Where to Go January to March
With the holiday season over; January can often feel like a long month. Perhaps you had a busy December and you’re a bit tired. Maybe you need some relaxation or it could be you’re ready for an adventure and wondering where to go January and March.
Whatever your reason, if you’re looking for some inspiration to get the year going, here’s a few ideas for you.
Many good deals are available if you can travel off season which is actually January/ February for many places. The Southern Hemisphere is where to go for warmer weather but don’t rule out destinations in the north!
So, Where To travel To From January-March?
As travel bloggers a question we are often asked about destinations outside our own country is when to go. It makes sense as arguably, this is one of the most important questions to answer before starting to plan. Going in the wrong season, could mean you miss out on something you really wanted to see because that attraction is closed e.g. Peru’s Inca Trail is closed in February. Or realising the skiing holiday you chose in the Italian Alps is in the busiest week of the year when it is the school holidays.
Even worse, you’ve booked a trip to Thailand in the rainy, monsoon season. Many of us like to travel early in the year and so here’s our suggestions on Where to Go January-March from our own travels.
Travel Destinations January-March for Sunshine
Thailand
Thailand averages 30 degrees (86F) and with a mix of islands, beautiful coastline and intriguing cities further north is a wonderful destination at this time of year. Combine a few days in Bangkok with days on the coast. Krabi is a perfect example of getting away and relaxing by the coast in Thailand. Check out our Week Itinerary in Krabi, Thailand.
Barbados
Barbados averages 29 degrees (84F) – combine with Mexico or with other islands in the Caribbean or choose one island to relax on. Read our post on 9 Amazing Things to Do in Mexico.
South Africa
South Africa averages around 28 degrees (82F) – enjoy the beaches and take a safari to spot the big 5 animals! Find out more in our post Sensational South Africa
Florida
Florida – a great time to visit with temperature in mid 20 degrees (77F) and minimal rain. Siesta Key to Anna Maria is a road trip you could take.
Where to Go January to March For Adventure
New Zealand and Australia
New Zealand & Australia average 22 degrees (70F) in this season. Take a tour around the islands including Wellington and Auckland. Consider an optional add-on to Melbourne or Sydney if your main destination is New Zealand and you have time. Read Touring Amazing New Zealand for ideas.
Guatemala, Central America
Guatemala averages 22 degrees (70F) at this time of the year. It is the dry season to explore the Mayan ruins, volcanic lakes and colourful markets; try out your Spanish too.
In March when we travelled to Antigua a beautiful city and surrounding area, the weather was perfect with warm sunny days.
Iceland
Iceland – Go hunt the Northern Lights, avoid the crowds, try glacial hiking and soak in hot springs. It’s cold but magical. Temperatures at 0 degrees (32F).
We have all you need to plan 4 days Iceland trip here.
Sri Lanka and The Maldives
Sri Lanka – Dry sunny days and calm waters make this the perfect time to travel to this island. Take in the cultural triangle, visit Kandy and then spend days relaxing by the coast. Averages 26 degrees (78F)
Then take a short hop to The Maldives. Here’s A Perfect Itinerary to help you plan travels to Sri Lanka and The Maldives.
Where to Go January to March For Skiing
When you are planning Where to Go January-March and want to hit the slopes here’s some of the best destinations for early holidays:
- Bulgaria – Averages 5 degrees (41F) but a great value ski location.
- Canada – Skiing in Whistler, British Columbia offers a wealth of runs for all levels of skier. Crowds are often less in January and with fresh snow it can be a winner all round.
- Japan – if you love powder, combine hitting the slopes with the Nozawa fire festival. Try to avoid the Chinese New Year dates as this can mean busy resorts.
- Colorado (USA) – Wide, open runs and suitable for all levels. Great mountain walks too. Towns like Frisco Colorado offer access to over 6 major ski resorts as well as lots of things for non skiers.
Scotland
Scotland – Robbie Burns Day is celebrated every year on 25th January. Robbie Burns was a Scottish poet whose most famous work is probably ‘Auld Lang Syne’ sung every Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve).
Across the globe, Burn’s Suppers happen in January so there may well be an event close to you! If you can’t be in Scotland or there is nothing in your area, why not plan your own event. Celebrate Burns Night at home by following this guide.
Also going on in January in Scotland is Up Helly Aa in the Shetland Islands. For more details on this festival read our Scotland Guide Month by Month.
Help to Plan Your January to March Travels
There are some great books that can provide the traveller with a wealth of information on different countries. A favourite of ours is the fantastic guide by Lonely Planet aptly called ‘Where to go When’. We use it to plan our trips and to get inspiration and ideas on when is the best time to visit certain places.
There are loads of weather apps and websites to guide you on climate. Selective Asia Weather Guide has a brilliant overview on their website. Simply choose where you want to go and you’ll get an overview of where the best typical weather will be at your preferred time.
For a guide to weather across the world throughout the year, use Average Weather for Every Country in the World. Use the interactive map and click on the country to get the weather information you need – another brilliant resource.
For more inspiration take a look Where to Go – April to June. We also have ideas for destinations from July to September and to plan your best yet year end getaway check out Where to Go October to December.
Happy Planning!
