WHERE TO GO ON A TRIP IN JANUARY

January is a great month to get away and discover new destinations. Whether you want to enjoy mild weather, explore majestic landscapes or benefit from a great budget, there are plenty of options for traveling at the start of the year.

Sunny destinations and mild weather

For those who want to escape the winter cold and enjoy pleasant temperatures, here are some destinations where the sun is out in January:

• The Canary Islands : located off the coast of Africa, these Spanish islands enjoy a subtropical climate all year round, with mild temperatures and generous sunshine. In January, you can enjoy magnificent beaches and practice various water activities.
• There Thailand : an unmissable destination in Southeast Asia, Thailand offers a hot and dry climate in January, ideal for visiting ancient temples, relaxing on heavenly beaches or exploring local markets.
• THE Morocco : this North African country offers a mild and sunny climate in January, perfect for discovering imperial cities such as Marrakech or Fez, as well as the desert landscapes of the Sahara.

Winter destinations and majestic landscapes

If you prefer to enjoy winter and its charms, here are some destinations offering snowy landscapes and typical winter activities:

• Finnish Lapland : Located in northern Finland, this region is famous for its northern lights, vast snowy expanses and activities such as cross-country skiing, dog sledding and ice fishing. In January, you will also have the opportunity to stay in an ice hotel or meet Santa Claus himself.
• The French Alps : In January, French ski resorts generally offer excellent snow conditions and a wide range of activities, from downhill skiing to snowboarding, snowshoeing and Nordic baths. Popular destinations include Chamonix, Val Thorens and Les Arcs.
• Iceland : Despite its name, Iceland is not entirely covered in ice and offers breathtaking scenery in January, including frozen waterfalls, geysers and hot springs. Photography enthusiasts will also be delighted by the Northern Lights and the country's wild beauty.

Uncrowded destinations for a peaceful stay

For those looking to avoid the tourist crowds and enjoy a more authentic trip, here are some less popular destinations in January:

• Portugal : although renowned for its pleasant climate all year round, Portugal is generally less crowded in January than in summer. You will therefore be able to discover the charms of Lisbon, Porto or even the Algarve in complete tranquility.
• Burma (Myanmar) : this country in Southeast Asia is still little explored by tourists, despite its many attractions, such as the temples of Bagan, Inle Lake or the city of Mandalay. In January, you will benefit from a dry and mild climate, conducive to the discovery of these cultural and natural wonders.
• Costa Rica : Located in Central America, this small country is a true paradise for nature lovers, with its volcanoes, rainforests and dream beaches. In January, the dry season begins, offering ideal conditions to explore the country without the risk of torrential rain.

Budget-friendly destinations

Finally, if you want to travel in January while keeping your budget in check, here are some destinations offering good value for money:

• Vietnam : This Southeast Asian country is not only rich in fascinating history and culture, but it also offers a particularly low cost of living. In January, you can enjoy rice terraces, pristine beaches, and bustling cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City without breaking the bank.
• Romania : Despite being located in Europe, Romania remains one of the cheapest countries on the continent. In January, you can discover remarkable sites such as Bran Castle (inspired by Dracula) and enjoy local traditions during the Orthodox New Year festivities.
• Nicaragua : Often overlooked by tourists, this Central American country nevertheless offers many riches, notably with its active volcanoes, its tropical forests and its preserved beaches. In January, you will enjoy a hot and dry climate, as well as a very affordable cost of living.