Best places to visit worldwide in January

All of us at some point would’ve wanted to spend our new years on a high note. And what better way to do that than by spending it in a beautiful destination. You can kick off your new year by exploring some of the best places in the world and creating amazing memories. While the idea of vacationing sounds exciting, figuring out where to actually go might be confusing. To save you from the trouble, we have curated a list of the best places that you should visit in January. 

1. Bali

Bali, the Island of Gods, is a perfect destination if you’re looking for a relaxing and peaceful vacation in January. As it rains in January, not many people visit during this month, making it less crowded compared to the high season. Although it is monsoon season, the rains will not dampen your experience. So you can visit the quieter beaches, temples and other attractions while enjoying the competitive hotel prices. 

Temperature: 29 degrees high and 23 degrees low

Season: Wet season

Best time to visit: April till January (monsoon)

Places to visit: Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak, Gili

2. Maldives: 

One of the popular destinations for a short-haul vacation in January is the picturesque island of Maldives. The collection of heavenly islands, turquoise blue waters, shimmering beaches, and vivid reefs makes vacationing in the Maldives relaxing and captivating. If you’re also looking for some thrilling activities, Maldives has some of the best water sports for you to try. It’s safe to say that this paradise island is one of the best places to visit in January. 

Temperature: 29 degrees high, 24 degrees low 

Season: Winter

Best time to visit: November to April 

Places to visit: Addu Atoll, Male, Maafush 

3. Dubai

Dubai, a fishing village turned global metropolis is one of the best places to visit in January. Dubai offers so much to see and experience to each and every tourist. From renowned modern and historical architecture, fascinating culture and traditions, extravagant malls and local markets, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, you can find them all in Dubai. Dubai enjoys pleasant weather in January, making it an ideal time to visit. 

Temperature: 24 degrees high, 14 degrees low 

Season: Winter

Best time to visit: November to April 

Places to visit: Desert Safari, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina mall 

4. Australia

Australia, a vast country home to several cities, which offer a myriad of attractions and experiences. From relaxing at the beaches, partying at the nightclubs, hiking in the mountains, diving in the reefs, shopping in the streets and meeting the exotic wildlife, you can experience it all in Australia. This also happens to be the perfect time to enjoy the best of wildlife experience. As Australia enjoys the summer weather during January, it would be the perfect time to visit. 

Temperature: 30 degrees high, 26 degrees low 

Season: Summer 

Best time to visit: November to the start of May 

Places to visit: Melbourne, Sydney, Gold Coast, Cairns

5. New Zealand: 

The country which casts a spell on you with its beautiful sceneries is New Zealand. New Zealand is home to several hidden treasures, from rugged terrains, snow-capped glaciers, cascading waterfalls, vibrant city life and exotic wildlife. New Zealand is also the hub for some of the world’s most adrenaline-pumping adventure activities. So, if you’re a nature-lover or an adventure-junkie, New Zeland would be the perfect place for you to visit, especially in January. 

Temperature: 30 degrees high, 20 degrees low 

Season: Summer

Best time to visit: November to April 

Places to visit: Auckland, Rotorua, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Wanaka

6. New York 

New York, often known as the city that never sleeps is one of the most popular places to visit in the month of January. If you’re particularly looking for a destination to celebrate your New Years, New York might be the place for you. This stunning city is home to renowned architectural marvels, gourmet and local dining scenes, and world-famous shopping brands. If you’re a foodie or a shopaholic, then New York is a place you shouldn’t miss out on. The city also attracts the history buffs with its museums that exhibit various artefacts such as medieval treasures, Japanese sculptures, American painting and Himalayan textiles.

Temperature: 4 degrees high, -3 degrees low

Season: Winter

Best time to visit: April to June; September to November; Late December to early January (for Christmas and New years)

Places to visit: Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Empire State Building and Central Park

7. South Africa 

When you think of visiting a country to explore wildlife, the first thing that strikes your mind is South Africa. South Africa is a bucket list country for most wildlife lovers. Besides, this country is not only about wildlife, but also for its scenic long drive, long sandy beaches, vineyards, adrenaline-pumping adventures such as shark cage diving, bungy jumping, skydiving and many more. And, January is the best time to visit South Africa as you will witness the big five animals. If you’re planning a vacation in January, consider going to South Africa. 

Temperature: 25 degrees high, 13 degrees low

Season: Summer 

Best time to visit:  May to September, and January to February

Places to visit: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger 

8. Costa Rica 

One of the most beautiful locations for stunning landscapes in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is home to rich biodiversity and has some of the best rainforests in Central America. The place is so gorgeous that whatever you’re doing,  be it drinking coconuts on the beaches or hiking in the mountains, you’d want to stay here forever!  Costa Rica is an amazing place to visit during January to enjoy the warm beaches, forest trails and the cascading waterfalls. 

Temperature: 29 degrees high, 24 degrees low

Season: Dry 

Best time to visit: Mid of December till April 

Places to visit: San Jose, Monteverde, La Fortuna

9.  Sri Lanka

The pretty beaches, scenic hill stations, exciting wildlife, and historical monuments, make Sri Lanka one of the best places to visit during January. Even though it’s a small island, the amount of things you can see and experience here is vast. The weather in January is pleasant making it a perfect place to visit in January. 

Temperature: 28 degrees high, 20 degrees low 

Best time to visit: January to March 

Places to visit: Bentota, Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy

10. India 

India is a great place to visit during the month of January. Although some cities might not be the best places to visit during January there are still countless other cities that you could visit. There’s so much to see and explore in this incredible country. Whether you want to visit the inspiring temples, stunning beaches, thrilling ski resorts, India has it all. January also happens to be the season of colourful and vibrant festivals in India, which makes your vacation even more exciting. 

Temperature: 15 degrees high, 10 degrees low – might vary from city to city

Season: Winter

Best time to visit: November to February

Places to visit: Kerala, Kashmir, Goa, Rajasthan

Travelling has always been a fun thing to do for people across the world. If you’re confused about which places you want to visit, then this guide should help you with that. You can also reach out to Pickyourtrail, where the experts help you not just in choosing the destination but also with the itinerary. Head to Pickyourtrail to make your D-I-Y itinerary or choose from the many packages available.