Top Five Places to Travel in January

Although we really haven’t had that bad of a winter so far this year, the frozen terrain and frosty air make the winter days seem endlessly long. In order to escape the cold, some people will save a little vacation time to travel somewhere balmy in January. January is one of the cheaper months to travel, but savvy globetrotters still have a checklist of things they want or expect. This includes warm breezy weather, a serene location, plus they want to get the biggest and best value for their dollar. There are lots of all-inclusive packages on the market, but where to go! Here are a few fun travel destinations that would be ideal for a January getaway.

Varadero, Cuba

Varadero has everything a tourist could possibly desire in a restful giveaway. Gorgeous beach resorts are peppered along their stunning and tranquil coastline. Its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and deliciously warm sun make this location a Caribbean paradise. You can experience the Cuban culture and ambience in their quaint cafes, handmade markets, and museums. Or go snorkeling for seashells, scuba diving to explore wrecks and caverns, or kitesurfing through wild waves. The temperatures in January are 22° C (72° F) during the day and 17° C (63° F) during the evening.

Makarska, Croatia

Makarska is a popular tourist town along the Dalmatian coast in Croatia. Nestled against Mt. Biokovo and located between Split and Dubrovnik, Makarska is well known for its 38 miles of phenomenal beaches. Visit the quaint stone-paved old town with charming promenade, boutiques, cafes, markets that overlook the harbor. Take a wooden boat excursion to experience the nearby towns of Bol on the island of Broc and Jelsa on the island of Hvar. There are lots of historic sites, churches, gardens, and parks to explore as well. It’s a little cooler in January, but the peaceful surroundings, placid waters, and low tourist count make it well worth the trip.

Curaçao, Kingdom of the Netherlands

Curaçao is an autonomous island country under the helm of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located in the southern Caribbean Sea. Its capital, Willemstad, is filled with unique Dutch colonial architecture that has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island itself is a great base for those looking for lots of excursions and outdoor adventures. It’s coral reefs, marine life and balmy beaches make it a popular island paradise destination. Rent a Tuk Tuk and tour the island, go snorkeling, sailing, swim with the dolphins, or just enjoy walking along the beach. In January, the temperatures hover around 28° C (82° F) making it perfect for water sports or sunbathing.

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay is located on the north shore of Jamaica. It’s a major cruise ship port and it also has an abundance of beach resorts. There are lots of excursion trips from Dunn’s River Falls to deep-sea fishing to exploring Mystic Mountain to swimming with dolphins to experiencing Luminous Lagoons to enjoying a day trip to the Blue Hole and Gully Waterfalls. But, there are lots of free things you can enjoy as well. Visit Sam Sharpe Square, meander through the Harbor Street Craft Market, Climb Fort Montego, or enjoy a cool refreshing coconut drink at a beachside cafe. Montego Bay has an average temperature of 29°C (84° F) during the day and 21°C (70°F) in the evenings.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a major port located on Columbia’s Caribbean coastline. It’s known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, tropical climate, and palm trees. Founded in 1533, it’s the 5th largest city in Columbia. It has lots of historic sites including its colonial walled city and fortress, now deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit the iconic fortress Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the archipelago Islas del Rosario, Bazurto Market, Playa Blanca beach, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city, walk along the historic wall, take in a mud bath, or go sailing. There are hundreds of things to do in Cartagena that will fill your days and entertain your evenings. The average temperature is 31°C (88°F) during the day and 24°C (75°F) in the evening during the month of January. Balmy, beautiful, and beachy!

If you’re considering taking a vacation in January, check with your local travel agent or tourist office. Right now there are lots of great deals, but some of them are restricted to specific dates. Do your research and enjoy your getaway!