If you’re feeling a tad exhausted before the whirlwind of Christmas and New Year has even arrived, you may want to take a little time out to book a break to look forward to. Post-Christmas can be a popular time to book – though not usually to take – a holiday. For this reason, getting ahead of the crowd and booking now for the quieter period at the start of next year should allow you to access some real bargains.
Of course, there are reasons why January tends to be a quieter holiday month – people typically have less cash to spare and many of our favorite resorts are colder, quieter or even shut down altogether! So, if you want to make the most of a January holiday, where should you head?
Holidays in Spain aren’t quite so in demand than during the summer months, which makes short stops in Barcelona or the Balearics a cheaper affair. The temperatures will be mild (lows in single figures and maximum of about 17c depending on your destination) but cultural centres in particular won’t be closed, so there should be plenty of shopping and fun on offer, albeit at a more subdued level than during hotter and more hedonistic summer months.
If you want the opportunity to practice your Spanish and to soak up some warmer rays of sun, then the Canary Islands are a good bet. Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria boast temperatures of around 22c in January and though they won’t be quite as bustling as they are during peak season, there is plenty of opportunities to stretch out on white sands while enjoying a cocktail.
If you fancy something a little more exotic or are looking for an all-inclusive deal, then Egypt or Cancun could fit the bill. Both typically offer temperatures in the low to high 20s during January and have built up extensive all-inclusive offerings, which can help those looking to cap their holiday spending to keep a grip on their budget. It also means that you don’t need to worry about resorts being a bit quieter as you’re likely to spend most of your time in and around your accommodation.
Finally, if what you are after is a change of scene and you’re not too fussed about being warm, then a trip to New York could be the answer. Though exchange rates are not nearly as favorable as in years gone by, the city is still a shopping mecca and a great place to splash any cash that Santa may have brought you. Just remember to leave room in your suitcase for any clothes you plan to buy in the sales!
