Your January Travel Guide

The top places to get away to this January

The turkey coma has lifted and you've visited or been visited by every friend and family member you know. Now is the time to recoup and take a break from those sub-zero temperatures. But where should you go?

Read on for our handy guide to the corners of the world well worth a visit at this time of year.

Mexico

If the weather is your priority, you can rarely go wrong with Mexico as there isn't really a bad time of the year to go - you just need to head to the right area as it is such a large country.

If you're looking for a beach holiday, there are countless all-inclusive options available, and hundreds of pounds worth of free donations to raise when you book with providers such as Secret Escapes who donate 0.25% when you visit Give as you Live Online before booking.

Top Tip - Mexico

Without a doubt, one of the best reasons to go to Mexico early in the year is Whale watching season. Throughout January the coast of Baja becomes the ideal location for California Gray Whales to give birth before their long migration back to summer feeding grounds in Alaska. These whales are famously curious about humans, and boats carry passengers daily for up-close encounters with these 35-ton creatures during the calving season.

Tanzania

Probably wasn't even in your mind before reading this, right? Trust us. It might seem like a bit of a wildcard, but the combination of incredible beach weather, cheaper safaris and scuba diving opportunities make Tanzania a must-visit at this time of year.

If you're wanting to experience a little adventure whilst still getting some R&R and enjoy a lower price point than in peak tourist season, Tanzania in January won't disappoint. With beautiful turquoise beaches in Zanzibar, lush mountain views in the Usambara mountains and rich wildlife and culture, it would be hard to get bored. Travel with TUI and raise up to 2% for the charity of your choice when you visit Give as you Live Online before you book.

Top Tip - Tanzania

The currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling. Get your currency before you travel as almost all ATMs have high withdrawal fees. US Dollars are often accepted in tourist hotspots but it is common to receive a very bad exchange rate, so stick to local currency. As for paying by card, don't bother. They're rarely accepted outside of hotels.

Greece

Ok, disclaimer. If you're looking for a lazy beach break, January ISN'T the time to do it in Greece. But if you fancy exploring the ancient sites without a crowd, enjoying the city vibes or - bear with us - skiing, January is the time to go.

If you've visited Greece in the summer months you'll already know just how unbearable the crowds can be, but if you're willing to brace a slight chill, you'll have the place to yourself. Even better, there are some great deals to be had, and if you fancy building your own break Booking.com will donate up to 2% of your accommodation cost to the charity of your choice if you are a Give as you Live Online member.

Top Tip - Greece

Been dreaming of visiting Santorini? Avoid the popular town of Oia and instead, choose to stay in the capital - Fira. Many restaurants and bars on the island close for the winter months, but you'll still have plenty of choices in Fira.

And, whilst you won't be able to go for a swim or top up your tan, you will have sunny, comfortable days to enjoy the sightseeing without masses of tourists.

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