With Blue Monday fast approaching, we’re looking at ways to beat the January Blues. We’ve put together a list of destinations to put a smile on your face so read on and start planning the trip of a lifetime (or year). Alternatively, if you’re looking for a sun and beach holiday, check out Ibiza or Menorca and Mallorca this summer.
New Zealand
We could have picked individual cities but, when it comes to New Zealand, why limit yourself? This wonderful country has become something of a must visit destination in recent years and it’s not hard to see why. Want natural beauty? Places such as North Island’s Bay of Islands or Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound on South Island should be high on your list.
Photo by: sfriessner/Fotolia
Photo by: Jeffrey Banke/Fotolia
Or are you more of a mountain person? The Southern Alps, Remarkables, and Kaikoura Range are amongst the highlights.
Photo by: Patrik Stedrak/Fotolia
Photo by: vichie81/Fotolia
Make sure you visit some of the country’s lakes whilst you’re here. Lake Wanaka and Lake Taupo in particular should not be missed.
Photo by: stockphoto mania/Fotolia
Canada
Filled with National Parks, ice fields, far reaching wilderness, and big scary animals, the second largest country on earth is a great spot to beat the January blues. If you are here for the wildlife, both coasts are great spots to see whales whilst places like Banff National Park or Churchill in Manitoba bring other surprises.
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Ski fans are well catered for with Whistler, Banff, Mont Tremblant, and Fernie amongst the most popular resorts in North America.
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Iceland
What better way to beat the January blues than seeing the Northern Lights? Head to Iceland in January and you’ll have as good a chance as any of seeing the Aurora Borealis after trying some local dishes such as reindeer stew.
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If that’s not enough to cheer you up, head to the Golden Circle to see the Great Geysir. Alternatively, seek out some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world.
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Budapest, Hungary
Want to start the New Year feeling refreshed and invigorated? Budapest’s famous hot springs will certainly do the trick. The architecture around the thermal baths alone is reason enough to visit!
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Be sure to indulge in a coffee or two at one of the cities many cafés or pay a visit to one of the popular ruin bars in the old Jewish Quarter. Alternatively, simply stroll through the snowy streets soaking up the atmosphere.
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Edinburgh, Scotland
January in Scotland? Remember to pack your thermals because it can get cold but it’s a great time to visit. Come the 25th the whole country is focused on one thing – Burn’s Night. Make sure you’ve booked a table somewhere and be prepared for a Ceilidh.
Photo by: Heartland Arts 1/Fotolia
Make sure you head up to Arthur’s Seat for stunning views over the city.
Photo by: M.V. Photography/Fotolia
Ireland
Head to Ireland in the winter and you’ll avoid the worst of the crowds. It’s a great time to explore touristy spots such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Connemara.
Photo by: Patryk Kosmider/Fotolia
Head to Cork to kiss the Blarney Stone or visit the Midleton Distillery for a taster of Jameson. If you fancy a road trip, head to the Rock of Cashel, Skellig Michael, or sneak into Northern Ireland to visit the Giant’s Causeway.
Photo by: Michael AndreasJ/Fotolia
Photo by: Blickfang/Fotolia
Feeling inspired?
If any of these sound perfect, check out the latest car hire prices whilst you’re here. You may save a fortune.
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