When to go · January
Where to travel in January
Where the weather is at its best this month — and where to skip
January is the escape-the-cold month — Southeast Asia at peak dryness, the Philippines perfect, South America deep in summer. At Around the World we pick these by the month's weather, not by what's trending.
Recommended this month
The best places in January
- ThailandDry and clear countrywide, calm seas — peak season, book ahead.Thailand in January ›
- PhilippinesThe best month for the islands: sun, superb visibility underwater, no typhoons.Philippines in January ›
- VietnamThe south (Ho Chi Minh, Phu Quoc) is warm and dry; the north stays cool.Vietnam in January ›
- IndiaRajasthan and the south have perfect weather — pleasant days, cool nights.India in January ›
- ArgentinaFull summer: Patagonia is accessible, Buenos Aires warm and buzzing.Argentina in January ›
- Sri LankaThe southwest coast is at its best — its dry season is right now.Sri Lanka in January ›
Thailand
Philippines
Vietnam
India
Argentina
Sri LankaBetter to skip
What to postpone from January
Italy — Cold and damp, a lot is closed outside the big cities.
Iceland — Very little daylight and icy roads — not for a first visit.Seasons & events
What's on in January
- AustraliaSydney Festival — all January, art and performance across the city.
- ChinaHarbin Ice & Snow Festival — Jan–Feb, ice sculptures the size of buildings.
- ThailandThe northern lantern festivals are over, but January is the peak of the dry season — the best time to visit.
Dates are the usual window — check the exact year before booking.
Q&A
Answers to your questions
Where is the best place to travel in January?
Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, India and more — with the best weather for the month. The full list with reasons is above.
Which destinations should you avoid in January?
Italy, Iceland — harsh weather or a rainy season this month. Better to postpone or pick elsewhere.
How were the January destinations chosen?
By the month's climate normals — comfortable temperature, little rain, and sea warm enough for the beach. Not by price or trend. Each destination has a detailed weather page for the month.