2 weeks ago
22
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, plenty of warm-weather havens offer 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 adventure you seek, January's diverse travel options offer something for everyone.
But where should you go? Here are the 10 best places to travel in January.
Bonaire
A Dutch island municipality off the coast of Venezuela, Bonaire offers 80-degree days in January and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Plus, Carnival season kicks off in January and is the island's most vibrant time of year. Start at Washington Slagbaai National Park for hiking and secluded beaches, then snorkel at 1,000 Steps (don't worry, it's more like 67 steps) to see turtles and vibrant coral. Windsurfing at Lac Bay is a must, even if you're a newbie — it's shallow and breezy. Don't miss the pink salt flats for jaw-dropping photos, and finish the day sipping a tropical cocktail at Karel's Beach Bar.
JetBlue is making it easier to get to Bonaire with new twice-weekly nonstop flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Flamingo International (BON).
TPG tip: You won't find points hotels on Bonaire, but there are still deals to be had even during high season. Stay at The Bellafonte, a boutique oceanfront hotel, starting at $912 for a minimum three-night stay this January. The resort includes a private pier, plunge pool and rooms that will leave you wondering why you'd ever leave.
Alaska
Alaska is pure magic this time of year, with the northern lights painting the sky like Mother Nature's laser show. Make Fairbanks your base for aurora chasing — don't miss the Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs, where you can sip an appletini in an ice glass before soaking in those famous hot springs. Try dog sledding with Black Spruce Dog Sledding or snowmobiling in Cantwell for an adrenaline rush. Feeling even bolder? Head to Matanuska Glacier for guided ice climbing or trekking on ancient blue ice. Add in Denali's serene snowy trails, and you'll have a winter adventure straight out of a postcard.
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TPG tip: Stay at the Bridgewater Hotel by Wyndham in Fairbanks. In January, rates average around $175 per night or 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Head to Mexico's Pacific coast to enjoy sunshine, tacos and adventure in Puerto Vallarta. Stroll the Malecon Boardwalk for ocean views, wild sculptures and street performers who might just outshine the scenery. Dive into Los Arcos Marine Park for snorkeling with tropical fish or kayaking around epic rock arches. If you're hungry, hit up Mariscos 8 Tostadas for ceviche that's so fresh that it basically waves hello. To relax, Playa Las Gemelas has turquoise water and soft sand that'll make you forget winter exists. Bonus: it's whale-watching season so the chances of spotting humpbacks flipping like it's their own dance-off are high.
TPG tip: Stay at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa and enjoy luxurious rooms, an infinity pool, diverse restaurants and some much-deserved R&R in the resort's world-class spa. Rates start at $270 or 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in January.
Kangaroo Island, Australia
Visit Australia's wild side on Kangaroo Island. January is summer here, so there will be sunny skies and warm days, and nature will be in full swing. At Seal Bay, stroll among sea lions basking on the beach like it's their personal resort. Explore Flinders Chase National Park, where the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch offer stunning coastal views. Sip award-winning gin at Kangaroo Island Spirits for a taste of the island. And head to Vivonne Bay, often called one of Australia's best beaches, for soft sand and turquoise water, ideal for kayaking or picnicking.
TPG tip: Kangaroo's Southern Ocean Lodge reopened in late 2023 after being destroyed by bushfires in 2019-2020. The luxurious all-inclusive is certainly a splurge starting at $2,780 per night this January, but stays include excellent locally sourced food and wine as well as spectacular views.
Dubai
Dubai offers the ultimate mix of luxury and adventure, and winter brings ideal weather with mild temperatures in the 70s and 80s. Head up to the observation decks at the Burj Khalifa, where clear January days mean unbeatable skyline views up to 154 stories above street level. Dune bash in the Al Marmoom Desert or cool off at Ski Dubai (skiing in the desert is just the right kind of extra). Explore the Al Fahidi Historical District or wander the Souk Madinat Jumeirah for a taste of old Dubai.
TPG tip: The JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is centrally located beside the Dubai Water Canal and has 1,608 rooms and over 12 restaurants. Room rates start at $209 or 57,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night this January.
Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe transforms into a snowy playground during winter, with crystal-clear skies and slopes begging to be conquered. Hit Heavenly Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe for epic ski runs and lake views from the gondola. Even if you're not a skier, it's fine. You can snowshoe through the serene trails of Emerald Bay State Park or try sledding at Granlibakken Tahoe, where even grown-ups scream like kids. After the adventure, cozy up with a craft cocktail at The Idle Hour on the lake's southern shore.
TPG tip: Stay at the Hilton Vacation Club Tahoe Seasons Lake Tahoe, across the road from Heavenly and just two miles from South Lake Tahoe's shorefront, restaurants and shopping district. Room rates start at $144 or 71,000 Hilton Honors points per night this January.
Maui, Hawaii
Winter will feel like a distant memory on Maui. Plus, the Hawaiian island made TPG's list of the top destinations to go in 2025, as locals in Maui are ready to welcome back travelers following a devastating 2023 fire.
January is peak whale season, so heading out from Kaanapali or Wailea to spot humpbacks is a must. On the other side of the island, drive the Road to Hana to see waterfalls and the black sand beaches of Waianapanapa State Park. Catch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park — the early wake-up pays off, but you must make a reservation. End your day with a fresh poke from Tamura's Market or a mai tai at Mama's Fish House while soaking in those ocean views.
TPG tip: Stay at the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, a newly renovated property that spent over $350 million updating its guest rooms and restaurants. The new Kilolani Spa is the largest in Hawaii. Rates start at $728 or 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night in January.
Antarctica
Antarctica is the ultimate bucket-list adventure; summer is the only time you can go. For most of the year, the frozen continent is off-limits, but during prime season, it comes alive with 24-hour daylight and epic wildlife sightings. Cruise past towering icebergs, kayak alongside curious seals and visit bustling penguin colonies at places like Port Lockroy. Many expeditions stop at Deception Island, where you can hike an active volcano or dip into its geothermally heated waters. It's also prime time for spotting whales migrating through the icy waters.
TPG tip: You can skip the infamous Drake Passage and still experience Antarctica by booking an 8-day cruise with Lindblad Expeditions. The journey begins with a flight over the Drake, landing directly in Antarctica to board the ship, maximizing your time exploring the continent. Prices start at around $11,000 per person, making it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure without seasickness.
Panama
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. 8 to 19, 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 2022, Hotel La Compania offers travelers the chance to experience three different eras of Panama history in its historic buildings. Book for around 20,000 World of Hyatt points or $437 a night in January.
Khao Yai, Thailand
If you're considering visiting Thailand, the best time to do so is January, when the weather is cooler and less rainy. (And before the crowds will probably descend later in the year following the release of "White Lotus" season three, set in Thailand.)
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: The InterContinental Khao Yai Resort transports guests back to the golden age of rail travel, taking historical inspiration from King Rama V's reign in the late 1800s. Rooms are available for around $190 or 37,000 IHG One Rewards points per night in January.
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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