cheap international travel in january

18 Best Cheap Places to Travel in January

Written by Anietra Hamper and Shandley McMurray Updated Jan 2, 2024

Sometimes January feels like it's the worst month to travel. The holidays are over and our wallets are light, making it hard to justify a vacation. Don't despair! With so many affordable places to visit in January, a cheap holiday might be easily within reach.

If you don't mind sticking to colder locales, your bank account will thank you. The cheapest rates for airfare and hotels in January are often found in more wintry destinations. Take advantage of their low season to receive savings of up to 50 percent off in some locations. But off-season rates are not the only benefit to traveling in January. You will also have more flight options, less crowds, and shorter lines for attractions, which means you can fit in more things to do during your time away.

While winter is the high season in sunny spots like the Caribbean or Mexico , you can still find great vacation deals to these locations if you wait until after the second week in January . The New Year's crowds have left by this point, and prices begin to decline in the second half of the month. If you can couple that timing with an all-inclusive resort, then you can score a relatively cheap vacation during an otherwise more expensive time of the year in these preferred winter destinations.

Brush off the January blues with the mid-winter bargains on our list of the best cheap places to travel in January.

1. San Diego, California

2. cancun, mexico, 3. montréal, canada, 4. the florida keys, 5. the bahamas, 7. punta cana, dominican republic, 8. barcelona, spain, 9. london, england, 10. montego bay, jamaica, 11. bermuda, 12. the caribbean, 13. boston, massachusetts, 14. chicago, illinois, 15. dublin, ireland, 18. istanbul, map of cheap places to travel in january.

A visit to San Diego, California in January can cost nearly 40 percent less for hotels, and travelers will receive discounted rates on flights. San Diego's consistently comfortable climate makes it an attractive vacation destination for midwinter. With daily January temperatures hovering around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, you can wear a T-shirt outside and still enjoy the ocean life that the city is known for, even in the middle of winter.

Soak up some Vitamin D along the 70 miles of coastline, and plan visits to the city's art galleries and local restaurants serving up Cali Baja cuisine. Walk some of the 1,200 acres of Balboa Park , an urban park with lush gardens, museums, and the San Diego Zoo . You can take day trips to check out some of the trendy coastal neighborhoods like La Jolla and Coronado . For added savings, build your own CityPASS and add discounted tickets to attractions during your stay.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Diego

If you dream of warm waves lapping a palm-tree-lined shore, then a January trip to Cancun, Mexico can fulfill that wish. The white sands draw lots of tourists this time of year, so rates will not be super cheap, but the sheer volume of resorts and package rates available for the expected influx of tourists means that you can find deals that are a bit cheaper than other times of the year.

With average January high temperatures around 82 degrees Fahrenheit, you are almost guaranteed that every day will be a great beach day. Cancun can experience intermittent rain in January, but they are generally brief afternoon showers that do not last more than an hour.

To get the best deals in Cancun on hotels in January, plan your trip after the first week, when rates are lower. To save even more, you can stay in Playa del Carmen , which is an hour south of Cancun. It is a smaller tourist area but still lovely to visit, with less expensive hotels. You can plan day trips into Cancun to visit the Playa Tortugas beaches and take in the tourist attractions, like the Chichén-Itzá Mayan UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cancun

Prepare yourself for a chill when you visit Montréal in January. It will be snowy, windy, and downright cold–we're talking 21 degrees Fahrenheit as a high–but a trip at this time will be low on price and high on fun, winter adventures.

With your savings, you can afford to splurge on a cozy room in a luxury hotel and warm, tasty meals at the city's top restaurants.

As long as you come prepared, you can handle pretty much anything Québec's winter weather throws at you. In other words, be sure to pack Canadian winter essentials: snow boots, a warm winter coat, hat, mitts, and a scarf.

Igloofest is a one-of-a-kind festival you won't want to miss. Located at the Old Port , this annual outdoor music festival is a blast, and all that dancing will help you stay warm. Book a hotel in Old Montréal to up the charm factor of your vacay and wander around the historic buildings, charming streets, and chic boutiques. It's also quite close to the Old Port, which means you won't have as far to travel from the concert.

• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Montréal
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Old Montréal

The Sunshine State's soft, sandy beaches; tall, waving palms; and sparkling azure waves attract visitors from across the globe at all times of year. In January, travelers can expect temperatures in the mid 70s and the sunny skies we dream of during the cold, dark days of winter up north.

Airfare and hotel prices are lower in January than they are in the following few months of high season. So, take advantage and book a stay in one of this funky region's five most popular places to visit: Key West , The Lower Keys , Marathon , Islamorada , or Key Largo .

While you're there, take advantage of Key West's best beaches before you spend the rest of the day dining in the fantastic restaurants and shopping in the quirky shops of this unique (and uber fun) town.

Don't miss Bahia Honda State Park in Big Pine Key , Dry Tortugas National Park in Homestead, or the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in the Florida Keys

The Bahamas is a lovely (and relatively cheap) spot to visit in January. It's the coldest month of the year, and vacationers tend to wait until the slightly warmer February, March, and April breaks to embark on their Bahamian holidays, which means better deals for you. Before you panic, don't worry! "Cold" isn't actually cold. You'll be looking at highs in the upper 70s.

Book far in advance to secure the best bargains, and opt for a package deal. If you're hoping to hit Nassau's Atlantis Paradise Island , you won't find much of a break price-wise, but if you're looking mid-week towards the middle of the month, you might get lucky.

Fly into Nassau , take a day to explore the attractions , like Nassau Straw Market and Cable Beach , and then head off to the Exumas . There, you'll find affordable accommodations on Staniel Cay (don't miss the swimming pigs), Little Exuma , or Great Exuma islands.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in the Bahamas

The Central American country of Panama is a January vacation waiting to happen. There are several cities that make nice options depending on whether you are looking for a beach getaway, an urban vacation, or an eco-friendly experience in a rustic village.

It is a less popular midwinter destination compared to Caribbean cities, which is why prices will be relatively lower for a warm-weather beach location. Flights are usually comparable to more popular January vacation spots, but once you get here, it is cheap. Hotels can average less than 50 USD per night, depending on where you stay.

The added benefit of Panama's less popular vacation reputation is that there are fewer people sharing the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters with you. The average daily temperatures of 85 degrees Fahrenheit will keep you close to the water, which is a great excuse to check out the Caribbean coast of Bocas del Toro or take a surfing lesson in one of the best surf areas in the country.

Adventure-seekers can settle in the mountain village of Boquete for natural forests and archaeological finds. One of the top cities, and still a bargain in January, is Panama City , with Spanish architecture, plazas, and an active city scene.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Panama

The Dominican Republic in general is a less expensive destination compared to other Caribbean Islands, and since there are many large beach hotels in Punta Cana, it is easy to find great rates in January. There are a number of all-inclusive resorts that will cut costs even more, and since it is one of the more popular cities in the Dominican Republic, you will be able to find plenty of flight options and deals this time of year. This is an ideal getaway if you want to stay close to the resort and have all of your activities and costs packaged.

The average temperatures in Punta Cana in January hover around 82 degrees, making this beach town more appealing. While the sand and beach are the main attractions in Punta Cana, boat tours are especially popular.

For a less crowded and even cheaper Dominican Republic getaway , you can consider Puerto Plata just east of Punta Cana. It also offers many all-inclusive resorts, but additional off-site activities, like a historic downtown and trails to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres, offer a break from the beach.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Dominican Republic

One of the top reasons to visit Barcelona, Spain in January, besides the savings, is that you will see more of the city without the enormous crowds that can be almost unbearable during the summer's high tourist season. It will be easier to get tickets to popular attractions like the Sagrada Familia , and fewer tourists means that the narrow streets around Las Ramblas will be easier to navigate. The midwinter savings at Barcelona hotels can be as much as 42 percent compared to high-season rates. Flights are cheaper, too.

January temperatures in Barcelona average highs around 56 degrees Fahrenheit, which is quite comfortable compared to the sweltering humid temperatures in the mid-80s in August.

Barcelona has the most tourist traffic of any city in Spain, so a midwinter vacation might be the most pleasant for both your patience and your pocketbook. You will have more time to explore the city's walkable sites, like the Park Güell , and enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of Barcelona's waterfront restaurants.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Barcelona

The trade-off for London's chilly, wet winter is a significant drop in prices to get here and stay, compared to late spring and summer, when the tourist season is at its peak. As one of the world's top travel destinations, London attracts many tourists at any time of the year, but visiting the city just after the holiday season and before spring has several advantages, the main one being great savings.

The average temperature in London in January is 45 degrees Fahrenheit, which really isn't bad for winter, but with rainfall common, you will want to pack an umbrella and rain jacket.

A winter visit means you can pack in more sightseeing, since the crowds are smaller at attractions like the Tower of London , Buckingham Palace , and the London Eye observation wheel. With your savings on flights and hotels to London, you have more to spend shopping at the city's best markets , including the Portobello Market , a 150-year-old market with street vendors selling everything from antiques to local food, jewelry, and music.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Montego Bay in Jamaica is one of the most affordable Caribbean destinations during the high season. What also makes it affordable is the number of flights going in and out, which means you are likely to find both a convenient flight and good rates. There are many all-inclusive resorts, which is also a factor in making Montego Bay a cheap January vacation destination.

With an average daily temperature of 84 degrees in January, Montego Bay is ideal for some beach time but also for outdoor activities, like visiting Dunn's River Falls or rafting on the Martha Brae River . To check out other areas of the island, you can plan day trips or overnight trips to Negril or Kingston .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montego Bay

While you won't find the warmest beach weather in Bermuda in January, you will find fab deals on everything from flights to hotels to tours. With highs in the high 60s Fahrenheit, the weather is comfortable at this time, if not balmy enough to play in the turquoise waves all day. You'll definitely want a sweater or light jacket, especially at night.

That said, jet skiing, rock climbing, and sailing can all be enjoyed in January. And don't forget golf. Bermuda is dotted with spectacular courses that range from par threes to championship courses. January is a perfect month to tee off.

Shop in Hamilton , read a book on Horseshoe Bay Beach , or pay a visit to Fort St. Catherine. There are so many fun ways to spend your time in Bermuda.

While May is technically the best month to visit Bermuda, a January trip will give you access to the biggest savings, which means you can snag a five-star luxury resort for a fee that won't make you gasp.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Bermuda

January is one of the best times to visit the Caribbean. You'll get optimal weather (highs in the mid-70s to mid-80s) and little rain or humidity. And if you book far enough in advance, you can score a great deal.

Technically, January is part of the Caribbean's high season (mid-December to early April), which means the prices for airfare and hotels will be higher than other months but the weeks after the December holiday season are typically lower than the rest of the winter.

Choose your location wisely to get the most savings. Cancun, Curacao , Playa Del Carmen , and Cozumel are among the cheapest Caribbean locales to visit. Puerto Rico is another well-priced gem you won't want to miss, and don't forget to check prices in Jamaica .

Read More: Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

While Boston may not compare to a sun-soaked trip to Mexico in January, if you are strictly looking for a cheap getaway to change up the scene then it is worth consideration. If you can stand the cold, the more than 50-percent savings on hotel rates in January compared to high-season rates will make the trip worth it. The average 30-degree-Fahrenheit temperatures in Boston this time of year makes this a perfect getaway for indoor activities of which the city has no shortage.

Hit Boston's Theatre District to catch performances of traveling Broadway shows and local acting troops. Catch an indoor game with the Boston Celtics at TD Garden , or hit one of the 60 museums in the city, like the New England Aquarium , Museum of Fine Arts , and the Museum of Science . There are also winter-specific walking tours around Boston that will give you an entirely new perspective on one of America's most exciting cities.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston & Cambridge

While Chicago, Illinois may not be your first thought when considering January vacations, it is actually one of the cheapest times to experience the Windy City . The city will likely be snow-covered, but since many of its museums and attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Shedd Aquarium are indoors, the weather is not an issue. One of the best reasons to go is the nearly 50 percent savings on hotel rooms and discounted airfares to Chicago at this time of year.

Shops along The Magnificent Mile are still open in the winter, and you might just find a clearance-rack parka to sport around town. January temperatures in Chicago average 30 degrees Fahrenheit, but you can take your savings and warm up with a famous Chicago deep-dish pizza.

Hop on the L train, Chicago's public transit system, to get from point A to point B, and hit some of the ethnic neighborhoods and downtown attractions. Check out the frozen Chicago cityscape from 103 floors above the city from the Willis Tower Skydeck .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chicago

One of the best times to visit Dublin, Ireland is during the off-season, when airfare and lodging rates plummet and there are almost no crowds in the popular tourist areas. When the tourist season begins to pick up in March, you can expect rates to hike along with the lines to see popular attractions like St. Patrick's Cathedral .

The mild Dublin temperatures will be cooler in January (averaging mid-40 degrees Fahrenheit) than in the summer, but they will make spending the days shopping at the Moore Street Market more tolerable.

Don a jacket and pack a brolly to take in Ireland's fun capital city. Save even more money by leaving your car at the hotel. Dublin is a walkable city, and the public bus system is a convenient way to get on and off at your destinations without having to drive. Visit some of the free attractions, like the National Gallery of Ireland museum and the Chester Beatty Library .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin

You can find great deals on travel to Nepal pretty much any time of the year, but if you are looking to find even steeper discounts, January is a good time to consider. The downside to the midwinter timing is that it is colder, and some of the higher passes of Langtang and Annapurna will likely be covered in snow, so trekking opportunities may be more limited. The upside is that there will be fewer crowds compared to the fall.

Though January is the coldest month of the year in Nepal, there is still plenty to do, like explore Kathmandu or visit the Chitwan National Park , where guests can go on an elephant safari, visit the museum at Kasara, or check out the Gharial Breeding Center. Lower than other places in Nepal, this park offers a spectacular (and slightly warmer) opportunity to view impressive wildlife.

There are a number of tourist options to view the Himalayan mountains, from multi-day treks with a tour company to flying over the snow-capped mountains in an airplane.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nepal

The beauty of Bogota , Colombia is that its temperature never really changes throughout the year. Even when it's bitterly cold in January in other parts of the world, Bogota remains a consistently pleasant 68 degrees Fahrenheit/20 degrees Celsius. The balmy, fresh, year-round weather is most welcome to travelers looking to escape a miserable winter. Pack a jacket and you're good to go.

Bogota is a beautiful city with both historic and modern attractions, perched high up in the Andes mountains. A capital of culture, Bogota is chock full of spectacular museums and architecture. Plaza Bolivar, for example, is home to the cathedral and the Museo Nacional de Colombia. The historic streets of Bogota are splashed with color, from the vibrant La Candelaria neighborhood to the splashy, buzzy lights of the Zona Rosa.

What makes Colombia affordable at any time of year is the exchange rate. Travelers visiting from the U.S., Canada, or Europe will find that their currency goes a lot further in Colombia, and Bogota in particular when compared to other more touristy destinations like Cartagena and Medellin .

Medellin also has numerous free attractions, like the Botero Museum — a space completely devoted to the life and work of national artist, Fernando Botero. Afterward, hit up a market like La Perseverancia Market for a filling (and affordable) lunch.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Colombia

Istanbul may be chilly in January (temperatures hover around 43 degrees Fahrenheit/6 degrees Celsius), but that does not take away from the exceptional beauty of the city. In fact, some may argue that the steely blues of the Bosphorus become even more moody and picturesque in January.

A great perk about Istanbul is that many of its top attractions are free. These include the Grand Bazaar , the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, Taksim Square, and the Basilica Cistern, among others.

In between sightseeing, when crowds are undoubtedly at their lowest, you can pop into one of the many tea houses or coffee shops for a piping hot cup of local tea or strong Turkish coffee.

And because January is the low season for Istanbul, you can rest assured that you'll be resting your head at some comfortable hotels at quite a discounted rate.

Transportation in Istanbul is affordable no matter the time of year, particularly if you take the tram, metro, ferry, or bus in Istanbul. Invest in an Istanbulkart, which costs 60 Turkish Liras and gives you a discounted rate per ride.

Read More: Top Attractions in Istanbul

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More Budget Travel Ideas : If you are on the lookout for other budget-minded vacation options, plan a holiday getaway with some cheap places to go in December or cheap Christmas holiday destinations . If you love the winter scene, and you are looking for great cheap ski vacations there are some nice options in Montana, Utah, and Oregon. If you are interested in cheap trips to Europe there are options in Spain, Germany, and the Czech Republic.

More on Mexico

34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure)

Posted on Published: September 3, 2022  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

Dreaming of a January getaway? From amazing beach vacations to exploring winter wonderlands, the winter is a fantastic time to travel! So if you’ve ever wondered what are the best countries to visit in January – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether your idea of the best place to visit in January is to escape the cold and look for sun or the beach, or you’re wishing for snowy adventures like skiing and ice castles, this list has a little bit of everything.

Some of these destinations are in the shoulder season, so you’ll find affordable pricing, which is always a bonus, too! From experiencing destinations with tons of culture to cities with amazing food scenes, you’ll find the perfect spot for your vacation in January.

Covering countries from all over the world, this list is going to inspire you to start searching for flights! Let’s dive in!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best countries to visit in January

From the Alps to the Caribbean and some underrated spots you haven’t thought of, this list covers a lot! Use this map as a visual to help you plan your vacation in January.

Pinch and zoom in to narrow down on a region that you’re considering, then check out the descriptions below.

Oh, and by the way, since I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list. I think you’re gonna love it.😉

Best countries to visit in January

January is a fabulous time to travel! Whether you’re looking to escape the winter cold and hit the beach, you’re up for adventure in a new city, or you’re wishing for a winter wonderland to enjoy, here’s some amazing destinations.

1. Costa Rica (one of the best places to visit in January for sun)

Average temp:  high 78, low 64 (varied by region) Fly into:  Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

If you’re looking for the best countries to visit in January, then Costa Rica absolutely needs to be on your radar! Zipline through cloud forests, watch monkeys and toucans dance around in the trees, dip your toes into luxurious sandy beaches and enjoy great food, Costa Rica has so much to offer visitors.

December through April is dry season, as it’s when you’ll see the best weather in Costa Rica. Although the temperatures vary based on which region you travel to, it’s still a great getaway than being stuck in the cold back home.

Visit the famous Arenal Volcano and enjoy the hot springs in La Fortuna. Still in the mountainous region, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde , including ziplining and walking the suspension bridges through the cloud forests.

For a perfect beach getaway, head west to Tamarindo, where you can hit the water surfing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. With hotels and restaurants sprinkled throughout the beach, it’s a great spot to spend a few days.

If you’re looking for more adventure, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can witness monkeys and sloths hanging about!

Be sure to spend some time at the best beaches in Manuel Antonio , including my favorite, Playa Espadilla Sur. There’s so many things to do in Manuel Antonio , you could spend an entire vacation just in this area.

Costa Rica is definitely one of the best places to visit in January for sun, and a destination you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Average temp:  high 37, low 27 (varies by region) Fly into:  Vienna International Airport, Schwechat

Austria is a landlocked country between Germany and Italy, located in Central Europe. The alps extend from the west to the east and create a perfect winter wonderland every year.

People come from all over the world to enjoy the warm and fun ski resort experience in the Austrian mountains. There is something for everyone, from skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, ice skating, snow walking, sledging to country cross skiing.

A mulled wine or a Jagertee warm up every cold heart! Villages and cities are decorated with wonderful lights, creating a magical dreamy environment, the perfect place for a vacation in January. This is the best time to relax body and soul in some of the most remarkable thermal baths and sauna villages in Central Europe.

Old traditions make Austria a unique place to be in January. They can still be experienced at the beginning of January, the Perchten run in the Tyrol region and the Glöckler run in Styria. The capital city Vienna, as well as other well-known cities such as Salzburg and Innsbruck, are for all those looking for classic inspiration and the vibes of a long gone empire.

Curious travelers can discover more  top places in Austria . Definitely check out Vorarlberg, a mountainous state in the west, including the charming Bregenzerwald, Austria .

The weather in Austria in January is usually between 0 and 50 Fahrenheit. The higher one travels, the colder it gets.

The best way to get to Austria is via the Vienna airport, located in the east. Other options include the Salzburg airport, Innsbruck airport or even the much larger Munich airport in Germany.

The Austria Trend Hotels provide the most comfortable and memorable stays in Austria. Budget-travelers will want to look out for homely vacation rental properties. Things can be a bit expensive in Austria in January, but your journey will be less costly than a stay in neighboring Switzerland.

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

3. Colombia

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  El Dorado International Airport, Bogota

The South American country of Colombia is a great destination in January – in fact, it’s one of the best weather times to visit of the entire year! In January, the sun is shining, the weather is warm (though there is a huge variety of average temperatures throughout the country), and the rain is low. 

In general, Colombia is a great place to visit, no matter the time of year. It’s a very inexpensive country to travel to, and there’s a wide variety of things to see and do. The capital city of Bogota has an old town filled with colonial architecture, cobblestoned streets, and a wide variety of historical buildings and world class museums. 

Or, you can visit the Coffee Region of Colombia, such as the little, colorful town of Salento. Here, you can visit the coffee farms of Colombia or go hiking in the Cocora Valley, a magical hike into the mountains, where you can see the famous wax palms of Colombia – the tallest palms in the world that grow up to 200 feet high!

Finally, a must visit spot in Colombia is the coastal city of Cartagena, a photogenic, absolutely gorgeous colonial walled city with colorful buildings covered in plants and flowers. 

As you travel throughout Colombia, you’ll likely take a quick plane ride between the different cities. Many people choose to start their Colombia adventure by flying into the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, and staying in Bogota at the Magdalena Guest House is a perfectly located spot to start your exploration of this gorgeous and varied country in South America. 

Colombia is one of the best places to visit in January for sun, culture and history!

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

4. Aruba (a favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 76 Fly into:  Queen Beatrix International Airport, Oranjestad

If you’re looking for a beachy escape from the clutches of old man winter, look no further than gorgeous Aruba! January is a fantastic time to visit not only to enjoy sunny skies and 80-degree weather, but it’s also a unique place to ring in the New Year .

Typically, New Year’s Eve is kicked off with loads of fireworks throughout the city (if you were planning to sleep – good luck 😉), from large displays over the water to traditional Pagara (long strings of Chinese firecrackers) throughout the streets; there’s no end to colorful and fiery displays.

After that, the party doesn’t stop! Throughout January and into February, there are countless parades like the nighttime Torch Light Parade and other festivities in honor of Carnival . The official start of Carnival is in November, but most of the festivities happen in January and February.

Because of these fun festivities, you should expect to pay a little more for accommodations. To get the best deal, book early!

Aside from a colorful party scene, Aruba is also known for mesmerizing white sand beaches like Palm and Eagle Beach. These are 2 great spots to kick back and relax with a fruity cocktail. They’re some of the best beaches in Aruba !

After relaxing, you’ll have an endless selection of dining options, including Dutch, Asian, African and it’s even one of the most  vegan-friendly Caribbean Islands!

Aruba is one of the best beach vacations in January, and a destination you’ll love.

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

Average temp:  high 37, low 26 (varies by region) Fly into:  Keflavík International Airport, Keflavik

If you’re looking for an epic winter adventure, consider visiting Iceland in January. 

While the days may be short here, you’ll get to enjoy Iceland’s spectacular scenery to yourself, given that the summer crowds have long departed. Better yet, you’ll likely get to see Iceland covered with glistening snow. This is a fantastic time to explore the country’s ice caves or go on a glacier hike!

People travel from all over the world to Iceland in January, given that it’s one of the absolute best months to see the spectacular Northern Lights, thanks to the long, dark nights.

You can either book a guided tour to try to find the lights or drive outside of major cities, away from light pollution, to spot them yourself. Patience is key- seeing the lights depends on whether there’s solar activity, as well as whether there’s clouds obscuring the night sky. 

Another excellent winter activity here is taking advantage of any of the geothermal hot springs you’ll find scattered throughout the country. The springs may be more natural, like the Hellulaug Hot Pool, which is just an organically-formed pool overlooking the ocean, or can be straight up swanky, like the recently opened Sky Lagoon, with an infinity pool and sauna with stunning views of Kársnes Harbour.

The easiest way to reach this tiny island country is to fly into Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport.  Iceland’s weather in January is cold, but not as chilly as its Northern location might suggest, thanks to the relatively warm water from the gulf stream- you can expect temperatures to generally range from 26 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. 

So be sure to include lots of warm layers on your Iceland packing list , like a base layer, parka, and gloves so you can actually enjoy exploring Iceland’s incredible landscape.

You’ll love visiting Iceland – perhaps absolute best place to vacation in January for adventure!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

6. Thailand

Average temp:  high 89, low 73 Fly into:  Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok / Phuket International Airport, Phuket

Thailand is an incredible place, and one of the best countries to visit in January. With a large variety of destinations to see within Thailand, you’ll need to decide what kind of experience you want to have, and plan your vacation accordingly.

If you’re looking for beautiful temples, rich in historic architecture loaded with history, then Bangkok or Chiang Mai might be the right spot for you. Stay in the city a few days to soak in the sights. Be sure to take a food tour, and if your’e in Bangkok, visit the floating markets.

If a beach getaway is what you’re after, you have a variety of choices as well. The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in all of Thailand. Or, you can opt for Krabi, where there’s a mix of beaches and historical sights to explore.

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, and for good reason. With beautiful white sand beaches and plenty of amenities and accommodations, there’s something for everyone.

Take a snorkeling tour or day trip to Coral Island Phuket to see the area. And with an international airport, it’s easier to get to Phuket than some of the other islands in Thailand.

January is a fabulous time to visit Thailand because it’s the dry season. With plenty of sunshine, culture, food and activities, you’re sure to have a great time in Thailand!

7. France (one of the best places to visit in January Europe)

Average temp:  high 56, low 37 (varies by region) Fly into:  Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, Nice

The month of January is a  great time to visit France because it is less crowded. Since it’s part of the low season, hotel and flight prices are more affordable.

Outside of the capital, Strasbourg in the north is a fantastic alternative. The Cathedral, art galleries, and taverns serving hearty plates of sauerkraut and local wines await visitors to this peaceful and unhurried city.

However, the French Riviera may be the best choice for people who prefer a warmer vacation in January. Also known as La Côte d’Azur (Azure Coast), it is accessible via the Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur which is the second busiest international airport in France next to Paris. The French Riviera is a good option for those who prefer milder temperatures. 

Visiting the French Riviera in January will show you a more laid-back side of France, free of curious tourists and offering more affordable rates. Fewer visitors mean you get a good deal in even the more expensive hotel rooms, as well as cheaper meals in the area’s top restaurants.

A highly recommended place to stay in the  Royal Antibes , a stylish modern hotel with a prime location on the beach. The price of a room with huge glass windows and great views starts at slightly over €100.

You can spend your days touring the Côte d’Azur in between taking in the breathtaking vistas of the sea and basking in the mild Mediterranean weather . Enjoy the crisp winter days hiking the French Riviera’s beautiful trails, including the spectacular route over Èze-village or the Baou above St. Jeannet, with superb views over the Var Valley.

You might also find mimosas in the village of Tanneron, which is also home to Europe’s largest mimosa forest, the Massif de Tanneron.

The town of Menton, meanwhile, is known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved old town center. The ancient walled city of Antibes is also well worth exploring. And if you want to experience a winter vacation like celebrities, you can also explore Cannes. 

Recommended by Christine of Journey To France

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

Average temp:  high 82, low 71 Fly into:  

Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles, in the American West Indies,  Antigua is arguably one of the prettiest Caribbean islands.  

Although it is a favorite destination for honeymoons and romantic escapes, it makes a perfect vacation for any kind of traveler that is not on a budget. 

It is in fact quite an expensive destination, especially if you choose to stay at one of the beautiful Antigua all inclusive resorts on the pristine Caribbean coast, which is very much recommended if you want to enjoy the island at its best. 

Antigua and Barbuda is actually made of the 2 namesake islands and many small islets, some of which are great snorkeling spots that you can visit by joining one of the boat tours available. 

Antigua is one of the best countries to visit in January because it’s dry season with less risk of rain. So expect a lot of sunshine and blue sky. But also it’s the most expensive time of the year to travel to Antigua, for the same reason, which is something to keep in mind as well.

Antigua is renowned for its incredible beaches (they say there are 365, one for each day of the year) and spectacular landscapes. Its home to gorgeous scenery with lush hills tumbling over the white sand beaches and the turquoise Caribbean sea.

Among the things you shouldn’t miss in Antigua, besides getting pampered in your gorgeous luxury hotel, are:

• Rent a car to explore all the spectacular beaches, including Darkwood beach, Dickenson bay and Half Moon Bay
• Dance at the sound of calypso music at Shirley Heights on a Sunday while watching the sun going down
• Try the local cuisine in one of the delicious restaurants on the beach
• Take a walk around the historical site of Nelson Dockyard at English Harbour and join one of the boat tours around the island. 

If you’re traveling on a budget you can also find more modest accommodations but keep in mind that the overall cost of living in the island is high. 

Recommended by Isabella of Boundless Roads

Best place to vacation in January

Can you believe this list? And we’re just getting started! Let’s keep exploring all the amazing winter getaways!

Average temp:  high 72, low 41 (varies by region) Fly into:  Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico City

If you’re looking for a sunny getaway this January, take a trip adventuring around Mexico. As a massive country, enjoy everything from the vibrant Mexico City to the stunning cenotes of the Riviera Maya to colonial cultural towns and ancient ruins.

With its close proximity to the equator, Mexico enjoys year-round warm weather, making it the perfect place to escape the cold. One of the best months to visit the country, January is in the midst of Mexico’s dry season when temperatures are excellent and rain levels are low.

Average daytime temperature hovers between 75°F-85°F, but differs from region to region. At this time, colder winds and temperatures hit northern Mexico compared to the higher humidity in the south.

Everyone celebrates Christmas in Mexico, and even though January is a bit late for the festivities, enjoy strolling around every town decorated to the brim with holiday decor. January also signals the start of amazing festivals like Merida Fest, Fiesta Grande de Chiapa de Corzo, and Carnaval Jiutepec in Cuernavaca.

Most international flights will land you in the capital Mexico City or other popular tourist hotspots like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. From there, a  fantastic public transportation system  can bring you to any neighboring cities and tourist attractions.

For those landing in Mexico City, book a stay in Hotel MX Centro as a starting point for your Mexico adventure!

Recommended by Catherine of Nomadicated

Average temp:  high 62, low 46 (varies by region) Fly into:  Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Malaga

If you are looking for a warm winter destination, the south of Spain and the Spanish islands are excellent options. Enjoy the mild temperatures and sunny days, discover beautiful landmarks and landscapes and immerse yourself in the food culture.

Travelling to the south of Spain or the Spanish islands in January is a smart choice to avoid crowds, extreme heat and high prices on flights and accommodation.

There are many incredible destinations in these parts of Spain, but a popular choice in the south of Spain is Malaga, the best destination for anyone that wants to escape the cold and rainy winter.

Many people believe that Malaga is a summer getaway, however, there are many reasons to visit Malaga in winter .

One of the reasons is the weather. Temperatures are mild and most days are sunny. The average maximum temperature in January is 16.8°C (62.24°F) which is ideal to do outdoor activities.

This time of the year is fantastic for sightseeing and exploring as the heat and humidity in the summer months don’t allow you to do so.  When visiting Malaga, you can’t miss attractions like the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress palace, the cathedral and Picasso Museum.  

However, if you love nature, you can also enjoy going on beautiful hiking trails. One of the best places to go hiking is Montes de Malaga Nature Park. 

Another good reason to visit Malaga in January is to experience the festive period as Christmas ends on the 6th of January. If you are in the city on the 5th, don’t miss the Three Kings Parade. 

Last but not least, January is the cheapest month to visit Malaga. If you travel from a European country, you will find amazing and budget-friendly flight fares and good accommodation rates too.

The nearest airport to travel to Malaga is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) which is 15 minutes from the city centre, and if you are looking for a hotel, Room Mate Valeria offers beautiful and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Southern Spain is a lovely winter getaway, and Spain is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in January.

Recommended by Cristina of The Little World of Travelling

Want more Spain travel inspiration? Check out a week in Mallorca – stunning!

11. Belize (another favorite for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 68 Fly into:  Goldson International Airport, Belize City

The small Central American country of Belize is a dream to visit if you’re looking for a sunny vacation in January. Offering a variety of things to do in Belize from picturesque islands to fun beach towns and ancient ruins to explore, there’s so much to experience!

January is a great time to travel to Belize because many of the holiday tourists are gone and it’s the dry season, so you’ll have gorgeous weather for exploring.

For a beach vacation, head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia. You’ll find beautiful beaches that aren’t overcrowded like they can be in Florida or other spots in the Caribbean.

If you’re looking for history and culture, head inland to San Ignacio and visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins . Learn the fascinating history of how the Mayans lived and operated their stone structures while climbing atop the largest in the complex, El Castillo.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation where golf cart is the preferred method to get around or you’re up for chasing waterfalls and seeing monkeys roam through the jungles, Belize has a destination perfect for you!

12. Maldives

Average temp:  high 80, low 77 Fly into:  Velana International Airport, Male

If you’re thinking of starting the New Year with a bang, what better way to do this than laying on a dreamy beach, with white powdered sand and sone of the clearest water in the world? A trip to the Maldives should be on everyone’s bucket list , and January is the perfect time to do it. 

Although it’s right in the middle of the season, January is perfect for a trip to the Maldives as it’s right after the holidays and just before Valentine’s Day, so the prices are really great during these times. You can even find some  affordable water villas  if you dig enough, and you can maybe score a nice room at  this resort that I’m sure you’ve seen on Instagram already.

Getting there is easy, as there’s one main airport used as a hub, located next to the Capital city of Male. From here, you reach your resort island by either speed boat, seaplane, or a combination of the two, but this is handled by the accommodation itself so you really don’t have to worry about anything while on your trip.

And if you usually have a long list of activities to do while on vacation, you’ll have to adjust when in the Maldives: here, you can only lay on a beach or float in the water.

Of course, you can do various water activities like snorkeling, diving, or going on sunset cruises, or you can lay on a sunbed, hammock, or on a massage table, but you get the point. There’s really no better place in the world to relax than this tropical paradise!

Maldives easily earns a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January!

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

13. Singapore

Average temp:  high 87, low 75 Fly into:  Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore is one of the best countries to visit in January for those looking for a warm and sunny getaway. The weather is hot and humid year round but January is one of the cooler months making it a great time to visit.

The temperature will still be hot so it is best to see indoor attractions during midday and early afternoon. The evening is a great time to walk around and explore as Singapore is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

One of the top and most unique  Singapore attractions  is Gardens by the Bay, a large nature park with both outdoor and indoor gardens and conservatories. Don’t miss Supertree Grove, made up of huge tree-shaped vertical gardens, that puts on free light and music shows every night.

Another must do is to walk along the waterfront promenade while enjoying skyline views and passing by landmarks including the ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge and the Merlion statue . Explore and dine at one of the many interesting city neighborhoods such as Kampong Glam, Little India, and Chinatown.

The beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens is also worth visiting. R ide the cable car to Sentosa Island for family friendly attractions and beaches.

Singapore is very easy to reach by air as it is home to Changi Airport, which is considered an attraction itself. Consider staying at a hotel with a rooftop pool such as the Marina Bay Sands , the iconic hotel known for its long rooftop infinity pool.

Recommended by Matilda of The Travel Sisters

14. Switzerland

Average temp:  high 38, low 28 Fly into:  Zurich International Airport, Zurich

Switzerland is definitely one of the best places to visit in Europe in January if you like snow! 

Since 60% of the country consists of the Alps, it’s designed for winter sport activities. Switzerland has an incredible number of famous ski resorts with a high amount of lifts and gondolas to take you into the beautiful winter wonderland. 

Impressive landscapes, exemplary service and snow reliability, you can expect great skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland. The Alpine country has a lot to offer when it comes to winter sports.

The mountain village of Zermatt, for example, impresses with a total of 360 kilometers (223+ miles) of slopes and over 60 lifts. It’s the largest ski area in Switzerland and one of the best ski resorts in the world.

Enjoy a little less hustle and bustle, a smaller but just as beautiful is Flumserberg  in central Switzerland or Samnaun in the east. No matter which of Switzerland’s many standout spots you choose, t raditional cheese fondue is available almost everywhere , often served in small, beautiful chalets or under open starry skies. 

South of the Alps, in Ticino, snow may not be guaranteed in January, but this region scores with the sunniest days in the country. So, if it’s raining or snowing elsewhere in the country in January, you can take a beautiful walk along Lake Lugano and enjoy the snow-covered Alpine peaks through your sunglasses in the bright and warm sun. 

Pro tip: come to Switzerland in January and bypass the school winter vacations, the country’s slopes are a little less busy. 

The biggest airport in Switzerland is Zurich and thanks to a great developed railroad network, you can reach almost any place in the country from Zurich in 3 hours. 

Recommended by Linda of Hiking the Alps

15. Guatemala (perfect for a low-key January getaway)

Average temp:  high 75, low 54 Fly into:  La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City

Guatemala is a great vacation in January as it’s the peak dry season. Enjoy warm weather, great culture and amazing adventures.

It’s a budget destination, so your money will stretch further here than in nearby countries such as Costa Rica and Panama.

Top travel destinations in Guatemala include Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Antigua is a beautiful Spanish colonial city with many things to do. In fact, it’s one of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the Americas.

The #1 attraction near Antigua is climbing Acatenango Volcano and witnessing its’ neighbour, Fuego (Fire) Volcano, erupting every 30-40 minutes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed!

A 3 hour drive from Antigua will take you to the central highlands and  Lake Atitlan . The lake is a magical place with a near-perfect mid-20s temperature (mid-70’s in Fahrenheit) all year round. Surrounded by 3 volcanoes, the views from Lake Atitlan are something special!

There are 12 towns surrounding Lake Atitlan, each offering something a little different and unique. San Pedro is a favorite for backpackers and San Marcos is a favorite for the hippy crowd. Wherever you end up visiting, travel between towns is quick and easy.

Travel between towns across the lake on little boats , known locally as Lanchas. The longest journey will be about 30 minutes and the cost less than $2.  

Free Cerveza in Santa Cruz La Laguna is an interesting place to stay. A glamping site with private eco-lodges and tee-pee style tents, there is always something going on.

Enjoy complimentary use of the facilities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Santa Cruz is one of the best places on the lake to swim and offers fantastic views of the volcanoes in the distance.    

Go for something a little different on your next holiday, go to Guatemala!

Recommended by Wes of Walk About Wes

Average temp:  high 30, low 13 (varies by region) Fly into:  Calgary International Airport, Alberta

So many destinations in Canada turn into the most magical winter wonderland during the month of January, and are sure to cure anyone’s post-holiday blues.

One of the most exciting places to visit is the Canadian Rockies region and Banff National Park. At Lake Louise, you’ll have the chance to skate across the frozen lake with a backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.

This outdoor ice rink has even been named the world’s best by CNN ! During the month of January, the entrance to the lake is surrounded by a beautiful ice castle , which will have you feeling like you’re in a snow globe in no time.

Through most of January, Canyon Lights puts on an amazing display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver. This bridge is one of the most scenic places to visit in Canada year-round, but when the bridge and surrounding park are aglow with thousands of twinkling lights, it’s even more amazing to experience. 

Heading over to the East Coast side of Canada, the best place to vacation in January is Old Quebec, a historic section of Quebec city. This area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and will have you feeling you’ve been transported to Europe.

Many of the picturesque streets will still have their holiday decor and lights up through most of January, and are especially magical after a snowfall. Visitors can enjoy rides down a toboggan chute, which has been operating for the last 135 years. 

To visit Banff National Park and Lake Louise, you’ll want to fly into Calgary, and from there, you’ll need to rent a car to get around. If you want to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights display, you can fly right into Vancouver, and rely on public transportation and ride share services to get around. Then to visit Old Quebec, the best airport to fly into is Quebec City Airport.

Canada offers a variety of experiences, and it’s definitely one of the best countries to visit in January.

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

More of the best countries to visit in January

Not even half done with the list. Do you have your January getaway picked out yet? Here’s more fabulous ideas ahead…

17. Australia

Average temp:  high 79, low 66 (varies by region) Fly into:  Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Sydney

One of the best countries to visit in January for sun is Australia . On the other side of the hemisphere, January is one of the warmest summer months.

Australia is an enormous country which means that temperatures can vary depending on where you go. From as warm as 89 F(32 C) degrees in Perth to as “cold” as 79 F (26 C) in Melbourne. 

Besides the sunny weather, Australia has a lot more to offer. With a 21,126 miles (34,000 KM) long coastline, you can find beautiful beaches and cliffs all around the country. This makes beach hopping and surfing 2 of the most popular things to do in the country.

Nature lovers will have no shortage of green scenery as Australia is the number one country when it comes to the most national parks worldwide (over 650). 

A good place to start your Australian vacation is Sydney. It’s home to the largest airport that has the most international flight connections. On top of that, Sydney is also just a beautiful and lively city with amazing beaches.

For outdoor lovers, its close proximity to the Blue Mountains National Park is perfect . And wine lovers will enjoy a day trip to the Hunter Valley to try some Australian wine and bring home a unique  Australian souvenir . 

For solo travelers, The Wake-Up Bondi hostel is a great place to stay. If you’re looking for a hotel, the Travelodge Hotel Sydney Martin Place is a good option too. 

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

Average temp:  high 75, low 59 Fly into:  Dubai International Airport, Dubai / Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking to soak in the warm winter sun, then the UAE makes for an amazing destination. This Middle Eastern country is home to 7 Emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most popular ones.

Both these glamorous Emirates have their own international airport and an array of hotels to choose from. From ultra-luxurious to boutique properties, from business hotels to glamping sites and from desert retreats to oceanfront suites, the accommodation offer is downright dazzling.

With daytime temperatures averaging 24°C or 75°F and nighttime temperatures averaging 15°C or 59°F, January is an excellent month to spend your vacation days outdoors without suffering from the scorching heat that affects the UAE most of the year .

You could choose to spend your days relaxing at a soft white sand beach, admire the view from the observation deck at the world’s tallest building, take an  adventurous desert safari from Dubai , soak up the atmosphere of the souks, visit the mesmerizing Abu Dhabi mosque , cruise the Arabian Gulf by speedboat, kayak through the mangroves or zipline between the most spectacular mountainscapes.

And fashionistas will certainly appreciate the Dubai Shopping Festival that takes place in January. So, when an action-packed winter vacation with a touch of glamour is what you’re looking for, then the UAE will not disappoint!

The UAE is one of the best places to visit in January for sun and adventure!

Recommended by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

19. Portugal

Average temp:  high 59, low 47 (varies by region) Fly into:  Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto

Portugal is a charming winter destination and is one of the top warm European places to visit in January. Portugal’s temperate climate is perfect for a wonderful vacation across the country.

Start your Portuguese adventure with the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto. It’s a city famous for its association with port wine.

From boat trips on the Douro River to discovering hidden architectural gems, there are plenty of  places to visit in Porto . The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Rumoured to be the inspiration behind the Harry Potter books, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the must-visit attractions in Porto.

Next, climb the Clerigos Tower for a stunning view over the city skyline. No visit to Porto is complete without taking a tour of its famous port wine cellars. You’ll find many of them in Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River.

Finally, head down to Matosinhos beach and Foz do Douro promenade for a day out by the beach. The closest airport to the city is the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which is well-connected to the city by public transport.

You can also add the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to your holiday itinerary. Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest cities, having received more days of sunshine than any other European capital.

When visiting Lisbon, be sure to check out the best things to do in Almada , too. You’ll love visiting Portugal. It’s deserving of a spot on this list of best places to visit in January (Europe).

Recommended by Moumita & Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

20. USA (so many can’t miss destinations for a vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 68, low 46 (in the southern region – varies greatly throughout) Fly into:  Denver International Airport, Denver / Kahului Airport, Maui / Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan

Similar to Canada, Mexico and Australia, the USA has a variety of climates and destinations perfect for January. And although it’s impossible to choose just one, these popular January destinations in the USA are all great for wintertime travel.

Vail or Breckenridge , Colorado offer some of the best ski resorts in the world! If you’re looking for a perfect winter getaway with fluffy white snow, consider the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Hawaii is an obvious choice if you’re looking for warm vacations in January in the US, since it’s average high temperatures hover around 80 degrees throughout the islands.

Watch the sunset on Haleakala in Maui , take a helicopter ride over the NaPali Coast in Kauai, visit the impressive Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to overlook Waikiki Beach in Oahu. Hawaii is full of adventure!

Another hot spot for a best place to vacation in January is Puerto Rico . There’s so many things to do in Old San Juan , including visiting the 500+ year old fort, El Morro. And if you’re looking for a perfect beach, head to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico on the nearby island of Culebra.

Without a doubt, the USA offers some spectacular January getaways!

21. El Salvador

Average temp:  high 85, low 64 Fly into:  San Salvador Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, San Luis Talpa

El Salvador is an underrated destination in Central America, and one of the best countries to visit in January. A great spot to visit in El Salvador is the town of El Tunco.

Located on the Pacific coast, El Tunco, El Salvador , is a great getaway in the middle of winter. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s. January is one of the best times to visit El Tunco because it’s the middle of the dry season, so the chance of a downpour is minimal.

The best things to see and do in El Tunco involve enjoying its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also sunbathe but some of the beach areas are a bit pebbly, especially right after high tide.

If you want a chill vibe, you can take some yoga classes and relax in a beach hammock. Or if you’re up for some adventure, you can explore the beach caves (low tide only) or go waterfall hiking.

There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the town. The best thing to eat in El Tunco is pupusas, the national food of El Salvador! These thick corn tortillas are filled with meat, cheese, and/or beans.

If you want to party 24/7, there are a number of party-focused hostels in town. If you want to get a good night’s sleep after going out but still be close to the action, stay at Eco del Mar Hotel .

El Tunco is easy to get to from the San Salvador airport. It’s just a short drive to the coast on well-paved highways. You can hire a driver in advance, rent a car, or just call an Uber at the airport.

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable vacation destination in January, El Tunco is definitely worth considering.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

Average temp:  high 39, low 28 Fly into:  Nikola Tesla International Airport, Belgrade

Serbia is the best place to vacation in January if you love Christmas and lengthened holiday seasons. As a country with Christian Orthodox as its major population, Serbia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. And on top of that, in addition to the New Year on January 1st, they also celebrate Serbian New Year based on the Julian calendar on the 15th. 

The best way to visit Serbia is to fly to Nikola Tesla International Airport in Belgrade, or you can easily travel by car from  the neighboring countries in Balkan . 

Serbia is quite small, so you can easily travel from the north to the south of the country for a week or two. Depending on the location, there are many things to do in Serbia in January. From enjoying the nightlife scene in Belgrade to spending your winter wonderland in popular ski resorts like Zlatibor or Kopaonik, there is always something for everyone!

For accommodation, you can easily find budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in each city. If you have a little extra budget for your accommodation, take a chance to stay at the Moskva Hotel in the heart of Belgrade. One of the most important landmarks in Serbia, the hotel has become a cultural heritage in the capital city since 1968. 

Recommended by Marya of The BeauTraveler

23. Philippines

Average temp:   high 86, low 74 Fly into:  El Nido Lio Airport, Palawan / Puerto Princesa International Airport, Puerto Princesa

With the dry season in full swing, the Philippines is one of the best places to visit in January for sun . You can expect the weather to be hot and humid, yet there will always be a beach nearby when you feel the need to cool off.

One of the best places to visit is the island of Palawan, which has been voted to be “the most beautiful island in the world” multiple times by Travel + Leisure’s Best of Awards . 

Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. In the northern part of the Palawan near El Nido you’ll find beautiful islands, turquoise-blue lagoons, and jagged limestone cliffs. Thus, island hopping is one of  the best things to do in Palawan !

If you don’t want to take the detour through Puerto Princesa – the capital of Palawan – you can fly to El Nido directly via Airswift from Manila. Some of the best places to stay in El Nido are Frendz Hostel and Blue Mango . 

If you’re adventurous, you can also venture out to other places on the island, like San Vicente and Port Barton. San Vicente is known for its 14-kilometer-long beach, whereas Port Barton is a small, laid-back town attracting travelers from all over the world. From here, you can hike through the jungle to get to low-key beaches and even a picturesque waterfall, kayak around the bay, or go snorkeling for sea turtles.  

As you can see, no matter where you go in Palawan, you can’t go wrong! You’ll have a wonderful vacation, perfect for a January getaway!

Recommended by Lena of Not Another Backpacker

24. Jamaica (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 74 Fly into:  Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

One of the best beach vacations in January is Jamaica. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, the hurricane season is over and the rush of holiday travelers is gone. However, January is one of the busiest months for visitors to the island, as many are trying to escape the winter back home.

Relax and rest in luxury at an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios. From family friendly options to adults-only resorts, there’s something for everyone. Although, make sure to save up for it in advance, as January has some of the highest prices.

Venture off the resort on a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, ziplining, bamboo rafting, take a sunset cruise or Blue Hole, Negril , amongst many others.

Or, rent a car and explore for yourself. Just be sure to ask your hotel which nearby areas to avoid, as there is some gang crime in Jamaica. And definitely get back before dark.

By the way, Jamaica is a great stop on some of the best young adult cruises , since it’s a destination with so much action and culture.

Whether you’re looking to sit on the beach for a week or soak in the amazing Jamaican food and culture, you’ll love a trip to this tropical paradise!

25. Morocco

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  Marrakesh Menara Airport, Marrakesh

January might just be the best time of year for a trip to Morocco. Avoid the hot sticky summer, avoid the busy season and make the most of the moderate temperatures in Morocco during winter. 

Marrakech, Essaouira and the Sahara Desert are just some of the destinations you’ll want to add to your Morocco itinerary.  

The beautiful chaos synonymous with Morocco is found right in the heart of the medinas of Marrakech.  And you can start your journey here with a flight into Marrakech Menara Airport.

Book the Riad Tizwa in Marrakech for a stay to remember, wander Jemaa el-Fna Square in the early evening, shop in the labyrinth of souks and stroll through the Jardin Majorelle. And be sure to dine at all the best restaurants in Marrakech while you’re in town.

But don’t forget to see what else Morocco has to offer in winter. Marrakech is the perfect base to arrange a Sahara Desert tour or a beach adventure to Essaouira. 

Book a visit to Merzouga or M’hamid, to see the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara. And on your way include a visit to Ouarzazate to admire the incredible kasbahs of this region.  The Kasbah Aït Benhaddou is possibly the most magnificent, made famous by the many movies filmed here.  

And finally, don’t miss a couple of days stay in Essaouira to finish your Moroccan adventure. This beach destination is a great little medina town that impresses all.  Book a beautiful riad  for a true Moroccan experience, ride horses on the beach, walk the ramparts and book a surf.  

Morocco vacation in January is always a good idea! 

Recommended by Sharon of My Free Range Family

Best countries to visit in January – continued

In the final stretch of this epic list! A few more fun cities and some of the best beach vacations in January yet, let’s wrap up this list with a bang!💥

Average temp:  high 33, low 26 Fly into:  Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Stockholm-Arlanda

If you’re looking for a vacation in January, then the beautiful country of Sweden is a fantastic option! With spectacular cities, unspoiled forests, and breathtaking lakes, it’s no surprise that over 7.5 million people visit every year. 

Sweden will take your breath away no matter what time of year you visit, but there’s something special about visiting in January! 

During this time of year, the ground is often covered in snow and temperatures will be well below freezing, although that’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a hot chocolate and a Fika!

Sweden is one of the best places to visit in January to extend that ‘festive feeling’ as many of the winter palaces might still be running, especially earlier in the month. 

Sweden’s largest airport is Stockholm Arlanda which is just 39 km (24 miles) from the capital city. This often means Stockholm is the first port of call, and you’ll find tons of fascinating things to do here – especially in January! 

First of all, you’ll have plenty of ice skating opportunities but the main spot to visit is Kungsträdgården ! Then, you can head to Hammarbybacken if you’re looking to ski or head out on a winter cruise of the archipelago! 

If you’re staying in the capital, there’s no shortage of accommodation options but one of the best hotels in the city is Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel .

Other fantastic places to visit in Sweden during January include Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park, Gothenburg, and Salen. 

Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling through Sweden during this time of year, you’ll need plenty of layers . You’ll also want to indulge in a warm drink at every opportunity and fill your belly with delicious Swedish meatballs!

Recommended by Jack & Abbie of A Couples Calling

27. Grenada (another awesome contender for best place to vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 74 Fly into:  Maurice Bishop International Airport, Grenada

The island of Grenada in the Caribbean is one of the best islands to visit in January. Located at the southern end of the chain of Caribbean islands, Grenada is still rooted deeply in culture and nature to experience, without a whole lot of big chain influences.

January is an amazing time to visit, as the temperature is roughly 86 degrees year round during the day, and the water stays nice and warm too! It’s the perfect getaway from the winter cold to enjoy warm water, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, a tropical climate and Caribbean culture.

The easiest way to get to Grenada is by flying into Maurice Bishop International Airport. Once you arrive, you can either grab a taxi (they look like small buses) or make your way to a shuttle if your accommodation offers transportation.

There’s a huge range of accommodation options, including many homestay options, more casual resorts, all the way to luxury all inclusives. My recommendation for an eco-friendly boutique hotel is the True Blue Bay Resort , while if you’re looking for something all inclusive, Spice Island Beach Resort .

January does fall within Grenada’s high season, so be prepared for more crowds than if you went during the rainy season (summer months).

Definitely visit one of Grenada’s Best Beaches while there, and try to take an island wide guided tour to experience waterfalls, sulphur springs, cocoa farms, local distilleries or more! Plus, the world-famous underwater attraction, snorkeling the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park is a must-do while visiting the island.

You’ll want to stay in Grenada at least a week to experience all there is to see and do! Grenada is one of the best countries to visit in January. It’s an amazing destination with the welcoming and vibrant Caribbean culture that you don’t want to miss!

Recommended by Taylor of Tea N’ Sea Travel

28. South Africa

Average temp:  high 83, low 63 Fly into:  Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town

South Africa is one of the best countries in the world for a January vacation. It’s the ideal spot to take a breath and enjoy life.

January in South Africa sees the weather at its best, particularly in the western regions. Summer below the equator is in full swing, and the air is warm and dry.

However you dream of spending your time, this sizable country is teeming with great adventures and awe-inspiring beauty just for you!  Come to South Africa to see the iconic wildlife, enjoy the most picturesque road trips of your life, or explore its astounding urban highlights. 

Or try a shark-cage dive off the coast! Whichever activity you choose, your options are countless. 

If this abundance of activities doesn’t earn South Africa a vote for the best countries to visit in January, maybe this will: all of these remarkable activities are accessible from the spectacular city of Cape Town. It’s the ultimate base for your South African vacation.

January in Cape Town provides you with the opportunity to attend the Kaapse Klopse . This colorful January 2nd street festival will give you stories to tell! You can also visit famous local treasures such as Table Mountain, the V & A Waterfront, and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, right in Cape Town . 

The Cape Town International Airport is just 20 km from the city centre, and services airlines that connect with all parts of the world. 

Finding the best home away from home for you is as easy as amazing vacation rental options. How does a seaview apartment or a country cottage sound? It’s all waiting for you!

Recommended by DJ of Introvert with Itchy Feet

29. England

Average temp:  high 45, low 35 (varies by region) Fly into:  London Heathrow Airport, London

England  is an underrated country to visit in January. It’s the perfect mix of winter wonderland and mild temperatures, depending on where you visit.

For example, Oxford and Birmingham typically see dustings of snow throughout January. You may even find enough snow a few days a year to build a small snowman!

But places like Brighton Beach will remain snow-less. There are even days London will be as sunny as in summer!

The mild temperatures attract visitors who are looking to escape the freezing cold of Canada or Scandinavia, but don’t want to pay the inflated prices of a beach vacation. Temperatures average 5C (41F).

Don’t forget to pack a light coat and some waterproof boots , as it can drizzle throughout January.

Luckily, the best things to do in the UK aren’t summer-based.

Having high tea in Covent Garden, touring Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford upon Avon, listening to live music at a pub, and enjoying British stand-up at local comedy houses are all great indoor activities to take advantage of.

There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying everything the country has to offer. For starters, take advantage of the many free museums and galleries.

You can also find cheap eats by avoiding tourist traps and sticking to local pubs. And finally, take advantage of the many cheap or free walking tours available in most cities.

The UK is easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

Major airports include London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Stanstead is another option, but then you’ll need to take a long train journey. 

To get around, take trains for cheap day trips from London to places like Bath and Oxford.

Recommended by Nina of Nina Out and About

30. India (an underrated one on this guide for warm vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 60 (varies by region) Fly into:  Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi / Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Bengaluru

While India may be on your travel bucket list , January is also a great time to cross it off!

January in India means it’s dry season, so you don’t need to worry about rain like you do during monsoon season. While India is a large country, narrowing down what you want to see and do will help determine what weather you’ll face and where to fly into .

The northern part of India is home to the famous Taj Mahal. Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal can be visited via day trip from Delhi. One of the new 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal’s grand and impressive architecture is stunning in real life!

In southern India, the popular towns of Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) is a busy city with so many things to do. Bangalore is famous for the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the Bengaluru Palace, Bull Temple and Cuban Park. Nearby Mysuru (aka Mysore) is a great day trip or weekend getaway from Bangalore. Be sure to watch the lighting of the Mysore Palace – stunning!

If you’re looking for a beach destination in India, Goa is the place to be. With gentle waves, swaying palm trees and beautiful, relaxing hotels, Goa is a great spot to relax and unwind in India. It’s truly a great destination, and one of the best countries to visit in January.

31. The Gambia

Average temp:  high 91, low 65 Fly into:  Banjul International Airport, Banjul

Perched on the west coast of Africa is a small but charming country known as The Gambia. The Gambia is renowned for its lengthy swathes of golden sand beaches, freshly caught fish and smiling locals.

The Gambia has 2 distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The dry season runs from November to May and is the best time to visit. The temperature at this time of year is pleasant – roughly 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) – and you can expect bright sunshine on most days.

January is also a great time of year to visit due to the country’s annual Banjul Demba Cultural Festival. Here, you’ll witness traditional music and dance performances in the country’s capital city.

The Gambia is a very small country and so only houses one international airport: Banjul International Airport.

Most visitors to The Gambia choose to base themselves in Serrekunda, a vibrant town set behind a glorious stretch of beach, fringed by lazy palm trees.

Serrekunda is a mere 30 minute drive from the airport. It’s easy to grab a taxi from the airport, or you can pre-arrange a taxi with your hotel or via a taxi company beforehand.

Alternatively, you can hire a car in The Gambia . I’d personally recommend pre-booking a taxi from a reputable company as some taxis at the airport are in questionable condition.

There are numerous hotels in Serrekunda for you to choose from but a personal favourite of mine is Luigi’s Complex. It has a very friendly and laid-back vibe and is only a short walk from the beach.

Recommended by Ella of Ella McKendrick

32. New Zealand (by far one of the best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 77, low 53 (varies by region) Fly into:  Auckland International Airport, Auckland

A bucket-list destination for many, New Zealand is at the top of its game in January. This summer month brings some of the warmest temperatures in the country, delighting visitors that enjoy sunny days at the beach.

New Zealand is a surprisingly large country – a fact that many people underestimate when planning a vacation. The amount of time you have will affect the places you are able to visit, however, these are some amazing summer spots in Aotearoa.

If you’re able to include them in your itinerary, you’ll be sure to come away happy. After all, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit in January!

Paihia is located in the Bay of Islands, and though it is beautiful at any time of year, it’s particularly vibrant during the summer season. Known for its stunning beaches, uninhabited islands, settled weather and marine life, this is a must-see in January. Kerikeri is the closest airport to Paihia, but many choose to fly into Auckland and drive up.

Moving down the North Island, the Coromandel Peninsula is another summer-time favourite for locals and visitors alike . Significant highlights include Hot Water Beach (where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand), Cathedral Cove and New Chums Beach, all of which are best enjoyed in the warmth of the summer season. Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga airports all service this region.

Finally, a summertime trip to Fiordland should be on your radar. Though this area experiences a lot of rain right throughout the year, this will be your best chance at seeing it on a nice day.

When the weather is still, the mirror reflection of  Milford Sound on the water really is incomparable. Queenstown is the closest airport to Milford Sound, though many choose to stay in Te Anau.

Haere mai and welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Recommended by Sarah of New Zealand Travel Tips

Average temp:  high 60, low 49 Fly into:  Malta International Airport, Malta

One of the best places to visit in January for sun is the European island of Malta . Actually, Malta is made up of 3 islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Compared to other European countries,  Malta in winter  is usually very sunny and in January temperatures can go up to 20 degrees Celsius which on a sunny day feels very pleasant.

One of the best things about going in January is that fewer tourists venture to the island which is mainly considered a summer destination. But what most people fail to realize is that it is the best time for going hiking and exploring the ancient towns.

Malta has a long history, and if you get rainy or windy days it’s perfect to explore underground where you can walk through the World War Two Shelters or discover the old catacombs in Rabat. On the other hand, if the weather is nice, you can easily go for a quick dip in the crystal-clear water.

There are numerous flights connecting Malta with the rest of Europe. In addition, you can take the boat directly from Sicily in Italy.

Getting around Malta by bus is easy, it costs 1.50 Euros for a ticket that lasts you for 2 hours (including bus changes.) On top of that, they have tap and pay so there is no need for cash.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

34. Turks and Caicos (another favorite on this list for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 82, low 74 Fly into:  Providenciales International Airport, Turks & Caicos Islands

Last but certainly not least is the dreamy island chain of Turks and Caicos. Definitely worthy of a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January, Turks and Caicos has unbelievable white sand beaches with the most turquoise water you’ll ever see.

A beach destination with the right mix of good food and water activities, Turks and Caicos is a laid-back island chain where the term ‘island time’ could have been created.

The whimsical nature of the island is perfect for a January getaway when all that matters is what time you should re-apply your sunblock . (By the way, be sure to use ocean-safe sunblock at all times to protect marine life.)

Staying on the main island of Providenciales doesn’t have to break the bank, either. It’s possible to do Turks and Caicos on a budget , without sacrificing a good time on the island chain.

While there, be sure to visit the best beaches on Turks and Caicos . Grace Bay Beach is the most popular, but moving away from the busy tourist spot will provide you with amazing views where you *might* just be the only one there.

Enjoy a dreamy island vacation in Turks and Caicos!

Whew! What a list! From the best beach vacations in January to frozen winter wonderlands, this was a fun guide to put together. So….are you ready to book your flights yet?

Let’s review that list one more time, in a more succinct fashion….

Best places to vacation in January

• Switzerland
• El Salvador
• Philippines
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Turks and Caicos

Related content to read next: 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold) 30 Best Countries to Visit in February (Fun Spots You Haven’t Thought Of) 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Destinations You Need to See 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 32 Awe-Inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

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Saturday 3rd of September 2022

Fabulous post Nikki! It just shows how many fantastic places there are for holidays in January. When I was younger I would have been tempted by the tropical islands... but now I have learned to ski, places like Austria and Switzerland for would be the best part - those snowy mountain views are beeeautiful!

Tuesday 6th of September 2022

Aw I love your comment, Josy! So glad you'd do a Switzerland or Austria getaway. Both looks so stunning in wintertime!

What a fantastic list! I’m lucky to live in one of the places but I’ll keep this lost for sure for winter holidays!

Ah yes Marga, I agree you're very fortunate! Glad you found some inspiration for new destination ideas, though!

Chelsea Messina

This is such a great list of places to visit in January! I have been dying to visit Costa Rica, but I live in Michigan. So I'll be ready for the Maldives by then!

Ha love it! Either of those places sound perfect during a winter in Michigan!

• Australasia
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Buenos Aires
• Mexico City
• New York City
• Rio de Janeiro
• Overwater bungalows
• Cruise tips
• Sightseeing Passes
• Attractions
• Theme parks
• When to visit where
• Backpacker Indexes

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25 Cheap destinations for 2024 with great weather in January

January of 2024 looks like it will be booming for the travel industry after a few really bad years, so booking early is almost certainly going to save you money. The good news is there are many great destinations with warm weather all around the world, so you’ll have more choices than you probably dreamed of. The list below shows all of the best vacation choices in different areas and all of them have warm weather and most are on beaches.

It’s worth noting that the first week in January is one of the busiest weeks of the year for travel due to the holidays celebrated around the world, so it will be much more expensive than the rest of the month. In other words, if you can start your trip on January 9 or later, you’ll save a lot of money.

If you are mostly interested in beaches, scuba diving, and other water sports you should start with our list of the  cheapest Caribbean islands  to see which ones are in your price range.

Go later in January if possible

Pretty much everywhere on earth that has warm weather in January has its peak season for hotel rates from Christmas through the first week in January. If you are joining that crowd you have a lot of great options, though very few of them will come cheap. The good news is that by the second week of January, hotel rates and airfares have come down again to “high season” rates rather than “peak season” rates. If you can wait, it will save you quite a bit.

By the way, we have a separate list of  cheap beaches to spend Christmas and New Year’s around the world  if that’s what you are mainly after.

This article was updated as of September, 2023.

New video showing most of the places mentioned below

I’ve started a Youtube channel and one of my first videos is based on this article. Please give it a watch as it shows most of the places listed with hotel prices and much more.

Important global holidays in 2024

• January 1 – New Year’s Day (public holiday in most of the world)
• January 6 – Epiphany (minor holiday in many Christian countries)
• January 15 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day in USA (most banks and offices closed)
• January 26 – Republic Day in India (major national public holiday)

The Americas

Obviously the first week of January is peak season for most Latin American and Caribbean destinations, so book early to lock in the best deals. After that January will remain high season through that same region, but plenty of bargains are out there if you look around.

The Caribbean

The new trend is towards all-inclusive hotels, but you may not realize that they are mainly concentrated in only a few places. Specifically, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica are where you’ll find most of them, although many even cheaper ones are on the Mexican coast in Cancun and just to its south. For most people, an all-inclusive resort will end up saving a lot of money, as long as you aren’t so interested in exploring the whole island.

Where to find the cheapest all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean

The best deals in the Caribbean are at all-inclusive resorts, and that is even more true if you are someone who likes to have at least a few alcoholic beverages each day along with some great meals. Here’s a video explaining exactly where to find the best resorts that are also very cheap.

• 13 Cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive destinations
• 32 Caribbean destinations from cheapest to most expensive
• Best budget Caribbean destinations for different kinds of holidays:  All-inclusive, cultural, nightlife, super-cheap, weekend trips, and more

Cancun, Mexico

• January avg high: 82°F/28°C
• January avg low: 69°F/21°C
• January avg precip: 5.4″/13.5cm

It’s worth noting that “Cancun” is a huge area with plenty to offer. The actual hotel zone in Cancun is mostly high-rise hotels overlooking beaches, while if you go about an hour south you’ll arrive in  Playa del Carmen , which is a lovely and tourist-friendly town with smaller hotels and excellent choices for dining, nightlife, and shopping. Just a short ferry ride from Playa you’ll be in  Cozumel , which is a small island that is also worth considering.

>>>New: Guide to choosing where to stay in the greater Cancun area

• 3-star hotels from: US$51 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$87 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$219 per night for two people

>>> Check current Cancun resort and package deals

Montego Bay, Jamaica

• January avg high: 84°F/29°C
• January avg low: 72°F/22°C
• January avg precip: 1.9″/4.8cm

Montego Bay is also home to one of the Caribbean’s largest and busiest airports so flights here are usually direct and often cheap compared to some of the smaller islands. You won’t find the super-low all-inclusive prices here that you can find in the Dominican Republic (see below), but still there are some all-inclusive options that are good value and high quality. Interestingly enough, two of our 11 Best luxurious all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean are on Jamaica, and one is in Montego Bay itself, with overwater bungalows!

By the way, if you’d prefer to stay along a wonderful beach lined with small hotels, restaurants, and bars, then head to nearby  Negril  instead of Montego Bay or  Ocho Rios .

• 3-star hotels from: US$87 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$104 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$277 per night for two people

>>> Check current Montego Bay resort and package deals

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

• January avg precip: 0.7″/1.8cm

The first week in January will be booked early but after that it’s normal room rates, which are great bargains compared to the rest of the Caribbean. The all-inclusive resorts here start at a bit over US$200 per night for two people, including room, meals, and unlimited drinks. The better places obviously charge more, but there are plenty of good resorts that receive solid reviews near the lower end of the scale. Punta Cana is honestly the best place in the Caribbean for all-inclusive resorts because there are around 80 to choose from. In fact, Punta Cana also ranks at the top of the list of the best family destinations in the Caribbean .

• 3-star hotels from: US$52 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$91 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$242 per night for two people

>>> Check current Punta Cana resort and package deals

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• January avg low: 62°F/17°C
• January avg precip: 1.3″/3.3cm

Puerto Vallarta is also notable because it’s an actual historic city with an interesting traditional center, rather than just a purpose-built row of beach hotels like in Cancun. If you are in California you might also consider  Los Cabos , although Puerto Vallarta is more interesting and usually cheaper as well.

• 3-star hotels from: US$42 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$153 per night for two people

>>> Check current Puerto Vallarta resort and package deals

Mexico City, Mexico

• January avg high: 70°F/21°C
• January avg low: 42°F/6°C
• January avg precip: 0.4″/1.0cm

Mexico City can make for a great trip all by itself, with fascinating sights, great shopping, and excellent nightlife, but it’s also close to ruins and many other interesting sights that can make for good day trips. Flights from almost anywhere will be fairly cheap this time of year, at least compared to Europe or most of the Caribbean. And in case you aren’t familiar with Mexico City as a tourist city, it’s FAR nicer and safer than you probably imagine, and far more interesting as well. English isn’t widely spoken outside of hotels and tour companies, so if you don’t speak Spanish it’s wise to at least pack a menu translation app.

• 3-star hotels from: US$63 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$84 per night for two people

>>> Mexico City prices >>> Check current Mexico City hotel and package deals

Ambergris Caye, Belize

• January avg high: 75°F/24°C
• January avg low: 70°F/21°C
• January avg precip: 4.5″/11.3cm

Caye Caulker is a similar and smaller island even a bit closer to Belize City, and prices there are lower for hotels and for food. There’s also Dangriga and the Placencia Peninsula which are both great choices for sunny holidays. Dangriga has interesting culture while Placencia has the better beaches. Even San Pedro is fairly cheap by most standards, and the round-the-clock warm weather is enchanting even when it rains a bit.

• 3-star hotels from: US$131 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$329 per night for two people

>>> Ambergris Caye prices >>> Check current San Pedro/Ambergris hotel and package deals

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

• January avg high: 92°F/33°C
• January avg precip: 0.1″/0.3cm

January is part of the high season so the resort hotels aren’t cheap, but at least there are a few good all-inclusive resorts that are good value. You can see by the price quotes below that 3-star hotels are MUCH cheaper in this area, so that is something to take into account. The cheaper hotels will have much more of a local feel, while the 4-star beach resort hotels are mostly chains and offer a high level of luxury for the price.

• 3-star hotels from: US$71 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$311 (all inclusive) per night for two people

>>> Guanacaste prices >>> Check current Tamarindo hotel and package deals

Cartagena, Colombia

• January avg high: 85°F/29°C
• January avg low: 75°F/24°C
• January avg precip: 0.2″/0.5cm

Of course the first week of January is still the peak season for hotels and flights, and the rest of the month is in high season, so hotel deals might be challenging to find. On the other hand, it’ll still be far cheaper than almost anywhere else in the Caribbean, so if you can’t afford Cartagena you should stay home.

• 4-star hotels from: US$109 per night for two people

>>> Cartagena prices >>> Check current Cartagena hotel and package deals

• January avg high: 79°F/26°C
• January avg low: 68°F/20°C
• January avg precip: 0.0″/0.0cm

The historic city center is quite interesting, but many will choose to stay in the trendy Miraflores district along the beach instead. There’s more restaurants and tourist infrastructure there, yet it’s a short ride into the center for sightseeing. By the way, the rainy season in  Cusco  goes on in January, so the trails can sometimes be cut off, although many people go anyway.

• 3-star hotels from: US$49 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$86 per night for two people

>>> Lima prices >>> Check current Lima hotel and package deals

Santiago, Chile

• January avg high: 86°F/30°C
• January avg low: 55°F/13°C

Many people include Santiago on a trip combining many different South American countries, but those who don’t want to jet around quite that much will find that Chile itself is loaded with great sights. There’s the colonial town of  Valparaiso  and great adventure activities in the foothills of the Andes. Book well in advance to get the best deals.

• 3-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$105 per night for two people

>>> Santiago prices >>> Check current Santiago hotel and package deals

Buenos Aires, Argentina

• January avg high: 87°F/31°C
• January avg precip: 4.7″/11.8cm

Another thing to note about Buenos Aires compared to most other South American cities is that BA is more about culture, food, and other indoor pursuits. It’s a great place for just strolling in the shopping districts when it’s not too hot, but even when it’s raining or too muggy outside you’ll have an endless list of interesting things to see and do, all quite cheap for what you get.

It’s important to mention the currency situation in Argentina because it’s unlike almost anywhere else on earth. Long story short, if you bring in crisp, new US dollars or Euros you can exchange them on the “blue rate” and get about twice as many Argentine pesos as you would if you used the ATMs when you arrive. In other words, research Argentina blue rate or blue dollar and this place is literally half the price it otherwise would be, and it’s already fairly cheap.

• 4-star hotels from: US$68 per night for two people

>>> Buenos Aires prices >>> Check current Buenos Aires hotel and package deals

Bariloche, Argentina

• January avg high: 71°F/22°C
• January avg low: 44°F/7°C
• January avg precip: 1.0″/2.5cm

This place used to be a German settlement, so it still has an abundance of small chocolate shops and some architecture to carry on that theme. These days this is a busy winter resort and a busy summer resort, with a wide variety of water activities available. Even in high season, prices here should be at least a bit below those in Buenos Aires, so it will feel like a bargain for most foreign visitors.

You might also consider including  Mendoza  on your trip, which is the main wine region of Argentina, and also good value.

• 3-star hotels from: US$83 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$119 per night for two people

>>> Bariloche prices >>> Check current Bariloche hotel and package deals

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

• January avg high: 90°F/32°C
• January avg low: 73°F/23°C
• January avg precip: 5.1″/12.8cm

Hotels along the famous beaches will be quite expensive in January so finding a bargain will be tough, but if you are willing to stay 2 or 3 blocks inland you can find nice places for a fraction of the price. Book well in advance to get the best deals since in busy season like this prices generally just keep going up as the dates approach.

• 4-star hotels from: US$94 per night for two people

>>> Rio de Janeiro prices >>> Check current Rio de Janeiro hotel and package deals

Needless to say, there are no destinations in the main part of Europe that could qualify as having great weather in January, but there is still one place worth mentioning…

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

• January avg high: 69°F/21°C
• January avg low: 59°F/15°C

This island has many hundreds of hotels and holiday rentals, and it’s very popular with the British as well as others from northern European countries. January is part of the high season in Tenerife for hotel prices, but it’s still inexpensive by European or global standards. The area in the southwest corner of the island is where you’ll find most hotels and beach resorts that cater to an English-speaking crowd.

• 3-star hotels from: US$74 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$93 per night for two people

>>> Tenerife prices >>> Check current Tenerife hotel deals

Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt

• January average high: 71°F/22°C
• January average low: 55°F/13°C

While the weather in January is going to be too cold to enjoy a swim in the ocean, it’s obviously far warmer than you’ll find anywhere in Europe or even Turkey this time of year. As of a few years ago Sharm was unbelievably cheap because some people were worried about unrest, but those days are over and things are back to normal. It’s still cheap by almost any standard, but not insanely cheap like it was in 2021.

• 3-star hotels from: US$34 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$54 per night for two people

>>> Sharm el-Sheikh prices >>> Check current Sharm el-Sheikh hotel and package deals

Cape Town, South Africa

• January avg low: 60°F/16°C
• January avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

The tricky part of an affordable holiday in South Africa will always be the airfare. Being so far from almost everywhere it’s tough to find a good price. The good news is that the country is filled with great sights, including safaris, of course, and history, so a 2-week trip can still be affordable all things considered.

• 4-star hotels from: US$98 per night for two people

>>> Cape Town prices >>> Check current Cape Town hotel and package deals

The peak season for all of Southeast Asia starts around Christmas and goes through February, so you won’t be alone and prices are at their yearly peak. The good news is that things are still far cheaper than pretty much anywhere else in the world.

>>> 18 Best Asia destinations in January

• January avg high: 89°F/32°C
• January avg low: 67°F/19°C

Prices in Goa, as well as the rest of India, have been rising steadily in the past few years. It’s more important than ever to choose your resort and area wisely. In Calungute and Baga it might feel like prices are only a bit cheaper than in, say, Spain, but if you go to Anjuna or Vagator and find a family-run hotel and eat in local restaurants you’ll be spending a fraction of that. If you are in the mood to tour around,  Mumbai  has great weather during January, and  Delhi  has warm days but cool evenings this time of year.

• 3-star hotels from: US$43 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$72 per night for two people

>>> Goa prices >>> Check prices on India hotels and resorts

Bangkok, Thailand

If you are shopping online for hotels in Bangkok you’ll find that most of them seem quite expensive, at least this time of year. It’s worth knowing that many hotels in this city don’t take online reservations and most of the cheaper ones do accept reservations by email. Meals will be very cheap, especially if you don’t mind eating the wonderful (and safe) street food available on almost every block.

• 3-star hotels from: US$33 per night for two people

>>> Bangkok prices >>> Check Bangkok and Thailand hotel prices

Siem Reap, Cambodia

There are many really expensive hotels in Siem Reap since this attraction brings in almost as many 5-star travelers as it does backpackers, but there are still plenty of cheap guesthouses and even hostels. The price average for a day in Siem Reap is actually quite a bit lower than what is shown here, and it’s only inflated this much because admission to Angkor Wat is quite high if you only go for the one-day option.

• 3-star hotels from: US$28 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$37 per night for two people

>>> Siem Reap prices >>> Check Siem Reap and Cambodia hotel deals

Phuket, Thailand

• January avg low: 74°F/23°C
• January avg precip: 1.2″/3.0cm

January has excellent weather and is incredibly popular in Phuket for Europeans in particular. If you are flying all that way to sit on a beach then you are probably going to want to spend a bit more on a proper beach hotel rather than trying to save money by commuting to the beach from Phuket Town each morning. Book early for the best prices since they usually just keep rising as the dates approach. Another nice thing is Phuket has its own huge international airport so you can fly in from the Middle East instead of having to change planes in Bangkok.

• 3-star hotels from: US$36 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$57 per night for two people

>>> Phuket prices >>> Check for the best Phuket resort deals

Boracay Island, Philippines

• January average high: 82°F/28°C
• January average low: 73°F/24°C
• January avg precip: 3.7″/0.3cm

As a long and thin island just off of a larger island, nearly every hotel on Boracay is within a very short walk of the beach. For that reason there are virtually no super-cheap places but value is fantastic for mid-range and up visitors. Food and drinks are very reasonably priced here, as are things like massages and diving trips. Boracay Island was closed to visitors for 6 months in 2018 and now the infrastructure and environment are in better shape than they’ve been in in years.

• 3-star hotels from: US$57 per night for two people

>>> Boracay prices >>> Check Boracay resort deals

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The weather in January is perhaps the best of the whole year, as the evenings are reasonably cool and it’s less humid that other times. This is also an emerging party city, unlike others in Vietnam, so it works on many levels for the budget tourist or backpacker.

• 4-star hotels from: US$71 per night for two people

>>> Ho Chi Minh City prices >>> Check current Ho Chi Minh City hotel deals

Chiang Mai, Thailand

• January avg low: 57°F/14°C
• January avg precip: 0.3″/0.8cm

While Chiang Mai itself may not be as charming as you might expect, considering it’s a historic former capital filled with temples, the best part is that this is a fantastic part of Thailand for trekking and other outdoor activities. Come to Chiang Mai and then shop around for multi-day trips to nearby forests and temples, which are also very cheap, even in January.

• 3-star hotels from: US$24 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$39 per night for two people

>>> Chiang Mai prices >>> Check Chiang Mai and Thailand tour prices

Luang Prabang, Laos

• January avg low: 58°F/14°C
• January avg precip: 0.5″/1.3cm

In the past few years Luang Prabang has gotten many more upscale hotels so it might look like the city isn’t friendly for budget travelers, but there are still many cheaper guesthouses left, although most aren’t bookable online. If you just show up in town there’s a good chance you can find a cheap room, but arrive early in the day if possible. If you are coming on the slow boat you will have plenty of competition for the cheaper beds.

• 3-star hotels from: US$37 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$55 per night for two people

>>> Luang Prabang prices >>> Check Luang Prabang hotel and resort deals

Middle East

January is cool and even a bit rainy in most of the Middle East. An exception is Dubai (below) and Abu Dhabi, which both have perfect sunny weather. However, Abu Dhabi doesn’t make this list because it’s not really cheap enough for the cut.

Even though Dubai is busy in January, it’s still a good bargain because there are so many hotels and apartment rentals here. The huge airport is also very busy this time of year, though airfares are quite reasonable from Europe and other nearby areas where people are looking for a winter break.

• 3-star hotels from: US$53 per night for two people

>>> Dubai prices >>> Check current Dubai hotel deals

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25 Cheap destinations for 2024 with great weather in January " --> All Comments

Comment*I would like to visit Puket for a week with my 07 old son. Please advice..

I’m not sure what kind of advice you are looking for, but I will try to help. I’d recommend Kata Beach or Karon Beach for a family visit as Patong Beach is very adult-oriented. Let me know how I can help you. -Roger

hey roger. i am from india and planning trip for Seychelles in the month of January 2020 for my 5th anniversary trip. seeking your suggestion.in january will it be a good place to go

Roger are all the places mentioned here safe or are there concerns. My wife are planning to go to Grand Cayman in January but have been there so I found you site have some interested in trying a different venue. Minnesota, U SA

It’s very hard to say what each person means by “safe.” Many Caribbean islands have a fair amount of petty crime, but tourists are rarely targeted. I think I’ve been to every place on the list, but I’m a pretty big guy so I don’t have the same concerns as, say, a smaller young woman.

Take Cartagena, for example. Colombia used to have many unsafe areas with the old rebel group, and cities where drug dealers seemed to rule. Almost all of that is at least 5 years in the past, but there are still warning about taking long-distance buses from Cartagena to other cities since a few of them have been pulled over by criminals. That said, Cartagena itself appears to be extremely safe, especially for tourists in the normal tourist zones.

Another factor is that many people from around the world would not consider Chicago or Detroit to be “safe.” As you probably know, the problems there tend to be focused on gang members in specific areas that are not near tourist areas at all, but some people would still refuse to go to those cities. So unfortunately it’s a complicated question to answer. You might have a look at the US State Department’s list of warnings and the status of each country. Some say they are too cautious, but they at least break down which areas are problematic and which usually aren’t. For example, Mexico has several really dangerous areas in and near border towns, but the Yucatan Peninsula (Cancun etc) hosts many millions of tourists every year and problems are very rare. I hope this helps. -Roger

Hi! Been taking your suggestions for a few years now! I am a 52 ur old single mom who is always traveling with my daughter, 9yrs old.

Trying to decide between Cambodia (Phnom Penh- Island then Siem Rep to finish), Thailand (Chiang Mai, Phuket or Krabi) or Vietnam (not sure where but North looks interesting).

I find it best to stay in one place at least three nights before moving on. We like to include biking and hiking on our journeys!

What do you think?

It’s flattering to hear that you use my advice and keep coming back. It’s good to hear from you again, and I also agree about staying 3 nights in almost any place you go.

This is an interesting question. Personally, I find Phnom Penh to be a bit dull compared to most of the others. But Siem Reap is really nice (and pleasantly mellow), with Angkor Wat being by far the most impressive single sight anywhere in the region. You could actually combine Siem Reap with a Thai island pretty easily, so that’s something to consider.

Chiang Mai is nice, amazingly cheap, and good for hiking and activities outside of town, but to be honest the city center is kind of charmless except for the many similar temples all over the place. So it’s good for backpackers and adventurers, which may work for you. Phuket (I’ve spent a lot of time there) is lined with lovely beaches and it’s huge, but honestly it’s pretty much a generic vacation factory. In other words, if you want a warm place to relax and sit on the beach and have some nice meals and drinks, Phuket is ideal. But if you want to explore your surroundings it’s rather dull.

I haven’t been to Krabi, but it’s smaller and I’ve heard good things about it. I’ve been to Ko Samui, which is nice, and nearby Ko Phan Gan is another to consider.

Vietnam might be the best choice of these. Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north are wonderful, and Hoi An in the center is really lovely, while Saigon in the south is very busy although most people really love it. I spent 4 months in Vietnam and Hoi An was my favorite stop with Saigon one of my least favorite, but you have to go to Saigon for sure and there is a lot to see.

The one tricky thing about Vietnam is that (probably because it used to be communist) you’ll encounter some travel agents (to book local tours and bus and train rides etc) that aren’t as honest as they are in the neighboring countries. And taxi drivers are also a little harder to trust in that they are known to overcharge Westerners (not dangerous though). As long as you know this before you get there you’ll have an amazing time and find dealing with it pretty easy. You’ll be able to book tours (including Halong Bay) and bus rides and train rides through the front desk at your hotel and you can trust them (plus they appreciate the business). And they can arrange taxi rides and transport for you as well. That way you can ignore the people trying to take advantage of you and you’ll be fine (and they are used to being ignored). Honestly I love Vietnam and the food and the people are fantastic as long as you are a bit careful when booking things.

I’m happy to help if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hello Roger,

I’m so glad I came across your site. Can you provide any recommendations for a single woman looking to travel for 2-3 weeks on a spiritual journey. I’m interested in a retreat type trip beginning in early January. I love both the mountain and the sea, so either would do. I would like warm weather. This is for my 50th birthday. The goal is to slow down, reflect, get centered and reconnect with myself. Cost matters, so I need something economical.

For a spiritual journey with warm weather in January that is on the affordable side you’ve got two great choices. They are India and Bali. If you have read Eat, Pray, Love (or seen the movie) you’ll know that India was the “pray” part of the story and Bali was the “love” part. Both are warm and quite cheap, and both are famous for spiritual tourism. India is extremely overwhelming to first-time visitors, but you can minimize the challenge if you spend as little time in the larger cities as possible. Mumbai and Delhi and Chennai and so forth are all insanely crowded, so it’s best to fly into one of them and then immediately take a train or fly into a smaller place and stay there. There are ashrams all over India that are tourist-friendly and will be filled with people doing things similar to what you have in mind. There is a charming small town on the east coast called Puducherry, which used to be run by the French and is more famously called Pondicherry, and that is a place to consider.

As for Bali the main spiritual center is a town called Ubud, which is also where the Eat, Pray, Love woman stayed and it’s quite nice, although quite crowded and touristy as well. If you Google ‘Bali spiritual trip’ or things like that I’m sure you’ll find some options and most will probably be in or near Ubud. That should at least get you started. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

[email protected] My husband and I will be leaving the US for wherever mid January. We travel light so do not want cold weather, although we understand layering when needed. We want to do Air BNB etc. Have traveled quite a bit on our own. Where would you suggest? We will leave the US mid Jan and return to the states in April. Thank you!

It’s hard to make a recommendation without knowing where you’ve been and the type of place you are looking for (beach, city, mountains, natural sights etc?), but that time of year (especially if you want to avoid cold weather) I’d seriously consider Southeast Asia. Bangkok is the main hub and the easiest place to get started, although Kuala Lumpur is another option. That time of year the weather is perfect in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Laos. Those areas are also quite inexpensive so you can often afford really nice hotels instead of simple airbnbs, although those are possible as well.

The other best option that time of year would be Central America and parts of South America. Costa Rica is the best hub in Central America to get started, and Buenos Aires would be a great option in South America, especially if you speak some Spanish. The weather should be really nice that whole time. I’m happy to help with more details if you need them. -Roger

The top 7 destinations for travel in January 2024

UPDATED: This article was originally published in September 2017

Picking your next destination isn’t easy, but there’s a better way than spinning a big globe, closing your eyes and slamming your finger down (it’ll probably end up in the middle of the Atlantic, and wifi there is patchy, to say the least). Introducing our ultimate month-by-month destination guide: your no-fuss list of places to go, things to see, and good weather to chase around the world.

Here’s looking at January, a month full of exciting travel potential and new optimism. And so it should be, after all, you  did  survive another year at work, the mayhem of the silly season, and scrape through New Year’s celebrations in (mostly) one piece – and you’re only a couple of days into a brand new year! Pat yourself on the back; that kind of commitment deserves a holiday. From the jungles of Central America to the beaches of South East Asia, here’s your guide to where to travel in January.

Top holiday destinations for January 2024

1. costa rica.

Read more: The ultimate guide to Costa Rica in 7 days

The mild and dry early months in January and February are considered the best time to go to Costa Rica, but be aware that this is also peak season, so you’ll need to book ahead to get the most out of your time there. Trade the hustle and bustle for something more pura vida  and get your year off to the perfect start.

While there’s almost no bad time to visit this tropical paradise, January is when the weather is at its most perfect. Again, it is peak season, but plan ahead and you’ll be fine.

3. Thailand

Read more: 7 reasons why Southern Thailand is the perfect travel destination

For a true island adventure, sail away on your own private yacht; snorkelling and chilling out by day, and sleeping beneath the stars at night.

4. Tanzania

Read more: What it’s like to safari in the Ngorongoro Crater

With all this new life comes predators, and in January the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are also home to the largest concentration of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in Africa, stalking through the grass and waiting for the perfect time to make a kill. This is an excellent time to see exciting predator action with none of the crowds.

Read more: 9 reasons Laos should be on your bucket list

In January, average temperatures are a very pleasant 24 ° C (75 ° F) in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, while the supremely chilled 4,000 islands in the south can reach highs of 30 ° C (86 ° F). For those travelling at the end of the month, locals celebrate the Wat Phou festival (also known as Makhaboucha) at the ruins of Wat Phou. Celebrations include religious chanting, lighting of candles, and music and dance performances.

6. Ethiopia 

Read more: Why you should experience Ethiopia’s Timket Festival

During the three-day Christian festival that commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the river Jordan by John the Baptist, replicas of the Ark of the Covenant are taken to the rivers and baptised. The procession, accompanied by thousands of locals in white traditional dress and priests carrying sequined velvet umbrellas, is a heady mix of incense, prayer, and celebration, and is a once-in-a-lifetime festive experience.

Read more: Adventure lover? Why your next trip should be to Vietnam

If you’ve recovered from indulging in too many mince pies during the silly season, how about eating your way through Vietnam’s gourmet scene? From banh xeo to pho, the cuisine here is some of the freshest and most fragrant on the planet.

Not looking to travel in January? No worries. Check out our other monthly destination guides:

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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The best places to visit in January 2024

Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

The Canary Islands are one of the many places worth visiting in January ©Jose A. Bernat Bacete/Getty Images

Do you know when you want to travel but just can’t decide where? We’re here to break down the best places to go in each month of the year so you can find the perfect travel experience for you. 

As we look forward to 2024, 366 days of epic adventures, cultural experiences, foodie forays and wondrous wildlife encounters stretch out before us. But it can be hard to know exactly where to kickstart the year of travel. 

Whether you’re looking for inspiration or information, Lonely Planet has done the legwork for you, answering the travelers' perennial question: where to go when ? If you want to start the year right, these are some of the top passport-fillers for January to inspire your travels or add to your bucket list. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for wildlife and nature?

Why now? Bask in near permanent daylight in this enormous white wilderness at the end of the world.

At the end of the world in Antarctica temperatures "soar" to freezing point (or a little above) and near-permanent daylight means endless, warm days (well, it’s all relative) for catching sight of the sprawling penguin colonies with their newly-hatched chicks, seal pups and whales as well as sailing between gargantuan icebergs. 

Why now? Track the world’s biggest primates in the dry(ish) season.

Perhaps a thousand or so endangered mountain gorillas survive worldwide, of which nearly half roam the dense forests of Uganda ’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . It’s an experience you’ll need to earn, tackling steep, muddy trails at altitudes up to 3000m (9483ft). But if you snag one of the limited permits available for each of the park’s 19 habituated families, the rewards are luminous. 

Chūbu, Japan

Why now? Discover a winter wonderland of steaming hot springs, traditional villages and snow sports.

Winter’s a magical time to explore the historic settlements of Japan 's central Honshu region, when snow dusts temples, castles and traditional wooden houses. Outside of the ski resorts, crowds thin after the late-December holidays and before cherry-blossom season. In the Japanese Alps, “snow monkeys” (Japanese macaques) soak in hot springs near Yudanaka. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for food and culture?

Sydney, Australia

Why now: For endless cultural experiences in the heat of the summer. 

For an alternative to the seasonal celebrations, head to Australia’s largest city for the Sydney Festival, an eclectic three-week showcase of burlesque acts, circus and dance performances, art installations and family activities. 

Liguria, Italy

Why now? Tramp snowy paths and munch fabulous food in the quietest season.

In winter in the Ligurian Alps, wonderfully crisp air and snowy forest trails lure snowshoers to Aveto and Antola natural regional parks and yet-more-rugged Beigua Geopark, where snowshoe hire is available and marked circular trails offer sea views. All are within touching distance of regional capital Genoa , deliciously quiet in January yet as tasty as ever with regional delicacies. 

Austin, Texas, USA

Why now? Forage and feast from food trucks in the mild Texas January.

Long famed for its barbecue and Tex-Mex, today there’s a world of cuisines to discover in Austin , from American regional classics – Philly cheesesteaks, Cajun jambalaya, fried chicken – to dishes from all corners of the globe: pick up West African jollof rice, Syrian shawarma, Venezuelan arepas, and Thai Tom Kha soup. Mild January, when temperatures hover at around 15°C (59°F), brings fine weather for alfresco eating. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for adventure?

Canary Islands

Why now? Escape the winter with a European island break. 

Escape the Northern Hemisphere’s winter climes with a surf break under the sunny skies of the Canary Islands . Kitesurfers and windsurfers are also spoilt for wave-riding hotspots; and land-lovers can simply kick back on the golden shores or hike or cycle one of the region's otherworldly volcanic landscapes.

Arizona and Utah, USA

Why now? Snap snow-dusted canyons, buttes and mesas free from crowds.

The red-rock ravines and outcrops of the region straddling the Utah and Arizona borders look even more delectable with a topping of snow – and in January you’ll share these wonders with far fewer people. Make no mistake, you’ll need to wrap up warm: temperatures dip well below freezing. But don the right clothes and boots (better still, snowshoes), and you’ll discover dramatic landscapes made even more magical in the absence of crowds.

South Island, New Zealand

Why now? To take an epic summer road trip in January. 

Over in New Zealand , lap up some breathtaking scenery on a road trip through some of the South Island ’s most iconic coastal landscapes. The long summer days will give you plenty of time to explore. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for relaxation?

Budapest, Hungary 

Why now? To dip into warm waters to escape the European chill. 

When the climate turns cold in the Northern Hemisphere, Budapest ’s hot springs and thermal baths are a great way to escape the chill and give yourself some much needed TLC in one fell swoop.

Why now? Chill in a quieter corner of the Caribbean.

Few travelers heading to the Caribbean find their way to long, skinny little Anguilla , which remains determinedly low-key and relatively undeveloped. But it boasts all the ingredients of the Caribbean dream: friendly folk, an uplifting reggae soundtrack and some of the region’s most beautiful palm-fringed beaches, notably lively Shoal Bay on the north coast and sleepier Rendezvous Bay in the south. 

Kerala, India

Why now? Find your inner glow on a winter sun and yoga break in “God’s own country.”

Over the past couple of decades, the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam have morphed from the peaceful preserves of fishermen and Hindu devotees into backpacker hangouts and on into full blown resorts studded with exclusive hotels. But with serene stretches of sand still to be found here and there in Kerala , you can take your pick of the trance parties, hot hotels and restful homestays and yoga retreats. 

Southern Thailand

Why now? Find peaceful beaches and superb snorkeling and diving in the dry season.

Phuket, Krabi and Ko Phi-Phi have long been popular sun-sea-sand destinations, particularly during the European winter. Head further south, though, to find lesser-known corners. The Trang Islands – Ko Kradan and craggy Ko Muk – have escaped large-scale development, despite their gleaming beaches, pellucid waters and the latter’s beautiful Tham Morakot (Emerald Cave). Keep going to Tarutao National Marine Park, an archipelago of 51 islands just north of the Malay border. 

This article was first published Nov 1, 2019 and updated Nov 17, 2023.

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The best holiday destinations in January

By Laura Fowler and Laura Chubb

Christmas is over, the New Year’s hangover is lingering and workdays and school hours are back on. From 1 January, reality kicks in, so why not book a new year getaway and escape the January blues? Post-Christmas and pre-Valentines, it's cheap – snap up an off-peak season deal across the globe, from one of the best Caribbean islands to the sunny neighbourhoods of Sydney and LA . Here, we round up the best places to go on holiday in January 2023.

Barbados, Caribbean

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

It’s the Caribbean island’s good-time vibes that keep regulars coming. Well, that and the pirate’s bounty of bleached-white, powdery beaches. The glam west coast might be all five-star luxury, but travel slightly south and the scene quickly skews more local. Lively town Oistins’ Friday Night Fish Fry brings the community out for an open-air party, with fresh-caught fish on the barbecue and booming reggae. Or, closer still, hit St Lawrence Gap, a strip of rambunctious rum bars. On the quieter east coast, pounding Atlantic waves draw surfers: Bathsheba is the closest Barbados gets to boho, with pro boarders and tattooed artists. In January, the dawn of dry season, it’s all appealing – drenched only in a daily average nine hours of sunshine.

Sustainable travel tip: The best way to benefit the Barbados community is to leave your hotel. Give back to the community by spending tourist dollars at Oistins Fish Fry, which benefits local businesses.

Where to stay: Cobblers Cove prides itself on being quietly elegant – an intimate, stylish country-house hotel situated on a white sand beach, with 40 spacious rooms which all open on to the luscious gardens. For more, see our picks of the best hotels in Barbados .

Thailand, Asia

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT +7

Thailand is heavenly in January. Yes, it's peak season, but the mayhem of the Christmas and New Year parties are over; Bangkok is just about as pleasant as it's ever going to get, and the islands on the south-western, Andaman Coast are just lovely: Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta . Over on the east side, the islands of Koh Samui, Phangan and Tao are wetter - if you're heading here, best to wait a couple of months til March ; but still, those monsoon-like rains blow in, pour themselves out, then an hour later everyone's back on the beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Thai sleeper trains are modern and comfortable, so consider an overnight rail adventure between destinations rather than internal flights. Similarly, when visiting islands, more often than not there’s a ferry option, so don’t head for the airport as a matter of course.

Where to stay: The Standard offers a peppy, high-energy experience in Bangkok’s tallest skyscraper. Families and those seeking the more serene should book into the whimsical railway-themed InterContinental Khao Yai Resort , with its charming suites all set up in vintage railway carriages, and an old-timey ticketing booth serving as a lobby. See our guide to the best hotels in Thailand for more.

Val d'Isere

Temperature in January: -1°C high; -10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

With New Year crowds gone and no school holidays on the horizon, January is a fine time to hit up the best ski resorts in Europe . And not only does French ski resort Val present the most reliable powder on the continent, but this St-Tropez-on-snow is only getting splashier. The spot is home to some of the best ski hotels and chalets in the region. And if Olympic downhills and Michelin-starred restaurants aren’t doing it, there are plenty more inventive ways to get your kicks. Who’s up for a circuit of BMW’s ice track?

Sustainable travel tip: Looking to offset all that Val d’Isère excess? Eurostar runs direct trains from London St Pancras to Bourg St Maurice during ski season; local buses then make the 45-minute trip from the station to Val.

Where to stay: Le Refuge de Solaise , once a cable-car station, is now a fun-loving ski hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, marking one of France’s highest places to bed down. We also love Le Yule , located right on the edge of the front de neige and the nursery slope. The rooms are decorated in minimalist Scandinavian style with natural colours, and have balconies overlooking the piste. For a private stay, seven-room Chalet Husky has a climbing wall, infinity waterfall and space for rifle shooting and archery – perhaps not so wise after a night at Dick’s Tea Bar.

Porto, Portugal

Temperature in January: 14°C high; 6°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 2 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

No doubt about it, Portugal is booming. While the country’s mild winters might not be scorching, they are quieter – and prices lower than usual, in a destination already beloved for being very affordable. Porto , Lisbon’s little sister, has undergone its own creative renewal. Once-decaying medieval streets buzz with kerbside cafés and retooled townhouses, transformed into stylish hotels by local designers. The food scene is fizzing, there’s more to Porto than sandwich shops and port wine tastings, from Michelin-starred menus to relaxed, wine-focused dining. And then there’s the terraced port vineyards of the Douro Valley, 100km inland.

Sustainable travel tip: Taking the train to Portugal is a much better idea than it might sound – and it only takes 24 hours. First, catch the Eurostar from London to Paris, then the high-speed TGV to Irun in Spain’s Basque Country, followed by the overnight Sud Express to Lisbon, which has sleeper cabins with private showers, and a cafe/bar. After a sophisticated night on the rails, there’s no shortage of direct trains to Porto. Felicidades!

Where to stay: Bijou design hotel Gran Cruz House pairs sorbet-toned rooms with a couldn’t-be-better location and a standout restaurant helmed by one of Portugal’s top chefs. On Rua das Flores, the 16th century Casa da Companhia building blends modern luxury with traditional touches, and hosts regular Port bottle ‘fire openings’ where you can learn about the city’s Port culture. See our guide to the best hotels in Porto for more.

Temperature in January: 23°C high; 8°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 11 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

The coast of Mexico is everything the British winter is not: light, colour, exoticism; warm and spicy and exuberant. Parties on the beach, yoga under the trees, a dip in dappled-light cenotes. We fell for the cosmic vibes of Tulum , and the little barefoot island of Isla Holbox , off the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula. For the haciendas and smart resorts on the Riviera Maya; for colonial Mérida . And over on the west coast, sunny, surfy Sayulita . The weather on both Atlantic and Pacific coasts is wonderful in January: hot but not-too-hot, with barely any rain at all. Required holiday reading: The Lacuna , by Poisonwood Bible author Barbara Kingsolver.

Sustainable travel tip: Where Tulum’s not-so-green practices have made headlines, and the Riviera Maya’s resorts are all about opulence, Isla Holbox’s modus operandi is small-scale and local. The lack of paved roads all but mandates getting around by bicycle; the most convenient way to arrive is by 30-minute ferry from the mainland; restaurants, bars and stores are owned by islanders; and single-use plastics have been banned since 2018.

Where to stay: Near the powdery white sands of Xpu-Ha, the secluded jungle hideaway of Hotel Esencia is a reprieve from bustling resorts and hedonistic eco-hotels. Five minutes from Huanacaxtle Beach, Susurros del Corazón offers an all-inclusive experience with a boutique hotel feel. The newly-revamped Rancho Pescadero is a great choice for the eco-conscious, with an on-site solar farm and a clean-air waste incinerator for both the resort and the local area. See our guide to the best hotels in Mexico for more.

Rwanda, Africa

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 9°C low Season: First dry period Travel time from UK: 10 hours 40 minutes (indirect with Rwandair or Egyptair) Time difference: GMT +2

There are many reasons to go to Rwanda . Its vibrant Kigali exudes an air of positivity from its extraordinarily resilient people. In Akagera National Park, still off-radar on the safari scene, lion and black rhino have been reintroduced, and you’ll spot elephants, giraffes and zebras roaming the savannah – but no other safari tourists. Trek through ancient rainforests, babble with monkeys – colobus, baboon, chimpanzee. But it’s Rwanda’s mountain gorillas that are the blockbuster draw. Not even 100 people a day are permitted to trek, accompanied by trackers, into the Virunga cloud forest of Volcanoes National Park, for a close encounter with the critically endangered creatures – a moving, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s possible any time of year – whenever you can get a coveted permit – but as the first dry period, January is one of the best months for trekking.

Sustainable travel tip : The income from carefully monitored responsible tourism funds the conservation of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Where to stay: Two of Africa’s most sensational lodges are found not far from Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the gorillas: Bisate , Wilderness Safaris’ thatched, curvaceous and exquisitely designed eco-lodge and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest .

The Japanese Alps

Temperature in January: 3°C high; –5°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +9

Most tourists miss Honshu’s mountainous Nagano Prefecture, which rewards the more intrepid traveller with unique experiences in this eternally surprising land. It is home to the drama and forested beauty of the Japanese Alps; the Nakasendo Way winding through the Kiso Valley and Kiso Mountain peaks which, in January, are white with snow. In Joshinetsu National Park, the ski resort of Shiga Kogen is massive – 51 lifts and dozens of hotels – but still little-known to overseas visitors, its slopes uncluttered. Apres-ski here is all about sushi feasts and restorative bathing in the natural onsen baths… perhaps even, in Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, surrounded by scarlet-faced macaques who wallow in the steaming pools to keep warm.

Sustainable travel tip : Stays at Zenagi support Nagano’s rural communities and the restaurant uses ingredients grown by local suppliers.

Where to stay: In Nagano’s Kiso forest – where forest bathing is said to have originated – Zenagi is a 300-year-old Kominka house, its traditional architecture offset by the exquisite modern restoration and furniture locally made by craftsfolk.

Andaman Islands

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 21°C low Season: Dry and cool Travel time from UK: 9 hours 50 minutes to Chennai; 2 hours to Havelock Time difference: GMT +5.5

A castaway fantasy of white-sand cays and lagoons of tropical blue, the Andamans are the Indian Ocean archipelago on which few have set barefoot. Surfers and backpackers seeking next-level undiscovered make the 60-hour voyage by basic boat from Kolkata or Chennai, to stay in shacks along its pristine shores. In the past decade or so, more luxurious digs have been set up: primarily the Taj Exotica , in five-star splendour on Havelock island; and the more boutique Jalakara , set up by an Englishman and his wife.

Sustainable travel tip : Experiences here are all-natural: swimming, snorkelling, surfing, nature trails and bird walks.

Where to stay: As well as Taj Exotica and Jalakara, Barefoot at Havelock is a rustic delight.

Jahnavi Bhatt

Anna Prendergast

Connor Sturges

Olivia Morelli

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 19°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 9 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Winter in Jamaica – when temperatures dip to a cool 30ºC by day – is a bright and balmy affair. This vibrant island dances to its own rhythms throughout January with music festivals from reggae (St Ann’s Rebel Salute) to rock’n’roll (Peter’s Players Winterfest). Jamaica’s music scene has always been world-leading, and never more so than right now. January is also one of the loveliest times to go for peak beach weather, the sea deliciously warm for swimming; and also for hiking – to waterfalls along the One Love Trail, or up through coffee plantations to the peak of the Blue Mountains.

Sustainable travel tip : Eco-forward Stush in the Bush serves delicious, homegrown plant-based Rastafari-Ital dishes – as well as gathering rainwater for the local community and generating solar power.

Where to stay: Ian Fleming’s former home GoldenEye is now one of several Jamaica boltholes owned by Island Records boss Chris Blackwell – and remains a legend. Its history is richly storied; Island Records brought Bob Marley to the world, and GoldenEye, in turn, has brought a string of musicians to the island, who have written songs in its waterside huts.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 13°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 4 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

It’s no secret the Canary Islands offer reliable winter sun – but it may surprise that there’s another side to Lanzarote. Skip the east coast’s gaudy mega-hotels and you’ll discover a very cool Canary. Much of the built landscape owes a debt to local architect César Manrique, who designed many of the islands must-see architectural feats: Jardín de Cactus, his magical cactus amphitheatre; or the home he designed for himself, where cave-like rooms are carved into lava bubbles (now home to the Fundacíon César Manrique). Speaking of which, the island’s volcanic landscape is its own art project. Timanfaya National Park presents a ravishing patchwork of rainbow-hued earth. If climbing a volcano doesn’t do it for you, get wet: dive underwater through the art park Museo Atlántico, or surf local favourite Famara beach, a dramatic stretch to the north.

Sustainable travel tip: There’s no slow boat to Lanzarote, but lots of budget airlines fly here – and a few are genuinely attempting to reduce emissions. EasyJet , in fact, is rather progressive as carbon-gushing corporations go.

Where to stay: Finca Malvasia is a four-apartment hotel in Lanzarote's central La Geria wine region that's packed with funky touches such as volcanic-stone walls and cactus gardens. for a private stay, bed down in one of our favourite villas in Lanzarote .

Silver Lake, Los Angeles

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

Now Venice has officially made the transition from edgy to upscale, where do you go in LA for more boho, less bling? Head east to Silver Lake. There might not be a beach, but the chilled neighbourhood vibe more than compensates. Houses spill down jungly hills to palm-lined boulevards jammed with vintage T-shirts and vinyl. Behold the surf shops and farmers' markets, street murals and food trucks, plus indie clubs that launched Foo Fighters and Foster The People. Think of it as an unending summer of hip, young cool – even in January. And, as with any self-respecting creative hub, it’s where food trends are born: see Trois Familia’s French-Mexican brunch, with beet-tartare tostada and churro French toast

Sustainable travel tip: LA traffic is notorious, and its subpar public transportation even more so, but you can do your bit by renting a hybrid car.

Where to stay: The Palihouse Santa Monica boutique beach lodge is in a Spanish Colonial Revival-style building, a range of suites with a home-from-home philosophy.

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 19°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: GMT -1

A smattering of volcanic islands 350 miles off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde seems a lonely prospect at first look, out in the mid-Atlantic. But there’s a reason it’s fast become a fly-and-flop favourite: miles of uninterrupted ivory beaches, impossibly pure surf and an intriguing lunar landscape. Not to mention its consistently sunny disposition: January’s average temperature is 25˚C. And finally, there’s a lovely little eco lodge to rival the big hotels and budget guesthouses. Run entirely on renewable energy, Spinguera is a restored fishing village with its own private beach on the north coast of Boa Vista island (translation: good view). Think charming, stone-hewn villas with bright yellow shutters, fresh, white bedrooms and lantern-lit sunset suppers. You could while away every day right here. Or go island-hopping to explore more of Cape Verde’s craggy beauty: from Sal’s red deserts and salt pans to São Vicente, the heart of its colourful Afro-Portuguese culture.

Sustainable travel tip: Try exploring the islands by ferry. Some routes are more regular and reliable than others, such as São Vicente to lush and mountainous Santo Antão, and Santiago to rugged Fogo (where there’s a vineyard in a volcanic crater).

Where to stay: At Odjo d'Agua Hotel , a small, locally owned hotel with a garden, a pool, anachronistically decorated rooms (antiques and curios, fishing equipment and so on) and an open-air restaurant-bar jutting out into the sea, where you can dine as the Atlantic rollers crash past.

Montreal, Canada

Temperature in January: -4°C high; -12°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 7 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

If a rave in sub-zero temperatures sounds appealing, Montréal is for you. The city’s annual January Igloofest tempts parka-clad party people outside with a line-up of world-class EDM acts. Elsewhere, the French château architecture looks fabulous with frosting, and you can go snowshoeing up Mount Royal for excellent city views (it’s more of a hill, really, right in the middle of town). Mile End’s hipsters have been replaced by good-looking young families, but its food institutions remain: warm up with classic smoked-meat sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli, or St-Viateur’s hot-out-the-oven, hand-rolled bagels (thinner and sweeter than New York ’s). For a comforting treat in the cold, poutine is considered a delicacy – try it at Au Pied de Cochon or Garnde Manger. If you need to come in from the cold, there’s the Underground City – a network of shops, museums and restaurants below downtown’s core.

Sustainable travel tip: In hip warehouse district Griffintown the Hôtel Alt Montréal , from Canadian-owned Groupe Germain, has been designed with sustainability in mind: think geothermal heating and energy-saving lighting.

Where to stay: Auberge du Vieux-Port , located on the riverfront in Vieux Montreal, has a restaurant and a rooftop terrace with views of the St-Lawrence River and the Old Port.

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 24°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: from 12 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Finding a photograph-worthy beach in Panama – a compact country with two long coasts – is easy. Finding a suitably chic stay to match is more of a challenge. Maybe that’s why this gem gets overshadowed by its rowdy neighbours, Colombia and Costa Rica. But that’s all starting to change, now, thanks to the Islas Secas . On a remote, private archipelago of the same name, just 20 miles off Panama’s Pacific shore, this retreat leaves you marooned in luxury: it's home to four individually designed Casita sites and three Tented Casitas, all located on one of the islands and sleeping up to 24 guests. Expect expert-led excursions to uninhabited islands and jungles, and complete silence come nightfall. Changing gears, the Panama Jazz Festival makes January the best time to visit for a musical party. Hole up in Central America’s first W hotel , or head for the Casco Viejo . Once controlled by gangs, the capital’s old quarter is now flooded with cool new outfits revitalising crumbling colonial buildings, including romantic boutique bolthole La Concordia.

Sustainable travel tip: Billionaire conservation philanthropist Louis Bacon bought the Islas Secas archipelago on the condition that 13 of its 14 islands would remain undeveloped. The whole retreat runs on solar energy, plus all water used gets recycled. Alternatively, choose a completely untouched beach getaway: the Caribbean coast’s San Blas Islands are protected by an indigenous Panamanian tribe, the Guna. No hotels, no big-name restaurants: just simple huts and hammocks on deserted sands. Pass on flying here – you can catch a speedboat just outside Panama City.

Where to stay: Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo , the former Union Club of Panama, with its waterfront infinity pool, immersive spa program and spacious personal terraces that overlook the glittering downtown skyline. For a pretty retreat on a coffee farm in the mountain area of Boquete, Los Establos has spacious suites, great views and plenty of activities on offer.

Paddington, Sydney, Australia

Temperature in January: 27°C high; 20°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 22 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +10

If Sydney is urban done right – laid-back, cosmopolitan and perpetually beachy – then Paddington is suburban perfection. Fashionable and well-heeled, it’s got all the buzz of a central district, but with the charm of a village. Colourful Victorian terrace rows flaunting wrought-iron balconies could be Notting Hill. Main promenade Oxford Street bustles with cafés, pubs and boutiques, while back alleys are home to cool galleries, design studios and cute bars. Nicky Zimmermann started out selling her designs at Paddington’s famous Saturday markets; find her spacious store on Glenmore Road. Or join the 'Paddo' foodies at Fred’s, where chef Danielle Alvarez’s kitchen cooks farm-to-table comfort food. January is quintessential Sydney summer, with balmy temperatures, and the Sydney Festival packing the city with music and art.

Sustainable travel tip: Though Qantas conducted a successful nonstop London to Sydney research flight in late 2019 – clocking in at 19 hours and 19 minutes – it isn’t yet commercially available. Which means getting to Oz still entails a carbon-heavy indirect route. But you can choose to eat and shop sustainably while you’re there. Sydney, in fact, offers a lot of innovative ways to leave a lighter footprint, from Paddington’s zero-waste fashion boutique EkoLuv, to 'rescued food' market Oz Harvest, and sustainable seafood restaurant Love Fish, in the waterfront Barangaroo development, designed to be Australia’s first carbon-neutral precinct.

Where to stay: The Dive Hotel , a groovy family-run guesthouse in Coogee, is about 8km southeast of central Sydney. A cursory glance at the crisp cotton sheets, polished floorboards and blue-tiled bathrooms reveals that this hotel doesn't live up (or down) to its name. Over in Surry Hills, Ace Hotel pays homage to the area’s creative roots with a diverse selection of music, talks, workshops and Pride parties, including a First Nations’ artist-in-residence program showcasing works from Aboriginal and other boundary-pushing artists .

Nicaragua, Central America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT -6

Warning: a youthful wanderlust may return when you read this feature about Nicaragua . Quite possibly the Central American country that has it all: tropical rainforests and untouched beaches, fringed with palms, distant cloud-capped volcanoes, and recently some extraordinarily special eco-lodges (see our sustainable travel tip). January has the double blessing of being the month with the best temperatures everywhere, and also the least rainfall (barely any at all) on Nicaragua's Pacific Coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Half the appeal of going to Nicaragua is losing yourself in the wild, and there are plenty of smart yet eco ways to do it. On the coast, Totoco Eco-Lodge is made up of private casitas, a pool and bougainvillaea-filled gardens but also has compost loos and works with solar power and recycled water; even your morning coffee is sourced from a neighbouring finca. Jungle-clad Jicaro Island Lodge is built from reclaimed mahogany and cedar wood, while idyllic seaside farmhouse Morgan’s Rock grows all its own food.

Where to stay: Los Patios Hotel , a five-bedroom gem with an indoor-outdoor approach to living, with scrubbed, Scandi-style interiors and open-air spaces designed for chilling out.

The coast of Brazil, South America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 12 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT -3

Worth splurging all your annual leave in January for. Spend your New Year's Eve in Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo and then stay on for a couple more weeks and head up the coast to any number of preposterously gorgeous, barefoot-n-bikini-chic beach havens. So many thousands of miles of empty, golden sand, and beautiful people drinking caipirinhas at the coolest beach parties. The kind of places that really get our travel clichés rolling. Trancoso , in Bahia, is the original and still one of the best. Surfy Itacaré, the no-car islands of Boipeba and Tinharé. Or Sao Luís and Jericoacoara, on the wild and stunning north-east coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Carbon emissions in the Amazon forest have rocketed in recent years due to a lack of enforcement of environmental protection policies. As well as a devastating increase in deforestation in the world's largest rainforest, uncontrolled wildfires have ravaged one of the most climate-important carbon sinks in a region of rich biological and cultural diversity. Give financial support by booking nature-based activities through Indigenous-owned businesses which support the forest folk on the frontlines. To reduce your own carbon footprint, choose a direct flight route, since it’s the taking off and landing parts that burn the most fossil fuels. Choosing an energy-efficient low-cost carrier also means less kerosene combusted per passenger – consider Norwegian Air, for example, from London Gatwick to Rio.

Where to stay: Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa . A ramshackle façade disguises this utterly fabulous hotel. Ten beautiful houses are set among high-growing gardens. Bathrooms have living walls of ferns, orchids and jasmine, and there's a spa and a pool lined with green aventurine stones.

Belize, Central America

Temperature in January: 28°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 16 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

It is hot and humid and it rains a lot in Belize, beset as it is by tropical storms and hurricanes. But don't let that put you off. It is the perfect Caribbean escape for those who like it rough and palm-fringed around the edges, with tropical jungly highlands, Mayan ruins and the most astoundingly beautiful beaches, just a handful of hippies and beach bums to share them with. January and February are the best months, only pleasantly hot and not too wet.

Sustainable travel tip: Those who sign up to a five-day diving trip with Much Better Adventures can be part of the conservation effort to protect the Belize Barrier Reef, spearing invasive lionfish, training in conservation work and helping with research.

Where to stay: Itz’ana , a hotel with a beautiful rattan- and plant-decorated restaurant and a bar with a great pool.

South Africa

Temperature in January: 26°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

So, so many reasons to go, but briefly: amazing food and wine , beaches, hotels. Sensational scenery, from the Garden Route and Western Cape to the Little Karoo . Completely thrilling wildlife encounters on safari, staying at the most incredible lodges; or along the coastline, in knock-out villas . January is one of the best months for all those things. Wine can be drunk all year round. And because it's in the same time zone, you don't even get jet lag once you're home again. Shame we can't say the same about hangovers.

Sustainable travel tip: When choosing a safari, make sure your money is poured back into supporting the park. The likes of Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, where rhino poaching is rife, need these funds for anti-poaching schemes.

Where to stay: At Silo Hotel , the best hotel in Cape Town for eclectic design and wraparound views. Its compact footprint packs a punch and includes the best rooftop bar and pool in the city.

Bruges, Belgium

Temperature in January: 6°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

For snow, beer and chips. The beautiful little Belgian city is one of those rare places that is just as enticing in the bleak midwinter as in summer: pretty in the snow, 'beautiful f**king fairytale stuff', to quote the film In Bruges (which is all the research you need). And the snow is an excellent excuse for holing up somewhere, because this city also has some of the most inviting reasons to stay indoors: interesting interiors, welcoming taverns full of good cheer and much Belgian beer, antiques and junk shops to poke around, gorgeous old guesthouses on the canals, candlelit bars and restaurants, moules-frites and cream-and-kirsch-laden puddings. A long weekend is enough time to see everything and put on a stone in weight.

Sustainable travel tip: Our friends in the north have an advantage when it comes to getting to Bruges sustainably – the overnight ferry from Hull. The good news for southerners: the Eurostar travels direct from London to Brussels in just two hours, and from Brussels there are trains to Bruges every 30 minutes that take just over an hour.

Where to stay: Number 11 , three 17th-century gable houses containing four wooden-floored bedrooms which combine antique and contemporary furniture, tactile fabrics, interesting prints and fresh flowers. Go for the deluxe suite, a ground-floor apartment with its own entrance, Champagne-stocked fridge and a bathtub for two.

Rajasthan, India

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 8°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 14 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +5.30

India's state of princes is spectacular in January. It's pleasantly warm, the holiday crowds have vanished and you can dance through its palaces as if on your own private Bollywood set. Don't miss the jewels in its crown - pastel-hued Jaipur , turquoise-speckled Jodhpur and romantically golden Udaipur - but leave room in your itinerary for a few forgotten treasures : serene Jal Mahal or the lost city of Bhangarh. January also provides the perfect weather for an Arabian Nights-style safari in Jaisalmer, where you can traverse the desert on the back of a camel and sleep under the stars.

Sustainable travel tip: Rajasthan’s train network is excellent and largely runs on time. But reserve well in advance to secure the more comfortable cabin classes – 1AC and 2AC provide bunks with privacy curtains, towels and bedding – because they get snapped up fast. You can book through the Indian Railways site, which requires a frustrating registration process but is doable if you’re the patient type, or else use the quick and easy online agency 12go.asia .

Where to stay: Lakshaman Sagar was originally constructed in the 19th-century as a hunting lodge, and has since been converted into a luxury getaway set over 32 acres of land in Raipur. The resort features 12 villas, private dining and lounging spaces, a spa, and swimming pool.

The 14 best places to visit in January

Editor's Note

If you're starting to feel the itch to plan a getaway in the New Year, January can be the perfect month to embark on a new adventure. Whether you're looking to escape the chilly winter weather, experience unique cultural festivals or simply explore a new destination, there are many options to satisfy your travel cravings.

For those who prefer to embrace the cold and snowy conditions, there are destinations renowned for their winter sports and stunning icy landscapes. Imagine bundling up in cozy layers, gliding down powdery slopes or sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire. It's a winter wonderland waiting to be explored.

On the flip side, if you're eager to trade snowflakes for sunshine, there are plenty of warm-weather havens that boast beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant local cultures. Picture yourself lounging on sandy shores, exploring tropical rainforests or immersing yourself in lively street festivals — the perfect antidote to the winter blues.

No matter what type of adventure you're seeking, January's diverse travel options offer something for everyone.

But where should you go? Here are the 14 best destinations to visit in January.

If you're contemplating a trip to the Lone Star State, you might want to set your sights on Fort Worth. Often dubbed the "Modern West," Fort Worth has emerged dynamically from the shadow of its more famed neighbor, Dallas. It's a city that marries modernity with its classic Texas twang.

In fact, 2023 saw Fort Worth crowned as the fastest-growing city, outpacing even trendy Austin, with a population growth rate nearly four times faster. With such growth, there's an exciting surge in hotel openings on the horizon and an abundance of new eateries that further solidify its status as a burgeoning boomtown.

Why should you visit in January? Well, that's when the city plays host to the much-anticipated Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, kicking off on Jan. 13. This world-renowned event is set in the newly revamped $540 million Dickie's Arena and offers attendees a thrilling spectacle of bull riding, barrel racing and much more. With carnival rides, live music and an assortment of food and drinks, it's a Texas-sized extravaganza.

TPG Tip : The city's very first Kimpton Hotel, The Harper, is the perfect jumping-off point to experience all the city has to offer; it's centrally located in downtown Fort Worth. Book for 32,000 IHG points, or $200 per night.

Related: The top Kimpton Hotels across the world, according to IHG Diamond members

If you're looking for a unique way to ring in "El Ano Nuevo," or the new year, experience unique Mexican traditions. When the clock strikes midnight, many Mexican families will run around with empty suitcases to bring in new travels, eat 12 grapes to beckon luck or sweep coins on the floor out of their homes to bring good fortune and prosperity in the new year.

Of course, no New Year's celebration would be complete without fireworks, which many Mexicans see as a way to frighten evil spirits and ring in the New Year.

TPG tip : Perched between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon, Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa has nearly a dozen on-site bars and restaurants as well as five pools, including a rooftop infinity pool, providing endless ocean views. Book for 29,000 World of Hyatt points or around $470 per night.

Related: The best all-inclusives in Mexico

January is a great time to visit Panama as the area is still in its dry season, and travelers can expect plenty of sunshine, making it the perfect beach destination. The weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities such as the Feria de las Flores y del Cafe (Flower and Coffee Festival), one of the world's grandest celebrations of flowers. From Jan. 11 to 21, travelers can enjoy lush flower displays, food stands, live music, amusement rides and handicrafts booths.

TPG tip : Opened under The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in April 2022, travelers can experience three different eras of Panama history that come to life at Hotel La Compania . Book for around 20,000 World of Hyatt points or $294 a night.

Winter in Denver ? It's the perfect mix of city vibes and snowy adventures — absolutely magical. Imagine sipping hot cocoa at Union Station and strolling through the Dairy Block, all decked out in twinkling lights — it's like stepping into a winter wonderland. The best part is you can spend your day hitting the slopes and then come back to enjoy Denver's nightlife.

Getting here is a breeze, too, thanks to Denver International Airport (DEN) and its whopping 1,600 flights a day. That number is much higher than most ski spots offer.

Also, don't miss the National Western Stock Show from Jan. 6 to 21. It's the biggest horse show, packed with rodeos, livestock and a Western trade show. Plus, it's been a Denver staple since 1906, attracting more than 700,000 visitors yearly. Get ready for some top-notch bull riding, bronco busting and a parade through Downtown Denver that's just bursting with cowboy spirit.

TPG tip : The parade passes directly in front of the Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, giving guests a prime, uncrowded view of the spectacle. Book for about 9,000 World of Hyatt points or $165 a night.

Related: The best Denver hotels to experience when staying in the Mile High City

For travelers looking to immerse themselves in a true winter wonderland without the holiday crowds, Montreal is the ideal destination to visit for snow-filled fun in January.

This charming city offers a wide range of attractions in the late winter months, including festivals, shopping, outdoor activities and more. Montreal is also central to some of the best ski destinations in eastern Canada, including Mont Tremblant and L'Escapade, for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The city is also filled with more than 260 outdoor rinks for ice skating; options include Beaver Lake Skating Rink or the Old Port of Montreal's Bonsecours Basin, which is transformed into a lively winter village during the colder months.

Related: Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel

TPG tip : There's history around every corner in Montreal, and Hyatt Centric Ville-Marie Montreal — available for around 9,000 World of Hyatt points or $213 a night — is no exception.

January in Aruba is not just about soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches: It's Carnival season, the island's most vibrant and exciting time of the year. This celebration isn't just a weekend affair — it spans a whole two months of parades, music, dancing and colorful costumes. Imagine the streets filled with lively day and night parades, the air buzzing with Caribbean tunes and people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate.

You'll get to witness incredible music contests, partake in the excitement of queen elections and dance along with the spontaneous jump-ups.

TPG tip : Book Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino for 102,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or around $1,003 a night.

Related: Best all-inclusives in Aruba for a perfect Caribbean vacation

Montgomery, Alabama

Montgomery, Alabama, known for its profound role in the American Civil Rights Movement, continues to reinvent itself as an essential destination for purposeful travelers seeking ways to connect to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this January.

In addition to the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebrations, visitors can walk in his footsteps through many historic landmarks. Visit the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where King first preached his message of love and brotherhood, or experience the city's profound exhibits, memorials and museums. They include the nationally noted Anarcha, Lucy, Betsey Monument; the Equal Justice Initiative's Legacy Museum; the National Memorial for Peace and Justice; and the stunning Civil Rights Memorial designed by Maya Lin.

TPG tip : The city's first luxury boutique hotel, Trilogy Autograph Collection Hotel, which opened in May of 2023, features thoughtful design that celebrates the region's multicultural heritage. Book for around 20,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or around $156 a night.

Paradise Coast, Florida

For those seeking much-needed winter sun, Florida's Paradise Coast offers a tropical getaway all winter long. Florida's Paradise Coast (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades) is tucked into Southwest Florida and features miles of white sand beaches , diverse wildlife, luxurious resorts and various nature trails for guests to explore.

January is the ideal time for travelers to sneak away from the cold and get a taste of paradise. Enjoy a relaxing winter along the Gulf at stunning Naples Beach, or get up close and personal with some of the state's natural beauty and wildlife on a tour through the famed Everglades National Park.

TPG tip : This January, guests can enjoy the newly reopened The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, for around 120,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or around $1416 a night.

Reggae lovers from all over the world visit year in and year out to the cultural stylings of the Rebel Salute reggae festival on Jan. 19 and 20. This family-oriented event is renowned for its respectable environment free of alcohol, weapons and offensive lyrics.

Every January, Organic H.E.A.R.T Group of Companies hosts the annual musical festival, which was birthed by international reggae superstar Tony Rebel. Described as a modern Indigenous work of art that goes from dusk until dawn for two days, the festival focuses on displaying Jamaican music in all forms — roots reggae, dancehall, ska, mento, rocksteady — before the largest and most discerning audience of any music festival in the Caribbean.

Complemented by a diverse lineup of performing acts from all over the world (including England, Germany and African states), Rebel Salute boasts a massive cultural food village, a Jamaican arts village and the famous Herb Curb.

TPG tip : Book the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa for 90,000 Hilton Honors points or around $435 a night.

Related: The best all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, from honeymoon hot spots to family-friendly resorts

Marquette, Michigan

Tucked away in one of the snowiest parts of the east, Marquette County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is a winter adventure haven with activities for everyone. Save the date for Jan. 26-27, 2024, for the 26th Annual Noquemanon Ski Marathon — an event loved by both elite and casual cross-country skiers from all over. It takes off from Ishpeming's Al Quaal Recreation Area and finishes at the NMU Superior Dome.

After the race, dive into Marquette's winter adventures, top-notch dining and amazing craft beer scene, or hit the trails for some snowshoeing and skiing.

TPG tip : Book the Fairfield Inn & Suites Marquette for 25,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Book the Hampton Inn Marquette/Waterfront for 69,000 points or $175 per night.

This Southern California city is always a good choice for a winter getaway. Not only will you still get temperatures in the high 60s, but some special events in January make it worth a trip.

The 13th annual San Diego Brew Festival takes place in NTC Park in Liberty Station on Jan. 6 and will feature more than 70 breweries, 200 beers, 10 of San Diego's best food trucks, bands and more.

Other popular events in San Diego include the Monster Jam, the Borrego Springs Film Festival and the San Diego Lunar New Year Festival.

Additionally, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to the lagoons of Baja California in January, when the females give birth to their calves. San Diego is an ideal destination for viewing this impressive spectacle, with 70 miles of coastline set along the migration path.

San Diego (along with Tijuana, Mexico) has also been designated the World Design Capital for 2024 . The World Design Organization accolade recognizes cities that enhance their residents' economic, social, cultural and environmental quality of life through design. It's the first time that two cities will simultaneously celebrate the designation through unique experiences, from events and festivals to exhibitions and summits.

TPG tip : Perched on a hilltop above the beachy hamlet of Carlsbad, the Park Hyatt Aviara feels like a classic California resort. There are plenty of on-site amenities including a Splash Pool Deck that's great for families, an expansive fitness center, tennis courts and rounds at the Aviara Golf Club; there are also nearby hiking trails along the Batiquitos Lagoon. Rates from $552 or 21,000-29,000 points per night.

Related: The best hotels in San Diego

January is one of the most popular months to visit St. Barts, and it's easy to see why.

The weather is perfect, and the beaches are sparkling. Also, the island hosts the 40th annual St. Bart's Music Festival on Jan. 6-15. The festival is a music connoisseur's dream.

Related: The best Caribbean resorts in 2023

It brings some of the world's most prominent classical, opera, ballet and jazz stars from Montreal, Boston, New York, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, London and Paris, as well as from the Juilliard and Curtis schools of music.

TPG tip : Stay at the luxurious Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf from $969 per night or 100,400 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Khao Yai, Thailand

If you're considering visiting Thailand , January is the time to do it.

Once you land in Bangkok, venture about three hours to Khao Yai National Park. Established as Thailand's first, and currently one of its largest, national parks, Khao Yai is a serene landscape of forest and grassland that offers an escape from the outside world.

As one of the richest conservation areas in Thailand, the UNESCO-protected preserve encompasses miles of hiking and biking trails, picturesque waterfalls and nature in its purest form. You may encounter varied wildlife — from wandering elephants and hornbills to gibbons and bears.

TPG tip : Transporting guests back to the golden age of rail travel, the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort takes historical inspiration from King Rama V's reign in the late 1800s. Rooms are available for around $199 or 33,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Park City, Utah

For powderhounds, Park City is the ultimate winter escape. In January, the snow is at its prime, ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

If you don't want to shred some powder, this month also marks one of the biggest Hollywood events. The Sundance Film Festival is when lots of A-listers descend on the charming ski town to show off their new films, lead discussions with fans and throw some epic parties.

While there, discover Utah Olympic Park, explore the buzzing Main Street, book a spa treatment at Westgate Park City and have an apres experience with Alpine Distilling. It's hard to find a reason not to visit in January.

TPG tip : The AC Hotel Park City — available from $307 or 32,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night — is a sleek hotel less than 10 minutes from the ski slopes and 15 minutes from downtown. If you want to splurge on more polished quarters along with ski-in and ski-out access, the Waldorf Astoria Park City is in a prime location close to the slopes and amenities of Canyons Village. Rates start from around $1,500 per night during ski season, making Hilton Honors points redemptions a fantastic option. If you act fast, there's currently plenty of availability for 110,000 points per night in January and March.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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Best places to visit in january 2024.

January is an ideal time to travel for those needing to escape winter's chill. While travel deals may be limited during this time, you will skirt humidity and the rainy season in popular warm weather destinations. And if you're one for embracing the season's snowy offerings, this is the perfect time to take advantage of the powder in mountainous regions north of the equator. U.S. News weighed these factors and more across an array of different destinations – from the rugged to the refined – to come up with the best places to visit in January. Vote for your favorite destinations below to have a say in next year's list. 

Argentine Patagonia

Railay beach, st. kitts & nevis, british virgin islands, hawai'i volcanoes national park, serengeti national park.

As January brings some of the warmest temperatures and the most daylight hours of the year to Argentine Patagonia, it's no surprise that this is one of the most popular months to visit. Conditions will be ideal for kayaking or rafting on the glacier-fed lakes of the Lake District, located in the northern part of Patagonia, or taking a boat cruise to Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. Plus, the weather will be warm enough (though still brisk) for a trip to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and an excellent base for hiking in Tierra del Fuego.

If sun, sand and a little adventure are requirements for your post-holiday escape, Railay Beach is a great place to spend your next vacation. January is one of the driest months of the year on this Thai peninsula, so you're likely to encounter sun-soaked days of beaching and kayaking while taking in views of the iconic limestone cliffs. If you're up for more action, this area is known for its rock climbing, and you'll also find several caves and lagoons to explore. Just be sure to book early as accommodations can fill up quickly during the dry season.

Venture to this Swiss ski town during the winter months for a scenic getaway. One of Zermatt's most impressive sights is its world-renowned Matterhorn. For breathtaking views, take a cable car to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest mountain station. Here, travelers can explore the attraction’s Glacier Palace, an enchanting attraction with ice tunnels and ever-changing ice sculptures. Adrenaline junkies can also gaze at this jaw-dropping natural wonder during a helicopter tour, or they can try hiking or skiing one of the area's 37 other mountains. Zermatt itself is car-free, but visitors can get around on foot or bike, or by using the town's electric vehicles.

Come January, nothing sounds better than tropical weather and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean . But once you arrive, you'll find that these islands have even more to offer. This two-island nation boasts prime sailing conditions, blue waters perfect for snorkeling and lush forests and volcanoes for those who prefer to explore on land. Plus, if you're ringing in the new year here, you'll catch the closing events for the islands' biggest festival – the St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival. Deemed Sugar Mas by the locals, this cultural celebration makes this one of the sweetest times of year to visit.

Those looking to get away from chilly winter weather should consider a relaxing getaway to the British Virgin Islands. Average temperatures hover between the high 70s and low 80s this time of year, making it easy to enjoy the many outdoor activities that the four main islands have to offer. With ferries regularly traveling to and from the various islands, visitors can sunbathe on the sandy shores of Cane Garden Bay on the capital island of Tortola one day and explore The Baths on Virgin Gorda the next.

Home to two of the world's most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park appeals to adventurous travelers. Hike or drive along Crater Rim Drive to see stunning views of the Kilauea caldera, or attend an educational ranger program to learn more about the park's history. January is Volcano Awareness Month on the Big Island, and the park holds several events during this time to promote the understanding and respect of volcanoes. Keep in mind, certain areas of the park may be closed due to seismic activity, so check the park website prior to arrival.

An African safari may not be the first destination you think of when planning a winter getaway, but a trip to Tanzania's Serengeti National Park should be on your radar. January is one of the best times to travel here, as it is when numerous wildebeest breed during their Great Migration throughout the park. To catch a glimpse of this can't-miss natural phenomenon, which is one of the largest herd movements in the world, base yourself in Southern Serengeti or the northern part of the adjacent Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

If your heart is set on a winter wonderland, Whistler is the spot for you. This Canadian ski destination averages around 80 inches of snowfall in January, so you're bound to have some fresh powder when you hit the slopes, snowmobile or snowshoe. You'll also have plenty of opportunity to embrace the elements while you ice skate at the Village at Whistler Olympic Plaza or ice fish on serene lakes. When you're ready to warm up, enjoy Whistler's après-ski scene with craft beer at a pub, or cozy up by the fire at one of the area's iconic chalets.

Take a trip Down Under for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. In January, this Australian island offers its warmest weather of the year – average highs sit in the low 70s – thanks to its location in the Southern Hemisphere. Much of Tasmania is protected in national parks and wildlife reserves, offering nature lovers plenty of opportunities to hike, camp and spot wildlife. Travelers can also head to the capital city of Hobart to explore its food and wine offerings or visit the Mona, a unique underground art museum with its own brewery, winery and restaurant.

Boasting the world's tallest building (Burj Khalifa), the world's largest shopping center (the Dubai Mall) and the world's longest urban zip line (the XLine Dubai), this United Arab Emirates city has plenty to offer travelers come January. Average temperatures this time of year hover around the mid-70s, which is ideal for lounging on popular La Mer beach, strolling through the whimsical Dubai Miracle Garden or floating down Dubai Creek on a water taxi (called an abra). If you need to get out of the sun, consider touring the ornate Jumeirah Mosque or observing marine life at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.

Located in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, Seville boasts a number of can't-miss attractions (think: the Real Alcázar and Plaza de España). You'll also want to save time for a leisurely stroll down the winding streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville's former Jewish quarter. Although weather this time of year is chilly for Spain (temperatures typically hover in the 50s and 60s), this is still much warmer than many other European destinations. Plus, travelers who visit in early January will be able to experience Three Kings Day, a celebration commemorating the day that the three wise men visited baby Jesus.

January is one of the driest times of the year in this tropical Central American country. That means it's much easier to enjoy Costa Rica's vast array of outdoor offerings and wildlife-viewing opportunities, such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve and the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. What's more, a number of culturally significant festivals take place in January, including the Palmares Fiestas, which features everything from bullfights to outdoor concerts. Looking to catch some waves? This is also a great time of year to go surfing in Costa Rica, especially for beginners.

If you're seeking a cheap tropical vacation that's closer to home, Cancún is just south enough to offer an easily accessible warm weather getaway. Though January is one of the coolest months in this Mexican city, average temperatures typically remain in the high 70s and low 80s, and there is minimal humidity, which makes this a perfect time to visit. Just be prepared for others to have the same idea and book your trip early. When you're not defrosting on the beach, you can fill your days with a number of day trips and tours to must-visit ruins, nature reserves and nearby islands.

Tulum, Mexico, is an excellent destination for travelers who want to unwind after the busy holiday season. Visitors can relax post-Christmas by visiting one of the city's many yoga and wellness centers. More adventurous vacationers will enjoy exploring Tulum's ancient Mayan ruins, which are some of the best-preserved ruins in Mexico. Those who'd rather swim and soak up some sun can venture to one of the city's cenotes (sinkholes that are filled with water) or a beautiful white sand beach like Playa Paraíso.

Affectionately nicknamed "The Pink City" thanks to its blush-colored sandstone buildings – which were painted pink in 1876 as a welcome to Prince Albert, the Prince of Wales – Jaipur is ideal for a January vacation. In contrast to this Indian city's sweltering summer temperatures, which frequently reach the triple digits, January enjoys comfortable weather in the mid-70s. Take advantage of the mild conditions by joining a guided walking or biking tour, where you'll get an in-depth look into the city's rich history and culture. Other can't-miss activities include exploring Jaipur's magnificent palaces, from the iconic Hawa Mahal to the sprawling Amber Palace.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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Flights from the United States - Travel Insights & Trends

Get data-powered insights and trends into flights from the united states to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., which are the most popular places to fly to from the united states, based on kayak flight searches, the most popular place to fly from united states is new york (25% of total searches). the next most popular destinations are las vegas harry reid intl (12%) and seattle/tacoma intl (12%)., what are the most popular international flights out of the united states, there are many international destinations you can fly to from the united states. the most popular international destinations among kayak users are san juan, rome and paris ., what are the most popular countries to fly to from the united states, based on kayak flight searches, the most countries to fly to from the united states is united kingdom (8% of total searches). the next most popular destinations are canada (8%) and mexico (7%)., which cities can i fly to direct from the united states, there are loads of places you can fly direct to from the united states. the most popular destinations for direct flights among kayak users are chicago , new york , los angeles , washington, d.c. and miami . on average, the cheapest of these destinations on kayak over the last 2 weeks for a return flight was miami at $180, while the most expensive was washington, d.c. , at $219., which international cities can i fly to direct from the united states, there are many international destinations you can fly to non-stop from the united states. the most popular international destinations from kayak users are mexico city , milan , paris , manila and guadalajara . on average, the cheapest of these destinations on kayak over the last 2 weeks for a return flight was guadalajara at $235, while the most expensive was manila , at $808., what is the longest direct flight from the united states, the longest direct flight you can take from the united states is to beijing, with a duration of 20h 20m. the next longest is singapore at 19h 10m, followed by a flight to chengdu at 18h 05m., good to know, faqs for booking united states to worldwide flights, where can i fly to for cheap from the united states.

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Top 5 airlines flying to Anywhere

I've flown many many times on Northwest and then Delta. The crew on this flight were absolutely the best I've had the pleasure of being looked after by.

Flew first class so everything was great. But maybe because the flights were red eye, no meals were served, just chips. I flew Alaska Air 1st class at 9PM (2 hour flight) and they served beef short rib sliders!

Had to change aircraft due to a faulty door. Surprisingly it only caused about an hour and a half of delay. Delta handled this situation as well as can be expected.

Awful. Flight was continuously getting delayed and gates kept changing without any reason. Flight was delayed for more then 3 hours

Paid premium for Delta only to be on safe but tired old 767 with ancient cabin in mediocre condition. Poor wifi and horrible inflight entertainment. Hardly a premium experience. Should have flown SW and had fun flight crew and no pretense

Our flight to Zurich was delayed by almost 3 hours, so we missed our next flight. There was no indication it would be delayed this much. We were told the gate had changed and then it apparently took over 2 hours to load the "catering" on the plane. We were not compensated in any way for the trouble.

Rated entertainment as Mediocre as there were major problems with the Infotainment system that took probably a half hour for them to fix.

Your crew could maybe answer the call bell at least one of the times I pressed it. I pressed it first time with 2.5 hours left in our flight bc my partner was hungry and wanted a sandwich. We finally got the sandwich with 40 mins left in the flight.

Half the bathrooms assigned to economy were out of action

Delta crushed it. Flight attendant in first was attentive and just never stopped. Honestly one of the best domestic flights I’ve been on.

Well....let's start from the point that I had to stay in airport for 12 hours instead of 2 that was scheduled. Poor company and even worst customer service. Never again....

The flight and boarding were easy peasy. I was traveling with my 4-year-old, so a smooth boarding experience was especially appreciated. My only piece of feedback is really about where our gate was in O'Hare. They've shoved four gates into a tiny corner of the B terminal and there isn't early enough room or seating for everyone. Not United's problem, but did dent the overall experience.

We liked the fully reclinable seats. Had center seats, so it was difficult to talk to spouse. Crew was great

Aisle chair was good and liked the foot bar preventing you from putting your foot in the isle, The breakfast on this international flight to Zurich was horrible (Europeans, specially, used to good food) may make this a dealbreaker for booking with United Airlines again. I agreed with my Spanish fellow passenger.

Dinner was okay but the breakfast was not eatable on the flight San Francisco to Zurich.

There was no screens on board AND the WiFi didn’t work. My seat was broken and couldn’t recline so I couldn’t even sleep. The flight attendants didn’t offer anything to make it more comfortable. It was such an old cramped plane, when the person in front of me reclined I couldn’t even open my tray table. All the United ads talk about guaranteeing everyone gets a screen!

The Wi-Fi was unavailable on this flight for some reason.

The flight was delayed almost 2 hours. Bad customer service etc. I will never fly Luthansa. Ever!!!

On time take off…US cabins look tired and need of refresh!

Fine. Though no food or entertainment so the survey needs to be updated with those options.

My husband and I pre-ordered our food, but they did not have my husband’s order, and my cheese plate was very average. I asked for a blanket and was told they don’t carry blankets on domestic routs. The flight was on time and smooth!

28 hour delay at Fort Worth/Dallas airport, part due to weather which was unavoidable, but various other reasons - no pilot, no fa, mechanical problem, plane too small, too big, crew out of flying time, seat configuration problems.... endless and hourly updates with a different excuse. Finally told us about 3.00 am, that the flight was delayed to hours later.

Experience was bad. 3.5 hour delay for a 2.5 hour trip. There was no r Transparency about the reason for the delay and it was done 30 mins at a time.

Original flight delayed several times and finally canceled at 2:30 in the morning. Staff at the gate was not very helpful in resolving problems or communicating why there were delays. I spent 34 hours at the airport before I could leave, they couldn't book me on another early flight even after canceling my original flight. Next flight available after my original flight was canceled was 22 hours later. I will never fly American Airlines again.

very very tight seats unfriendly crew who do not seem to care about the comfort of their passengers and do not know how to smile poor ground staff support at LHR and PHX

The boarding process and flight were great. However, I waited about 40 minutes for my luggage. It did not come up on the designated belt. Instead, everyone’s bags were on a cart. Not sure what the issue was, but we were not informed until another passenger went looking for her bags and found them.

There were delays on both ends. It made it less than excellent. This plane was great though

AA1537 the AC was not working properly. It was very hot and uncomfortable.

So uncomfortable to sit in the tiny space on a long, international. Food was rough. Please, less white flour and processed food.

Worst experience flying American Airlines. I fly with them often, so I was super disappointed in the service I received at gate 30 in LGA on May 24, mid-day. The flight was delayed twice. I was patiently waiting in the American Airlines lounge when I received the notice on my app that the plane was boarding 45 minutes before its newly re-scheduled take off of 4 pm (from the orginal 1:45 pm then 3:00 pm). It took me 5 min to travel from the lounge to the gate and when I arrived there at 3:20 flight gate attendant told me the flight had closed and that they announced for passengers multiple times. I showed them the notification on my app and they were really rude and unempathetic. The person who rescheduled my flight at customer service wasn't any happier but was at least helpful in getting me on the next flight.

The plane was not on time for boarding or departure or arrivals.

EVERYTHING WAS WONDERFUL HOSPITALITY THE HELP.THE SEATING FRIENDLY ALWAYS HAVE A GOOD RIDE NOT ONE BAD EXPERIENCE WITH THEM

This was the smoothest flight I have had in awhile. I was also offered an exit row seat for a great upgrade cost and was able to sleep almost thr whole flight due to comfort and a smooth flight. We left on time and arrived on time.

No food not even water offered unless you buy it and no usb in the seat but other than that everything was good

Because our flight from marsh Harbor to Fort Lauderdale was over three hours delayed it caused us to miss our flight in Fort Lauderdale. Because we missed that flight, it cost us nearly $100 apiece for four different travelers which totaled nearly $400. We are seeking a reimbursement for the flight that we missed in Fort Lauderdale Florida.

Flight expected to leave at 6:40 pm ended leaving at 8:00 am the following day. I slept in a cold airport. Never again Spirit for me…

Flight was cancelled just 6 days before. No more flights that day, and the following date was sold out. Had to obtain a refund and buy more expensive flights on another airline.

The flight was on time and nice as always for me with spirit but the cabin crew were not good. They left the lights on on a red eye for the entire flight.

This was the return leg of my journey with Spirit Airlines. Despite its reputation, I found no issues as it got me from point A to B safely and without delay, especially with no mechanical delays, which is fantastic in my book! The staff, from ground crew to cabin crew, were all pleasant and hassle-free. The flight was smooth from takeoff to landing. I have absolutely no complaints about this no-frills airline!

I got a one-way, last-minute nonstop flight from PDX to BWI for only $125. Yes, I got nicked $79 more for a checked suitcase and $89 more for the BIG SEAT option, but it was worth it, even with $4.50 for coffee and $10 for a snack (the latter no different than any other airline). The grand total was still less flying on any other airline.

It was delayed 9 hours for operational reasons, despite the plane arriving to the airport on time.

I am very disappointed with Frontier Airlines. They cancelled our flight because they couldn't find a crew member, and then didn't get us to our connecting flight. We had to cancel our whole vacation. We were promised flight and hotel vouchers, but they never sent them.

9hrs delay and didn’t provided anything until after flight landed $75 voucher for fiuture travel no meals or anything.

It was ridiculously hard to check in for the flight, and Frontier charged us a LOT of money to have a carry on suitcase, and then told everyone we could not carry on bags and had to check them through at the gate, and didn't refund the extra money we paid to have the suitcase as carry on.

I had a terrible experience with Frontier. I arrived before the 60 minute cut off and was told that Frontier has a two hour window for bags. I was then told the next available flight wasn’t until the end of the day (I had booked a 6am flight). I took a look around and saw other people being told that they could not board their flights or that they had to pay additional fees. I opted to rebook on American Airlines. There’s absolutely no straightforward way to contact Frontier, so this ticket was a complete waste of money. Oh - and the kicker is that the lady lied about the two hour cut off.

Frontier won’t help you at the airport without paying $25. Carry on was $75. Then you get on the plain and every beverage or snack is also a charge. Seats are hard and real packed in. I would never fly them again.

Worst experience I have seen. The flight was cancelled without any reason.

My experience with frontier staff at the Denver airport was absolutely horrible. The manager on duty was even worst if was the worst experience I have ever had, I have never been treated so poorly as a customer in my life! The staff was extremely rude, eye rolls and attitude and then refusal to help me at all. I wish I could never fly frontier again that’s how horrible it was!

The Frontier app wasn’t working. So I could not pay for a carry on the week prior to flying. They charged me 99$ at the gate to carry on a duffle bag.

Good for the price. My only complaint is that the pilot should keep the air flowing while passengers are waiting to getting out of airplane.

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10 Best Places to Travel in January 2024

Here are 10 of the best places to visit in January in the United States and around the world.

Best Places to Travel in January in the United States

• Best Places to Travel in January Around the World

graphixel/Getty Images

Whether you’re looking forward to ski season or aiming to escape to someplace warm to kick off 2024, we have ideas for you. Those seeking sunshine might travel to Panama, the Maldives, or the Caribbean, while snow sports fans can find their fun in Vail or Switzerland. Travelers who appreciate off-season deals might consider Monaco or Savannah, Georgia, and for more stateside history and beauty, consider a trip to Alabama. 

Wherever your January takes you, we hope it will be the beginning of a year of travel to new destinations and favorite places. Here are 10 of the best places to travel in January in the United States and around the world. 

Stephen Poff/Alabama Tourism

The birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, Alabama is an inspiring destination during the month of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. In Montgomery, visitors can experience landmarks like Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached his message, as well as the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Civil Rights Memorial designed by Maya Lin. Stay in Montgomery, and if time allows, head south to Alabama’s beaches , where it’s pleasant to be outside even in the winter months. The Gulf Shores area is located along the Mississippi Flyway migration route, and birdwatchers flock to the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail to spot species they rarely see.

Where to Stay: Stay at the conveniently located luxury boutique Trilogy Autograph Collection Hotel in Montgomery. 

Vail, Colorado

miralex/Getty Images

Ski season is prime time to visit Colorado, and Vail is a great spot to hit the slopes. The quaint town is modeled after a Bavarian village, with pedestrian streets, world-class restaurants, shops, cafés, and luxury hotels. Vail is perfect for skiers who visit for its nearly 200 trails and for non-skiers who enjoy apré-ski activities without ever going out in the snow. Vail’s public art collection includes paintings, sculptures, and murals, ideal for a pleasant stroll through town. After a long day on the slopes, we recommend checking into one of the luxe spas at the many high-end hotels. You can fly into Denver and drive about two hours to Vail, or take a flight into the nearby Eagle County Regional Airport .

Where to Stay: Top places to stay in Vail include Grand Hyatt Vail , The Arrabelle , The Lodge at Vail , Antlers at Vail , The Sebastian-Vail .

Temecula, California

skodonnell/Getty Images

About 90 miles south of Los Angeles and 60 miles from San Diego, Temecula Valley is a popular Southern California wine destination with nearly 50 award-winning wineries. Hot air ballooning, hiking, horseback riding, and golf are great local activities. You can also go wine tasting or visit area breweries and distilleries. Old Town Temecula has a historic feel and a community theater that hosts comedy shows, tribute bands, jazz concerts, and more. 

Where to Stay: Hotels, vacation rentals , and Pechanga Resort & Casino are among places to stay. For a particularly unique experience, stay at Europa Village , where you can enjoy the atmosphere of Spain, France, or Italy without dusting off your passport. Accommodation options here include casitas and suites with easy access to wine tasting. 

Related: 12 of the Best Wineries in Temecula Valley 

Savannah, Georgia

joe daniel price/Getty Images

Take advantage of off-season prices by booking a getaway to Savannah in January. Crowds at city attractions will likely be thin — this is usually Savannah’s coldest month, though temperatures rarely fall below 40 degrees and often reach the 60s. And there are plenty of things to do in Savannah , from museum visits to meals at popular dining spots. Explore the riverfront, browse unique shops, and find a place that serves fresh seafood. 

Where to Stay: If you’d like to stay along the river, consider the sophisticated Thompson Savannah , set in the Eastern Wharf district. Or choose Perry Lane Hotel in the heart of historic downtown Savannah. For a unique Savannah experience, visit Cohen’s Retreat , set in a restored century-old building that now features a restaurant, bar, live music nights, and a boutique that showcases the work of local artists. You can even stay nearby at one of their cottages. 

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Best places to travel in january around the world .

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Summer crowds are gone, and while temperatures in the 50s likely mean no swimming or sunbathing, there’s still much to enjoy in Monaco during this time of year. In addition to exploring Old Town, where you will see the 13th-century Prince’s Palace of Monaco and the Baroque 17th-century Museum of the Chapel of the Visitation, you can shop and stroll in Monte Carlo, on the same streets where Formula One cars speed during the famed Monaco Grand Prix. From Jan. 19-28, the 46th Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo comes to Monaco with thousands of international circus acts. A range of hotels offer attractive prices in the off-season, too. 

Where to Stay: Consider a luxe stay at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo , Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo , or Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo , all part of The Leading Hotels of the World .

The Maldives

January weather is dry and warm in this nation of more than a thousand islands, about 200 of which are inhabited. Clear seas, coral formations, and marine life make it a favorite destination for divers and snorkelers, and the destination’s overwater bungalows and remote location make it a honeymoon haven. No matter your reason for visiting, you’ll want to experience the beaches and beautiful scenery. Many resorts cater to families, groups, and solo travelers. 

Where to Stay: Places to stay include all-inclusive resorts , budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and liveaboards. For a wellness-focused visit, consider Joali Being or Velaa Private Island with its Wellbeing Village. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru , Dhawa Ihuru , and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offer kids’ activities, making them great for families. 

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

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This volcanic archipelago is known for its fascinating wildlife, including many species unique to the islands. January is an ideal time to see land birds nesting and sea turtles laying their eggs on the beaches. The seas are relatively calm in January, and comfortable water temperatures allow for swimming, though there may be some rain as the wet season begins. Most visitors tour the islands via cruise ; operators include Hurtigruten Expeditions , Ecoventura , and Integrity Luxury Yacht , among other cruise lines. 

Where to Stay: Another option is to stay on land at Pikaia Lodge, Relais & Châteaux , located on Santa Cruz Island. The luxury property features both land tours and yacht day cruises, so guests enjoy the comfort of the lodge with opportunities for hiking, diving, fishing, and wildlife spotting.  

Pawel Toczynski/Getty Images

Warm and dry in January, with average temperatures in the high 80s (except in the highlands, where the weather is cooler), Panama is a great destination this time of year. Thanks to the country’s varied landscapes, you can take your pick from cities, deserts, rainforests, islands, and beaches on the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Wildlife enthusiasts might visit Panama’s national parks, while others may want to learn about the Panama Canal — a feat of engineering — with a trip to Miraflores Visitors Center, just outside of Panama City. Music fans may want to time their trip for the annual mid-January Panama Jazz Festival . You’ll also have the chance to enjoy some of the world’s best coffee when you visit Panama.

Where to Stay: If you’re staying in Panama City, consider The Santa Maria , where the 2024 Latin American Amateur Golf Championships will be held in January, or Hotel La Compañia , formerly a 17th-century convent and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also Buenaventura Resort in beachside Riviera Pacifica and Isla Palenque , a resort set on a private island.

Turks and Caicos

Matt Anderson Photography/Getty Images

Turks and Caicos is made up of two island groups with eight major islands; most people stay on Providenciales, the most inhabited island. Providenciales offers stunning beaches, resorts, and vacation villas, plus Providenciales International Airport, ideal for those arriving by air. (Cruise passengers typically arrive at Grand Turk Cruise Center ). You can spend your days lounging on the beaches, fishing, boating, and windsurfing, or go beyond the shores to hike through nature reserves and spot local wildlife. End sun-soaked days with a visit to local bars to enjoy the destination’s music scene and nightlife. 

Where to Stay: Beachfront escapes abound in Turks and Caicos. On beautiful Grace Bay Beach, stay at The Palms , The Somerset , or Grace Bay Club , or choose from boutique properties like Rock House , Wymara Resort & Villas , or The Shore Club .

Switzerland

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Ski season is underway in Switzerland come January, so winter sports fans will find plenty to do. Epic Pass holders can ski Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis , where they’ll find a traditional mountain village, deep powder, and steep slopes. Or, experience the Alps without skis by booking an excursion on Jungfrau Railways that ends at the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 11,332 feet. A thrilling ride on the 10-passenger aerial gondola from the mountain resort town of Grindelwald offers another way to take in the snowy scenery. And in Bern, Switzerland’s historic capital, you can explore the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in the 12th century. 

Where to Stay: Stay near Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis at The Chedi Andermatt for a luxury experience with a relaxing spa, indoor pool, and heated outdoor pool. Ski at Zermatt and enjoy Matterhorn views with a stay at Mont Cervin Palace or Hotel Schweizerhof . In Bern, stay at Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa for its luxe spa and classic atmosphere.

Related Articles

10 Affordable Places to Travel in the US

By Jamie Spain

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether you're planning a grand family vacation or are looking for a quick and breezy solo trip to switch up the scenery, finding affordable places to travel in the US can be difficult. There are so many different things to consider when planning a trip, from hotels and flights to food and activities, and it's safe to say that it can all get rather overwhelming. To help, we've compiled a list of 10 fun and affordable US cities perfect for all types of travelers. From Charlotte, North Carolina , to Albuquerque, New Mexico , these are some of the best budget-friendly cities in the country.

To ensure that our picks are all affordable, we've made selections using data from Priceline on the most affordable domestic flights and hotels in the US this summer (based on average round-trip airfare and average rate per night, respectively). We've also included a few quality hotel and vacation rental options, all under $300 a night, for each destination.

Read on for 10 affordable travel destinations in the US, so you can keep your budget in check while still enjoying your next great vacation.

Hyatt Regency Orlando

Orlando, Florida

It's not the flights or the hotels in Orlando that will stretch your budget (both can be found at fairly reasonable prices if you plan in advance), but the activities. Since Orlando is home to Disney World , if you plan on attending any of the parks, you'll be designating a large chunk of your travel budget to tickets. But the theme parks aren't the only great thing to do in the city —from visiting some amazing museums to enjoying nature-filled parks, there are tons of other activities that are often overlooked. If you do plan to spend a day or two at Magic Kingdom or Universal Studios, you can rest easy knowing that the rest of your trip was budgeted accordingly.

Where to stay in Orlando:

• For family-friendly fun: Hilton Orlando
• For a great pool: Hyatt Regency Orlando
• For a private home: Cozy three-bedroom near downtown Orlando

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philly is home to some amazing attractions, wonderful views, cool hotels , and of course, incredible history. In Philadelphia's Old Town, travelers can walk in the footsteps of America's Founding Fathers—meandering down the same streets and buildings they once did. There are plenty of great free and low-cost activities, including seeing the iconic Liberty Bell, walking past The President's House (the original “White House” before Washington, DC), and exploring Elfreth's Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the US. If you find time to try a Philly cheesesteak while you're there, all the better.

Where to stay in Philadelphia:

• For an escape from downtown: Inn at Whitewing Farm
• For a micro-hotel experience: Pod Philly Hotel
• For the University: The Study at University Circle

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Booking an affordable beach vacation can be quite the feat, but Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to go when you want to balance beachy views with budget-friendly prices. Especially in comparison to other South Carolina vacation hotspots like Charleston and Hilton Head , Myrtle Beach is where you'll get the most bang for your buck. Spend most of your time enjoying the sun and sand on the free beaches, or walk the iconic boardwalk a couple (dozen) times.

By Jessica Puckett

By Olivia Morelli

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Devra Ferst

Where to stay in Myrtle Beach:

• For direct beach access: Willow Bay Resort
• For golf lovers: Marina Inn at Grand Dunes
• For a balcony: Quaint condo with two double beds

Nomad Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

While you may think of Las Vegas as a place meant solely for casinos and clubbing (not exactly high up there on the list of budget-friendly activities), there are tons of fun and affordable things to do in the city and plenty of great hotels and Airbnbs to stay in. Simply walking (and gawking at) The Strip is an activity of its own, or take a hike to the Red Rock Canyon and enjoy the natural scenery. There are some great museums and exhibits to stop into as well, and seeing the Bellagio fountains is well worth a trip. Don't forget to take a picture next to the iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign.

Where to stay in Vegas:

• For an off-the-strip experience: Golden Nugget
• For old-world luxury on a budget: Nomad Las Vegas
• For a themed resort: The Mirage Las Vegas

Omni Charlotte Hotel

Charlotte, North Carolina

From the incredible food to the family-friendly activities , there's plenty to do in Charlotte for travelers of all interests. Whether you're simply looking to enjoy the warm weather and eat all the Southern food your stomach can handle, or hoping to visit museums and the Botanical Gardens, you won't spend a single minute bored in this city . For great food and people-watching, head to 7th Street Public Market ; NASCAR fans will want to explore the Charlotte Motor Speedway (kids 12 and under enter most events for free) or the NASCAR Hall of Fame (tickets start at $20) .

Where to stay in Charlotte:

• For history: The Dunhill Hotel
• For a low-key place to rest your head: Charlotte Marriott City Center
• For a central location: Omni Charlotte Hotel

The Rally Hotel

Colorado Springs and Denver, Colorado

Just a little over an hour apart by car, Denver and Colorado Springs are both great options for families and friends looking for a mountain escape. If you're seeking something a bit more residential and not so hustle-and-bustle, Colorado Springs will be perfect, with its great hiking trails and gorgeous views. For those looking for a taste of city life, stay in downtown Denver, where you'll get all the benefits of the great outdoors alongside the liveliness of a big city. Cut costs by spending most of your time hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.

Where to stay in Colorado Springs and Denver:

• For community in Colorado Springs: Kinship Landing
• For sports fans in Denver: The Rally Hotel
• For a hip scene in a great location in Denver: The Maven Hotel at the Dairy Block

Hotel Parq Central

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque may not be on the top of your to-do list, but there are many reasons why this New Mexico city is worth a visit. It's a great destination for year-round travel thanks to its incredible hot-air balloon scene (it's home to the world's largest Hot Air Balloon Festival), Southwestern art, tasty food, and desert scenery. Head to the Albuquerque Museum (tickets start at $3) or the National Hispanic Cultural Center (free for guests 16 and under; $6 for adults) for some history and art in the city, or simply walk around the area and enjoy the desert views alongside the many art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Where to stay in Albuquerque:

• For good location: Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town
• For retro charm: El Vado Motel
• For a stay near Route 66: Hotel Parq Central

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is another city on this list that is steeped in history, but if you're not much of a history buff, there's still plenty to enjoy about the city. Known for its seafood and beautiful waterfront, (and, of course, for being the setting of the musical Hairspray), you'll certainly want to indulge in crab cakes, oysters, or crab dip, especially if you can do so along the water. There are also tons of budget-friendly activities, including walking through Fell's Point, a great neighborhood filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment, touring some of the museums, taking a peak inside the Peabody Library, or walking alongside the harbor.

Where to stay in Baltimore:

• For a pop of color: Ulysses
• For a modern boutique property: Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown
• For a private townhouse: Colorful two-bedroom in Federal Hill

Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort

Phoenix, Arizona

Head to hot, dry Phoenix , Arizona, the perfect destination for pool days, hiking and nature viewing, and museum visits. Phoenix is also just about two hours away from Sedona, making it a great home base for a day trip to see the red rock formations. The Desert Botanical Gardens (tickets start at $15) will be a hit amongst the whole family, while the Hole in the Rock hike (or the more challenging Camelback Mountain hike) offer a chance to take in gorgeous desert views.

Where to stay in Phoenix:

• For retro-cool: Rise Uptown Hotel
• For a desert oasis: Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
• For mountain views: Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort

Arlo Wynwood Miami

Miami, Florida

Miami doesn't always scream affordable, but thanks to the city's large airport with many daily domestic flights and a surprising number of affordable hotel and Airbnb options, travelers can head to this incredible city without having to stretch their budget too far. Where your wallet may take a hit is the food and activities, so plan carefully before you arrive. To keep things affordable, spend most of your time enjoying the free beaches with a picnic you pack yourself, or walking around Miami Beach. You can also take yourself on a personal tour of Wynwood's outdoor murals or enjoy one of the free outdoor yoga classes .

Where to stay in Miami:

• For a “luxury” hostel experience: The Freehand
• For a unique boutique hotel: Esmé Miami Beach
• For a Wynwood escape: Arlo Wynwood Miami

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Are You a 'Globetrotter'? See How Your Travel Experience Stacks Up to Average Americans

A recent survey from the Pew Research Center uncovered some interesting findings about Americans' travel to other countries. A surprisingly large percentage of Americans have international travel experience, and these global adventures have affected their perspectives in powerful ways.

Are you a longtime world traveler and frequent flyer? Or are you still getting ready to apply for a passport for the first time? No matter where you fall on the spectrum of world travel experience, you might enjoy these insights about how Americans travel -- and how international travel changes people's lives.

Let's look at a few surprising insights from the Pew Research Center on how Americans travel abroad.

A large majority of Americans have traveled to other countries

I'm an American who has spent time living and traveling in other countries. And sometimes I've gotten the impression that people from other countries have a stereotype about Americans. They tend to believe that lots of Americans haven't visited other countries, and that Americans aren't curious about the wider world beyond U.S. borders.

But this stereotype isn't true! The Pew Research survey found that 76% of Americans have international travel experience. Only 23% of Americans have not traveled to other countries -- and most of these non-travelers said they would like to visit other countries if they had the opportunity.

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The Pew Research study broke down the survey respondents into three groups, based on who has traveled the most:

• 26% of Americans are "globetrotters" who have traveled to five or more other countries.
• 50% of Americans are "casual travelers" who have visited one to four other countries.
• 23% of Americans are "non-travelers" who have not (yet) left the U.S.

I have had the great privilege of being able to travel to 11 other countries (so far), which puts me in the "globetrotters" group. Americans have some catching up to do if we want to be as well-traveled as people in Australia, Canada, South Korea, and Europe. Here's how a few of those other places stack up in the rankings on the international "globetrotters" list (five or more countries visited):

The survey results didn't go into detail about which countries were most frequently visited by Americans; maybe a lot of Americans are getting their first international travel experience from countries close to home. Sometimes the best way to break in your new U.S. passport is to take affordable winter vacations in Mexico or the Caribbean. But wherever people are going, it's heartening to see such a large percentage of Americans joining the proud ranks of world travelers.

How international travel changes your life

Traveling to other countries has been one of the most profound and formative experiences of my life. It's the best money I've ever spent. (I wish I was booking another trip right now; where's my credit card ?) International travel is a 24/7 immersive learning opportunity. You learn so much every day in another country, about food and music and language, and all the little nuances of people-watching, getting around, and navigating a new place. Every restaurant meal or grocery store visit is an adventure.

When you're in another country, it feels a little easier to be outgoing, open to possibilities, and excited to greet the day; I've quickly made new friends during my international travels in ways that don't often happen when I'm at home. I believe -- I hope -- that international travel has made me a more broad-minded, well-rounded, and compassionate human being.

There's some evidence that international travel changes your perspective in powerful ways. The Pew Research survey found that "globetrotters" (people who've been to five or more countries) are more likely to be knowledgeable about international affairs, and more likely to have an international perspective. The study found that, among globetrotters:

• 57% want America to be active in world affairs
• 66% want America to take other countries' interests into account, even if it requires compromise
• 42% feel close to people all over the world

We are living through a time of global crises like pandemics, war, and climate change. It's more important than ever for people to find common ground and a shared sense of humanity. International travel can help create those connections, one person at a time.

How to get affordable international travel

Want to join the ranks of the "globetrotters?" Here are a few tips for how to get cheap international travel that fits your budget:

• Search for "anywhere" plane tickets: Use Google Flights , Skyscanner, and Kayak to search for flights to anywhere -- with no specific destination. You'll immediately see surprising deals from your home city to anywhere in the world!
• Be an adventurous traveler : Find a cheap ticket and go to a country where you don't know anyone. One of our writers at The Ascent found a cheap ticket to Santiago, Chile for only $220!
• Use travel deal services : You can get cheap flights by signing up for a few emails from services like Dollar Flight Club or TravelZoo.
• Get savvy about travel rewards credit cards : If you sign up for a travel credit card or an airline credit card, you can often get significant bonus frequent flyer miles. Depending on when and where you fly, your airline credit card can help you get a free (or heavily discounted) international flight!

Bottom line: A surprisingly large majority of Americans have traveled to other countries, and more are likely to join the ranks of "globetrotters" in the years ahead. Booking affordable international travel is more doable than you might think. You too can enjoy the life-changing learning experience of visiting other countries.

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Best International Travel Insurance for June 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

If you're planning your next vacation or trip out of the country, be sure to factor in travel insurance. Unexpected medical emergencies when traveling can drain your bank account, especially when you're traveling internationally. The best travel insurance companies for international travel can step in to provide you with peace of mind and financial protection while you're abroad.

Best International Travel Insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic travel: World Nomads Travel Insurance
• Best for trip interruption coverage: C&F Travel Insured

Best for medical-only coverage: GeoBlue Travel Insurance

• Best for families: Travelex Travel Insurance
• Best for long-term travel: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

How we rate the best international travel insurance »

Compare the Best International Travel Insurance Companies

As a general rule, the most important coverage to have in a foreign country is travel medical insurance , as most US health insurance policies don't cover you while you're abroad. Without travel medical coverage, a medical emergency in a foreign country can cost you. You'll want trip cancellation and interruption coverage if your trip is particularly expensive. And if you're traveling for an extended period of time, you'll want to ensure that your policy is extendable. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance companies for international travel.

Best overall: Allianz

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good option for frequent travelers thanks to its annual multi-trip policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Doesn't increase premium for trips longer than 30 days, meaning it could be one of the more affordable options for a long trip
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans include free coverage for children 17 and under
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Concierge included with some plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage for medical emergency is lower than some competitors' policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Plans don't include coverage contact sports and high-altitude activities
• Single and multi-trip plans available
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage starting at up to $10,000 (higher limits with more expensive plans)
• Preexisting medical condition coverage available with some plans

Allianz Travel Insurance  offers the ultimate customizable coverage for international trips, whether you're a frequent jetsetter or an occasional traveler. You can choose from an a la carte of single or multi-trip plans, as well as add-ons, including rental car damage, cancel for any reason (CFAR) , adventure sport, and business travel coverage. And with affordable pricing compared to competitors, Allianz is a budget-friendly choice for your international travel insurance needs. 

The icing on the cake is Allyz TravelSmart, Allianz's highly-rated mobile app, which has an average rating of 4.4 out of five stars on the Google Play store across over 2,600 reviews and 4.8 out of five stars from over 22,000 reviews on the Apple app store. So, you can rest easy knowing that you can access your policy and file claims anywhere in the world without a hassle.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

World Nomads Travel Insurance  offers coverage for over 150 specific activities, so you can focus on the adventure without worrying about gaps in your coverage. 

You can select its budget-friendly standard plan, starting at $79. Or if you're an adrenaline junkie seeking more thrills, you can opt for the World Nomads' Explorer plan for $120, which includes extra sports like skydiving, scuba diving, and heli-skiing. And World Nomads offers 24/7 assistance, so you can confidently travel abroad, knowing that help is just a phone call away. 

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Best for trip interruption: C&F Travel Insured

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 2 major plans including CFAR coverage on the more expensive option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancellation for job loss included as a covered reason for trip cancellation/interruption (does not require CFAR coverage to qualify)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Frequent traveler reward included in both policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is only $100,000
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews on claims processing indicate ongoing issues
• C&F's Travel Insured policies allow travelers customize travel insurance to fit their specific needs. Frequent travelers may benefit from purchasing an annual travel insurance plan, then adding on CFAR coverage for any portions of travel that may incur greater risk.

C&F Travel Insured offers 100% coverage for trip cancellation, up to 150% for trip interruption, and reimbursement for up to 75% of your non-refundable travel costs with select plans. This means you don't have to worry about losing your hard-earned money on non-refundable travel costs if your trip ends prematurely. 

Travel Insured also stands out for its extensive "reasons for cancellation" coverage. Unlike many insurers, the company covers hurricane warnings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Read our C&F Travel Insured review here.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. A subsidary of Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers strong medical plans as long as you have a regular health insurance plan, but it doesn't have to be through Blue Cross
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers long-term and multi-trip travel protection
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Multiple complaints about claims not being paid or being denied
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Does not provide some of the more comprehensive coverage like CFAR insurance
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers who do get claims paid may need to file multiple claim forms

GeoBlue Travel Insurance offers policies that covers emergency medical treatments when you're abroad. While GeoBlue lacks trip cancellation coverage, that allows it to charge lower premiums than the other companies on this list. 

GeoBlue plans can cover medical expenses up to $1 million with several multi-trip annual plans available. It offers coinsurance plans for trips within the U.S. and 100% coverage for international trips. It also has a network of clinics in 180 countries, streamlining the claims process. It's worth noting that coverage for pre-existing conditions comes with additional costs. 

Read our GeoBlue Travel Insurance review here.

Best for family coverage: Travelex Travel Insurance

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

• Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
• Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
• Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Travelex Travel Insurance offers coverage for your whole crew, perfect for when you're planning a family trip. Its family plan insures all your children 17 and under at no additional cost. The travel insurance provider also offers add-ons like adventure sports and car rental collision coverage to protect your family under any circumstance. Got pets? With Travelex's Travel Select plan, you can also get coverage for your furry friend's emergency medical and transportation expenses. 

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review here.

Best for long trips: Seven Corners

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Diverse coverage options such as CFAR, optional sports equipment coverage, etc.
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Prices are higher than many competitors
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews around claims processing are mixed
• Trip cancellation insurance of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance available

Seven Corners Travel Insurance offers specialized coverage that the standard short-term travel insurance policy won't provide, which is helpful if you're embarking on a long-term trip. You can choose from several plans, including the Annual Multi-Trip plan, which provides medical coverage for multiple international trips for up to 364 days. This policy also offers COVID-19 medical and evacuation coverage up to $1 million. 

You also get the added benefit of incidental expense coverage. This policy will cover remote health-related services and information, treatment of injury or illness, and live consultations via telecommunication. 

Read our Seven Corners Travel Insurance review here.

How to Find the Right International Travel Insurance Company 

Different travelers and trips require different types of insurance coverage. So, consider these tips if you're in the market to insure your trip. 

Determine your needs 

Your needs for travel insurance will depend on the type of trip you're taking. You'll need to consider your destination and what you'll be doing there, either business, leisure, or adventure traveling. Policies covering adventure sports and activities will cost more. Longer, more expensive trips will also cost more. 

Research the reputation of the company 

When researching a company, you'll want to closely review the description of services. You'll want to see how claims are handled, any exceptions, and limitations.

You'll also want to look at the company's customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, BBB, and Squaremouth, as this will provide insight on the quality of customer service and the claims process. You should also take note of whether companies respond to customer reviews.

Compare prices

You can get quotes through a company's website or travel insurance aggregators like InsureMyTrip and VisitorsCoverage. You'll need to be prepared to provide the following information about your trip:

• Trip destination(s)
• Travel dates
• Number of travelers
• Traveler(s) age/birthday
• State of residence
• Total trip cost

For companies that offer travel medical insurance, you'll also want to play around with the deductible options, as they can affect your policy premium. 

Understanding International Travel Insurance Coverage Options

Travel insurance can be confusing, but we're here to simplify it for you. We'll break down the industry's jargon to help you understand what travel insurance covers to help you decide what your policy needs. Bear in mind that exclusions and limitations for your age and destination may apply. 

Finding the Best Price for International Travel Insurance

Your policy cost will depend on several factors, such as the length of your trip, destination, coverage limits, and age. Typically, a comprehensive policy includes travel cancellation coverage costs between 5% and 10% of your total trip cost.

If you're planning an international trip that costs $4,500, you can expect to pay anywhere from $225 to $450 for your policy. Comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you find a budget-friendly travel insurance policy that meets your needs.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed International Travel Insurance Companies

We ranked and assigned superlatives to the best travel insurance companies based on our insurance rating methodology . It focuses on several key factors, including: 

• Policy types: We analyzed company offerings such as coverage levels, exclusions, and policy upgrades, taking note of providers that offer a range of travel-related issues beyond the standard coverages. 
• Affordability: We recognize that cheap premiums don't necessarily equate to sufficient coverage. So, we seek providers that offer competitive rates with comprehensive policies and quality customer service. We also call out any discounts or special offers available. 
• Flexibility: Travel insurance isn't one-size-fits-all. We highlight providers that offer a wide array of coverage options, including single-trip, multi-trip, and long-term policies.
• Claims handling: The claims process should be pain-free for policyholders. We seek providers that offer a streamlined process via online claims filing and a track record of handling claims fairly and efficiently. 
• Quality customer service: Good customer service is as important as affordability and flexibility. We highlight companies that offer 24/7 assistance and have a strong record of customer service responsiveness. 

We consult user feedback and reviews to determine how each company fares in each category. We also check the provider's financial rating and volume of complaints via third-party rating agencies. 

Read more about how Business Insider rates insurance products here.

International Travel Insurance FAQs

The best insurance policy depends on your individual situation, including your destination and budget. However, popular options include Allianz Travel Insurance, World Nomads, and Travel Guard. 

You should pay attention to any limitations regarding covered cancellations, pre-existing conditions, and adventure activities. For example, if you're worried you may have to cancel a trip for work reasons, ensure that you've worked at your company long enough to qualify for cancellation coverage, as that is a condition with some insurers. You should also see if your destination has any travel advisories, as that can affect your policy. 

Typically, your regular health insurance won't cover you out of the country, so you'll want to make sure your travel insurance has adequate medical emergency coverage. Depending on your travel plans, you may want to purchase add-ons, such as adventure sports coverage, if you're planning on doing anything adventurous like bungee jumping.

Travel insurance is worth the price for international travel because they're generally more expensive, so you have more to lose. Additionally, your regular health insurance won't cover you in other countries, so without travel insurance, you'll end up paying out of pocket for any emergency medical care you receive out of the US.

You should purchase travel insurance as soon as possible after making payment on your trip. This makes you eligible for add-ons like coverage for pre-existing conditions and CFAR. It also mitigates the chance of any losses in the days leading up to your trip. 

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How to find the best summer travel deals

Here are some ways to save while planning your next summer getaway, by ale zimmermann and leslie gaydos • published may 31, 2024 • updated on may 31, 2024 at 5:31 pm.

As the summer travel season heats up, many of are dreaming of a vacation getaway.

Finding a good deal can seem like a daunting task. But with a few smart strategies, you can save big on your next flight.

“We're seeing that airfare has renormalized,” said Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going.com. “The average price of airfare year over year is down about 6%, and it's down about 15% from where we saw that absolute, very hot, sky-high prices in this summer of 2022.”

Nastro tells us there are a couple things travelers should keep in mind while planning their next summer getaway.

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“We always say let the deal decide the destination. You can fly again into places like Cancun for $261 round trip from Boston,” Nastro said.

On Going.com, travelers can explore possibilities. By hitting the “let us choose” button – users will be able to pull up airfare deals, show you when they’re available and give you a price history of the flight. Be flexible with travel dates. Airfares are cheaper mid-week and consider flying into or out of nearby airports.

“Being flexible on the airports or cities that you're flying into can afford you some affordability when it comes to overall flight price,” Nastro said.

Consider using fare comparison websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner, which allows users to compare prices across multiple airlines and set up price alerts to monitor fare changes. On Skyscanner, users can choose “explore everywhere” as the destination and flexible dates to find the best deals.

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“Often you can fly into a destination and then take a budget flight to get to your intended destination overall,” explained Nastro. “We call this the Greek islands trick, and it is especially beneficial for looking at those pricey flights over to Europe.”

Nastro also recommends mixing and matching airlines: “Don't just hyper focus on searching for round trips. Also, do your search two one ways and often flying in on one carrier and then out on another can help you save.”

And don’t forget about airline loyalty programs.

“If you do have a stash of points and miles, this is a really great time period to consider [using] even for one leg of your flight or one part of your itinerary. When cash prices are really high, you often get the best return on value in terms of using your points and miles,” said Nastro.

Here’s a lesser-known travel hack: clear a browser’s cookies when searching for flights. Airlines can sometimes track searches and can increase prices based on browsing history.

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