Where to go

January

Where to go

January

With reality settling in, we can’t think of a better time to plan a New Year escape to beat the January blues. It’s also the perfect time to snag an off-peak season deal, with affordable options available worldwide—from the sunny skies of Dubai to the beach life of Cancun and Hua Hin. To help inspire your next adventure, we’ve curated a list of the top destinations to visit in January 2025, ensuring you start the year refreshed and recharged.

Dubai

A buzzing culture calendar and comfortable climate make January the perfect month to discover Dubai. With daytime temperatures ranging from 19°C to 26°C, it’s the ideal time to do the luxe pool thing and get out and about. The Dubai Shopping Festival (running until mid January) is a huge event across the city, offering massive discounts, promotions and live entertainment. The Dubai Marathon comes to town on 12 January attracting athletes from around the world. Need a laugh? Then check out The Laughter Factory, which has just relocated to The Agenda in Media City, as well as taking various shows on tour throughout the month. As for where to stay, you’re spoiled for choice with your Dis-loyalty membership, with a fashion forward experience uptown at SO/, all-inclusive at the Rixos Palm resort or an amazing 50% off at the shiny new Mama Shelter opening on 15 January.

Cancun

Mexico in January is a no-brainer - a sun-soaked, palm tree-swaying escape from the dreariness of winter and new year’s resolutions. January is part of Cancun’s dry season, guaranteeing clear skies for snorkelling its turquoise waters and sipping margaritas at the beach club. Whether your vibe is poolside partying or peaceful yoga sessions beneath the palms, Cancun offers endless relaxation and adventure. Explore the jungle in the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, take a boat tour to Isla Contoy, a protected natural reserve, or get your rave on at Arena Festival, a 6-day electronic music festival happening the last week of January. You might also like to just hole up at your luxe resort, like SLS, a veritable cathedral of beachfront pleasure in upscale Puerto Cancún - another no-brainer.

Hua Hin

Thailand is a dream destination in January. The peak season chaos of Christmas and New Year festivities has settled, leaving a more relaxed vibe. The cool, dry weather makes it perfect for beach days or trying outdoor activities like kiteboarding or horse riding. Kickstart the year’s memory-making (and Instagram feed) with a visit to the Phraya Nakhon Cave in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park for magical views. Or Kaeng Krachan National Park offers hiking, birdwatching, and a chance to spot rare species like Asian elephants. Fill up on fresh seafood at the Hua Hin Fishing Pier in a vibrant seaside setting. In the evenings, explore the lively Hua Hin Night Market, filled with local crafts and street food. When you’re not out exploring, chill out in avant-garde style at our SO/ resort.

Miami

There's no time for a post-Christmas slump in Miami: January is way too much fun. Enjoy the scene on iconic beaches like South Beach, explore the happening Wynwood Arts District, or eat your way through the many-and-varied culinary delights from diverse cultures. Events wise, don’t miss the Art Deco Festival, 18-20 January, celebrating 100 years of Art Deco with free events like classic car shows, guided tours, and musical performances. For vintage lovers, the Lincoln Road Antique & Farmer’s Market is open every Sunday for the chance to pick up some mid-century treasures. Miami’s all about the hotel experience, too, so take your pick from the art-focused SLS Lux Brickell housed inside a glassy new tower with a rooftop pool. Or SLS South Beach located in the tallest Art Deco building in the neighbourhood, setting the tone for signature extravagance and flamboyance.

Johannesburg

Cycle around Soweto, bliss out in the botanical gardens or channel the cosmopolitan culture of Rosebank, the Art Deco district. South Africa’s largest city is as vibrant as they come. While it lacks Cape Town's natural beauty, ‘Jozi’ overflows with character and energy. Stay in town and tap into the town’s unique history and culture like the Apartheid museum or connect with the locals at chic rooftop bars. For a touch of the outdoors, venture into nearby nature reserves for scenic hikes. January is an excellent time to visit with warm summer temperatures - the city’s lush green landscapes create the perfect backdrop for exploration. Post-holiday travel means fewer crowds, and South Africa’s favourable exchange rate adds value to the trip. As does a stay at the architectural masterpiece that is Hyde Rosebank, currently with 50% off, and on the doorstep of the city’s art scene.

Hyde Midtown Miami

Miami

A microcosm of modern Miami, with a laid-back vibe that feels a million miles away from the city (but is really at the white-hot centre of its culture).