January

1. Thailand

January is one of the best months to visit Thailand, offering dry, sunny days and comfortable temperatures across most of the country. It’s perfect for relaxing on the beaches of Phuket or Krabi, exploring temples in Chiang Mai or experiencing vibrant street life in Bangkok. With minimal rainfall and warm waters, it’s an ideal time for island hopping, diving and enjoying Thai festivals and cuisine.

Must see:

• Bangkok (Grand Palace and street markets)
• Phuket (beaches and island tours)

Flight time: Approximately 11–12 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +7
Temperature: Average 25°C to 32°C
Monthly rainfall: 10–30 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Book internal flights early during the peak season to secure the best fares.

2. Australia

January is mid-summer in Australia, bringing hot, sunny weather perfect for beach holidays, outdoor adventures and exploring the country’s diverse landscapes. It’s a great time to visit cities like Sydney and Melbourne or head to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkelling and diving. Cultural festivals and public celebrations, like Australia Day (26 January), add energy and excitement to your trip.

Must see:

• Sydney (Opera House and Bondi Beach)
• Great Barrier Reef (marine life and reef tours)

Flight time: Approximately 21–24 hours from London (with stopovers)
Time difference: GMT +8 to +11 (varies by region)
Temperature: Average 22°C to 30°C
Monthly rainfall: 70–120 mm
Recommended trip duration: 14–21 days
Top tip: Pack high-factor suncream and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.

3. Japan

January in Japan offers a unique and serene experience, especially for those who enjoy snow-covered landscapes, traditional festivals and hot springs. It’s an excellent time for skiing and snowboarding in regions like Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps. Cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto are quieter, with crisp winter days perfect for temple visits and enjoying seasonal dishes.

Must see:

• Hakuba (skiing and snow resorts)
• Kyoto (temples and winter festivals)

Flight time: Approximately 11–13 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +9
Temperature: Average -2°C to 10°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–60 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Visit an onsen (hot spring) to warm up and relax like a local.

4. Costa Rica

January is one of the driest and sunniest months in Costa Rica, making it a perfect time to explore the country’s lush rainforests, volcanoes and pristine beaches. Wildlife is abundant, and national parks are easily accessible. From Pacific coast sunsets to zip-lining in cloud forests, the dry season allows for all kinds of outdoor adventures.

Must see:

• Arenal Volcano (hiking and hot springs)
• Manuel Antonio National Park (beaches and wildlife)

Flight time: Approximately 14–15 hours from London (with stopovers)
Time difference: GMT -6
Temperature: Average 22°C to 30°C
Monthly rainfall: 5–20 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Bring lightweight clothing, but include a rain jacket for higher altitude regions.

5. United Arab Emirates

January is a fantastic month to visit the UAE, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates. It’s an ideal time for exploring modern attractions, desert safaris and beach resorts without the intense summer heat. Events such as the Dubai Shopping Festival make this a lively and luxurious destination for winter sun.

Must see:

• Dubai (Burj Khalifa and desert tours)
• Abu Dhabi (Sheikh Zayed Mosque and cultural sites)

Flight time: Approximately 6–7 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +4
Temperature: Average 17°C to 26°C
Monthly rainfall: 10–20 mm
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites and public spaces.

6. South Africa

January is summer in South Africa, bringing long, sunny days perfect for safaris, wine tasting and beach visits. It’s a prime time to explore Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain, the Garden Route or wildlife in Kruger National Park. With vibrant culture, outdoor activities and diverse landscapes, South Africa offers an exciting and well-rounded holiday in the heart of southern summer.

Must see:

• Cape Town (Table Mountain and beaches)
• Kruger National Park (Big Five safaris)

Flight time: Approximately 11–12 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +2
Temperature: Average 20°C to 30°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–80 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Reserve safari lodges early for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

7. Vietnam

January is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, particularly in the south where the weather is dry and warm. It’s an excellent time to explore the Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City and the beaches of Phu Quoc. In the north, Hanoi and Halong Bay are cooler but pleasant, with misty landscapes adding a touch of magic to your journey.

Must see:

• Halong Bay (cruises and limestone islands)
• Ho Chi Minh City (markets and history)

Flight time: Approximately 12–13 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +7
Temperature: Average 18°C to 28°C
Monthly rainfall: 10–50 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Plan north-to-south travel for the best weather across regions.

8. Sri Lanka

January is a prime month to visit Sri Lanka’s southern and western coasts, with sunny weather and calm seas perfect for beach holidays, surfing and whale watching. Inland areas such as Kandy and the hill country are also cooler and more comfortable. Cultural sites, wildlife parks and tea plantations make January ideal for a varied and relaxed itinerary.

Must see:

• Galle (fort and beaches)
• Ella (tea country and scenic views)

Flight time: Approximately 10–11 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +5:30
Temperature: Average 22°C to 30°C
Monthly rainfall: 20–50 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Head to Mirissa for excellent chances of spotting blue whales.

9. New Zealand

January is mid-summer in New Zealand, offering long daylight hours, warm weather and excellent conditions for road trips and outdoor adventures. From the fjords of the South Island to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua in the North Island, it’s a perfect time for hiking, kayaking and exploring dramatic landscapes. Beaches, vineyards and lakes are also at their best.

Must see:

• Queenstown (adventure sports and Lake Wakatipu)
• Rotorua (geysers and Māori culture)

Flight time: Approximately 24–26 hours from London (with stopovers)
Time difference: GMT +13
Temperature: Average 20°C to 28°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–70 mm
Recommended trip duration: 14–21 days
Top tip: Book rental cars and accommodation well in advance during peak season.

10. Morocco

January is a great time to visit Morocco, especially for those who enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It’s perfect for exploring Marrakech’s souks, the Atlas Mountains or the Sahara without the intense summer heat. Coastal cities like Essaouira offer fresh seafood and breezy walks, while crisp desert nights create ideal conditions for stargazing and camel treks.

Must see:

• Marrakech (souks and historic medina)
• Sahara Desert (camel rides and desert camps)

Flight time: Approximately 3.5–4 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +1
Temperature: Average 12°C to 20°C
Monthly rainfall: 20–40 mm
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Pack layers as desert temperatures can drop sharply at night.