Beat the Blues: 10 Extended January Vacations for Ultimate Relaxation

1. Abisko, Sweden

First up on our list is Abisko, Sweden — a destination unlike any other. The highlight of your trip will likely be watching the Northern Lights. While the auroras can be observed in various parts of the world, Abisko stands out as one of the best. This is in large part due to its favorable microclimate that leads to clearer skies, making it a great place to travel in January. For action-packed snow adventures, go dog sledding or snowmobiling through landscapes blanketed with snow. If you're up for an extra adrenaline rush, you can try ice climbing. This activity will have you climbing frozen waterfalls and icy cliffs under expert guidance. Speaking of ice, you can choose to stay in one of Abisko’s ice hotels. These hotels get rebuilt every winter and offer a unique accommodation experience. 

Lastly, you’ll want to make sure to try the local cuisine. You might already be familiar with köttbullar (Swedish meatballs), but they’re a must, as is gravlax (cured salmon). Abisko has plenty to offer for a January reset.

2. Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt

If you’d prefer to get away from the cold, consider Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. The city is a paradise for diving enthusiasts where you can explore some of the world's most stunning coral reefs in the Red Sea. There are high-end beachfront resorts with world-class offerings for those who are looking for a bit of luxury.

For adventure seekers who prefer land to water, desert safaris are available by Jeep, camel, or even quad bike through the Sinai Desert. There are opportunities to stay out in the desert after dark, with traditional Bedouin dinners under starlit skies.

If you feel like splurging, the bustling Naama Bay promenade is the place for you. Here, you will find plenty of shopping experiences, as well as dining and vibrant nightlife options. If you’d rather buy something more traditional, check out the Old Market, where you’ll find souvenirs, spices, and perfumes.

3. Rotorua, New Zealand

New Zealand’s Rotorua is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. On the relaxation side, embrace the geothermal wonders of this part of the world by soaking in hot springs or enjoying therapeutic mud pools.

For some adventure, you have hiking, mountain bike riding, and even horse riding in the Redwoods Forest. The forest is over 50,000 hectares, and some of the redwoods here have grown to almost 250 feet in height. You have two beautiful lakes — Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera — where visitors can go boating and fishing.

You can learn plenty about Maori culture through traditional performances or sampling an authentic hangi feast, cooked underground using heated rocks. Some of the local spas offer therapies inspired by ancient traditions, too. This is perfect for helping rejuvenate your body after a day in the forest or out on the water.

4. Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is a great choice any time of the year, but that’s especially true for those looking to re-energize after the holidays. Imagine yourself lounging on the tropical beaches of Chaweng and Lamai, soaking up the sun and looking out to the crystal-clear water.

Nature lovers have some good options here. The Na Muang and Hin Lad waterfalls are popular choices, as is the Secret Buddha Garden, with its collection of statues hidden within dense jungle. Another great consideration is the Samui Elephant Sanctuary. This is a home for elephants that prioritizes the ethical side of wildlife tourism.

After a day in nature, you have the option to let loose, as Ko Samui is known for its vibrant nightlife. The Lamai Night Market is another option for those who want something more low-key at night, and the perfect spot to sample some street food. 

For local culture, stop by Wat Plai Laem. This is a beautiful Buddhist temple boasting a massive statue of the Guanyin goddess. Getting a glimpse of the preserved monk at the nearby Wat Khunaram is another good choice.

5. Bath, England

Now we head to the UK, where England’s Bath is a great destination for a serene January vacation. Combine relaxation and history by experiencing the city's Roman Baths. These ancient thermal springs have been a relaxation spot since AD 70 and continue to draw visitors with their warm, healing waters. For a more modern spa experience, visit Thermae Bath Spa. Here you can soak in rooftop pools overlooking the city.

The Georgian architecture that defines Bath is another must-see. Simply wander through streets lined with honey-colored stone buildings and admire this unique architectural style. Literature enthusiasts will appreciate Bath’s connection to Jane Austen. The Jane Austen Centre offers the ability to explore her heritage and the history around this charming city that inspired two of her novels.

Spending some time near the River Avon — either on a boat ride or walking along its banks — is another great way to add to your stay. To immerse yourself further into local culture, plan your trip around one of Bath's many festivals that celebrate everything from music and literature to food and comedy.

6. Tuscany, Italy

The next destination might be one of the first you think of when relaxation comes to mind. Tuscany’s natural thermal springs like Saturnia are perfect for unwinding after a day exploring the Italian countryside. Staying in retreats nestled amidst vineyards and olive trees offers an experience that's hard to beat.

Unsurprisingly, Tuscany is a haven for food lovers. You can simply indulge yourself in authentic Italian delicacies prepared with local ingredients, or learn how to cook them yourself by enrolling in cooking classes offered throughout the region. Make sure to take some food photos for Instagram.

Of course, no trip to Tuscany would be complete without wine tasting. Surrounded by world-renowned vineyards, you're never far from an opportunity to sample what the local producers have to offer.

7. Banff, Canada

The first of two North American cities on our list, consider Banff in Canada. A popular destination with many routes, you can fly business class, first class, or economy. Banff is nestled within the Rocky Mountains and offers many different activities for both relaxation and adventure.

Start with the Banff Upper Hot Springs, where steaming water provides the backdrop to snow-covered peaks, offering you tranquility with a glimpse of natural beauty. For thrill-seekers, take advantage of the winter season with the many skiing and snowboarding options you have available.

If you like to hike, the Rockies has many different trails available that will present you with stunning views. Make sure to keep an eye out for local wildlife during your stay, as sightings of elk and deer are very common.

8. Bali, Indonesia

One of the most popular tourist destinations on Earth, Bali is an ideal destination for a January vacation that prioritizes relaxation. Its beachfront resorts are luxurious, and the soothing spa treatments will melt away your stress. The island's well-known yoga retreats are another opportunity to center yourself with meditation sessions against a visually beautiful backdrop.

If you head inland, you may find Ubud, known as the cultural heart of Bali. Here, rice terraces stretch out in every direction while local healers share ancient wellness practices. This is a popular place for traditional dance. Add visits to water temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu to your itinerary for a slice of spiritual calm.

Even though Bali is perfect for relaxation, there are still some opportunities for adventure. Even if you’re not a morning person, consider a sunrise hike on Mount Batur. The views from this active volcano are worth the early start

9. St. Moritz, Switzerland

While there’s plenty to do even in the warmer months in St. Moritz, it truly shines in the colder months. So much so that it’s even been the host of the Winter Olympics not once, but two times. This high-altitude resort town is a great choice for an extended January vacation.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find joy in winter sports activities across the snow-laden Alps. From skiing to snowboarding, there's something for every thrill-seeker here. If you prefer slower-paced adventures, there are some frozen lake activities like ice skating to enjoy.

Speaking of the Alps, for the best views possible, you must take a journey on the Bernina Express train route. The full trip only takes a few hours, and it takes you across the Swiss border to Italy, with some of the best views you’ll ever see along the way.

If you’d prefer not to be very active while in St. Moritz, that’s available, too. The region is home to many world-class spa facilities, and when combined with the freshness of the Alps, you’ll leave feeling like a new person.

10. Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

Back in North America, the final entrant on our list is Santa Fe, New Mexico. The city has a number of desert wellness resorts, each giving you the chance to indulge in local treatments and rejuvenate.

To take in some culture, head down Canyon Road. This is home to an abundance of art galleries that showcase a wide range of different styles. Everything from contemporary to traditional Native American art can be found here.

In addition to the art, the influence of Native American Pueblo culture is richly embedded within the city. You can explore historical sites that shed light on their traditions and way of life. The high desert landscapes also provide scenic drives or long hikes. These regions have been shaped by centuries of geological processes.

A change in environment can radically alter how you feel. As you get through the busy holiday period and the blues start to take hold, choose any of these 10 great options to quickly get you back on track. Remember, starting the year with self-care and relaxation is not indulgence. It’s an important part of helping you recalibrate, so prioritize yourself this January.

Share This Article on Social Media