Whereas the interval between Thanksgiving and New Yr’s Day is peak journey season in lots of components of the world, January presents a welcome pause from the vacation rush. It’s an opportune time to hit the reset button, get well from end-of-the-year burnout and, even higher, benefit from off-peak journey offers. To compensate for the drop in demand this time of yr, many airways, motels and cruises decrease their costs — making January a wise time to attain a deal on a leisure journey.
On prime of that, January has one thing for each form of traveler, whether or not you favor snowboarding powder-filled slopes within the Northern Hemisphere or sunning on sugary sand seashores beneath the equator.
To spark inspiration in your first trip within the new yr, listed below are the ten finest locations to journey in January within the U.S. and past.
Cape City
January is the most well liked and driest month in South Africa’s legislative capital, with daytime temperatures averaging within the mid- to low 80s, making it preferrred for quite a lot of outside actions. For those who’re a nature lover, head to Boulders Seaside early within the morning to see African penguins and their new child chicks. One other great place for wildlife recognizing (particularly, Cape fur seals) is Duiker Island in Hout Bay. For those who’re within the temper to easily take in some solar, your finest bets are Camps Bay Seaside, the Clifton seashores and Muizenberg Seaside.
Oenophiles ought to e book the Stellenbosch Wine Tractor Wine Tasting Tour, a novel hop-on, hop-off expertise that explores 10 wine producers in Stellenbosch, a area famend for its cabernet sauvignon and pinotage.
The Cape City Minstrel Carnival, also called Kaapse Klopse, is an annual celebration that includes hundreds of musicians, singers and dancers. It takes place Jan. 2, a date of historic significance as a result of it was the day enslaved individuals have been allowed day without work to have a good time after New Yr’s Day.
TPG tip: Opened earlier this yr, Cover by Hilton Cape City Longkloof is within the hip Metropolis Bowl neighborhood, which is chock-full of buzzy eating places and fashionable sights, such because the Bo-Kaap and Firm’s Backyard. In January, rooms can be found from $204 or 54,000 Hilton Honors factors per night time.
Pyeongchang, South Korea
Japan is perhaps essentially the most well-known Asian vacation spot for snowboarding, however this is an insider tip: South Korea can be filled with world-class slopes. (Now you realize why Pyeongchang was chosen to host the 2018 Winter Olympics.) Positioned roughly 110 miles east of South Korea’s capital of Seoul within the Taebaek Mountains, Pyeongchang is house to a number of fashionable ski resorts, together with Yongpyong Resort (South Korea’s largest ski resort), Phoenix Park and Alpensia Ski Resort.
If a wintry hike is extra your pace, head to Odaesan Nationwide Park, which has quite a few trails for all talent ranges. It is also the place you will uncover Woljeongsa Temple, an necessary Buddhist web site brimming with nationwide treasures, just like the nine-story stone pagoda.
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TPG tip: Drawing inspiration from iconic European Alpine villages, the InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort presents breathtaking views of Balwang Mountain and Alpensia Lake, 238 traditional visitor rooms and suites and a bountiful breakfast buffet to gas you up for a day on the slopes. Charges begin at $152 or 26,000 IHG One Rewards factors per night time in January.
Oahu, Hawaii
Although January means occasional and fleeting showers on Oahu, it additionally means reasonably priced resort charges, fewer crowds and comfy temperatures with common highs within the low 80s. It is also a first-rate time for recognizing humpback whales, which migrate to the Hawaiian Islands within the winter months.
Whereas the water is certainly heat sufficient for swimming, it is best to keep away from the North Shore’s extraordinarily excessive surf — go away that to the professionals — and stick with Oahu’s south shores, like Waikiki’s Duke Kahanamoku Seaside and Fort DeRussy Seaside Park. There are additionally quite a few scenic hikes across the island, from the luxurious rainforested Manoa Falls Path to the Makapuu Level Lighthouse Path for breathtaking panoramic views.
TPG tip: Opened in April, the Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore has spacious residential-style lodging in one among Oahu’s most charming areas. In January, charges begin at $312 or 80,000 Hilton Honors factors per night time.
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
January in Riviera Nayarit is what most individuals envision in the case of preferrred seashore climate: delicate and dry situations within the low 80s, with heat days and funky nights.
This 200-mile-long coastal stretch alongside the Pacific Ocean, simply north of Puerto Vallarta, can be a wise different to the extra touristy locations of Cancun and Cabo San Lucas. You may discover a huge shoreline with a dozen certified-clean seashores blessed with crystal-clear water and pristine sand. Playa Destiladeras is a fan favourite, providing a wealth of outside adventures and wealthy cultural experiences.
January can be the start of whale-watching season right here.
TPG tip: Opening in December, Siari Riviera Nayarit, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve immerses visitors in a serene sanctuary spanning 920 lush acres. It options 91 ocean-view rooms and suites, Zulu (a seafood eatery helmed by Mexican chef David Castro Hussong) and Ha Yeka Wellness Middle, a spa impressed by the native Huichol neighborhood. Charges begin at $748 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy factors per night time in January.
Associated: United Airways provides Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit in 3-route winter enlargement
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Steadily known as “The Riviera of South America,” Punta del Este — situated on the Atlantic Coast in Uruguay’s Maldonado province — has lengthy been a beloved leisure vacation spot for Argentines and Brazilians, due to its vibrant cityscape and pristine seashores. And the height of summer season, in January, makes a swanky warm-weather escape for these dwelling north of the equator.
Along with stunning seashores, Punta del Este is house to an exhilarating polo and artwork scene. Go to the world-famous Ralli Museum, which options works by Salvador Dalí and Fernando Botero, and Le Mano, an enormous hand sculpture rising from the sand by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal.
TPG tip: Adored for its secluded location, personalised service and high-end facilities, together with an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, Fasano Punta del Este epitomizes quiet luxurious. January charges for this American Categorical Wonderful Accommodations + Resorts member begin at $966 per night time.
Jackson Gap, Wyoming
It is no secret: Jackson Gap transforms right into a world-class winter vacation spot this time of yr. Nevertheless, what you could not know is that early to mid-January is an particularly good time to plan a trip. This time-frame isn’t practically as congested as the height winter month of February, and the situations for snowboarding, snowboarding and different outside pursuits are glorious with heavy snowfall and super-fluffy powder.
When it is time to gas up after a protracted day on the slopes, head to a neighborhood mainstay like Teton Thai or Bin22. (Teton Thai’s best-selling massaman curry will heat you from the within out.)
TPG tip: A member of Marriott’s Autograph Assortment, The Cloudveil supplies a well-appointed and laid-back keep close to Jackson, Wyoming’s City Sq.. It has 100 good-looking rooms warmed up with wooden and leather-based, and The Bistro, which seems hearty, all-day European fare. Lodging can be found from $550 or 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy factors per night time in January.
Associated: Waffles on the mountaintop and wildlife safaris: 7 family-friendly issues to do in Jackson Gap throughout winter
The Bahamas
Falling within the Bahamas’ dry season, January brings on low humidity, nice temperatures hovering across the low 80s and sun-drenched days. Waves are calmer this time of yr, leading to prolonged visibility underwater, making it good for snorkeling and scuba diving.
January can be the time for recognizing humpback whales, which migrate from their feeding grounds within the North Atlantic to the realm for breeding. Past the hanging azure waters, The Bahamas additionally has loads of cultural enchantment. Study Junkanoo’s colourful 200-plus-year historical past on the Museum of Junkanoo. Dig into Bahamian staples, reminiscent of conch fritters and sky juice, at Arawak Cay. Browse stunning works by native artisans on the Nationwide Artwork Gallery of The Bahamas. Drink up native tradition at Bon Vivants, the nation’s first craft cocktail bar.
TPG tip: Unfold throughout 35 lush acres with Versailles-inspired gardens, The Ocean Membership, A 4 Seasons Resort, Bahamas — which has been round for 60-plus years — stays one of many vacation spot’s most coveted stays. Nightly charges in January begin at $1,965. Obtain every day breakfast for 2, late checkout and extra once you e book through the American Categorical Wonderful Accommodations + Resorts program.
Sedona, Arizona
In case your dream trip entails peaceable hikes, cooler climate and budget-friendly lodging, think about planning a Sedona trip in January. Daytime highs sometimes hover within the low 60s, and most motels decrease their charges in the course of the offseason. Along with climbing, you may expertise Sedona’s spectacular landscapes on a jeep tour; Pink Journey Excursions is a well-liked alternative.
As a longtime wellness vacation spot, Sedona additionally presents quite a few spas — Sedona’s New Day Spa and Gateway Cottage Wellness Middle are two fashionable independently owned picks — the place you may unwind your thoughts and physique. And since Sedona is one among solely 20 licensed Darkish Sky communities on the planet, it is an unparalleled spot for stargazing. Bear in mind to bundle up, because the nights can get fairly chilly.
TPG tip: Considered one of Sedona’s newer motels, Sky Rock Sedona, a Tribute Portfolio Lodge is a cushty keep near the realm’s hottest climbing trails. After a day of exploring, unwind within the outside scorching tub or loosen up by a fireplace pit as you soak up Sedona’s gorgeous night time sky. The property has January charges beginning at $193 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy factors per night time.
Banff, Alberta
Whereas snowboarding Banff’s world-class resorts (Mount Norquay Ski Resort, Sunshine Village and the Lake Louise Ski Resort) in January, when the snowfall is heavy, is a no brainer, there are heaps extra methods to take pleasure in a winter trip within the Canadian Rockies. SnowDays Pageant, held Jan. 16 to Feb. 8 in 2026, transforms downtown Banff right into a wintry wonderland with reside snow carvings and skijoring (a winter sport the place a horse pulls a trick skier) demos.
Want to fully loosen up? Then go to Banff Higher Sizzling Springs for a scenic soak in its steamy, mineral-rich waters. For panoramic views of the six mountain ranges, take a experience up the Banff Gondola. A hike in Johnston Canyon will reward you with gorgeous views of frozen waterfalls and ice formations.
TPG tip: Steeped in historical past and grandeur, Fairmont Banff Springs has been referred to as the “Citadel within the Rockies” since opening in 1988. Nightly charges in January begin at $433. Ebook instantly with Accor Stay Limitless factors or through American Categorical Wonderful Accommodations + Resorts to obtain every day breakfast for 2, late checkout and extra.
Associated: Third time’s the appeal: Lastly taking a Canadian dream journey to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper
Sydney
It is peak summer season season Down Below in Sydney. Although Australia’s greatest metropolis holds year-round enchantment, it particularly comes alive in January, when daytime temperatures common within the low 80s.
Whether or not you favor to sink your toes into the smooth sands on the world-famous Bondi Seaside, rise up near the enduring Sydney Opera Home or see 350-plus animal species at Taronga Zoo Sydney, there isn’t any scarcity of how to soak up the solar and contemporary air. And mark your calendars for this yr’s Sydney Pageant, a city-wide arts pageant that includes over 100 music, dance and theatrical performances and occasions celebrating its fiftieth anniversary, being held Jan. 8 to 25, 2026.
TPG tip: As Australia’s first Kimpton property, the Kimpton Margot Sydney dazzles with a glamorous artwork deco design — the historic constructing dates again to the Thirties — a buzzy restaurant helmed by movie star Australian chef Luke Mangan and 172 spacious visitor rooms and suites kitted out with elegant furnishings. Charges begin at $190 or 35,000 IHG One Rewards factors per night time in January.
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