UPDATED: This article was originally published in September 2017
Choosing your next destination isn't easy, but there's a better way than spinning a big globe, closing your eyes, and snapping your finger down (it might end up in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, and the Wi-Fi is spotty there, to say the least). Introducing our latest monthly destination guide: a no-fuss list of places to go, things to see and great weather to chase around the world.
Here's looking at a January filled with exciting travel potential and renewed optimism. And so it should be, finally, you did Another year at work, survive the chaos of the silly season and make it through the New Year's holidays (mostly) in one piece – and you're only days into the new year! Think back and stroke; such a commitment is worthy of celebration. From the jungles of Central America to the beaches of Southeast Asia, here's where to travel in January.
Best holiday destinations in January 2023
1. Costa Rica
Anywhere that combines lush tropical jungles, pristine beaches, wildlife (sloths!) and thriving eco-tourism with adventure is our favorite! Costa Rica puts on a spectacular show of nature, and you'll become a pro at Monteverde spotting toucans in the cloud forest or listening to the calls of capuchins while relaxing in a hammock.
READ MORE: GUIDE TO COSTA RICA IN 7 DAYS
The mild and dry early months of January and February are considered the best time to visit Costa Rica, but remember that this is also peak season, so you'll need to book well in advance to make the most of your time there. Replace the challenge with something else pura vida and get your year off to a great start.
Destinations:
This lush Central American gem is full of natural wonders and boasts a rich cultural history (Mayan archaeological sites, anyone?) – but what many people don't realize is that it's also home to the world's second largest barrier reef. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with hundreds of sandy beaches, mangroves, coastal lagoons and many endangered species (sea turtles and manatees to name a few). Doesn't it make us like Belize? Go and see for yourself!
While there's almost never a bad time to visit this tropical paradise, January has the best weather. most of them perfect Again, it's peak season, but plan ahead and you'll be fine.
Destinations:
Feeling inspired?
Yes, January is peak season in Thailand, but for good reason: the weather is perfect. Temperatures stay between 20-30c (68-86F) and you'll find that sunny days with clear skies are the order of the day. The beaches in the southwest of the country are at their peak between November and April, which means beach hopping from the turquoise waters of Krabi to Ao Nang to Phuket and back again.
READ MORE: 7 REASONS WHY SOUTHERN THAILAND IS THE BEST DESTINATION
Or set sail on your private yacht for a true island adventure; Swimming and chilling by day, sleeping under the stars at night.
Destinations:
4. Tanzania
Tanzania may seem an unusual choice for January: it's low season to begin with, and as it falls between two wet months, it's likely to rain. But with rain and fertile plains, the Serengeti now benefits from both. In the south, the migration and wild calving season is well underway, and new life is flourishing on the Ndutu Plains – at its peak, around 8,000 wild animals are born each day!
RELATED READING: WHAT IS A NGORONGORO CRATER SAFARI LIKE
With all this comes predators, in January the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are Africa's largest concentrations of lions, cheetahs and hyenas, waiting for the perfect time to stalk and kill the grass. This is a great time to watch the exciting action of the beasts without any of the crowd.
Destinations:
A land of a million elephants, flowing milky blue waterfalls, glittering temples, gently smiling Buddhist monks and beautiful cities: Laos is undoubtedly one of the best cities in Southeast Asia. The first thing you'll notice is how pleasantly chilled it is here, with a slow pace that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Thailand, Vietnam or Cambodia. From the sleepy capital of Vientiane to the stunning scenery of drive-friendly Vang Vieng and the colonial charm of heritage-listed Luang Prabang, Laos will make you a little weak in the knees.
RELATED READING: 9 REASONS LAOS SHOULD BE ON YOUR BUCKET LIST
Average January temperatures are a very pleasant 24c (75F) in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, while the very cold 4000 Islands in the south can reach 30c (86F). For those traveling at the end of the month, locals celebrate the Wat Phu Festival (also known as Mahabucha) at the ruins of Wat Phu. The celebrations include religious songs, candle lighting, and Lao music and culture. In 2018, the festive events will last for three days, starting from January 28.
Destinations:
6. Ethiopia
The best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season from October to June, when skies are clear and dry and temperatures are generally mild. As a reminder, if you are planning to hike up into the highlands, wear thermals and a good jacket to avoid the cold. Even though January is still at the end of the cool season, a trip to the cradle of mankind is a must for the annual Timket Festival.
READ MORE: WHY ETHIOPIA'S TIMKET FESTIVAL SHOULD BE MOVED?
During the three-day Christian holiday commemorating the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist, replicas of the Ark of the Covenant are taken into rivers and baptized. Accompanied by thousands of locals, priests dressed in traditional white robes and carrying velvet umbrellas, the procession consists of incense, prayer and celebration and is a once-in-a-lifetime festive experience.
Destinations:
As with Southeast Asia, Vietnam experiences dry winter weather throughout the country at the beginning of the year, making it perfect for exploring. Head to Hoi An and Nha Trang for sun and sand, or relax at a gentler pace as you cruise gently along the Mekong Delta. Known as Vietnam's "Rice Bowls" for its abundance of rice paddies, fruit orchards and flower gardens, the Delta provides an authentic glimpse into the daily agricultural life of Vietnam.
READ MORE: A FRIENDLY LOVER? WHY VIETNAM SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT VISIT
If you've indulged in too many mince pies during the silly season, how about eating your way through the sweet scenery of Vietnam? From banh xeo before the pho The cuisine here is some of the freshest and most flavorful on the planet. .
Destinations:
Looking to travel in January? Don't worry, here's the rest of the year
January
February
March
April
The oil
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
or see our full list of monthly destination guides.