January
The month to start as you mean to go on...
Finland
January sees Finland at its most beautiful.
Think, snow-draped forests, frozen lakes, and darks skies to catch the Northern Lights. Perfect for husky sledding, reindeer safaris, or cozying up in a glass igloo.
A stay at the exclusive Octola Lodge would be our top-pick for the ultimate family escape (Christmas here would also be magical). Arctic Tree House Hotel in Rovaniemi is another guest favourite, as is Levi Sprit Villas for those looking to discover this captivating region of Finnish Lapland.
New Zealand
Long, sunny summer days make January ideal for New Zealand road trips, vineyard visits, and alpine hikes. If time is on your side our advice is to split it generously between the North & South Islands - after all you’ll have travelled a long way to get here.
On South Island allow space for your adventurous sprit to thrive alongside epic scenery as you make your way through the Southern Alps, Queenstown, and Milford Sound - a stay at The Lindis is a must. North Island is made for cultural exploration, learning about New Zealand’s history while discovering beautiful beaches along the way - don’t miss out on a night or two at Huka Lodge.
Sri Lanka
This is the month when the south and west coasts are at their best - with golden beaches, calm seas, and plenty of sunshine.
Combine cultural exploration in the Golden Triangle, where a sunrise or sunset hike up Sigiriya Rock is worth every step. A visit to the tea country isn’t complete without jumping on the iconic train journey from Kandy to Ella, followed by stay in Hatton or Dickoya - Ceylon Teal Trails & Camellia Hills are our top picks here.
Sri Lanka’s many national parks won’t disappoint wildlife lovers - Yala is popular for a reason and a stay at Wild Coast Tented Lodge provides prime access. Head south to wind-down at Malabar Hill, one of our all time favourite hotels and the perfect spot to reflect on a journey that truly has it all.
St Barths, Caribbean
January in St Barths is picture perfect. The festive crowds have subsided, yet the atmosphere remains enchanting.
Like to be close to the action? Head to Saint Jean, where a stay at Eden Rock never disappoints and you’ll be in touching distance of chic beach clubs and the island’s best restaurants.
Or if you prefer to feel a little more ‘away from it all’ - Cheval Blanc St-Barth is our pick. Spend your days lazing on the beautiful beach or out exploring the island on Mini-Moke adventures.
Costa Rica
The dry season makes January one of the best times to explore Costa Rica. This Central American jewel in the crown continues to grow in popularity, and for good reason - its pura vida approach to life rubs off on visitors as equally as on those who call it home.
Travel through the mesmerising cloud forests of Monteverde, soak up volcano views in Arenal national park, or pick to stay at Origins Lodge if you prefer to do things differently.
Surfers won’t be able to resist riding waves at the golden Pacific coastline beaches of Nosara and Santa Teresa. While off-grid adventurers and nature lovers will find paradise with stays at remotes lodges such as Hacienda AltaGracia and Pacuare Lodge.
