Need a little post-holiday reprieve? Here are some ideas.
Travelers, don’t despair! Just because winter is here, doesn’t mean that the travel season is over. In fact, with the start of the new year, January is a great month to hit the road and expand your horizons. Here are five of the best places to this January.
From the stunning shores of Kuala Lumpur to chocolate treats in Bruges to the serenity of the Swiss Alps, here are five of the best places to travel in January.
1)Madeira
This paradisiacal Portuguese Island off the northwest coast of Africa is blessed with warm weather year round. Temperatures drop in the evenings and rain is a little more likely in the winter, so just be sure to pack appropriate clothing! The island’s peace and serenity coupled with the warm, welcoming hospitality and fresh ocean air make it an all-around win. Become acquainted with the island’s culture and architecture and tour the Dos Lavradores market and the Cathedral of Funchal. Check out the Volcanic Rock Pools for a sampling of the island’s geology, and don’t forget to visit the picturesque town of São Vicente.
2) Interlaken
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, the picturesque mountain town of Interlaken provides serene escape from the world below. If you dare venture further on, the Jungfraujoch railway station, located at 3,454 metres above sea level, is the highest in Europe. Admire stunning snow-covered-mountain views, explore the beautiful Ice Palace and even check out one of the many local ski resorts. Explore the snowy village and the surrounding area, such as the Grindelwald holiday resort. End your day cuddled by a fire with some hot chocolate, or indulge in a Swiss dinner that includes some Raclette cheese.
3) Ho Chi Minh City
This Vietnamese city offers a magical combination of history, culture, exotic cuisine and warm weather. Vietnamese is one of the world’s most popular cuisines, and you could always bring a taste of your travels home with you by taking a cooking class focused on local dishes. The jungle and the city itself has grown over remnants from the Vietnam war, although the war’s legacy can still be found underground. Explore the Cu chi tunnels hand dug by Vietnamese guerilla soldiers, to ponder a significant piece of history. Get in touch with the culture at the Cao Dai Temple, which marks the centerpiece of a uniquely Vietnamese faith, and the Jade Emperor Pagoda not only to admire the exquisite woodwork, but also for a bit of good luck.
Cao Dai Temple, Ho Chi Minh City
4) Kuala Lumpur
Full of wonderful surprises, great weather and beaches, Kuala Lumpur is located off the coast of Malaysia. Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands, lies north of the city. For a luxurious beach with a reasonably priced resort experience, check out Pulau Langkawi. If luxury isn’t your thing, there is assuredly a beach that will suit you, such as Port Dickson (closer to the city) and Pentai Tengah for some peace and quiet. Have some fun in the sun at the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, visit the top of the impressive 88-story Petronas Twin Towers or bathe with a baby elephant at an elephant sanctuary. In Kuala Lumpur, adventure is at your fingertips.
5) Bruges
For a simple yet sophisticated holiday, go to Bruges. This quaint town is perfect for a short weekend getaway where you can eat, drink and be merry. Take a tour of a local brewery and sip some of the best Belgian beers (there are a lot!), sample some delicious chocolate from an authentic Belgian chocolate shop and stroll through the narrow, romantic streets and cobblestone alleys.
Beautiful Bruges