The New Year has arrived, and Winter is in full swing. As we reluctantly begin to climatise to the long, dark and chilly Winter nights, our thoughts tend to turn to resolutions and events in the coming months and, most importantly, our next vacation.
The climate of January provides the perfect excuse for a winter escape. The hiked festive fares drop and disappear at an unprecedented rate, and travel once again becomes affordable and highly attractive. So if you are tempted to escape and eager to venture to warmer climates, here’s a complete list of the warmest places to visit in January.
Australia, Oceania
The sixth largest country in the world, with an area spanning over 7.7 million square kilometres and a coastline that stretches over 16,000 miles, Australia is a truly unique and stunning winter destination.
With countless things to do and see, from its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife to its bustling cities, rich cultural heritage and outbacks, it is no wonder that Australia is a popular destination for travellers seeking adventure and exploration. So why not escape to Australia this winter to explore one of the seven wonders of the natural world, namely the Great Barrier Reef or perhaps explore one of the world’s oldest rainforests and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Daintree Rainforest? If neither appeals, then why not explore Australia’s largest city, Sydney, which is home to many iconic attractions, including the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Average October temperature: 26°C
Average October rainfall: 131mm
Average October sunshine: 9 hours
Singapore, Southeast Asia
A dynamic and modern city-state that offers a unique blend of Asian and Western cultures, Singapore is an incredible holiday destination.
A must-visit destination for all eager travellers, Singapore has much to offer for all tastes and budgets. A melting pot for all cultures, with a rich heritage and diverse ethnic neighbourhoods, such as Chinatown and Little India, Singapore never fails to impress! With so much to do and see, and the ultimate foodie’s paradise, Singapore is a great city. From street food to fine dining to colourful street markets, theme parks, museums and numerous cultural experiences. Singapore is by far one of the best places to visit in January.
Average October temperature: 30°C
Average October rainfall: 238mm
Average October sunshine: 6 hours
Fiji, South Pacific
Located in the South Pacific and an archipelago of more than 300 islands, Fiji is beautiful and is unarguably one of the best places to visit in January. Famous for its rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons, Fiji is a paradise. Although January is in the middle of the wet season, rain showers are swift and quickly replaced by brilliant sunshine.
Made up of a collection of islands spanning over 1,600 kilometres in the South Pacific Ocean. Its major island, Viti Levu, is home to the capital, Suva, a port city with a rich and fascinating colonial history. Fiji is an excellent winter escape destination with much to offer. From airbrushed beaches to thrilling undersea marvels, diving, and hiking to beautiful villages and fascinating culture, Fiji is one of the best places to visit in the world.
Average October temperature: 30°C
Average October rainfall: 308mm
Average October sunshine: 13 hours
Cape Town, South Africa
A port city on South Africa’s southwest coast, on a peninsula beneath the imposing Table Mountain, Cape Town is a diverse and fascinating city surrounded by nature and much loved by all who visit.
With a dark and moving history, Cape Town is most famously known for being home to the inspirational South African president and national treasure, Nelson Mandela. In equal parts, Cape Town is famous for its history and the coming-together of cultures, cuisines and landscapes. As such, there is so much to do and see in Cape Town, and top attractions include the Cape of Good Hope and Robben Island, which was used as a prison until 1996 and is now a Unesco World Heritage site. Boulders Penguin Colony which is home to 3000 African Penguins, and Noordhoek Beach, which surfers and horse riders favour.
Average October temperature: 27°C
Average October rainfall: 16mm
Average October sunshine: 12 hours
Havana, Cuba
The capital of Cuba, Havana, is a distinct and fascinating city. With a history and culture unlike anything else you’ll find in the Caribbean, Havana is an iconic city full of joy, culture, music and colour.
Accordingly, there is much to do, see and learn from visiting Havana. From visiting the Plaza de la Catedral to Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón, a national monument renowned for its striking religious iconography and elaborate marble statues. Or perhaps venturing to other towns such as Varadero, one of the most famous towns in Cuba and highly regarded for pristine 21 km (13 mi) long white sand beach.
Average October temperature: 29°C
Average October rainfall: 36mm
Average October sunshine: 12 hours
Tanzania, East Africa
Located on the East African coast, Tanzania is a beautiful destination and one of the best places to visit throughout the year.
Tanzania is the perfect place to visit for those who appreciate history, culture, and wildlife. Tanzania is home to the world-famous Serengeti National Park, where you can witness a variety of unique and unforgettable safari experiences, such as the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras. Tanzania is also home to one of the world’s Seven Summits, the infamous Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing at 19,341 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and offers a great and rewarding climbing experience for adventurers up for the challenge.
For those willing to venture beyond the mainland, Zanzibar provides the perfect serene escape. A beautiful island situated off the coast of Tanzania makes for a relaxing and rejuvenating escape. Highly regarded for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Zanziar is a must-visit location for all.
Average October temperature: 30°C
Average October rainfall: 89mm
Average October sunshine: 10 hours