The winter months can leave us longing for time away from home. Life inside after a hectic and fun filled holiday season is a great way to recharge, but for those who get itchy feet this is a time to recharge by being outside. We have put together three January travel destinations worth considering. Each of these three locations will scratch that itch and get you outside in a big way.
Destination: Big Sky, Montana
Known as one of the best family ski areas in the U.S., Big Sky is a winter wonderland playground. There is no shortage of outdoor activities for the entire family and an incredible January travel destination. If you are new to skiing or you don’t ski at all, don’t worry. Big Sky has hundreds of ski runs in 19 different areas including 38 lifts to suit any level. This place is massive and it’s easy to spread out.
Lodging options are aplenty at Big Sky Resort and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a ski in ski out condo or a luxury mountain chalet, you and your family will have you choice of accommodations. Hotels on site offer parking and shuttle options, making it easy to get to the lift of your choice.
The easiest and most efficient way to get to Big Sky is to fly in to Bozeman International Airport. From there you can rent a car or hire a shuttle to take you to the resort, about an hour long scenic drive. As with any trip, weigh the options of having a vehicle at your disposal or not. There is plenty to do at the resort, but if you plan to visit Yellowstone National Park or have other winter adventures during your visit, you may want an all-wheel rental car.
If you’re looking to start your year off with movement, then Big Sky is the place for you and your family. Snowmobiling, dog sledding, and snowshoeing are just a few of the alternative activities to skiing or boarding that will keep you moving outside. Dress warm! Big Sky boasts annual snowfall up to 400 inches and the temps in January are no joke. If you aren’t geared up correctly, you won’t be having fun.
Destination: Domincan Republic
If the holiday season left you stressed and you are craving relaxation and warm temps, then consider Dominican Republic in the Caribbean for some island life. With 1000 miles of coastline, this island will give you the respite you need. And if you want to throw in some adventure, you can find that too.
You can arrive in the Dominican pretty easily from the U.S.-just a 2 hour flight from Miami and a 4 hour flight from NYC. Most of the resorts are within close proximity to the international airport, which allows you to transport directly to your resort without needing a rental car. Lodging and resort options go from budget friendly to luxury and everything in between. The all-inclusive choices are easy to find and many people we have talked to have raved about the food wherever they have stayed.
It goes without saying that the beaches are plentiful and the blue waters are gorgeous. Chill time is not hard to come by in the Domincan. Grab a book, lather on the sunscreen, pop those earbuds in and enjoy the sunshine! If you are looking for activity don’t fret. Kite surfing, paddle boarding, sailing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, sea caving, and more gives adventurers lots to explore.
Destination: Costa Rica
It’s no secret how much we love Costa Rica and honestly everyone we know who has been agrees. Costa Rica is one of the best January travel destinations in the world. January is considered rainy season, so the jungle will be lush and green and vibrant. Don’t forget your rain jacket! The coasts will be alive with waves great for surfing conditions and getting your glow back.
There is so much to do in Costa Rica that it’s hard to narrow down the perfect itinerary. One week is what most families have to spend away from home so you will need to plan well and accept that you won’t have much down time in such a fun destination. Head to the interior for adventure activities like zip lining, canyoneering, kayaking, 4 wheeling and more. After a few days of pushing the limits head to the coast for surf lessons and sunset paddle boarding.
There are two major international airports that will feed you into where you want to base yourself. Liberia or San Jose will accommodate most locations to give you loads of adventure, so it’s just a matter of preference. We saw every kind of traveler in Costa Rica. You can find your budget sweet spot without any trouble.
One note on in-country transport. Roads in the rainy season can be an absolute bear. If you are comfortable with off roading and getting stuck in the mud go for the car rental as it gives you more options to explore off the beaten path. If not, we suggest hiring private or semi-private transfers to keep things less stressful. Just know that you will be more limited. We have found the costs to be comparable between the two options so don’t let that hold you back either way.
January Travel Notes
We always like to give general travel notes when we give any destination information. January travel always proves tricky when it comes to weather. Make sure you understand where you are coming from and where you are going, but also know where you are traveling THROUGH. You can’t control weather, but you can choose routes that maximize your vacation time and lessen the risk of bad weather. Choose wisely.
Highly consider travel insurance. Weather, sickness, and changes in tourism protocols is the norm during cold winter months. Plan for the best and prepare for the worst. Travel insurance gives you and your family a peace of mind on your financial investment for travel.
There is no perfect place to travel. Everyone travels for their own reasons. Pursue the January travel destinations that match your family culture the best. You don’t want to invest in the vacation that your neighbor wants. You want to invest in the vacation that YOU want. Happy exploring this January, from Go Family Adventure
