Where do you want to go in January? Of course, to a place where it’s warm in summer, birds are singing and turquoise waves are lapping at the shore. We have found 10 of the best destinations for a January trip – from the most budget to the elite.
In January in Thailand it is hot, but not excessively – just enough to warm up after cold months spent in middle latitudes (+28…+32 °С), the sea is warm (+27…+28 °С), fruits are abundant, but there is very little rain. Of course, the flight to Thai resorts is quite long – perhaps, you and your children will need a little acclimatization, but in general there are practically no minuses of such trip.
At the beginning of the year in Thailand is fun, lively, everyone is in high spirits because of the holidays, amusement parks and water parks are working at full capacity. Prices during this period are quite high, but the weather is ideal for relaxing on the beach, and the water in the sea resembles steamy milk – first of all, this applies to the Andaman Sea resorts (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Phi), where there are no waves in winter.
1. Phuket
Phuket is a good choice for a January vacation in Thailand. The largest of the Thai islands, washed by the warm waters of the Andaman Sea, at this time pleases with dry comfortable weather and attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world. In January you can safely go to Phuket with the whole family – the sea in the middle of winter is very calm, clear, and kids will enjoy swimming. Of course, if you want to catch deserted beaches, free hotels and low prices, it is better to go in November or April – in January Phuket is very lively and there is an influx of tourists due to holidays.
People come to Phuket not only for the “eternal summer”, but also to fully enjoy water activities (first of all, diving). Beach pleasures can be interspersed with excursions around the island, as its size does not allow you to sit still and get bored. With children it is worth going to the local aquarium and botanical garden to make your own impression of the richness of the flora and underwater world of Thailand. There are also a couple of unusual places on the island – dino park and bird park, where live amazing representatives of the feathered world, striking bright colors and strange voices.
2. Pattaya
Winter Pattaya is at the mercy of the dry season – the heat by January slightly decreases, but not so much that tourists become chilly (average temperature – +27…+31 °С). Beaches, sea, entertainment – all this remains freely available for all those who decided to celebrate the New Year in the heart of nightlife in Thailand. For someone the resort in January may seem too noisy, but if you go to party, the middle of winter is a good choice.
Tourists seeking a vacation in Pattaya know that beaches are not the strong point of the resort (unlike entertainment). If you want postcard-white beaches and clean sea, choose hotels outside the city, preferably on nearby islands.
Pattaya is known not only for its vibrant nightlife, but also for its numerous attractions, among which is the Cartoon Network Amazone water park with various themed zones, cascading waterfalls, wave pool and tunnels. Interesting for tourists and the park “Mini-Siam”, which represents Thailand in miniature. You can get acquainted with the animal and underwater world of the country in the oceanarium “Underwater World Pattaya” and the local zoo. The best architectural monuments of Pattaya are the Temple of Truth, built without using nails, the golden statue of Buddha and Wat Yanasangvararam temple.
3. Egypt
Egypt is one of the most popular January destinations. Of course, in the first month of the year you can also choose a more exotic destination (Cuba, Maldives), but this, firstly, will cost more, and secondly, many tourists like the African winter without the intense heat. An additional plus is a short flight: only 3-4 hours, and you already find yourself in a completely different environment and can enjoy your vacation.
In January at the resorts of Egypt it is usually +20…+25 °С, water in the sea is about +23 °С. At this time you can both have a rest at the sea and go on excursions – it is much more comfortable to see sensational Egyptian pyramids and other wonders in winter than in summer. If you are going to go with children, think about picking up a hotel with heated adult and children’s pools. In Sharm el Sheikh at this time is not as windy as in Hurghada and Safaga, so for a family trip at the beginning of the year it is better to choose this resort.
4. Sharm El Sheikh
A trip to Sharm el-Sheikh is quite a budget way to escape to summer in January. In the middle of winter here sometimes it can be up to +27 °С, but on average the temperature of both water and air is about +23 °С. Even if the sea is not very warm, you can swim in the heated pool and sunbathe at your pleasure – there is practically no rain in this period. This period is ideal for excursions – the flow of tourists seeking to see the Egyptian sights with their own eyes, noticeably thinned, and the heat and stuffiness do not interfere with getting acquainted with the culture of the East.
Choosing Sharm el-Sheikh for a vacation in January, it is better to check into a hotel in the most windless areas of the resort – Naama Bay, Sharm el-Maya, Sharks Bay, Hadaba. It is worth remembering the short daylight hours – to catch more sun, you will have to get up early. A good entertainment program in the hotel is also important, which will allow you not to get bored at the resort in the evenings.
5. Dahab
Dahab is created for those who want to spend New Year holidays in an atmosphere of seclusion and peace. It is located in 100 km from Sharm el-Sheikh on the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba. In winter it is usually +21 … +24 ° C, and strong winds can not be feared because of the favorable location in the bay. Many tourists prefer this resort to Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh because of more lush nature and clean sea.
There are enough beaches in Dahab – both completely sandy and mixed, with pieces of coral and small pebbles. The best of them are located in the Lagoon area and belong to four- and five-star hotels. The beaches are well equipped: there are umbrellas, deck chairs, pontoons for comfortable entering the water, shower cabins.
If you are interested in active recreation (diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing), Dahab is an excellent choice, especially the Lighthouse area, which attracts water sports enthusiasts from all over the world. Excursions will also please you pleasantly – we recommend visiting the national parks Gabr-Il-Bent and Ras Abu-Galum with stunning landscapes and coral reefs, climbing Mount Moses to the monastery of St. Catherine and visit the Color Canyon with the extraordinary beauty of colorful cliffs.
6. UAE
Vacation in the Arab Emirates in January has a lot of advantages. Firstly, at resorts at last not hot weather is established (+23…+24 °С instead of +40…+45 °С). The water in the Persian Gulf also cools down to +23 °С – if someone will find such bathing uncomfortable, you can always make up for it in the heated pool. Absence of heat allows to plan excursion program to the maximum – at the beginning of the year you can see the main sights of UAE without risking to get a sunstroke.
Another reason to travel to the Emirates in January is the large-scale sales after the New Year holidays. During this period, you can safely count on a good “catch” in terms of shopping – goods in numerous shopping centers are sold at good discounts.
7. Dubai
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen – the Arabian sun can be very active even in winter. In your free time you can go to explore Dubai stores and shopping centers in search of bargains, and also get acquainted with the famous sights of the emirate. This is where the famous Palm Islands, the Old City of Bastakia with its wind towers, the Jumeirah Mosque, the seven-star Sail Hotel and the tallest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa – are located. Children can be taken to IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park and modern water parks Wild Wadi and Aquaventure. January is also a good time to get acquainted with the flora and fauna of the UAE. You can do this by visiting the Flamingo Sanctuary, Butterfly Garden and Dubai Zoo.
8. Fujairah
Fujairah is the only emirate in the UAE that is located on the coast of the Gulf of Oman rather than the Persian Gulf. The atmosphere here is very calm, the scenery is wonderful, and the beaches surrounded by mountain ranges and palm groves are above all praise. January in Fujairah is the coolest month with average air temperature +24 °С (water – +18 °С). It is possible to sunbathe on the beach, but swimming at this time is not very pleasant – it is better to prefer heated pool at the hotel.
January in Fujairah can be dedicated to discovering the local culture, history and sights. El Hale Fort, a magnificent castle in the Old City of Fujairah, is considered to be the emirate’s calling card. You should not ignore the Archaeological Museum, which collects artifacts from ancient times to the present day (ancient coins, dishes and even dwellings).
Another famous building of the emirate is the Al Badiyah Mosque, one of the oldest in the country. In search of beautiful landscapes you can go to the Musandam Peninsula, which is also called Arabian Norway – there you can not only fish and sunbathe in secluded bays, but also buy memorable handmade souvenirs. The animal world of the UAE is represented in all its diversity in the Wadi Wuraya Reserve.
9. Sri Lanka
Except for the highland resorts, the weather in January in Sri Lanka is very warm and sunny. The average temperature during the day is +29…31 °С, and at night – +21…25 °С. There is also no or very little precipitation (and there are no long rains at all), so the heat is well tolerated. The sea warms up to +27 °C and is perfect even for bathing babies.
The locals are hospitable to tourists, but before visiting the country it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the rules and traditions prevailing on the island to avoid trouble or even criminal prosecution.
10. Hikkaduwa
This resort town makes a fabulous impression on tourists, especially if you visit it for the first time. Chic sandy beaches combined with mysterious jungles, Buddhist temples, diving school offer a variety of entertainment. At the same time, it is very picturesque and there is an opportunity to choose a hotel located just a few meters from the sea.
11. Wadduwa
Wadduwa is considered the pearl of Sri Lanka’s ocean coast. The weather is hottest in January, so there are many people who love to relax on the local paradise beaches.
There are about 40 Buddhist temples in Wadduwa. Lankans carefully take care of their own cultural and historical heritage, so they are carefully restored and very beautiful. Not far from the city there is another resort – Colombo, where you can go on your own. There is a very interesting national museum and a zoo there, which families with children should definitely visit.
12. Cuba
If you are looking for a country where you can swim in winter and with which the borders are open, Cuba is the right place. In January there is a dry season with comfortable air temperature (+26…+27 °С), water temperature (+26 °С) and rare rains (there are only 3-5 days with precipitation during the whole month).
The period after the New Year in Cuba is quite busy – there are a lot of tourists, entertainment too, from water sports to excursions. In January, the daylight hours in Cuba lasts only 11 hours, so to have time to see as much as possible, you have to get up early. The main historical sights of the country are concentrated in Havana and Trinidad.
13. Varadero
Varadero is the most popular beach resort in Cuba. In January here you can have a wonderful rest with any composition on the shore of the Caribbean Sea surrounded by snow-white sand and tropical vegetation. Water temperature at this time corresponds to the air temperature (about +25 ° C), you can laze on the beach (length – 22 km!) and improve your skills in water sports, horseback riding and rafting. Some will prefer to go to a coffee or tobacco plantation, as well as tasting the famous Cuban rum.
Varadero is only 140 km from Havana, so it is recommended to spend one of your vacation days exploring the sights of the Cuban capital. You can go to one of the nearby islands (for example, Cayo Blanco) or visit the Varaicacos Natural Park with wonderful karst caves. Children will love a trip to the dolphinarium and crocodile farm.
14. Caio Coco
If you dream about secluded vacation on snow-white beaches surrounded by pristine nature, take a closer look at the island-reserve Cayo Coco. In January the air temperature here is about +25…+26 °С, the water in the sea is as warm. You can rest in all-inclusive hotels, spend your vacation with children, study the life of underwater inhabitants of coral reefs and ride horses along the coast. Many hotels offer colorful entertainment shows for all ages, so you are unlikely to get bored.
If you want more, you can always take an excursion to the towns of Moron and Trinidad or go on a jeep safari.
15. Maldives
Maldives in January are in the power of dry season, usually during the whole month there are not more than five rainy days, so you can safely plan a trip to the paradise islands for the middle of winter. The air temperature fluctuates within +28 … +31 °С, the ocean is very warm – +28 °С, and even in the evening it is not lower than +25 °С, that disposes to romantic walks.
What to do in Maldives in January? Sunbathe, swim, sip exotic cocktails, try all kinds of SPA procedures, admire nature and relax to the fullest. Also at this time the islands have very clear water with visibility up to 30 meters, which creates ideal conditions for diving.
16. Male
Male is the capital of Maldives and the busiest place of the country. It is located in the equator zone, so in January it usually is +27…+30 °С, sometimes there are rainy days, but more often in the beginning of the month. If your goal is to have a rest on luxurious beaches, it is better to prefer one of atolls of Maldives, because there are few beaches in Male, and people swim on them in clothes.
The city attracts, first of all, its attractions – among them the 17th century Mosque of Friday, built of coral blocks, and the National History Museum, which collects archaeological finds of different years.
If you still want a beach vacation, you can go to the public beach of Willingili Island, 2 km from Male’ (ferries run here). Here you can sunbathe in a swimsuit, swim, sit in a cafe and admire the panorama of the capital. You can also go water sports in Male’ (diving, snorkeling, surfing, yachting), go on a boat trip, ride a seaplane or a traditional local boat (dhoni).
17. Daalu Atoll
Daalu Atoll, unlike Male, is created for those who appreciate the pristine nature and go to the Maldives for impeccable beaches with white sand. Of the 46 islands of the atoll only two are inhabited – Kudahuvadu and Velavaru, the rest remain untouched by civilization.
In January, there is good weather with practically no rain – you can enjoy beach vacations, explore coral reefs with snorkeling and scuba diving, take boat trips to neighboring islands and watch turtles. The ruins of Buddhist buildings, such as the ancient mosque on Kudahuvadu Island and the ruins of monasteries, are sure to be of interest to history buffs.
18. India
In winter, Indian states offer tourists an abundance of activities, from beach vacations in the south of the country to snow-capped northern Himalayan mountains. In January in all of India is not too hot, but sunny and almost no rainfall. Therefore, you can sunbathe and swim.
January is the coolest month of the year. The average temperature ranges from +25 °C to +30 °C (although in the northern states and at higher elevations it can drop significantly lower, to +11…15 °C, and in some places even lower). At the same time, travelers do not have to limit themselves to just one state – winter is considered the best time to travel within the country.
19. Goa
The average air temperature in January here is +21…31 °C. The water temperature is +27.5 °C.
Goa is rightly considered the most “party” state of the country – every year tens of thousands of tourists arrive here. bars, clubs and beaches with parties characterized by a unique Indian flavor open their doors round the clock for them. Here you will not have a language barrier even with the locals, as English is spoken by almost everyone.
20. Kerala
Kerala attracts primarily lovers of a measured vacation, even though it is also a state in the southern half of the peninsula. The temperature here is around +30 °C during the day in January and drops to +20 °C at night.
Tourists can enjoy a wide range of activities: besides swimming in the Arabian Sea and water sports, it is possible to go hiking or rock climbing. In addition to marvelous beaches, there are mountains and a nature reserve, where representatives of local fauna, in particular endemic ones, are kept.
21. Seychelles
In January, Seychelles is hot and humid (+27…+31 °C), tropical showers are not uncommon (however, they end quickly). The sea is calm, the water is very warm (+28 °C), and prices are moderate due to the so-called “off-season”. However, those who are not afraid of sudden short-term rains, calmly go to Seychelles in the middle of winter and are usually satisfied with their vacation (and the opportunity to save money).
During this time you can not only enjoy beach vacations, but also devote time to water sports, excursions, getting to know the culture of the islands and local cuisine.
22. Mahe
Mahe is the largest island of Seychelles, and it is here that the capital Victoria and the international airport are located. There are a lot of beaches here (about 70), but in January you should be ready for strong winds and storms that periodically hit the island. On the other hand, for surfing lovers it is, on the contrary, a plus – there will definitely be waves.
Mahe attracts not only with its natural riches, but also with its historical sights. The capital of the archipelago is characterized by traditional Creole architecture and an abundance of stores, souvenir stores and art galleries. The Clock Tower and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception are a must-see, as are the Mont Fleury Botanical Gardens, the Spice Garden, the Seychelles Morne Reserve and the Royal Garden.
23. Praslin
The island of Praslin is second only to the main island of Seychelles – Mahe, but vacation here is no less luxurious and memorable. Tropical forests, clean beaches, mountains, coco-de-mer palms, which are the symbol of the country – all this awaits those who decide to spend a vacation on Praslin.
January on the island belongs to the “low” season due to frequent rains, but many tourists are not afraid of them – rather, they are attracted by the opportunity to relax at reduced prices (in addition, showers usually do not last longer than 15-20 minutes, and then again appears bright sun). You can swim and sunbathe in any case, because the air temperature in mid-winter does not fall below +25 °C, and the water temperature does not fall below +24 °C. This is a great time for surfing, windsurfing and fishing.
What to do in Praslin in January? Watch sea turtles lay their eggs, visit the Vallée de Me National Park, home to unique birds and animals and a rainforest that hasn’t changed its appearance for millions of years. You can also take a boat trip to the neighboring reserve islands – Cousin, Curieuse and Arid, each of which is remarkable in its own way. There is a golf course on Praslin – on the territory of Constance Lemuria hotel. Children have a wonderful rest on the beach of Côte d’Or, which is a two-kilometer strip of snow-white sand surrounded by picturesque palm trees.
24. Dominica
January in the Dominican Republic is the height of the “high season”. Warm sea, lack of rain and plenty of sunshine promise an unforgettable beach vacation, but you should be ready for the full cost of tours. It is unlikely to save money during this period, but the bright impressions of the vacation will more than pay for the long flight and money expenses. It will be more reasonable to book your favorite option in advance – it will be cheaper.
In January you can not be afraid of seaweed, storms and hurricanes – the vacation promises to be cloudless. It is during this period you can not only celebrate New Year’s Eve away from the winter cold, but also watch humpback whales. By the way, in January Dominican Republic is usually visited by celebrities – from Shakira to Vin Diesel. And it is not surprising, because water temperature in the Caribbean Sea is +27 °С, and on the shore is even warmer – +28…+30 °С. It is worth to take care only about a good sunscreen to avoid getting burned on the first day.
Dominican Republic is not only snow-white tropical beaches, but also excellent diving (the Marinarium Marine Park in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic is especially good for underwater diving). You should not neglect the opportunity to get acquainted with the natural and historical riches of the country – excursions to Santo Domingo, Samana Peninsula, Los Aitises and Del Este National Parks are popular among tourists.
25. Puerto Plata
Everyone who wants to combine a serene beach vacation in a tropical paradise with club entertainment and sightseeing will find the popular resort of Puerto Plata. Here you can make great photos against the background of old mansions, walk along the picturesque promenade and see a lot of interesting things. The most luxurious part of the resort is Playa Dorada with a beach, golf course and a lot of nightlife and casinos where you can party until the morning.
The lively Long Beach is home to the sounds of merengue music and whale watching, which takes place in January. After basking in the sun and swimming in peace, go to the top of Mount Isabella by cable car or to Fort San Felipe – one of the first built by Europeans in the Dominican Republic. At the Amber Museum you can look at prehistoric plants and animals forever encased in resin, and at the Ocean World water park you can have fun with the whole family on water rides and swim with sharks, dolphins and sea lions.
26. Boca Chica
Boca Chica is a popular resort in the Dominican Republic, which attracts tourists with its lively atmosphere and reasonable prices. It is very warm in January, as well as in other resorts of the island of Haiti, and the Caribbean Sea disposes to water sports (especially since the excellent coral reef is right off the coast).
In the western part of the resort you can safely rest with children – it is quiet and cozy, but those who crave nightlife, we recommend to go to one of the entertainment venues on Calle Duarte and submit to the mesmerizing rhythms of salsa and merengue.
With excursions in Boca Chica also everything is in good order – only 30 km away is the capital of the country Santo Domingo, and there is something to see in the resort itself – for example, the museum in La Caleta, where the exposition of the life of the Taino Indians is presented. The National Underwater Park La Caleta with the sunken shipwreck “Hickory” also makes a great impression on Dominican guests.
27. Mexico
Mexico is a worthy choice for those who in the first weeks of the New Year want not only to relax on tropical beaches, but also to immerse themselves in a different culture. In Cancun and Riviera Maya at this time it is never lower than +28 °С, the Caribbean Sea warms up to +26 °С. In Acapulco on the Pacific coast it is even warmer – +31 °С, but in the capital of the country, Mexico City, it is rather cool – +21 °С.
The beginning of the year in Mexico is ideal for diving – visibility is excellent and the underwater world is incredible! Also at this time there are numerous festivals – from the Catholic Epiphany to the Tequila Festival in Playa del Carmen, where you can taste more than 25 varieties of the popular drink. A separate topic – excursions (to national parks, caves, Mayan and Aztec pyramids), just for the sake of them it is worth visiting Mexico.
28. Cancun
Cancun is a leader among Mexican resorts. It is distinguished by favorable location on the Caribbean coast, snow-white beaches and excellent infrastructure. The temperature here is +30…+32 °С all year round, in the middle of winter tropical showers are possible, but they are short-lived. In Cancun in January you can go both for the sake of quiet rest with children in the bosom of tropical nature, and for the sake of active pastime – there are all conditions for water sports, and the coral reef stretches for 500 km!
Among non-trivial entertainments are swimming with turtles in the Shel-Ha Reserve, golf, barracuda fishing and swimming with dolphins. In your free time it is worth visiting the Museum of Underwater Sculptures Cancun and the famous ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. Children will enjoy a trip to Wet’n’Wild Water Park and Atlantida. Unusual nature of Mexico will be revealed to all who will look into the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, where crocodiles, jaguars, howler monkeys and more than 300 species of exotic birds live.
29. Yucatan
The Yucatan Peninsula is a favorite destination for connoisseurs of active tourism, good diving, beautiful nature and luxurious beaches. Mangroves, sinkholes, pyramids and Mayan cities – natural and historical wealth of this region is really impressive. In January it is very warm (average +31 ° C), you can swim in the sea all day long and enjoy summer in the middle of winter..
The main beach resort of the Yucatan Peninsula is Cancun, which from a bird’s eye view resembles a huge seven. The vast majority of Cancun hotels are on the first line of the beach and operate on an all-inclusive system. The resort of Playa del Carmen with its vibrant nightlife and Riviera Maya with a wonderful coral reef that stretches for 1000 km is also good. In Yucatan not only classic diving became popular, but also cave diving, because there are a lot of karst caves on the peninsula (Mayans called them cenotes and considered them sacred).
