If there's one thing the New Year brings, it's a feeling of awe and possibility. We've all just spent time at home over the holidays, celebrating with loved ones and finding joy in the comfort of familiarity; however, the New Year feels like a gateway to never-ending possibilities. Embrace the New Year with enthusiasm and use it as motivation to jump out of your comfort zone with a journey that you'll remember forever.
With a New Year comes exciting travel opportunities; from beach-hopping around Thailand to exploring the ancient palaces of Europe, unforgettable experiences await you.
Barbados
Temperature: 29°C high; 23°C low
Season: Dry
Travel time from UK: 8 hours 45 minutes
Time difference: GMT -4
Barbados is the epitome of a Caribbean island paradise. From its spectacularly beautiful bleached-white, powdery beaches to its vibrant and bustling town Oistins, Barbados, has something to offer everyone. With its luscious reggae music and alluring rum bars, Barbados captures the classic good-time vibes that travellers and locals alike come looking for upon their visit.
Notable east coast spots such as Bathsheba are perfect for ocean lovers, especially those seeking a bit of an adventurous thrill with the powerful Atlantic waves that draw surfers from around the globe. Lively town Oistins' Friday Night Fish Fry brings the community out for an open-air party, with fresh-caught fish on the barbecue and booming reggae.
Barbados is the perfect Caribbean getaway, especially if you are looking for vibrant nightlife. No Barbados experience would be complete without an evening at The Gap. Just south of Bridgetown, this beloved strip of open-air bars makes the perfect place to unwind and dance the night away. Colourful weatherboarding and neon lights line the streets, creating a vivacious atmosphere. Open-air bars line the colourful streets adorned in weatherboarding and neon lights, beckoning visitors to come to celebrate with a rum punch. Start your Barbadian adventure with sunset cocktails at Mimosas Trattoria and Bar. Afterwards, keep up the party vibes by heading to Hal's Carpark Bar for some hand-clapping karaoke or swing by Cocktail Kitchen for a more refined affair (but still plenty of dancing!). If you want to go all night long, make sure to finish off at McBride's Bar - their infamous reggae nights keep the crowd going until 4 am!
January in Barbados marks the start of its dry season with nine blissful hours of sunshine, making it the perfect destination for travellers looking for sun, fun and adventure.
Where to stay: Barbados is home to The Coral Reef Club, an unforgettable hotel with the atmosphere of a country-house resort in the tropics. Hidden away in 12 acres of lush gardens, no other Barbados hotel can match its unique brand of graceful, old-school luxury. Located on the west coast, north of Holetown, visitors will enjoy peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of the main roads. Even better, the hotel is only a short 10-to-15-minute stroll along the scenic boardwalk or down quiet roads to reach. Though small and narrow, its beachfront, backed by casuarinas, creates quite a mesmerizing scene that can be fully appreciated during weekly tours throughout the expansive grounds with their magnificent mahogany trees and palms, frangipani, bougainvillaea, and serene ponds. Inside The Coral Reef Club, bedrooms and public areas alike exude unshowy elegance, which makes this Barbados vacation an unforgettable one!
Thailand
Temperature: 32°C high; 22°C low
Season: Dry
Travel time from UK: 12 hours
Time difference: GMT +7
Thailand in January is a beautiful paradise, where the sun meets the beach and creates the perfect paradise. Away from the hustle and bustle of the nightly parties that typify Bangkok's nightlife, Thailand opens up its shores to travellers looking for tranquil beauty. The west side of Thailand features clear waters with white-sand beaches on the island paradises of Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, and Koh Lanta; meanwhile, the east side of Thailand (Koh Samui, Phangan, and Tao) stays mellow throughout the start of the year where a monsoon-like mix of rain and sun creates beachy vignettes serenely fit for Thailand's tropical landscape. Whether you're on the party scene or kicking back in Thailand's sapphire-blue waters, January truly is an ideal time to take in all of Asia's beauty that Thailand has to offer.
Thailand is a haven for food lovers from around the world. Thailand's cuisine, with its strong and aromatic spice elements, varies from region to region. If you are feeling adventurous, hop on over to Thailand and experience the real taste of Thailand right out front of roadside stalls. From fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves to galangal - Thailand food promises to surprise your tastebuds with its hot and spicy flavours. Moreover, if you want something a bit more exclusive, hop abroad with an expert guide for a tour of Bangkok's finest street foods or savour the authentic, tasty Thai cuisines in high-end restaurants! Taste your way through Thailand to create some mouth-watering memories worth savouring!
Thailand is a culturally vibrant country that has become famous in Asia for its countless ancient temples, many of which are home to countless Buddha statues. From standing to sleeping and meditating, these majestic monuments come in all shapes and sizes and are crafted from stone to metal and, on occasion - even emeralds. A visit to Thailand would be incomplete without exploring one of the country's more than 40,000 Buddhist temples - each one imbued with its own special character that reflects Thailand's long-standing culture and religious traditions.
Where to stay: If you're searching for an idyllic getaway in Thailand, look no further than Six Senses Yao Noi. Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life by visiting Koh Yao Noi, a still, peaceful island located in the middle of Phang Nga bay and feel fully replenished. Here, nature's beauty is unparalleled, with mesmerizing views of emerald jungles, glistening seas and limestone sea stacks creating a dramatic backdrop each morning as the magenta sun rises. When it comes to guest accommodations, Six Senses sets the bar high featuring gracious staff, top sustainability credentials and super facilities tailored to deliver peace and tranquillity. Bask in the sense of true satisfaction as you disconnect from the outside world; treat yourself to this wild and wondrous island escape!
Val d'Isere
Temperature: -1°C high; -10°C low
Season: Winter
Travel time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes
Time difference: GMT +1
With New Year crowds gone and no school holidays on the horizon, January is a fine time to hit up the best ski resorts in Europe. Val D'isere is an alpine paradise, offering some of the most reliable powder and best mountain views across Europe; Val is a winter wonderland that comes alive with untouched slopes and stylish chalets. Accommodation options are plentiful, allowing you to choose when indulging in a cosy night by the fire or luxurious alpine service. Le Refuge de Solaise offers unmatched heights with clear skies and unforgettable sights, while the seven-room Chalet Husky lets you take advantage of its climbing wall, infinity waterfall, shooting range, and archery area for an adventure away from home.
Val d'Isère has more to offer than just skiing! From horse-drawn sledge rides through the Igloo du Loup to adrenaline-filled skidoo trips from the bottom of the Tommeuse chairlift, Val d'Isère offers an experience for everyone. For petrolheads, try sliding around an icy course in a rear-wheel drive BMW or racing with friends on the ice-karting circuit next door. Val d'Isère really has something for everyone. With Val d'Isère's exciting range of experiences, the possibilities are truly endless.
If all of that sounds far too active for you, and you really just want to pamper yourself and relax, there are numerous spas and treatment rooms you can enjoy. Many hotels have luxury spas open to non-guests, and mobile massage companies will arrange to visit you at your chalet or apartment. Treat yourself to Val d'Isère's many spa and restorative options after a long day skiing the slopes. You deserve it!
Where to stay: Val d'Isere is one of the premier destinations for a ski holiday, with breathtaking views and world-class ski runs. Le Chardon Mountain Lodges offers the ultimate in Val d'Isere's accommodation. Located in Legettaz at 1,900m altitude on the edge of Val d'Isere, these lodges are surrounded by natural terrain with pristine white powdery snow. There's an easy access piste just 50 yards away from your door that leads to Solaise and Bellevarde lifts, plus you can also ski right back home if you're an intermediate skier. Inside the luxurious lodges are huge picture windows, vaulted ceilings and fireplaces that help make your apres-ski experience even more magical.
Every chalet is built with local stone, providing the perfect backdrop for breathtaking vistas of Manchet Valley. These luxurious lodges boast massive picture windows and vaulted ceilings, while each outdoor terrace has an 18ft "swim spa" that impresses even the most discerning guests. You'll find cosy features like open-plan living rooms with fireplaces and thoughtful touches like guest computers and hot tubs. The interiors evoke relaxation with designer fabrics, chunky timber pieces and exposed stone details that will have you feeling right at home in Val d'Isere's stunning Le Chardon Mountain Lodges.
Porto
Temperature: 14°C high; 6°C low
Season: Winter
Travel time from UK: 2 hours 20 minutes
Time difference: GMT +0
Portugal is an incredible European country that promises visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Portugal's mild winter weather allows visitors to enjoy the sights without worrying about harsh temperatures, and Portugal has been known to be more affordable than other destinations. Porto, Lisbon's little sister, is currently undergoing a creative renewal with chic hotels renovated by local designs and cafés lining the streets. Portugal's landscape boasts terraced port vineyards in the Douro Valley which are a sight in itself and attract travellers from around the world seeking to enjoy a lovely glass of port.
For those looking to buy souvenirs for loved ones or to soak in picturesque views, there is nowhere better than Porto’s Old Town. The Ribeira district is full of picture-perfect 18th century townhouses, winding cobblestone streets and quaint coffee shops. While some visitors may simply follow a map and stick to the main area around the Clérigos Tower, we recommend getting a little lost in the side streets. Portugal hides its greatest gems away from obvious sites. Explore, find hidden cafes, and be amazed by the ornate doorframes that adorn the streets of Portugal's second-largest city. You won't regret it.
Hankering for a little adventure? Why not rent a bike and go for a leisurely ride along the River Douro. We recommend you go in the early evening to soak in the sunset. If you appreciate fresh seafood and want to up the ante of your expedition, then be sure to time your journey so you can stop in Matosinhos for lunch. Many fishing boats dock in the Matoshinhos harbour. Simply follow your nose to the string of restaurants lining the main road.
Where to stay: InterContinental Porto has rightfully earned its status as the gem of Porto’s accommodation crown. Located at the end of Avenida dos Aliados, InterContinental Porto is in the heart of the city and a short stroll away from São Bento train station and Clérigos Tower. Converted from a monastery-palace, InterContinental Porto carries significant historical significance within it, adding to its already captivating atmosphere. No detail remains untouched when it comes to providing guests with an outstanding experience; soundproof windows ensure that even though the lively square may be bustling with activity well into the night, peace and tranquillity will remain in InterContinental Porto.
InterContinental Porto provides an exquisite experience, one that is truly unrivalled. Guests enter through a grand marble foyer, lit by delicate Swarovski chandeliers and surrounded by velvet armchairs that offer comfortable seating. The hotel brings the spirit of Porto to life with old pictures of the city adorning the walls and rotating art exhibitions in the bar and dining area. Enjoy live music at Bar das Cardosas most nights of the week, or sample an exceptional degustation menu with sommelier wine pairing at Astória Restaurant. InterContinental Porto has perfected their innovative use of flavours, from boar tenderloin to layered chocolate cake - every dish will leave your mouth watering for more. InterContinental Porto is dedicated to providing guests with an unforgettable experience.
Tanzania
Temperature: 32°C high; 16°C low
Season: Summer
Travel time from UK: 12 hours 30 minutes
Time difference: GMT +3
Tanzania might initially strike you as an unusual choice for January: for a start, it's low season, and being wedged between two wetter months, there's a high chance of rain. But with the rains come fertile plains and a plethora of wildlife – making it one of the best times to visit.
January marks the start of the Wildebeest calving season, which takes place between December and March. This is when thousands of Wildebeests migrate from Kenya's Masai Mara National Park into Tanzania's Ndutu plains and give birth to around 8,000 calves each day during peak times. Watching hundreds or even thousands of Wildebeests crossing rivers is an unforgettable experience – one that will stay with you long after your trip has ended. With all this vitality comes predators, and in January, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater is home to the largest concentration of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in Africa. With so much new life running around due to the calving season, these predators have plenty of hunting opportunities – meaning there's no shortage of thrilling animal encounters waiting for you. You can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures without having to battle over prime view spots like during peak tourist season. And if that isn't enough, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area also provides some stunning landscapes for those who want to explore more than just wildlife viewing.
Tanzania is home to the famously awe-inspiring Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. Adventure seekers flock here for the opportunity to take on this mighty challenge and immerse themselves in its wildly different landscapes. Experienced guides and porters are on hand to ensure your safety throughout the climb. Though the summit lies high among the clouds, those wanting a milder experience need not climb to the very top, as special excursions cater for short hikes and picnic lunches on its slopes. Another rugged yet scenic landscape is Rift Valley. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, this shallow lake is a popular destination for flamingos throughout the year - resplendent in the arc of pink feathers they present with every flap of their wings. Nature lovers will also be enthralled by the surrounding Manyara National Park, which boasts a vast array of wildlife. One particularly unique species is its occasionally tree-climbing lions - a much-photographed spectacle that you simply have to experience first-hand to believe. Tarangire, meanwhile, may not have a lake but does boast extensive marshlands that turn swathes of it a brilliant green. Abundant game gathers to frolic among the reeds and long grasses that grow near the cooling water while patient lions lounge around its shores, eyes alert for the injured or the unwary, so make sure to keep an eye out!
Where to stay: Zuri Zanzibar Hotel is an inspiring eco-resort tucked away on a private stretch of beach in the Tanzanian archipelago. Zuri's 55 traditional Afro-chic villas offer guests the chance to experience Zanzibar with sustainability and style from a secluded escape. Zuri Zanzibar is conveniently located an hour away from the airport and Stone Town, leaving guests easily connected with the rest of Tanzania yet secluded near the breathtaking sunset coastline of Kendwa.
Zuri has the perfect combination of modern amenities and local Zanzibari culture, making it the ultimate luxury destination for visitors seeking an authentic experience in Tanzania. From the arty library to Zuri Zanzibar's signature Peponi Bar featuring upcycled hanging lamps made from old bottles, guests can enjoy a cool, luxurious atmosphere that still reflects local truisms. Visitors appreciate decorative touches like carved doorframes and recycled dhows being used as contemporary wooden furniture pieces, bringing a unique perspective to their stay in this tropical paradise. Truly, Zuri Zanzibar Hotel is the best place to explore Tanzania while simultaneously experiencing world-class hospitality and luxury.
Lapland
Temperature: 5°C high; -9°C low
Season: Winter
Travel time from UK: 3 hours 30 minutes
Time difference: GMT +2
Lapland is a beautiful landscape with vast snow-covered terrain and an ever-present stillness that takes your breath away. Kiruna in Lapland, Sweden, located in the Arctic Circle and part of Swedish Lapland, is an idyllic snowy wonderland surrounded by nothing but snow, trees, and wilderness, which all together transforms it into a peaceful winter wonderland. Kiruna itself was originally built on an iron mine and has become a unique city, with nothing but peaceful forests and untouched wilderness to envelop you. To give you a proper Lapland experience, why not try dog sledging? The calm amidst the Lapland countryside is mesmerising as it literally feels like your sledge rides through a tranquil snowfall dreamscape. Whether you prefer navigating on your own or having a guide drive your team of huskies, either way, it will let you get lost in this winter excursion and appreciate Lapland's serenity.
Lapland in January is one of the best times to experience the Northern Lights. Unimpeded views of the Lapland sky mean that a trip up north can bring you some of the most incredible and vibrant night lights from nature without fail. Kiruna may not be the best place to get a view of the phenomenon as the light from town can obscure the brightness and colour of the Northern Lights. Away from the city lights and distractions, you get an even better view of their dancing green lights against the night sky. For experienced night sky trekkers, some of the best Northern Lights you might see are when you drive between towns, as there is no light at all. Tour companies offer specialised Northern Light tours, but any place with low light is an opportunity to see them. January in Lapland is a great time to visit as it is still during the polar night. The polar night means it is a full day of sunset or sunrise colours across the whole sky. The colours are incredible, and the short daylight hours mean more darkness to see the Northern Lights.
You will need to pack extra warm clothes with a high percentage of wool base layers as January is one of the coldest months of the year, and you can expect lots of snow and freezing cold temperatures.
Where to stay: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Lapland is the perfect destination for experiencing a unique snow-covered wonderland. Kakslauttanen has expanded from humble beginnings to offer two separate East and West Villages, providing visitors with several cosy living options from log cabin chalets to glass and snow igloos and hybrid log-and-glass cabins. Kakslauttanen is known for its incredible views of the Northern Lights, making it a must-visit destination for expecting onlookers. While Kakslauttanen prides itself on offering a variety of structures and facilities to stay in, guests always find comfort in the snug self-sufficiency that their cabins offer - with larger cabins even featuring kitchenettes - perfect for longer stays. With facilities conveniently spread around both sides of Kakslauttanen's resort, guests can experience the beauty of Lapland just by taking a 10-minute stroll or push-sledge trip. Kakslauttanen guarantees that no other resort offers as luxurious a journey into the heart of Lapland as Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.
Prague
Temperature: 3°C high; -1°C low
Season: Winter
Travel time from UK: 1 hour 45 minutes
Time difference: GMT +1
Prague is a beautiful destination to visit regardless of the time of year. The spire-adorned jewel on the banks of the Vltava River should be on everybody's bucket list. Prague's cobblestone streets, iconic spires, and Gothic architecture will surely leave you mesmerised. Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock are some of the city's iconic works that you simply must visit during your stay. Be sure to take your time to explore Prague's squares and alleys in all their glory. It can be very cold in January, so you should cosy up in the many quaint cafés or homely breweries in between all the sightseeing.
Beneath the Gothic façade lies a much deeper history to be explored. If you desire an insight into Prague's deep-rooted culture and thousands of years of rich history, then step into the world-famous National Museum. Housed beneath its sweeping Baroque architecture lays vast collections that uncover Prague's evolution from the medieval kingdom to communist rule and beyond. With sections dedicated to Old Czech History featuring artefacts dating back to the 10th century and even a Department for Theatre, any adventure through Prague starts here. If you're looking to dive deeper into Prague's complex past, the Communism Museum houses artefacts, photographs, and information about those who were persecuted under oppressive Communist rule. Prague holds a unique place in European History; this city has much to offer in terms of culture and knowledge - you will get to experience a variety of rich stories that Prague tells through its art and architecture.
Since ancient times, Prague has been renowned for its cheap and delicious beer. In fact, Czech women brewed beer at home for soups and sauces, and this unique tradition has continued through the ages. Though prices have increased in recent years due to rising energy costs, Prague still offers some of the cheapest beers you can find in Europe. It is difficult to say which beer is the best in Prague, and with more than 500 places to get your hands on an authentic Czech brew, it can be overwhelming to choose the best beverage. But you can't go wrong with Pilsner Urquell. Probably the most well-known Czech beer, this somewhat bitter, golden-ish beverage is originally from the city of Plzeň but can be found in every pub you enter in the city of Prague. For those looking for a good-old booze-up, why not sign up for the infamous Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl? You can visit the best pubs and bars around the city with free welcome drinks at all bars and VIP entry to the final club. It'll undoubtedly be a night to remember... well, probably.
Where to stay: Prague is a city full of many grand, majestic gems, and the Alcron Hotel Prague stands among them as one of its premiere Art Nouveau marvels. Each feature the hotel holds to its name offers an enjoyable experience for visitors. The restaurant serves only specially crafted dishes from gourmet chefs, while the bar is lively enough to hold savoury conversations while sharing some lighthearted laughs. All of these aspects are wrapped in a luxurious around-the-clock health area adorned with costly fine art pieces that all draw you further into its aura.
With its prime location only 100 metres away from Wenceslas Square, you can enjoy Prague's hustle and bustle right at your doorstep. Yet, it's still close enough to Old Town Prague so that you can easily take a leisurely 15-minute stroll to visit landmarks such as Charles Bridge and Prague Castle – all of which are within easy walking distance. To top it off, with three different metro stations accessible nearby, getting around Prague is hassle-free. Come to Prague and make the most of your stay when you choose the Alcron Hotel Prague.
ENJOY YOUR NEW YEAR!
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