Escape winter blues: Top sunny getaways for January rejuvenation
For many people, the end of January and the beginning of February marks the most depressing period of winter. That's why we've prepared a few sunny destinations to help you forget the dreariness and recharge your batteries.
While Europe is engulfed in winter, the southern hemisphere enjoys summer and plenty of sunshine. Fortunately, there are easily accessible places where you can escape the frost, snow, rain, and long, dark evenings.
January is the perfect time to travel to hot regions for those craving summer amid winter. Trips to distant countries are a traditional offering during this period. The choice is extensive—you can fly to the Caribbean, with the Dominican Republic being a favourite, other Latin American countries like Colombia or Venezuela, and even the Far East. Thailand, Maldives, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka are most frequently chosen among these destinations. African countries are also very popular, particularly Zanzibar, Kenya, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
Wild Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a paradise for many, where you can enjoy idyllic, picturesque beaches in a peaceful atmosphere. The local waters are home to dolphins and fish living among colourful coral reefs, making it an ideal location for snorkelling enthusiasts.
The dense, swampy Jozani-Chwaka National Park is also home to many exotic animals, such as red colobus monkeys.
A week in Zanzibar in January can be enjoyed for about £1,170 per person.
Middle Eastern countries are recommended
If you want to travel to a place with guaranteed good weather but is located a bit closer to home, consider a trip to the United Arab Emirates, Oman, or Bahrain. These destinations are one of the new destinations in this year's travel agency offerings, explains the tourism market expert.
Dubai is the most well-known city in the United Arab Emirates. This desert metropolis boasts modern attractions, from the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, to the enormous Dubai Mall and impressive developed areas like the Marina.
Extensive heritage districts, such as Dubai Creek and the historic Al Fahidi district, are also located nearby. These districts are situated next to numerous beautiful souks, which tourists love for their diverse spices and souvenirs.
A seven-day stay in Bahrain in mid-January can be purchased for about £585 per person. Meanwhile, approximately £690 is what you'll pay for a week-long stay in Dubai.
Best somewhere nearby
Mid-range destinations, those reachable by a 4–5-hour flight, are always a wise choice.
Of course, Egypt leads among mid-range destinations, but Poles also enjoy spending their winter holidays in the Canary Islands, Morocco, or Madeira. However, in these countries and regions, you should expect slightly cooler temperatures, around the mid-20s Celsius, and occasional winds. It is undoubtedly a great time to explore these places.
A week of relaxation in Egypt at this time of year costs around £290. On the other hand, seven days in Marrakech or Agadir in Morocco cost around £360.
Sunny Tenerife
The Spanish island is one of the warmest places in Europe at this time of year. The northern coast features famous black beaches and the stunning artificial beach at Teresitas. Mount Teide National Park has rugged red terrain and picturesque hiking trails. It is also home to the highest peak in the country, Pico del Teide.
A week on the Spanish island can be enjoyed for about £580 per person.
If you're looking to save money, choose to travel in the low season, after the Epiphany holiday (6 January), but before the winter school break begins. This is when it's easier to find attractive offers.
