- Beach vacation at the sea in January
- Where to go to Europe in January
- Excursion holidays abroad
- Holidays with children in January
- Choosing a ski resort
- Where to relax in Russia
- Winter sea cruises
- Safari in Africa
- Shop tours
- Active rest - diving, surfing
- Holidays Tours
- Inexpensive vacation in January - what to choose?
- Where to go in January without a visa?
Thousands of tourists are planning their holidays at the beginning of the year. Long before the New Year holidays, travelers begin to think about where to go in January 2020, how to spend their free time with benefit and pleasure, so that later they can start their labor exploits with renewed vigor.
There are many options for a comfortable and memorable stay. In winter, you can escape from the snow and cold to the tropics, where eternal summer reigns, the sun shines brightly in the sky, palm trees cast a carved pattern on the white sand. But the main advantage of such picturesque corners is the sea - blue or turquoise, calm or waves, with coral reefs or endless beaches, soft descent into the water, warm and gentle.
The high season at this time begins in the countries washed by the Indian Ocean and in the Caribbean. Kilometer-long beaches lined with sun loungers await tourists in the Maldives and Seychelles, Mexico and Cuba, Bali and the Dominican Republic. Vietnam and Thailand are considered the most popular tourist destinations at this time of the year. Charters fly there, which significantly reduces travel costs. These countries have a variety of options for accommodation, from expensive luxury hotels to guest houses that can be rented for the whole winter. In addition, New Year's holidays are celebrated here on a grand scale.
Tropical countries offer excellent active entertainment: diving, surfing, parasailing, kitesurfing, etc. In search of big waves, travelers go to Mexico, Dominican Republic, Bali, Vietnam, the best diving awaits athletes off the coast of Egypt, the Caribbean, the Maldives, deep sea fishing and yachting is available in all tropical seaside resorts.
For those who do not want a sharp change in climate, we can recommend traditional excursion tours in European countries. In January, you can go with children to Lapland to see the Finnish Santa Claus - Yolopukki or with an excursion to the Czech Republic or Spain.
The first month of the year is considered the coldest and snowiest in our latitudes, so it is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, sledging and ice skating. There are many great ski areas around the world. Most of the fashionable resorts are located in Europe, which means that the road to them will not take long.
Beach vacation at the sea in January
There are corners on the globe where it is most logical to go in the winter, in order to return to summer for a while. In the Dominican Republic, the Maldives, Cuba, Mexico, the "beach" Indian states of Goa and Kerala, wonderful weather sets in January, which is most suitable for relaxation on the seashore.
Thailand
Thailand in January is a wonderful place to spend a little money (for example, an excellent bungalow on the coast of Koh Tao will cost only $ 150 per month) in a pleasant climate to wait out the harsh cold. The air temperature in the south of Thailand at the peak of winter is 29-30 degrees.
Thailand's seaside resorts are washed by the Andaman and South China Seas. The water in them is warm, comfortable for swimming, and clear.
The only drawback of resorts in Thailand, which most active and friendly tourists consider an advantage, is their crowdedness. Wherever you go in January - in the bustling Pattaya on the continent or the island of Phuket - there will be many tourists, and half of them will be Asians who have arrived from neighboring countries and Thailand itself to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Our compatriots can only join in the general fun!
Tours at the beginning of January to Thailand should be bought 3-4 months before the trip, otherwise you risk being left behind. Immediately after the New Year holidays, on the contrary, you can count on a last minute ticket at a decent price.
Russians do not need visas to stay in Thailand.
More about Phuket
More about Pattaya
Thailand weather in January
Vietnam
In southern Vietnam, our compatriots in January choose to rest on the tropical island Phu Quoc overgrown with the jungle, in the youthful Nha Trang, in the more respectable Ho Chi Minh City, on the exotic island of Con Dao, in the democratic resort of Phan Thiet.
The beaches of the latter are washed by the South China Sea, which is warmed up to 25-27 degrees in these latitudes. The minimum number of people, peace and tranquility can be found at the 30 km long Tien Tan Beach. Doi Duong Beach is noisier and more crowded. There is a golf course next to it.
Often, the Phan Thiet resort also includes the neighboring village of Mui Ne, located 12 km away, which has recently been very popular with tourists. The best beaches in MUI ne are Bai Rang and the Ocean Vista hotel's waterfront section protected by breakwaters.
Phan Thiet is a popular destination for families with children. For kids, there is soft sand, a smooth descent into the water, comfortable hotels and even an amusement park.
Russians do not need a visa to stay in Vietnam for 2 weeks.
More about Phan Thiet and MUI ne
Weather in Phan Thiet and MUI ne in January
Hainan, China
The best beach destination in China is Hainan Island, located in the South China Sea. In local resorts, most of the tourists gather in the second half of January, when the time comes to celebrate the New Year according to the Chinese calendar.
The air temperature in Sanya and other resorts in Hainan in January is about 24-25 degrees. The sea is quite cool during this period, but there are enough people who want to open the swimming season in January. The beaches on Hainan Island are impeccable: the sand is fine and clean, amazingly white. Diving is especially good in Yalongwan Bay, surfing in Dadonghai Bay.
In addition to beach recreation, tourists are offered a rich excursion program. People in the know say that they won't be able to see the island even in 10 days of vacation - there are so many interesting things to discover here.
A visa to Hainan Island is required. It can be obtained through the Chinese Consulate, right at the airport, or you can do without it altogether if you buy a tour from an operator.
More about Hainan
More about Sanya resort
Weather in Sanya in January
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic occupies half of the Caribbean island of Haiti. The resorts of the Dominican Republic can be divided into northern and southern. The north of the country is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The main resort of this region is Punta Cana. Adjacent to it is the resort village of Bavaro with fashionable luxury hotels for the rich and famous.
January in Punta Cana is the peak of the high season. It's not hot here because of the breeze blowing from the ocean. The most picturesque local beach is called Bavaro. Next to it are luxurious five-star hotel complexes, so the sand on the beach is practically sifted through a sieve, making it clean. The beach is built up with small cozy restaurants and bars. In the evenings, music plays loudly here, and people dance to it right on the sand. Surfing (Macau beach), parasailing (Cortesito beach) and diving are actively practiced in Punta Cana.
The southern resorts of the country - Boca Chica, La Romana, Bayahibe - are located on the shores of the quiet Caribbean Sea. They are more suitable for families with children.
In the Dominican Republic, no one is in a hurry, so public transport here runs intermittently. To move around the country comfortably, it is better to rent a car or order a transfer in hotels.
Tourists from Russia do not need a visa to the Dominican Republic.
Read more about the resorts of Punta Cana, Boca Chica, La Romana, Bayahibe.
Weather in Dominican Republic in January
UAE
January in the UAE is the most enjoyable month of the year. This is the time when the suffocating heat subsides, and you can move around the country without fear of heatstroke.
All resorts of the United Arab Emirates, except Fujairah, are washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf. Fujairah is located on the shores of the Gulf of Oman, which is part of the Indian Ocean.
On the west coast is Dubai - a fantastic city where you can come every year and not recognize it - it changes so much. It is always fun and interesting here.
Sharjah, located east of Dubai, is considered a quieter holiday destination. Behind Sharjah, there is the excellent resort of Ras al-Khaimah, attracting those who love calmness and measuredness.
The UAE visa is issued right upon arrival at the airport.
There are very few hotels in the UAE that operate on the All Inclusive principle. All inclusive hotels are simply not in demand here.
More about Dubai and Sharjah
Weather in UAE in January
Information about the cost of rest in Dubai
India
The territory of India is located in several climatic zones. In winter, in this country you can find both snow-capped mountains and warm areas on the coast of the Indian Ocean, where people from all over the planet come to relax on the wide beaches under the rays of the tropical sun. In addition, India is considered one of the cheapest countries in the world, where you can spend the whole winter and not leave your entire annual salary at the resort.
The most popular place to wait out the winter is the miniature state of Goa on the coast of the Arabian Sea. The air here at this time warmed up to 34 degrees, the temperature of the sea water is kept at around 28 degrees.
There are many beaches in Goa, you can explore them day after day, choosing the best one. The most famous beaches:
- the three-kilometer southern Agonda, where there are no beach cafes and residential bungalows, but there are beach equipment rental points;
- southern Benaulim with a sea without waves;
- calm southern Palolem with golden sand;
- bustling northern Anjuna with a Wednesday market and numerous discos.
India Visa can be obtained online.
Tourists travel between the resorts of Goa by public transport. The most daring and reckless rent scooters.
You need to drive very carefully on Indian roads so as not to get involved in an accident with a lazy sacred cow or dog, of which there are quite a few.
More about Goa
Weather in Goa in January
Information about the sights of Goa
Sri Lanka
Where else can you go to Asia in January? We recommend considering Sri Lanka as a holiday destination.
On the west coast of the island, where the Sri Lankan capital Colombo is located, it is dry and warm at this time. Daytime temperatures sometimes exceed 30 degrees. But in the center of the country, in the mountains, it is much cooler - the air temperature is kept at around 20 degrees. There is still not much rainfall in January, so this month is ideal for excursions.
For large groups of people, head to the sandy beaches of Negombo and Mount Lavinia in January, which are adjacent to Colombo. In search of romance, it is worth going to the beaches of the resort of Bentota. Snorkeling fans gather on Hikkaduwa.
Visa to Sri Lanka is issued on the Internet or at the airport.
Read more about the resorts of Negombo, Mount Lavinia, Bentota, Hikkaduwa.
Weather in Sri Lanka in January
Egypt
The advantages of a holiday in Egypt are obvious: a large number of all-inclusive hotels, a flight that takes only a few hours, the incredible coral wealth of the Red Sea.
Many tourists have already been to Egypt more than once and prefer to return here again and again. For our compatriots, they even organize magnificent New Year and Christmas celebrations, which only makes Egypt more popular in the eyes of guests from the CIS countries.
The Red Sea in January is not as well warmed up as tropical waters. Some vacationers still swim in it, but this is rather an exception to the rule. Most of the tourists in Hurghada prefer to swim in the heated sea water pools, which are available in many hotels.
In winter, scuba diving off the shores of Sharm el Sheikh and surfing in Dahab and Marsa Alam are possible.
For those who do not want to climb into the cool sea, we recommend that you pay attention to excursions, which at other times of the year do not have enough time due to beach fun. Drive to the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor.
A visa to Egypt can be obtained at the airport.
Resorts of Egypt
Weather in Egypt in January
Information about the sights of Egypt
Singapore
Rarely does anyone come to the city-state of Singapore, located in Southeast Asia, for a week. Usually it takes a couple of days to see it, so it is visited between times - while traveling in Malaysia, which is located north of Singapore, or on the way to Australia and New Zealand. However, modern tourists should reconsider the established traditions and choose Singapore for a beach holiday.
January in Singapore is the time of the monsoons, so there will be no summer heat. The air temperature will "drop" to 30 degrees (and lower temperatures simply do not exist here).
The best beaches are not located in the port city of Singapore, but on small islands: Sentosa and Pulau Tekong.
Those traveling in transit through Singapore are allowed to stay in the city for 96 hours without a visa.
There is no point in renting a car in Singapore. You will have to pay more than a hundred dollars a day for it, which is not very rational. It is better to move around the city by public transport, which works here without interruption.
Learn more about Singapore and Sentosa.
Weather in Singapore in January
Bali, Indonesia
A paradise for budget travelers and sun and sea lovers - the Indonesian island of Bali, where summer lasts all year round.
The water off the coast of the southern resorts (Kuta, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Nusa Dua and others) warms up to 29 degrees in January. This means that in the Indian Ocean, washing the shores of Bali from the south, you can swim without fear of freezing.
The most optimal conditions for a beach holiday in January are established in the eastern resorts of Bali. These include the cute and humble Amed, where dolphin watching tours are periodically organized, and the budget and calm Chandidasa, whose trademark is black sand beaches.
The advantages of a trip to Bali include the fact that most vacationers go home in the first month of the year, and prices in local hotels are significantly reduced.
The visa is issued at the airport.
More about Bali
Weather in Indonesia in January
Information about entertainment in Bali
Cuba
Cuba offers the perfect balance between nature and beaches and heritage. For the first acquaintance with the country, we recommend the capital of this country, Havana, washed by the waters of the Florida Strait. In January it is dry here, there is no rain, the sun shines brightly, which contributes to long walks. See the old town, visit the fortress of the three kings of Morro, photograph the Capitol of Havana.
The best beaches in the capital are located in the east of the city. The beaches of Bacuranao and Guanabo are very popular with Cuban guests.
If you rent a car, you can at any time drive to the tourist pearl of the country - the resort of Varadero, which is located 140 km from Havana. This is the place that most of our compatriots prefer.
An island visa is not required.
Weather in Varadero in January
More about Cuba's resort islands
Diving in Holguin
Mexico
One of the trendy destinations of the season is Mexico and its amazing resorts. At the top of the popularity ratings for local resort areas is the Riviera Maya with its 9 Huatulco bays and more than 30 pristine beaches. Along the coastline are charming towns such as Santa Cruz, La Crucecita and Santa Maria de Huatulco, where tourists can learn about ancient Mexican culture and customs.
In January, the resorts of the Maya Riviera are sunny and dry. The air warms up to 28-30 degrees, the water temperature in the Yucatan Strait and the Caribbean Sea is kept at around 24 degrees.
On the Riviera Maya, you must:
- swim with large turtles in the sea at Akumala beach;
- visit the ancient pyramids in Tulum and the whole complex of buildings of the Maya Indians in Chichen Itza;
- descend into the caves in Playa del Carmen, through which an underground river flows - an unforgettable sight!
The Mexico e-Visa can be obtained online.
More about Riviera Maya
Mexico landmarks
Weather in Mexico in January
Maldives
Diving, snorkeling, submarine trips, fishing cruises, crystal clear blue sea, blinding white beaches in the sun - all this is offered by the picturesque island country of the Maldives.
Winter in the Maldives is high season. But sky-high prices for accommodation and flights make holidays on the islands elite, which means that there are no noisy crowds of tourists like in Egypt or Goa.
The weather in January on the archipelago is excellent: in the daytime the air warms up to 30 degrees, in the evening its temperature drops by a couple of degrees. The water is ideal for extended swimming or snorkeling or scuba diving. Its temperature does not drop below 28 degrees.
The advantages of resting in the Maldives include the fact that a visa is not needed here.
More about Maldives
Weather in Maldives in January
Malaysia
Malaysia consists of two parts: one is on the mainland, the other occupies the north of Kalimantan (the south of the island belongs to Indonesia). The shores of Malaysia are washed by the waters of the Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea.
In January, the islands of Langkawi and Penang are suitable for recreation. From December to April, it is dry here, which means the high season. The cost of living in hotels rises several times, but you will not have to regret the money spent.
While relaxing in the Langkawi archipelago, visit the Gua Cherita Aquarium and Cave with prehistoric autographs, and go on a club tour in Penang.
Malaysia is the tropics, it is always hot and humid here. The air is warmed up to 27-30 degrees, the water temperature is also pleasant - about 27 degrees.
Guests from Russia come to Malaysia without visas.
More about Langkawi
Weather in Langkawi in January
Shopping in Malaysia
Seychelles
Seychelles is located above Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. 115 islets are scattered across the turquoise ocean surface. Bright sun, hot beaches, lush greenery - this is what awaits tourists in the Seychelles.
The Seychelles are located below the equator, which means that our winter there turns into summer - hot, humid. The air temperature during the day is about 30 degrees, the water looks like fresh milk.
The most popular island in the Seychelles is Mahe. It is here that all tourists arrive, and then disperse across the neighboring atolls.
The islet of Mahe is small but famous for its beaches. There are more than 7 dozen of them here. Absolutely everyone is suitable for swimming. For diving choose Anse Royal and Anse Forbans, for surfing - Grand Anse, for a quiet holiday - Anse Soleli.
No visa required.
Weather in Seychelles in January
Average air and water temperature in January
| Country | Air temperature | Water temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand | +27 ° C | +28 ° C |
| Vietnam | +28 ° C | +26 ° C |
| Hainan, China | +25 ° C | +24 ° C |
| Dominican Republic | +25 ° C | +26 ° C |
| UAE | +25 ° C | +23 ° C |
| Goa, India | +26 ° C | +27 ° C |
| Sri Lanka | +27 ° C | +28 ° C |
| Egypt | +24 ° C | +22 ° C |
| Singapore | +29 ° C | +28 ° C |
| Bali, Indonesia | +29 ° C | +28 ° C |
| Cuba | +27 ° C | +24 ° C |
| Mexico | +26 ° C | +25 ° C |
| Maldives | +27 ° C | +28 ° C |
| Malaysia | +26 ° C | +27 ° C |
| Seychelles | +29 ° C | +28 ° C |
Where to go to Europe in January
In the middle of winter, Southern Europe is especially beautiful, where a comfortable + 20 ° C allows you to explore any sights that are completely out of reach in summer, at the height of the beach season.
Central Europe in January, especially in the second half of it, when the New Year holidays can only be remembered, is also good. There are much fewer tourists here, accommodation prices are falling, and museums, cathedrals, castles and other interesting objects continue their work.
Malta
A tiny archipelago in the very south of Europe on a par with Tunisia is Malta. From the main island, which is called, like the country itself, Malta, in clear weather you can see the African coast.
In January, Malta is cool - about + 16-18 degrees. In summer, the air warms up to a critical 40 degrees. If the traveler's goal is an excursion, not a beach vacation, then it is best to go to Malta in winter.
Prices for air tickets and accommodation in January have been significantly reduced; there are few tourists during this period. Therefore, you can freely, almost alone, do the following things:
- enjoy the straight, like arrows, streets of the miniature Maltese capital La Valletta, which you can really get around in 40 minutes;
- visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses world-class masterpieces, for example, the sculptures of Venus of Malta and the Sleeping Lady;
- study the megaliths left by the ancestors of the Maltese, and be amazed that no one knows anything about these very ancestors. The most famous complexes are Ggantija, Mnajdra, Tarshin.
Malta uses two languages - English and Maltese. Many of the street signs are written in Maltese. At the same time, absolutely all local residents speak English fluently.
To travel to Malta, you must obtain a Schengen visa.
More about Valletta
Malta landmarks
Weather in Malta in January
Rome, Italy
In January, Rome is warm - from +3 to +10 degrees. In the first half of January, there are a lot of tourists in the city who came here to celebrate the New Year and stayed for a week or two. But after January 15, the city dies out - and this is a great time for walking and visiting Roman and Vatican museums. There are no queues at the box office in January, there are no crowds of tourists either, so you can thoughtfully walk around the Forums, look into St. Peter's Cathedral, see the collections of famous museums, and visit the Colosseum.
On January 6, Rome solemnly celebrates the Epiphany. In the evening, festive services are held in all local churches, for which all residents of the Eternal City gather. The joyful mood in the Italian capital is supported by New Year's illumination.
Rome in January is also a shopaholic's paradise. Here the sales period begins, during which it is worth walking through expensive boutiques in search of grandiose discounts.
Rome is connected by rail to many cities. Be sure to make a day trip to Florence or Naples.
A Schengen visa is required to visit Italy.
More about Rome
Rome landmarks
Weather in Rome in January
Barcelona, Spain
Noisy, cheerful Barcelona, where the nightlife is always in full swing, joyfully welcomes and attracts every traveler.
In January in Barcelona, thermometers rarely drop below 13 degrees during the day. The sun shines most of the month, walking along the embankments and historical quarters of the capital of Catalonia at this time is very pleasant.
After exploring Gaudi's famous Art Nouveau architectural masterpieces, visit a couple of museums - MNAC on Montjuic, where ancient frescoes are exhibited, and MACBA - Museum of Modern Art. Climb Tibidabo for a bird's-eye view of the city before heading to a cozy restaurant for dinner.
Restaurants serving Middle Eastern cuisine are concentrated in the Gràcia area, while fish taverns are to be found in Borne near the Gothic Quarter.
More about Barcelona
Barcelona landmarks
Weather in Barcelona in January
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The weather in Amsterdam in January is unpredictable. It happens that the air cools down to the temperature when numerous channels freeze, and daredevils from local residents and tourists, as if enlivening Bruegel's paintings, skate along the waterways. But most often the air temperature fluctuates between +1 - +3 degrees, and then fogs come to Amsterdam.
In winter, the city finds itself in captivity of Atlantic cyclones, carrying rains, sleet, dampness, wind, but sometimes there are clear, windless money that needs to be used for walking around the city.
Tired of sightseeing, warm up in the brown café (we recommend the 300-year-old establishment near the Westerkerk church in Jordan, a very cute neighborhood where you hardly meet tourists) and the proflocal bars. Taste the delicious liqueurs and yenefer alcoholic drink. At the Albert Cuyp Market, sample herring-based snacks.
The Netherlands is a country that is part of the Schengen Agreement. Tourists from Russia need an appropriate visa to stay in it.
More about Amsterdam
Amsterdam landmarks
Weather in the Netherlands in January
Madeira, Portugal
Islands in the Atlantic, 600 km from Morocco - the property of Portugal. The main island has the same name as the entire archipelago - Madeira. The island is famous for its mild climate, so after arriving in Madeira you can forget about warm jackets and enjoy the summer. Some tourists even swim in the ocean warmed up to 20 degrees.
In addition to secluded beaches covered with black volcanic sand, Madeira has mountains and cliffs, the peaks of which are lost in the clouds. Their slopes are covered with green spaces. At the highest point of Madeira, Mount Pico Ruivo, there is an observation deck.
In January, Madeira hosts two festivals: the Hiking Festival and the Orienteering Festival. Participation in them will allow you to get acquainted with the main attractions of the island in the company of the same keen tourists.
Traveling to Portugal will be possible with a Schengen visa.
More about Madeira
Top 10 attractions in Madeira
Weather in Madeira in January
France
In January, especially after the New Year holidays, there are few tourists in France, but there is plenty to do here.
There are a lot of sunny days in January on the Cote d'Azur - Cannes or Nice simply cannot but please. You can drive a little to the west and find yourself in Marseille, from where boats go to the legendary castle of If, located on an island 3.5 km from the coast.
January is considered a great time to visit the Loire castles - Chenonceau, Blois, Chambord, Cheverny and others. In summer, there are too many people there, and in winter you can see the palace interiors almost alone.
Excursion holidays are possible in many cities of France - it is worth seeing Toulouse, Rouen, Orleans, Reims, Strasbourg, etc. Finally, one should not forget about Paris. Snowy winters are rare here. Usually the air temperature does not drop below –3 degrees, so it will be very comfortable to walk in one of the most beautiful European cities.
To travel to France, do not forget to apply for a Schengen visa.
More about Paris, Nice, Marseille.
Famous castles of the Loire
Weather in France in January
Canary Islands
The subtropical climate of Gran Canaria, one of the 7 large Canary Islands that belongs to Spain, is the reason that spring temperatures persist here most of the year. This is a great place where tourists from Europe and Russia are used to waiting out the winter, first having fun celebrating the New Year, and then waiting for the local carnival.
It will be cold to swim in the Atlantic Ocean, but no one will bother to explore the amazing surroundings of local resorts. These include:
- dunes near the town of Maspalomas in the south of the island. This is a slice of the Sahara Desert against the backdrop of a turquoise ocean;
- Nublo rock is a huge monolith of volcanic origin, which rises to a height of 1813 meters. It offers a wonderful view of the entire island;
- an observation deck near the Mirador de El Balcon in the village of San Nicolas;
- the village of Arucas is the birthplace of Canarian rum. The Arehucas rum factory operates here, and guided tours are provided.
You need a visa to stay in the Canary Islands. It is issued at the Spanish Embassy.
Weather in the Canary Islands in January
Excursion holidays abroad
There are many places in the world that are worth seeing - and it is advisable to do this at the right time of the year. If you want to go to Europe, then above we have already given recommendations where you can go with an excursion. But January is ideal for trips not only to European countries, but, for example, to Turkey or India. In summer, it will be unbearable to see the sights of these states because of the excessive heat, but in winter, when the weather is right, a trip to Istanbul or a visit to the Taj Mahal will only be a joy.
India
Agra - one of the "corners" of the famous "Golden Triangle of India" - this is the place that is worth seeing at least once in your life. This city is famous for the most beautiful snow-white building - the Taj Mahal mausoleum, which in 2007 was included in the rating of new wonders of the world.
In January, in the afternoon, the air in Agra will be warmed up to 18 degrees Celsius.
The Taj Mahal is open from dawn to dusk every day except Friday. The best time to visit is sunrise, which is 5:30 am. Ticket offices open at 6:00, but by this time they have already formed a queue. If you arrive at the Taj Mahal at a time when the sun rises, you can photograph the mausoleum without the crowds of tourists.
Taj Mahal was built in 22 years by order of the inconsolable ruler Shah Jahan in honor of his deceased wife Mumtaz Mahal. About 20 thousand craftsmen were involved in construction work. The mausoleum is surrounded by a park.
The entrance ticket to the Taj Mahal for foreigners will cost 1,100 rupees. Together with the ticket, each guest receives a bottle of water and shoe covers, which should be worn while moving around the Taj Mahal.
More about Taj Mahal
Weather in Agra in January
Turkey
The city, located at the junction of Europe and Asia, in the past brilliant Constantinople, and now one of the most interesting Turkish settlements, Istanbul, in January after the New Year's holidays freezes. The air temperature in the middle of winter is kept at around 7-9 degrees with a plus sign, but sometimes it drops to -1 or even lower. Then you can find snow in Istanbul.
Many local attractions are open in winter as well. In the Basilica Cistern, open during the winter from 9:00 to 17:00, look for the one decorated with the image of Medusa the Gorgon among the 336 columns supporting the vault. At Hagia Sophia, a former 6th century church and later a mosque now converted into a museum, see the most valuable mosaics. In Topkapi Palace, look for a point from where a magnificent view of the Marmara Sea opens.
The evening can be spent at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center in Sirkeci, Eminenu. There they organize hour-long shows of whirling dervishes. The performances are so popular with tourists that tickets should be purchased in advance.
More about Istanbul
Top 10 attractions of Istanbul
Weather in Istanbul in January
Holidays with children in January
In January, it is in the power of parents to organize a real winter magic for their children. To do this, it is enough to go to visit Santa Claus. The residences of the winter wizard are organized in many parts of our country and even abroad. In Finland, children and their parents are hosted by the Finnish Yolopukki, who knows a few words of Russian; in Russia, kids can talk to Santa Claus and his granddaughter Snegurochka.
Veliky Ustyug, Russia
In the Vologda region there is an old postcard town of Veliky Ustyug, which is covered with snow in winter. The best scenery for the residence of the winter Grandfather cannot be found.
In the city itself, in the central quarters, the Post Office of Santa Claus and his house with a throne room were built. Nearby are workshops where lacemakers, woodcarvers and other craftsmen work, creating incredibly beautiful things with their own hands.
Outside the city, there is the residence of Father Frost - a large entertainment complex with a hotel, a magic tower, a Path of Fairy Tales, sledging slides, an alley for riding a troika and many attractions. The smallest ones will be delighted with a walk on the Emelya stove and a visit to the zoo.
More about Father Frost's estate in Veliky Ustyug
Information about Veliky Ustyug
Weather in Veliky Ustyug in January
Karelia, Russia
We also advise you to visit with your children the residence of Grandfather Frost, located in Karelia, not far from Petrozavodsk.
In the village of Aleksandrovka, on the shore of the Pertozero reservoir, a chum was installed, in which the Sami used to live. It is here that Santa Claus receives his little and not so visitors. Children and their parents will have tea with pancakes and, of course, the fulfillment of all desires for a snack. You can make them during the evening fire. Adult guests can save themselves from the cold with warming balms of Karelian production, children do not have time to freeze, participating in games and solving riddles.
The most interesting fun from Santa Claus is considered a quest, during which you need to move around the lake on snowmobiles from point to point, completing various tasks.
A great advantage of traveling in Russia is the absence of the need to apply for a visa.
If you are traveling on your own, you can choose to stay in a hotel in Petrozavodsk or one of the cottages in Aleksandrovka itself. By the way, there is also a small hotel in the village.
Top-10 attractions of Karelia
Weather in Karelia in January
Rovaniemi, Finland
Finnish Santa Claus named Yolopukki, who even knows a few words in Russian, lives just on the line of the Arctic Circle - in the village of Korvatunturi, which is located near the popular winter resort of Rovaniemi.
His residence was built in 1950. At first, it consisted of only one hut. Now the patrimony of Yolopukki includes an office in which the Finnish Santa Claus receives visitors, mail, from where thousands of congratulatory letters with an original stamp leave every year, restaurants, a hotel, and souvenir shops.
In Korvatunturi, you must:
- chat and take pictures from Yolopukki. A large queue stretches towards him, which, however, moves very quickly. A photo of your own person next to Santa Claus can be taken in the corridor immediately at the exit (paid service);
- ride a sleigh with reindeer or a snowmobile;
- go down the ice slide;
- take a photo at the border of the Arctic Circle, which is marked here by two pillars;
- look up more often in the hope of seeing the northern lights.
Our citizens who decide to go to Finland need a visa. Almost everyone makes it out very willingly.
Only a few kilometers separate the Finnish patrimony of Santa Claus from the entertainment Santa Park. It is located in the Syvänsenvaara Mountain. Elves live here, who work for a whole year, creating gifts.
Take a peek into the ice room, ride the carousel, visit the ball where the snowflakes are created, and send a video message home.
Things to do in Rovaniemi
Weather in Rovaniemi in January
Choosing a ski resort
An excellent alternative to sightseeing and beach holidays in winter will be active sports - downhill skiing and snowboarding, the development of snow-covered forests on snowmobiles, dog sledding. All this, as well as fresh air, mountain slopes shining with snow, many entertainments such as saunas, swimming pools, water parks, cozy bars and restaurants, are offered by famous ski resorts.
The most fashionable and popular winter lodges are in Europe, but in Russia you can also find excellent trails and excellent service that will not disappoint discerning travelers. If you want exotic and those mountains “where you haven’t been before”, pay attention to the ski resorts of Turkey.
Ski resorts in Russia
We are lucky: we live in a huge country located in different climatic zones, with a rich landscape. This means that in winter we have a choice - to go to the warm sea or to the mountains, where there is always snow and where fantastic resorts are organized - inexpensive, comfortable, with a variety of après-ski. Krasnaya Polyana confidently holds the championship among them, but other places for skiing are also worthy of your attention.
Ski resorts in Russia
Krasnaya Polyana
Only 4 dozen kilometers separate the mountain village of Krasnaya Polyana from the Black Sea and the most popular resort of Sochi.
The well-maintained skiing area, consisting of several tourist centers (Krasnaya Polyana, Rosa Khutor, Gazprom, Alpika-Center, Laura), is famous for its solid height difference - 1698 meters.
The residential area is located at an altitude of 500 meters, you should climb to the slopes using lifts.
The snow cover in Krasnaya Polyana was highly appreciated by professional athletes who took part in the 2014 Olympics. Now every guest can feel like an Olympian riding in Krasnaya Polyana.
Among the local entertainment, it is worth noting the husky park, the AJ Hackett Sochi skypark, the water park and the Sovarium.
Equipment rental will cost 1200 rubles, hotel accommodation - at least 800 rubles per day.
Alpiki and Rosa Khutor trails are suitable for snowboarding, and Rosa Khutor and Krasnaya Polyana slopes are suitable for freeriding. Beginners should choose the slopes of the Laura resort.
More about the resort Krasnaya Polyana
Weather in Krasnaya Polyana in January
Sheregesh
The Sheregesh resort, located in the Kemerovo region, has been operating since the early 80s of the last century. If in those days the resort hosted only 30 thousand people annually, now this figure has grown to almost 100 thousand. Skiers are attracted here by the dry fluffy snow cover, which provides comfortable skiing, 15 tracks laid on the slope of Zelena Mountain, the presence of slopes of various levels of difficulty.
The highlight of Sheregesh are two steep slopes that allow skiing at high speed. Lovers of freeriding will also like Sheregesh. They are offered tours to the Northern Mustag.
For family tourists who come to Sheregesh with small children, there is a lot of interesting fun. Among other things, one can especially highlight the sleigh rides, which are harnessed by huskies.
Equipment rental prices are low compared to European prices. Everything you need for skiing can be rented for 700 rubles per day.
More about Sheregesh
Weather in Sheregesh in January
Dombay
Absolutely all Russians have probably heard about Dombai, the famous Caucasian ski resort. In the twentieth century, it was a skiing spot that attracted brave youngsters who spent their days on the slopes and in the evenings sang around the fire with a guitar.
Today Dombay continues to receive guests. There are no luxury hotel complexes here, but there are still 12 tracks intended for both beginners and experienced skiers, virgin lands for freeriding, equipment rental points.
The slopes on Dombai are never empty, and hotel rooms, resembling wooden alpine houses in appearance, are booked long before the start of the high season. Snow on Dombai falls in early December and does not melt until the end of March.
Renting skis or snowboards costs about 500 rubles, a ski pass - 1,700 rubles per day.
More about Dombai
Weather on Dombai in January
Ski resorts in Europe
Those who decide to spend their winter holidays in Europe skiing will not go wrong in any case. They can choose among the most fashionable and expensive resorts in Austria, Switzerland or France, simpler ski bases in Andorra or Italy, budget ski resorts in Romania, Poland, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Slovakia.
Three Valleys, France
Holidays in the French Alps are what all skiers in the world dream of. Everything here is subordinated to the convenience of guests: the trails are well-groomed, the restaurants are open without interruption, the freshest croissants are always available in the bakeries, and the squat chalets promise a heavenly rest after a busy day of skiing.
Three valleys are 600 slopes for skiers of different skill levels, areas for freeriding, 200 ski lifts, frozen lakes where you can ride dog sleds, ice rinks, discos, bars and much more.
Ski area Three Valleys offers three resorts:
- Courchevel is the most expensive and elite;
- Meribel is more affordable financially. It is located in the center of the Three Valleys at an altitude of 1,500 meters, which means that from here you can quickly and easily get to numerous trails;
- Val Thorens, located above all others near the Peclet and Caron glaciers. Only experienced skiers can ride here, because the slopes are strewn with stones, and the wind, not held back by trees, which simply are not here, can knock you down.
Schengen visa required.
Read more about the resorts of Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens.
Zillertal, Austria
Three resorts - Mayrhofen, Hintertux and Zell am Ziller - are combined into one large ski area Zillertal. Local slopes start at different heights - the lowest are located at 500 meters, the highest - start at 3250 meters. All ski areas are connected by a cable car or free buses.
Mayrhofen is a noisier and more crowded resort than the other two. In the evening, dozens of bars work here, where wine and mulled wine flow like a river.
Hintertux and Zell am Ziller are located much higher than Mayrhofen, and life here is quiet and measured. The people are completely focused on skating. Surprisingly, even in January you can sunbathe here - there is a lot of sun in the highlands, and it will provide a beautiful, even tan.
In Zell am Ziller, the choice of accommodation is small - there are 2-3 star hotels, guesthouses and guest houses. But from here it is convenient to go on a ski safari around the Zillertal. Local trails are mostly marked with blue and red colors, but there are also a couple of black runs.
To travel to Austria, you will need a Schengen visa.
More about the resorts of Mayrhofen, Hintertux, Zell am Ziller.
Weather in Mayrhofen in January
Silesian Beskids, Poland
The Silesian Beskids Mountains, which are part of the Carpathians, are located 100 km from Krakow. Several ski resorts are based here, the largest and most convenient of which is the city of Szczyrk.
Near it there are the Skshycne Mountains (1257 meters) and Klimchok (1117 meters), along the slopes of which there are ski slopes with a total length of 60 km. It is near Szczyrk that you can find the longest slope in Poland, along which people travel for 30 minutes.
Szczyrk is the place where the ski athletes from the Polish national team train. There is always enough snow here in January, and if some kind of cataclysm happens and it melts, snow cannons will correct the situation.
The resort has several snowboard and toboggan runs, as well as ski jumping jumps.
Even if you are not skiing, Szczyrk will have something to do: go on an excursion to Krakow, visit the local water park located at the Golembiewski Hotel, drive a husky sled, bask in the thermal waters at the spa center owned by the Hotel Klimchok », And taste Polish cuisine in local restaurants.
To ride in Poland, you need to apply for a Schengen visa.
More about Szczyrk
Ski resorts in Turkey
Only a few of our compatriots know about another, non-beach Turkey. But many Europeans and residents of eastern countries, in search of free slopes, good snow cover and the absence of crowds in resort restaurants and bars, have long discovered Turkish ski resorts.
There are many winter resorts in Turkey - about 10. The season begins in December and lasts until April. Most often, tourists choose rest in Uludag, Kartepe, Sarikamysh, Erciyes and Palandoken.
Palandoken
Palandoken is very well located. From the airport of the eastern Turkish city of Erzurum to Palandoken can be reached in 20 minutes.
The world learned about Palandoken not so long ago - in 2011, when the university games were held here. On the slopes of Palandoken Mountain, 3180 meters high, there are 17 skiing trails, a slalom slope, a springboard and a biathlon track.
Palandoken is famous for its excellent dry and fluffy snow. Approximately in the second half of December, up to 2 meters of snow falls here. You can appreciate this snowy luxury not on tamped trails, but on the fields for "wild" skiing.
Palandoken is positioned mainly as a family resort. Schools for beginners and children are open here, there are many interesting places that you can visit in the evening in a big company.
Russians do not need a visa to Turkey.
More about Palandoken
Weather in Palandoken in January
Where to relax in Russia
Do not have time to get a visa or just do not want to spend a fortune on holidays abroad? Then you should think about buying a tour of Russia.
Our country is so large that it will not be difficult to choose an option for recreation - you can choose between southern resorts, where it is warm and sunny, and large cities offering luxurious educational excursions. Vouchers to Crimea, Sochi and neighboring resorts are in great demand among tourists.
Sochi
Subtropics, bright greenery, many sunny days in January, well-warmed air, the proximity of ski resorts - this is all Sochi.
It is impossible to say exactly what the weather will be like for tourists in January Sochi. Usually the air temperature is kept here at around 9-10 degrees with a "+" sign. But there were days when the air warmed up to +21 degrees. Abnormally cold winters also happened, when tourists froze at -9 degrees.
The sea in Sochi in the middle of winter is cold for swimming (the water temperature is about 10 degrees), so it is worth using the January vacation for walks in the fresh air. A dolphinarium, Akhun observation tower, an arboretum, a water park, Tesla and vintage cars museums work here all year round.
Take some time to visit the 33 Dzhegosh waterfalls and Krasnaya Polyana village, where the ski season is open in winter.
More about Sochi
Top 10 sights of Sochi
Weather in Sochi in January
Yalta, Crimea
Crimea in January is a magical place where you can walk for hours on deserted beaches and meet no one but seagulls. In search of peace and quiet, it is better to stay in the lovely resort villages of Big Yalta. Let all local cafes be closed for the winter, but grocery supermarkets are open, there is a trolley bus to Yalta, and the prices for accommodation are quite pleasant.
Winter on the southern coast of Crimea is warm and sunny, almost always snowless. The air temperature warms up to +5 - 12 degrees. The sea is warmed up to +8 degrees, which will be appreciated by those who dare to plunge into it on the feast of Epiphany.
In winter in Crimea you need:
- climb Ai-Petri, where they go skiing, sledging and snowmobiling;
- walk in the well-groomed palace parks of the South Coast;
- sit in Yalta restaurants, enjoying delicious food and warm mulled wine;
- take a ride around the Crimean wine farms and order product tastings everywhere, and then choose the best wine as a gift for friends.
More about Yalta
Top 10 attractions of Yalta
Weather in Yalta in January
Kazan
Kazan in January offers its guests architectural landmarks, generously covered with snow, and active winter entertainment. In the second month of winter, the air temperature here ranges from -9 to -16 degrees.
The main place in the city is the Kremlin, shining in the rays of the winter sun and turning into a magic fortress in the evenings due to the bright illumination. Many events are planned here in January - from children's Christmas trees to educational master classes for adults.
The main fun awaits local residents and tourists on the Kremlin embankment, where the longest skating rink in Europe is being flooded. The ice skating rink is 4 km long. Skates of any size can be rented. There is a Christmas market near the ice rink.
Skiers gather in the Kazan park. M. Gorky, a stone's throw from the embankment. There is also another ice rink here. On the embankment near the center of the Kazan family, you can find a snow slide, which is so much fun to sled with.
Winter is a great time to visit Kazan museums, for example, "Tatarskaya Sloboda", where, in addition to the exposition, there is a tea room, where you will always be treated to sweets and hot tea.
More about Kazan
Sights of Kazan
Weather in Kazan in January
Kaliningrad
The westernmost city in Russia, Kaliningrad can be a great alternative to traveling to European countries. The prices here are set in Russia, and the surrounding area reminds you that this is typical Europe. There is nothing surprising in this - the city was part of Germany until the end of World War II.
Kaliningrad is located in the Baltic, so it is damp and cool in January. They celebrate the New Year vividly here, and then, until January 8, come off at a food fair operating on the island of Kant. The belly festival will continue in neighboring Svetlogorsk, where the Winter Drinks Festival is taking place.
In Kaliningrad itself, you can spend a few pleasant hours in the Rybnaya village, where there are many cafes and shops, and in the ancient districts of Amalienau and Khufen, which survived the destruction in the 40s of the last century.
There are skating rinks in Kaliningrad too. The most popular are called "Golden Way", "Ice Arena" and "Lapland".
More about Kaliningrad
Sights of Kaliningrad
Weather in Kaliningrad in January
Kislovodsk
The sunniest and warmest resort of the Caucasian Mineral Waters zone is Kislovodsk. It is protected from strong winds by the mountains, so in January you can see people enjoying the good spring weather in T-shirts.
Going to Kislovodsk in January, you should count on the fact that the air temperature will stay at around 1-2 degrees above zero. But it may also happen that in the middle of winter the April +19 degrees will be waiting for you.
People go to Kislovodsk to drink healing water, walk along special terrenkura routes, explore the surroundings, sit in cafes and restaurants and enjoy life. All this can be done not only in summer, but also in January, when there are few vacationers here, there are vacant places in hotels, and prices for services fall by 20-30 percent.
More about Kislovodsk
Sights of Kislovodsk
Weather in Kislovodsk in January
Winter sea cruises
Holidays aboard a large liner are special! Guests are treated here as royalty. While the floating hotel proceeds from one city to another, a great entertainment program awaits passengers. They can go to a casino, a theater, watch interesting shows, often with pop stars, swim in the pool, become a regular at the spa, try everything that is on the menu of local restaurants. And all this at no extra cost.
Many January cruises start back in December so that passengers can enjoy the New Year on the high seas or ocean.
Mediterranean cruise
For those who do not want to go far from home, there are many cruises that involve visiting several Mediterranean countries. Most of the ships sail across the Mediterranean from Barcelona. Usually the average duration of such a cruise is 11-12 days. You will have to get to Barcelona on your own - and this is only three hours by plane.
Any cruise program is designed very competently: the liner goes to the next point of the route at night, so that in the morning passengers with renewed vigor can go on an educational excursion. The cruise ship makes a circle around the sea, so tourists constantly see the new port.
The most popular route involves visiting one of the Balearic Islands, for example, Mallorca, the island of Sardinia, Tunisia, that is, the African coast, Sicily. Then the liner goes to Naples or Rome, then goes to France - to Marseille, from where it returns to Barcelona. So tourists have the opportunity to see 4 countries at once and get a lot of impressions.
South American cruise
Cruises along the coast of South America are expensive but very interesting. Impressive multi-level liners, which do not care about the waves of the Atlantic, enter the ports of Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, visit the Falkland Islands, which belong to Britain, and then follow to Antarctica. Trips are also possible off the coast of Chile, Peru, Ecuador.
It so happened that the passengers of all these liners meet the New Year in Rio de Janeiro. This is done so that tourists can watch from the water a gorgeous festive fireworks display that colors the sky over Rio on New Year's Eve. If the time and program of the tour allow, then travelers are allowed to spend some time on the beaches of this, perhaps, the most famous Brazilian city. The best hangout is going to Copacabana and Ipanema beaches.
Safari in Africa
Safari in Africa is an elite type of vacation. It is expensive, prestigious and extremely interesting. It is worth allocating at least 2 weeks for the trip, or better a month, in order to have time not only to ride through African reserves in search of migratory animals, but also to visit the national villages of the Masai, climb Kilimanjaro or the Meru volcano, and even gain strength before leaving home on the white beaches Zanzibar.
Kenya
In February, East Africa, which is famous for its safari tours, is only a couple of countries with clear dry weather. These are Tanzania and Kenya. The latter is ideal for observing both large animals and birds of various species. The most famous Kenyan parks are Masai Mara and Laikipia.
At the end of winter, many of the water sources in the savanna dry up. Therefore, animals gather near water bodies on the territory of reserves, where they are found by groups of tourists led by guides. During this period, it is much easier to find representatives of the "big African five", as they call the large animals, which travelers are most eager to see during safari.
February is also the calving season, which is why all big cats are extremely active this month, making the most of their easy prey. It is better to track leopards in the process of hunting in Laikipia Park - there are a lot of them here. In the Masai Mara reserve, in addition to predators, it is easy to meet herds of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, impalas and other animals.
Traveling in Kenya requires a visa, which is issued by the embassy or customs officials at the airport.
When visiting any Kenyan nature reserve, you should pay an entrance ticket (50-70 dollars) and rent a jeep with a driver (about 300 dollars), which will take you around the park.
Tanzania
You can go on an African safari in Tanzania at any time of the year. In winter, it is good to travel to the northern national parks of Tanzania - Serengeti and Ngorongoro. In January, the migration of African animals, and there are about 3 million of them, begins on the plains located in the south of the Serengeti and north of Ngorongoro. At the end of January, babies are born to many of the local inhabitants.
Ngorongoro Park occupies the caldera of a huge prehistoric volcano. Animals live here constantly, moving from place to place in search of food. Jeeps with tourists without any problems very quickly find many representatives of the African fauna, and most importantly - the "big five", which includes lions, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards and elephants. As a bonus for travelers - Lake Magadi at the bottom of the caldera, home to huge flocks of flamingos.
A visa to Tanzania is issued in a matter of days at the embassy of this country.
Shop tours
January is the month that seasonal sales across Europe begin. Fashionistas and fashionistas around the world are eagerly awaiting this time to go to Italy, Germany and other European countries for branded items sold at 20-50% discounts.
Italy
The winter sales season in Milan starts on January 4th and will last 60 days. At first, boutiques set small discounts - the price is reduced by 10-20%. By the end of the sale period, discounts can reach 50%, however, most likely, items that are not at all popular will remain on sale.
Milan's most famous shops are located on four city arteries - Andrea, Montenapoleone, Gesu and della Spiga. It is here in the first place that you should go in search of discounted items from last year's collections of famous fashion designers.
The most attractive discounts can be found in the huge outlet malls that sell designer items from the seasons of the past. These outlets are usually located outside the city or on the outskirts of large settlements. In Milan there are good outlets such as Fidenza Village Outlet, Serravalle Scrivia, FoxTown.
In Milan, they usually buy wardrobe items, accessories, designer knick-knacks for the home.
More about Milan
Shopping in Milan
Shops in Milan
Weather in Milan in January
Germany
During the winter sales period, people go to German cities for high-quality, good-quality things that will last more than one year. A markdown in the amount of 40 to 70% is set for clothes, shoes, gloves, belts, bags, hats, watches of famous brands.
In Berlin, sales start in the second week of December and continue until the first days of February. Shopaholics focus on shopping not so much in boutiques of world famous brands as in small designer shops, where you can find handmade items made in a single copy. Look for original wardrobe and interior items in the Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg districts.
Trendy boutiques and mid-range shops can be found on Kurfürstendamm. Good discounts are also available in the Galeria Kaufthaus and KaDeWe shopping centers.
More about Berlin
Shopping in Berlin
Shops in Berlin
Weather in Berlin in January
Active rest - diving, surfing
After the New Year holidays, the inhabitants of the Northern Hemisphere will have a long frosty winter. You can get away from cold weather and short daylight hours, turn your everyday life into holidays by going on a dive or surf tour to distant shores, where it is warm, dry, there is a crystal clear sea with coral reefs and an experienced team capable of organizing scuba diving of any difficulty and riding the waves.
Costa Rica
Paradise for water sports lovers is the small state of Costa Rica, located between Nicaragua and Panama and washed by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Surf lovers catch a wave on the ocean coast near the beaches of Playa Jaco, Santa Teresa, Tamarindo and Playa Hermosa. There are also places for skiing on the shores of the calmer Caribbean Sea - this is Playa Bonita beach in the Limon resort.
Divers consider Cocos Island, 550 km west of Costa Rica, to be the best water diving sites. There are approximately 20 dive sites here. Underwater, you can see the small inhabitants of the beautiful coral reef and larger stingrays, turtles, dolphins, sharks and sailboats.
On Caño Island, which is located 16 km from the southern Osa Peninsula in the reserve, scuba diving will cost less than on Coconut. Perch, barracuda, turtles, moray eels and reef sharks are found here. Humpback whales are sometimes spotted near the island.
You do not need a visa to stay in Costa Rica for 30 days.
Diving tours to Cocos Island take about 11-18 days. Every day, 3 dives are expected at different points around the island.
Read more about the resorts of Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa and Tamarindo.
Philippines
The Asian state of the Philippines consists of 7107 islands. They are washed by 4 seas - the Philippine, South China, Sulu and Sulawesi. The main thing that divers need to know about the Philippines before going here is that there are approximately 7,000 scuba diving points around these islands.
The best dive sites can be found near the islands of Luzon (around the capital city of Manila), Mindoro and southern Palawan.
For diving in Luzon, you should go to La Union Beach, where three tanks are sunk, now turned into an artificial reef, or to the town of Nasugbu, where there is a cave, which can only be reached through underwater corridors, and several wrecked ships.
On Mindoro, you should explore the Shark Caves, a wrecked ship that transported china from China, several beautiful reef walls. In Palawan, divers inspect four Japanese ships and the place where a huge barracuda lives, which is so used to people that it is not at all afraid of them.
Russian citizens are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa.
Read more about the islands of Luzon, Mindoro, Palawan.
Weather in Philippines in January
Holidays Tours
A special chic is to tailor your trip to some significant events - holidays, festivals, carnivals, historical processions.
If the New Year is celebrated throughout Europe, then for Orthodox Christmas it is worth going to only a few European countries, for example, to the Czech Republic. The New Year's fairy tale is still going on there. A Christmas trip to Israel will not disappoint tourists either.
Besides Christmas, there are other interesting holidays in January. We recommend the light show in Finland.
Israel
The places where Jesus Christ lived on earth has always attracted believers. Especially many Orthodox come to Israel on the eve of Christmas.
At this time, the weather is comfortable for walking in the country - the air warms up to 16-18 degrees. To visit the shrines in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, those people who prefer coolness to summer heat arrive at this time.
Many Orthodox tourists prefer to spend January 6-7 in Bethlehem. On January 6, Catholics celebrate the feasts of the Epiphany, so solemn masses are held in the church of St. Catherine and in the Milk grotto. Orthodox Christians gather for services in the Church of the Nativity of Christ, which, according to legend, was erected over the cave where Jesus Christ was born.
In Jerusalem, a divine service in honor of the Nativity takes place in the Trinity Cathedral.
No visa is required for Russians.
Weather in Israel in January
Russia
New Year, Christmas, Epiphany in January is celebrated throughout Russia. We offer to go on holidays to Yaroslavl or Moscow.
The main city tree in Yaroslavl greets guests on Sovetskaya Square. The residence of Father Frost is also located there. All central streets are decorated with white and blue illumination. In many entertainment centers for children (DryPool on Kirov, Magic Terem on Moskovsky Prospekt, My Beloved Bear Museum on Pochtovaya and others), children's parties, performances and shows are planned.
In Moscow, you should definitely visit Red Square, where a Christmas town with a skating rink, slides and chalet houses, adapted for the sale of delicious snacks and mulled wine, is organized. On New Year's Eve, the Journey to Christmas Festival will take place on Red Square. Concerts and various shows await residents and guests of the city.
Do not forget about active entertainment. Skating rinks work in many parts of Moscow, and some on certain days of the week even around the clock, such as the Morozovo skating rink on Novoostapovskaya. On the night from Saturday to Sunday, fun competitions are held here.
More about Yaroslavl
Weather in Yaroslavl in January
Prague, Czech Republic
Russian speech in Prague during the New Year and Christmas holidays is heard from everywhere. The citizens of Prague have long been accustomed to this, and do not even take apart the trees until Orthodox Christmas, allowing our compatriots to celebrate one of the main holidays of the year with dignity.
On each square of the city, there are Christmas trees around which Christmas markets are laid out. The most beautiful campsites are located on Wenceslas and Old Town squares, the sweetest and most comfortable one is on Peace Square. Be sure to find among the stalls with trdelniks, souvenirs, warm mittens and hats, mulled wine and punch, New Year's toys, a corral with live goats, sheep and rabbits. These mini-zoos are designed to remind you of where Jesus Christ was born.
In the evenings, concerts are held in the squares: children sing Christmas songs, musicians play classics.
A Schengen visa is required to visit Prague.
More about Prague
Prague landmarks
Weather in Prague in January
Finland
From 4 to 8 January, the capital of Finland, Helsinki, is changing. In the dark (and daylight hours here in January lasts only a few hours) the main attractions of Helsinki take on a new look. The Lux Helsinki Light Festival begins in the city. Original light installations appear on the facades of the most famous Finnish buildings - flowers bloom, birds of paradise flap their wings. The concept of the show changes every year.
In 2020, the Festival of Light will be held in the capital of Finland for the twelfth time. Ilkka Paloniemi, Christina Dvinge and Martin Poshta are in charge of the show program. These people visit different light shows throughout the year, look for interesting works and invite their creators to take part in the January festival in Helsinki.
A Schengen visa is required to visit Finland.
More about Helsinki
Weather in Helsinki in January
Holidays and festivals around the world in January
| Country | Holiday / festival | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finland | Lux Helsinki Light Festival | Helsinki | January 6-10 |
| Russia, Israel | An Orthodox xmas | Jan. 7 | |
| Austria | Ball at the Vienna Philharmonic | Vein | 18 january |
| Turkey | Camel fighting | Hilt | January 19 |
| Netherlands | National Tulip Day | Amsterdam | January 20th |
| Sweden | Snow festival | Kiruna | January 24-28 |
| Italy | Venice Carnival | Venice | January 27 - February 13 |
| United Kingdom | Fire Festival Up Helly Aa | Shetland Islands | January 30 |
| China | Harbin Snow and Ice Festival | Harbin | all january |
| India | Dance Festival in South India | Mahabalipuram | all january |
| Thailand | Flower festival | Chiang Mai | all january |
Inexpensive vacation in January - what to choose?
If you don't have a lot of money, but at the same time you want to see new countries and get an unforgettable experience, then you should choose those places for your vacation where the cost level for 7 days will not exceed 100 euros. There are several similar countries in Eastern Europe. Armenia and Belarus can also be attributed to this category.
Romania
Do you know where you can feel like a millionaire with a hundred euros in your pocket? In Romania! This amount will be enough for you to visit restaurants, buy souvenirs, travel around the country and even, if you wish, to purchase sports equipment - skis or sledges.
In January, we advise you to go to the Carpathians - to the snow-covered town of Brasov, where there are ancient temples, an observation deck, and ancient fortifications, an obligatory Christmas tree on the main square, cozy pastry shops where delicious desserts are sold for a penny. It is better to stop not in Brasov itself, but on the mountain above it, where the Poiana Brasov ski resort is located. The two cities are connected by regular bus service. The bus goes down the mountain in 20 minutes.
Trains run from Brasov to other cities. You can go on an excursion to Bucharest (the road will take about 3 hours), to Sighisoara (about an hour and a half), where the old fortress of the 14th century has been preserved, to Sinaia (tourists will spend less than an hour on the way), where the palaces of Peles and Pelisor are located.
To travel to Romania, you must obtain a Romanian visa.
Surprisingly, but transport in Romania runs on schedule. Both buses and trains leave on time from the terminal stations and do not delay on the way even in winter.
Romania landmarks
Weather in Romania in January
Bulgaria
There are a lot of options where to go to Bulgaria in January. Most tourists choose ski resorts in the Rhodope Mountains - Bansko, Borovets. The air temperature in the mountains is a comfortable 5-7 degrees with a minus sign. There is always snow in January. In Bansko, in addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can see local historical sights, as well as walk to nearby Melnik.
If you have never been to the capital of Bulgaria, Sofia, then in January you can fix it. This city is built on an elevation of 550 meters. In winter, subzero temperatures stay here, snow is not uncommon. Compared to ski resorts, Sofia is warmer in January - thermometers usually show only -2 degrees. There are a lot of churches and museums in Sofia.
We can also recommend going to the Black Sea - to Sozopol, Burgas, Varna, Nessebar. There, at this time of the year, the air is warmed up to 6-8 degrees. The sea is too cold, but you can swim in the pools, which are in many hotels on the coast.
To enter the territory of Bulgaria, a national or Schengen visa is required.
Sights of Bulgaria
Weather in Bulgaria in January
Belarus
Our closest neighbor Belarus is perfect for a budget trip in January.
There are a lot of advantages of rest in Belarus:
- prices for accommodation, food and entertainment in Belarusian cities are set lower than in Russian ones;
- local residents understand Russian and communicate fluently in it;
- Holidays coincide with Russian ones, which means that in Minsk you can brightly celebrate not only New Year, but also Christmas.
The highest prices for food, souvenirs and excursions can be found in Minsk. Everything will be much cheaper in Vitebsk. In winter, frosts persist in Minsk - the air temperature drops to -7 degrees. The presence of snow allows skiing. To do this, you should go to the recreation centers located near Minsk.
In Vitebsk, which is located north of Minsk, the air temperature in winter can drop to -10 degrees. But such weather will not hurt to see the local beauty - the Annunciation Church, which remembers Alexander Nevsky, the Holy Dormition Catholic Cathedral, the tram museum and much more.
Russians do not need a visa.
Sights of Belarus
Weather in Belarus in January
Serbia
Serbia is considered a relatively budgetary country. Here they speak an understandable Slavic language, provide delicious food and offer wonderful balneological resorts.
You can ride the waters at any time of the year. So why not pay attention to your health in January? There are several towns in Serbia where world-class health resorts have been built, where they charge little money for services. These are Vrnjachka Banya, Buyanovachka Banya, Zlatibor and others.
The capital of Serbia, Belgrade, and another large city, Novi Sad, are famous for beautiful historical sights and cozy restaurants. From Novi Sad it is worth going to Dundjer Castle.
There is also a ski resort in Serbia called Kopaonik. The local ski area has a total of 60 km of trails.
You do not need a visa to stay in Serbia.
Top 15 attractions in Serbia
Weather in Serbia in January
Armenia
Cheap flight tickets, budget hotels, a good "excursion", magnificent roads in the vicinity of Yerevan - this is what winter Armenia offers to its guests.
It is definitely worth going to Yerevan in January. It will be frosty, snowy and very fun here. The air temperature can range from +5 to -10 degrees. In any case, you should take a walk in the center, see Republic Square, walk along Northern Avenue.
From the Armenian capital, you can take a rented car or taxi to the monasteries of Holy Etchmiadzin, Geghard, the Zvarnots temple and the pagan sanctuary of Garni. All of them are open during the winter season. The distance from Yerevan to them does not exceed 40 km. A little further is the Khor Virap monastery, from which Ararat is visible on the Turkish side.
Another point on the map of Armenia, where it is logical to come in January, is the Tsaghkadzor ski resort.
No visa required.
Top 15 sights of Armenia
Hiking tours in Armenia
Weather in Yerevan in January
Where to go in January without a visa?
When organizing spontaneous trips, tours to those countries where visas are not required are especially popular, which means that you will not need to wait a week or two while waiting for permits. It is much easier to take a passport, buy tickets and a hot tour and go to the country of your dreams.
Russian citizens have the opportunity to travel without visas to many countries. We have already mentioned many areas above in the section on beach holidays.
List of visa-free countries
Uzbekistan
Landlocked Uzbekistan is located in the center of the Eurasian continent. In winter, it can be quite cold in Uzbekistan (-15 degrees in cities and -30 degrees in the steppe and mountains), but during this period there will be a clear, cloudless sky of a piercing blue hue over the country, which will be an excellent background for any photographs.
Uzbekistan is famous for its luxurious architectural monuments, the most notable of which are:
- the ensemble of the Registan Square in Samarkand;
- fortresses of Khorezm on the edge of the Kyzyl Kum desert;
- the most beautiful palace of Khudoyar Khan, built in the 19th century in Kokand;
- minaret of the Kalyan mosque of the 11th century on the Poi-Kalyan square in Bukhara.
For gifts home, you should go to the Tashkent Chorsu bazaar, which sells black tea, pistachios, fresh pomegranates and much more.
Few people know that Uzbekistan has excellent conditions for skiing. In the Chimgan and Beldersay resorts, snow lies from December to March, providing excellent skiing on long tracks.
Top 15 sights of Uzbekistan
Weather in Bukhara in January
Qatar
Qatar is a small country washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf. Its capital, Doha, has recently become a successful transit point on many routes to Japan, China, and the Philippines. Some tourists prefer to stay here for a day or two to get acquainted with a new, interesting, friendly country.
January in Qatar is high season when hotel prices are quite high. This is because the winter in this country is mild and cool. The air temperature here during this period is about 19-24 degrees. This weather is ideal for the entertainment that Qatar offers its guests.
The most interesting of them will be a trip to the desert near the capital. The sand dunes near Doha are high and steep, and it is suggested to overcome them by jeeps. At night you can sleep in a luxurious Arab tent.
If time in Doha is short, then go to Souq Waqif - a restored old bazaar, which is a labyrinth of shops selling fabrics, spices, sweets, household utensils, souvenirs, and art objects. Here you can watch the work of woodcarvers, tailors, potters. Authentic Arab restaurants are located near the market mosque.
You can end the day with a stroll along the seven-kilometer embankment that runs from the Sheraton Hotel to the Museum of Islamic Art.
Also in Qatar, it is worth seeing the ethno-village of Qatar, located north of Doha, where you can learn about the life and customs of local residents; MIA Park near the Museum of Islamic Art; the artificial island of Pearl, built up with boutiques and restaurants (one of its quarters resembles Venice); Al-Takir mangroves.
Top 10 attractions in Qatar
Weather in Doha in January
