Where to travel in January

Dominican Republic

Our top pick for January is the Dominican Republic.

January is one of the peak times to visit the Dominican Republic as it's the best time for some guaranteed sun, but if you step away from the popular resort areas you'll still find some quiet beaches to relax on.

It's not just about the beaches though. The Dominican Republic has 18 national parks and in recent years has been more committed to sustainability goals and the need to protect its unique environment for future generations.

One of the highlights of visiting the Dominican Republic in January is the chance to see Humpback Whales as they return to the warm waters of Samana Bay to mate and give birth. If you're lucky you might see the massive 40-tonne males jump out of the water in their attempts to snag themselves a mate.

If you're flying into Punta Cana don't miss the airport lounge on the way back – it has a pool overlooking the runway, so you can have one last dip while watching the planes take off.

---

Iceland

Iceland is ideal for a short break and one of our favourite destinations to visit in January.

While you can expect freezing temperatures, January is one of the best months to visit if you're keen on seeing the Northern Lights. Read our guide on travelling in Iceland for more practical information before your trip, and 20 things to do in Iceland to make sure you see the best of the country on your visit.

The Northern Lights aren't the only reason to visit Iceland in January though. Take a city break in Reykjavik, where you can escape the cold in a plethora of cosy restaurants, and with a dip at the Blue Lagoon. You'll return home more relaxed than ever, and ready to take on the year ahead.

You might have seen news of a volcano erupting in Iceland recently. While travel to most of the country, including Reykjavik, hasn't been disrupted, the current advice is to stay away from the area around Grindavík in south-west Iceland. Keep an eye out for alerts from the Icelandic Met Office, Safe Travel Iceland, and the Almannavarnadeild Facebook page for up-to-date travel advice.

---

Baja California | Mexico

Baja California is one of the best destinations in the world for whale watching and January is one of the best times to go.

The majority of the world's population of grey whales return to mate and give birth around this time of the year. The whale watching here is exceptional as you can get up close to the incredibly friendly whales – there'll be no need to squint into the distance for a hopeful sighting.

If you tire of the sea, there are land-based delights to explore too. Baja California is a great region for wine thanks to the warm and dry climate. There are plenty of vineyards to tour, and of course plenty of wine to taste!

---

Port du Soleil | France

Battle January misery with a well-deserved break in one of Europe's top ski and snowboarding spots.

The Port du Soleil area has 12 linked resorts straddling the French and Swiss Alps, which can be freely explored in 'ski safari' style. Piles of exceptional snow, the freshest air and top-class après ski – what are you waiting for?

Inghams sells a wide range of holidays in the Port du Soleil region – it'll be cheaper outside the busy December and February school holidays too.

---

Sydney | Australia

For anyone wanting to escape the dreary winter at home, Sydney might just be the ray of sunshine you need.

The Aussie summer is in full swing in January, with the Sydney Festival beginning on the 8th and the spectacular Australia Day celebrations rounding the month off on the 26th. Soak up this great city's energy and culture at award-winning eateries, colourful markets and boutiques, rocking bars and clubs, and of course the iconic Opera House.

Your holiday to Sydney wouldn't be complete without trips to Sydney Harbour Bridge, Taronga Zoo, and beaches including Coogee, Manly and Bronte. For greenery don't miss the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Blue Mountains National Park and historic Hunter Valley wine and foodie region, both a few hours from the city.

Audley Travel organises tailor-made tours of Australia, including stays in Sydney.

---

Boa Vista | Cape Verde

Looking to escape for some winter sun but bored of the Canary Islands? Head to Cape Verde instead.

This Atlantic archipelago is made up of 10 volcanic islands around 900 miles south of the Canaries, just off the coast of Africa. Cape Verde is imbued with a fascinating mix of west African and Portuguese culture and is largely unspoiled by mass tourism.

---

São Miguel | The Azores

If you're after another Canary Islands alternative, try the Azores. The lush greenery, volcanic craters, hot springs and dramatic coastline are more than a match for the Canaries.

São Miguel is the largest island in the archipelago and is perfect for those wanting to get out in nature – whether your version of that is birdwatching, volcano hiking or chilling on the beach. Its mild climate means it's warm enough to visit year-round too, meaning there's never a bad time to take in the island's stunning natural beauty.