January is the perfect month to chase warmth and fresh beginnings. While much of Europe bundles up, the world opens for sunseekers craving blue skies, golden beaches, and a dose of vitamin D. Travelling off-season can mean extra value with fewer crowds, ideal for mature travellers who value ease, accessibility, and relaxed exploration. Whether you’re after scenic coastlines, cultural charm, or restful luxury, here’s where to find sunshine this January.
Tenerife, Canary Islands ¶
Average temperature: 20–22 °C | Weather: Warm days, cooler evenings, low rainfall
Why it’s ideal in January: Just a short flight from the UK, Tenerife offers reliable winter sun and a laid-back island pace without jet lag.
Top experiences: Discover Mount Teide National Park by cable car for breathtaking volcanic views, wander the old town of La Orotava, or enjoy tapas in Santa Cruz. Relax on golden or black-sand beaches, from Playa del Duque to Playa Jardín.
Comfort and accessibility: Smooth pavements, accessible promenades, and an excellent bus network make getting around easy. Resorts in Costa Adeje and Puerto de la Cruz often feature mobility support and flat terrain for a comfortable stay.
Travel tip: Pack a light jumper for cooler evenings. Flight from the UK: around 4.5 hours.
Cape Town, South Africa ¶
Average temperature: 27 °C | Weather: Dry, sunny, and breezy
Why it’s ideal in January: Cape Town is in full summer bloom - perfect for alfresco dining, coastal drives, and vineyard tours beneath Table Mountain’s gaze.
Top experiences: Ride the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway for panoramic views or explore the Cape Peninsula’s dramatic scenery and penguin colonies.
Comfort and accessibility: English is widely spoken, and guided tours make exploring simple and secure. Many attractions offer step-free access, shaded seating, and accessible facilities.
Travel tip: Currency is the South African rand (ZAR). Flight from the UK: around 12 hours (overnight).
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic ¶
Average temperature: 28 °C | Weather: Hot with gentle sea breezes
Why it’s ideal in January: With turquoise waters and soft sands, Punta Cana is pure Caribbean relaxation, and January offers sunshine without the hurricane risk.
Top experiences: Unwind at a beachfront resort, enjoy a catamaran cruise, or visit Hoyo Azul, a striking natural lagoon. Explore the local culture in nearby Higüey and its basilica.
Comfort and accessibility: Many resorts are designed with ease in mind, offering mobility-friendly layouts, concierge assistance, and on-site medical care for peace of mind.
Travel tip: The Dominican peso is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. A tourist card or e-ticket is required for entry. Flight from UK: approx. 9 hours.
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Sri Lanka ¶
Average temperature: 32 °C | Weather: Hot and sunny along the south and west coasts
Why it’s ideal in January: January marks the dry season on Sri Lanka’s coast, making it perfect for beaches, heritage tours, and tea-country escapes.
Top experiences: Discover UNESCO gems like Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Galle Fort, visit tea plantations in the misty highlands, or relax on golden beaches at Bentota and Mirissa.
Comfort and accessibility: Private drivers and small-group tours provide flexibility and comfort. Boutique hotels and Ayurvedic spas cater to wellness-focused travellers seeking rest and rejuvenation.
Travel tip: Sri Lanka requires an e-visa (ETA). The local currency is the Sri Lankan rupee. Dress modestly when visiting temples. Flight from the UK: around 11 hours.
Phuket, Thailand ¶
Average temperature: 32 °C | Weather: Hot and dry during peak sunshine season
Why it’s ideal in January: Phuket’s beaches and islands shine, with warm seas, golden sunsets, and lively but relaxed resorts.
Top experiences: Take a leisurely boat trip to Phang Nga Bay or the Phi Phi Islands, stroll through Phuket Old Town’s colourful streets, or join a Thai cooking class.
Comfort and accessibility: Many resorts offer air-conditioned transfers, ground-level access, and healthcare facilities nearby. Quieter areas like Kata or Bang Tao provide extra comfort and calm.
Travel tip: Currency is the Thai baht. Lightweight, breathable clothing and a sunhat are essential. Flight from the UK: around 12 hours.
Dubai, UAE ¶
Average temperature: 25–26 °C | Weather: Sunny, dry, and pleasantly warm
Why it’s ideal in January: Dubai’s winter is all blue skies and mild sunshine, perfect for outdoor dining, shopping, and desert adventures.
Top experiences: Visit the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, explore traditional souks and Dubai Creek, or take a sunset desert safari followed by a dhow dinner cruise.
Comfort and accessibility: With world-class infrastructure, luxury hotels, and step-free attractions, Dubai offers an effortless and accessible experience for all travellers.
Travel tip: Currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Modest dress is recommended in public areas. Flight from the UK: around 7 hours.
Singapore ¶
Average temperature: 30 °C | Weather: Hot, humid, with occasional showers
Why it’s ideal in January: A clean, efficient, and cosmopolitan city that blends tropical greenery with urban sophistication - ideal for travellers seeking comfort and culture.
Top experiences: Stroll through Gardens by the Bay and the Botanic Gardens, explore cultural enclaves like Chinatown and Little India, and enjoy riverside dining at Clarke Quay.
Comfort and accessibility: Singapore’s excellent public transport, air-conditioned attractions, and flat walkways make it exceptionally easy to navigate.
Travel tip: The local currency is the Singapore dollar. Pack a lightweight umbrella for sudden showers. Flight from the UK: around 13 hours.
Cartagena, Colombia ¶
Average temperature: 31 °C | Weather: Hot and sunny with light sea breezes
Why it’s ideal in January: This Caribbean gem dazzles with colonial charm, colourful streets, and balmy evenings perfect for open-air dining.
Top experiences: Wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town, relax on Playa Blanca or the Rosario Islands, and enjoy live music and salsa in historic plazas.
Comfort and accessibility: The compact city centre is walkable, with boutique hotels close to major sights. Guided tours often include shaded rest stops and air-conditioned transfers.
Travel tip: The Colombian peso is the local currency. Card payments are common but carry small cash for tips and markets. Flight from the UK: approx. 11 hours.
Quick guide: Packing for a warm January escape ¶
Light layers and sun-smart attire¶
Pack breathable cotton or linen clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and a lightweight cover-up for evenings. Even in warm destinations, air conditioning or cool nights can surprise you.
Footwear for easy walking and comfort¶
Supportive sandals or cushioned walking shoes will keep you comfortable for sightseeing or uneven terrain.
Essentials: sun protection, hydration, medication, plug adapters¶
Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and pack any regular medication into your hand luggage. Check plug types and voltage before you go.
Need travel insurance cover for your next winter holiday? Explore our travel insurance cover options for senior travellers. Whether you need single-trip insurance or annual travel insurance, you’re good to go.