for solo travel in January. Here are some reasons why Chiang Mai and Koh Tao should be on your itinerary:

Chiang Mai for Temples

Chiang Mai is a city steeped in historical beauty, modern attractions, and a backpacker buzz that will appeal to many types of travellers. It is also known for its temples, with over 300 temples or "wats" scattered throughout the city and surrounding countryside. No other province in Thailand has more temples. Most of the temples in Chiang Mai are in the Lanna style, dating back to the 13th to 18th centuries, with curved wooden roofs.

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: The most famous and revered temple in Chiang Mai, located at the top of a mountain with a stunning view of the city. It involves a journey up a winding mountain road, and then a climb of 309 steps to reach the 600-year-old golden chedi.
• Wat Chedi Luang: Located in the middle of the Old City, this temple complex dates back to 1385 and once housed the Emerald Buddha, now in Bangkok's Grand Palace.
• Wat Phra Singh: One of the most visually impressive temples, with its iconic slanted Lanna-style roofs and intricate facade.
• Wat Suan Dok: A less-visited temple with an array of white chedis surrounding a golden stupa. It was built in the 14th century as a retreat for a revered monk.
• Wat Umong: A 700-year-old temple with a crumbling central stupa, tropical gardens, and tunnels.
• Wat Phra That Doi Kham: Known for its huge seated Buddha, this temple is slightly off the beaten path and features shrines, pagodas, and relics in a tropical garden setting.

Koh Tao for Snorkelling and Spotting Turtles

Koh Tao, an island in Thailand, is a great destination for snorkelling and spotting turtles. Here are some places to visit:

• Shark Bay: Located on the south side of Koh Tao, this rugged coastline is home to Blacktip Reef Sharks and turtles. The best time to visit is early in the morning, just after sunrise, to increase your chances of spotting these marine creatures.
• Haadtien Beach Resort: This resort is located on a white sandy beach at Shark Bay. Entry is 100 THB per person.
• Oxygen Snorkelling Tour: This tour takes you to multiple spots around the island, including Shark Bay, Koh Nangyuan Island, and Mango Bay, offering the chance to see a variety of marine life.
• Sairee Beach: A popular beach in Koh Tao with a variety of accommodation options and easy access to taxi boats for island exploration.

So, if you're looking for a solo travel destination in January, Thailand's Chiang Mai and Koh Tao offer a mix of cultural and natural experiences that will create lasting memories.

Argentina: Trekking in Patagonia and sampling asado-style lamb in Mendoza

January is the perfect time to visit Argentina, with summer in full swing in Buenos Aires and the north of the country basking in sunshine. Meanwhile, in the south, the snow has melted away, making January the perfect time to hike the rugged peaks of Patagonia.

Trekking in Patagonia

Patagonia is a hiker's paradise, with miles of winding trails to discover. Lace up your hiking boots and join a trek to the foot of Mount Fitzroy, where you'll be greeted by blue glaciers and glassy lakes. The region is also home to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the most famous glaciers in the world, located in Los Glaciares National Park. This vast ice formation is constantly advancing, and you may even get to witness the spectacle of huge ice chunks breaking off and crashing into the water below.

Sampling Asado-Style Lamb in Mendoza

Mendoza is the perfect place to indulge in Argentina's famous cuisine and sample the region's signature dish: flame-grilled cordero (lamb) cooked asado-style. Asado is an Argentinian barbecue, a beloved social event where family and friends gather to feast on delicious grilled meats. The lamb is cooked slowly over an open fire, often accompanied by chorizo, black pudding, and other meats, with a variety of salads and sides. Mendoza is also renowned for its world-class wines, so be sure to pair your meal with a glass of Malbec or Torrontes.

Practical Information

When travelling to Argentina in January, it's important to pack layers for all weather conditions. The summer heat can be intense, especially in the cities, but temperatures can drop significantly in the mountains and Patagonia. Remember to bring a good pair of hiking boots if you plan to explore the trails of Patagonia.

Finland: Witness the Northern Lights and learn reindeer herding

Finland is a great choice for a solo trip in January. With short days and long starry nights, you'll have a great chance of witnessing the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon is known for its vibrant colours of green, pink, violet, and blue dancing across the night sky.

Finland's snow-sprinkled forests offer a true taste of winter, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy during the day. You can learn the ways of a Sami reindeer herder by driving a husky sleigh across a frozen lake and skiing through snow-laden forests. For a unique thrill, take a dip in an icy lake before warming up with a glass of glögi (mulled wine).

When packing for your trip, be sure to bring snow boots that are a little too big so that your thick socks will fit inside, and you'll have enough room to wiggle your toes and keep them warm.

Finland is known for its friendly locals and stunning natural wonders, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration.

Laos: Kayak the Mekong River and trek to sacred forest and villages

If you're looking for a solo adventure in January, why not try kayaking in Laos? With dry, blue skies and low humidity, January is the perfect time to visit this jungle nation.

Adventure seekers can take to the Mekong River in Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands) and kayak while the water level is high. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare Irrawaddy dolphin!

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there's the 100 Waterfalls route, a 10km trek through sacred forest and Katang villages, starting in Nong Khiaw.

Laos has something for all the senses. Be sure to try mok pa, a traditional dish of fish pounded together with garlic, peppers, and aromatic herbs, wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed over an open fire.

Sri Lanka: Experience the dry season and Ayurvedic massages

If you're looking for a tropical escape with sunshine and warm temperatures, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination to travel to in January. The country experiences two monsoon seasons, but January falls within the dry season for the whole country, so you can expect relatively dry and sunny weather across all regions. This makes it a perfect time to explore the island's diverse landscapes, from its beautiful coastline to the Hill Country.

Weather in Sri Lanka in January

January is part of Sri Lanka's dry season, which lasts from January to April across the entire country. During this period, you can expect warm temperatures and relatively dry conditions, making it a great time to visit the beaches along the south and west coasts, which are typically hot, dry, and sunny. The Hill Country, including the cultural capital of Kandy, will be slightly cooler, but still pleasant for exploring.

Things to Do in Sri Lanka in January

• Beach Hopping: January is an excellent time to enjoy the beaches in Sri Lanka. The south and west coasts offer dry and sunny conditions, with popular spots like Galle, Unawatuna, Mirissa, Weligama, and Hikkaduwa.
• Wildlife Encounters: Sri Lanka is known for its diverse wildlife. January is a good time to visit national parks such as Wilpattu, Yala, and Udawalawe. Yala National Park, in particular, offers a high chance of spotting leopards from December to March.
• Cultural Festivals: Sri Lanka has a rich cultural calendar. In January, you may be able to catch the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations, usually held in April.
• Whale Watching: If you're interested in whale watching, head to Mirissa on the south coast between December and March to spot blue whales and sperm whales.
• Ayurvedic Massages: During your time in Sri Lanka, consider treating yourself to an Ayurvedic massage, a traditional Indian massage therapy. This holistic practice aims to balance the doshas (elements) within your body and promote spiritual fulfilment and relaxation. It typically involves the use of warm, medicinal oils and techniques like effleurage, petrissage, and tapotement to stimulate specific energy points on the body.

Practical Information

When planning your trip to Sri Lanka, here are a few practical considerations:

• Accommodation: Sri Lanka offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the dry season, as this is a popular time for tourists.
• Transportation: To get around the country, you can use public transportation, such as buses and trains, or opt for private transfers or car rentals.
• Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa before travelling to Sri Lanka. Be sure to check the latest visa requirements and guidelines.
• Health and Safety: Consult your healthcare provider for any necessary vaccinations or health precautions before your trip. It is also advisable to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Frequently asked questions