I get asked so often where people should travel at different times of the year to get the best weather, the best events and so on. This is a rough guide for the first few months of the year!
January – best known for ski holidays in Europe. But not everyone loves the cold so these destinations are hot. Mauritius has 9 hours of sunshine daily with average temperatures of around 30 degrees. There might be the occasional tropical shower but this shouldn’t delay the sunshine for long. Cuba has average temperatures of around 27 degrees and Havana is a must-see for culture lovers. Be aware though that you might find it challenging to go the USA after visiting Cuba (you’ll need a visa for the USA). Other Caribbean islands are also good temperatures in January. The Middle East, particularly the UAE are popular in January as well. Dubai with its theme parks and incredible architecture is the biggest draw, but try Ras Al Khaimah for more activities based in the desert and mountain areas.
If you want festivals to celebrate in January, the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival in China is famous for a chilly time exploring the incredible carvings and figurines.
February destinations are similar to January, add Krabi in Thailand for temperatures in the mid-30s and the chance to explore some the country’s islands, go diving and relax. For good temperatures closer to home, the Canary Islands are always popular – try one of the smaller islands like La Gomera or La Palma for a quieter time.
Travel eastwards to celebrate Chinese New Year in February 2026, the Year of the Horse. Visit Ivrea in Italy for the Battle of the Oranges! Experience Mardi Gras in various locations around the world – notably Venice, Rio or New Orleans.
Often coinciding with Easter, March is often one of the first family getaways of the year (if you didn’t get away for February half term). Ski holidays slow down as the slopes lose their snow but warmer weather close to home is still a few weeks away. All the above destinations are still hot – add Oman to your list for Middle Eastern escapes. Here you have deserts, mountains and beautiful beaches all in one place. For somewhere far away, French Polynesia has temperatures in the low 30s and villas over the sea, with palm fringed beaches.
In terms of festivals – one of the biggest has to be St Patrick’s Day – celebrate in Dublin or in many cities across the USA where the population can trace their ancestry back to Ireland. It is also the start of cherry blossom season in Japan – very popular, so book as early as you can for this.
Coming into April‘s hot list are some of the Mediterranean destinations – Cyprus and Turkey are getting warmer. Further away – Las Vegas is shaking off its cold winter temperatures. Plus the Seychelles is now getting into the low 30s. Often seen as somewhere really exclusive and only for the rich and famous, there are some affordable hotels here, plus some self-catering options. Hire a car and explore the main island or use the local ferry services to explore other islands in the group.
April festivals include an International Surfing Competition in Victoria, Australia. The first surfing competition was held here in 1962. For jazz lovers, head to New Orleans at the end of April/early May – for the Jazz Fest. With stages hosting jazz, R&B, gospel, African, Caribbean, Cajun, blues, reggae, funk, Mardi Gras Indian, rock and brass band music. The annual Songkran Water Festival is celebrated in both Thailand and Cambodia as it coincides with the New Year of both these countries.
For holidays to these destinations or to anywhere else – just call me on 01252519669 or send me a message