Top Holiday Destinations to Beat the 2025 January Blues.

Want to break free from the dreary, chilly vibe of January? How about kicking off 2025 in a brighter, warmer, and more uplifting spot? With fewer tourists around, lower hotel prices, budget-friendly flights, and hopefully plenty of sunny days, these places are ideal for shaking off those winter blues.

Portugal

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If your birthday falls in January like mine, you definitely need to plan a getaway to dodge the dreary UK weather! My top pick is Portugal, especially Lisbon! I've been lucky enough to visit for the last three years, and not once have I seen rain—just endless blue skies that are perfect for wandering around. Plus, with the cooler temps, those famous hills of Lisbon are way easier to tackle.

Like many European cities, Lisbon gets super crowded in the summer, and prices for places to stay go through the roof. You’ll also find yourself stuck in long lines at the must-see spots. But if you go in January, you can check out all the attractions without battling through crowds, and unlike other parts of Portugal like the Algarve, Lisbon stays lively in winter with restaurants and sights still open.

Sure, January might be the coldest and quietest month, but this lively city still has plenty to offer. Take advantage of the calm by hopping on a train to Sintra, one of Lisbon’s top spots. The usually packed palaces are much less busy, allowing you to soak in the stunning scenery. The nearby forests are wrapped in a magical winter mist, and places like Pena Palace, Castelo dos Mouros, and Quinta da Regaleira take on a dreamy, fairy-tale vibe that you won’t forget. You can snag flights for as low as £30 round trip from London and enjoy around 10 hours of sunlight each day!

South Africa

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January is one of the busiest months in Cape Town, but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting. While many of us are dealing with winter blues, South Africa’s capital is basking in hot, sunny weather with clear skies and about 14 hours of daylight! There’s no shortage of activities in this rugged little city.

You can hike for some stunning views or take leisurely walks along beautiful beaches. No matter what you choose to do, you’re bound to find a few great photo ops along the way. If you enjoy a good glass of wine now and then, Cape Town is the perfect spot for you. With lush valleys and award-winning wineries around every corner, it’s a dream come true for wine enthusiasts.

Don’t miss out on trying the Pinotage, a variety that’s unique to South Africa. If you’re starting to think about booking a flight to Cape Town but are worried about the cost, think again! The South African Rand is currently one of the best value currencies globally, making everything incredibly affordable. You’ll be amazed at how much you can get for your money in terms of quality accommodation, food, and activities.

Plus, it’s one of the most budget-friendly places to go on a thrilling safari to see the big five! You can snag a return flight for as low as £507 and join us for either our 9-Night Western Cape Safari Experience or our 14-Night South Africa Experience for an unforgettable adventure!

Morocco

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January is an awesome month to check out Morocco. Even though it's technically the coldest time to visit, the daytime temps are usually pretty pleasant, and you'll find it much warmer than what you left back in Europe. Just remember, it can get a bit chilly at night, so pack some layers! This month is also a quieter time for sightseeing in places like Fes and Marrakech, which can get super crowded during peak season. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity for photography since the winter air is clear and dust-free.

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If you're into outdoor activities, January is perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes of Morocco. The cooler weather makes it ideal for adventures in the Sahara Desert or hiking in the High Atlas Mountains. You’ll enjoy fewer tourists at popular spots and can snag some great deals on hotels since many offer off-season rates. With just a 3-hour flight from the UK, Morocco is the ultimate winter getaway. Why not join us this January for our 4-Night Mini Sahara Experience or our extended 7-Night Sahara Experience?

New Zealand

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January kicks off summer in New Zealand, bringing longer days and warm weather. Even though it's one of the busiest months for travelers, the country has about 60 million fewer people than the UK, so you can still enjoy the sights without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. Take advantage of the sunny days with tons of outdoor fun—go surfing, try white water rafting, dive into scuba adventures, explore canyons, hike stunning trails, sip wine at vineyards, or just chill on the beautiful beaches. No trip to New Zealand is complete without a classic road trip. The country packs a ton of diverse scenery into a space not much larger than the UK, making it perfect for an epic road trip with friends or family.

Rent a campervan and set off on an unforgettable journey! There are loads of scenic routes leading to breathtaking and secluded spots where you can camp for free, and many towns have designated areas for free camping too. I got to experience the tail end of summer in New Zealand back in 2017, and I really wish I could have stayed longer. It’s an incredible place and totally worth the 20+ hour flight! Flights start around £1,300.

Costa del Sol, Spain

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If your ideal January getaway means basking in the sun on quiet beaches, wandering through peaceful white-washed villages, and chilling at outdoor terraces under fragrant orange trees, then Southern Spain is calling your name. With temperatures nearing 20 degrees thanks to its subtropical climate along the Mediterranean coast, you can soak up over 5 hours of sunshine daily, perfect for boosting your vitamin D.

Flights to Málaga, the capital of Costa del Sol, are super frequent and surprisingly affordable in winter (I once scored a round trip for just £7!). In under 3 hours, you could be enjoying the Spanish sun with a cold ‘cerveza’ in hand. While summer can be a bit too hot for sightseeing, January is perfect for exploring cultural spots. Take a cultural tour around Málaga City, stroll through the beautiful hilltop village of Frigiliana, or simply kick back and savor a few tapas in the sun. You can find flights starting at just £34 for a round trip.

Escape the January blues by heading to these vibrant destinations where you can enjoy warm weather, beautiful scenery, and exciting activities. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Lisbon, soaking up the sun in Cape Town, or enjoying the serene landscapes of Morocco, these spots offer the perfect antidote to winter's chill.

January is an ideal time to travel with fewer crowds, lower prices, and unique experiences awaiting you. So pack your bags, leave the cold behind, and make unforgettable memories in these sunny, welcoming locations that will refresh and energize you for the year ahead.