As memories of the festive season fade but the grey skies linger, many of us start dreaming of hot holiday destinations to break those dreaded January blues.
So if you are wondering where is hot in January for a holiday, our travel experts have got the answer. Whether you are craving the laid back glamour of the Caribbean, an exotic Asian adventure or a stylish city escape, we have put together a list of five destinations which promise the perfect antidote to the winter chill.
From the sun-kissed beaches of Barbados to the wild beauty of South Africa, here our travel experts guide to where is hot to go on
holiday in January for your next elegant escape.
1. Barbados, The Caribbean
For many discerning travellers wondering where is it hot in January for a holiday, Barbados stands as an eternal favourite. With average daytime temperatures around 28 degrees and the dry season in full swing, January is the ideal time to travel to this Caribbean paradise. The island glows under endless sunshine, with soft white sands, sapphire seas and a cooling Atlantic breeze making every day feel effortlessly perfect.
Stay at one of Elegant Resorts' handpicked luxury properties on the island's platinum west coast and you'll discover why Barbados is synonymous with sophisticated relaxation. From exclusive beach clubs and oceanfront dining to sailing along the coast at sunset, every experience feels indulgent yet authentically Bajan.
January also brings a lively cultural spirit to the island. Visitors can enjoy the buzzing energy of Oistins Fish Fry, sip world-renowned Mount Gay rum or explore the island's lush interior, where botanical gardens and plantation houses tell stories of the island's rich heritage. For those seeking luxury with a soul, Barbados offers it in abundance - sun-drenched, stylish and simply unforgettable.
2. South Africa
For travellers who are drawn to adventure, a safari holiday to South Africa promises a thrilling start to the year that will be difficult to match. With average temperatures reaching around 30 degrees, it's summer time in the Southern Hemisphere, ensuring both warm weather and incredible wildlife experiences.
A
luxury safari in South Africa during January is a spectacular way to begin the year. The bushveld is alive with colour after the rains, and while the landscapes are lush, the wildlife viewing remains exceptional. Private reserves bordering Kruger National Park offer an unparalleled safari experience, where expert guides lead you to sightings of the Big Five before you return to a beautifully designed safari lodge where you can enjoy incredible cuisine whilst looking out over the savannah.
Beyond the bush, South Africa's diversity offers an eclectic selection of activities. In Cape Town, Table Mountain rises over a city framed by beaches and vineyards. The Cape Winelands, with their elegant estates and world class wines, offer a perfect contrast to the wild heart of safari country. Warm, vibrant and full of life, South Africa in January delivers the ultimate combination of adventure, culture and indulgence.
3. Thailand, Southeast Asia
If you're asking where is hot in January and dreaming of exotic islands with golden temples and serene wellness spas, then Thailand is your perfect answer. With average temperatures of 31 degrees, this Southeast Asian hem basks in glorious sunshine throughout the month of January - a season of calm seas, cloudless skies and gentle breezes that make it one of the most sought after destinations for winter sun.
In the south, the islands of Phuket and Koh Samui offer exquisite luxury resorts where every facet is designed for relaxation. You can stay in private villas with infinity pools overlooking the Andaman Sea, enjoy morning yoga sessions on the beach and indulge in lantern lit dinners under the stars. For cultural discovery, head north to Chiang Mai, where ancient temples and vibrant markets bring Thailand's heritage to life.
Thailand's warmth in January isn't just about the weather; it's also the warmth of its people, cuisine and spirit. From elegant spa retreats to barefoot luxury escapes, this is a destination that nourishes the soul while delivering pure indulgence - perfect for travellers seeking either adventure or serenity.
4. Tenerife, The Canary Islands
Those looking for hot European countries in January which offer a shorter travel distance without compromising on weather conditions, Tenerife in the Canary Islands is the perfect destination. Known as 'the island of Eternal Spring', Tenerife enjoys daytime temperatures of around 22 degrees at this time of year, making it one of the hottest places in Europe in January.
This Canary Island gem combines volcanic beauty with five star luxury. The south of the island, home to resorts such as Costa Adeje, offers incredible stays complete with ocean-view suites, infinity pools and Michelin star restaurants. By day, you can relax on golden beaches or explore the lunar landscapes of Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that makes you feel as though you are on another planet.
What makes Tenerife truly appealing in January is its versatility. You can sunbathe, stargaze, hike or indulge in spa treatments without the crowds of the peak summer months. For elegant European winter sun, Tenerife offers the perfect mix of relaxation and refinement, just a few hours from home.
5. Miami, USA
For a cosmopolitan escape with style, sunshine and sophistication, Miami is a top contender. With temperatures averaging 25 degrees, the Magic City is one of the hottest places in January for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Miami's allure lies in its seamless blend of beach life and urban glamour. The pastel hues of South Beach, Art Deco architecture and oceanfront promenades create a setting that's both relaxed and lively. Luxury travellers will find world class hotels, rooftop bars and private yacht charters that capture the essence of Miami chic.
Beyond the beaches, Miami's cultural scene flourishes in January. From the contemporary galleries of the Design District to fine dining experiences by globally renowned chefs, the city offers sophistication at every turn. For those looking to extend their stay, the Florida Keys are just a scenic drive away, offering a more tranquil slice of paradise beneath the same generous sun.
Where is Hot to go on Holiday in January?
Ultimately, the best destination for a hot holiday in January is dependent on your own preferences. Whether you're drawn to the rhythm of the Caribbean, the thrill of the African bush, or the cosmopolitan charm of Miami, January offers countless opportunities to travel in style under the sunshine.
Each of these five destinations put forward by our travel specialists delivers something unique - from the barefoot elegance of Barbados to the golden temples of Thailand - yet all share the same promise of warmth, luxury and rejuvenation to start the year in the best possible fashion..
At Elegant Resorts, we believe that the perfect hot January holiday is more than just a
winter escape; it's a chance to reset, rediscover, and reconnect. With our portfolio of handpicked properties and bespoke experiences, we'll help you find your personal paradise for a January getaway that you won't soon forget.