15 Amazing Places to Escape to This January

There’s something invigorating about approaching a new year with a renewed sense of adventure. Life has many cycles, and the start of a new year is a nice way to turn the page and make sure all those blank lines get filled up with visions of hope, health, and happiness. 

Travel is one of the best ways to accomplish all of those things. You hope for a grand adventure, you test the limits of your health as you climb that volcano in Hawaii, and you stand the chance of being filled with happiness as you meet all manner of strangers along the way. 

If more travel is one of your New Year’s resolutions, here are 15 ways to introduce yourself to 2025 and make it – hands down – your best year yet. 

Maldives

Let’s start with a heavy hitter. And we say that because there’s no escaping the fact that getting to the Maldives is a bit of a (costly) journey. But what a wonderful way to kick off the new year. The beaches are every bit as pristine as they appear, and the water is truly clear and clear blue. From rainbow-colored coral reefs to luxury resorts like the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – with those quintessential villas right on the water – this is the kind of tropical paradise that you’ll never want to leave. 

Aspen, Colorado

If, instead of escaping the winter, you want to dig into the snow, head to Aspen! You can find every ounce of luxury here as you did in the Maldives. The Little Nell, for example, is ready to serve you the finest mountain views, easy access to the slopes, refined spa services, and world-class meals. It’s actually Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond ski-in/ski-out hotel – so you know you’re onto something good. And, of course, when you’re ready to do a little New Year’s shopping, the brightly lit and beautiful downtown is right there at your fingertips. 

Sydney, Australia

Alright! It’s back to the warmer climates. If your heart really is set on a tropical location at the start of the new year, then let’s head to Sydney – where they’re currently battling it out with those hot summer temps. Have some fun at all the touristy spots like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Then, roll up your sleeves and head further into town to sip away the night at a rooftop bar like The Glenmore or The Old Clare Hotel. Spend another night at the Capitol Theatre. You can catch some classics like Romeo and Juliet or Jesus Christ Superstar. Then, since it is summer, you won’t regret a day at the beach. Bondi Beach is one of the most popular and, therefore, one of the most crowded. But, you have plenty of other options, as well, like Bronte Beach, Gordons Bay, Manly Bay, and Palm Beach.  

Kyoto, Japan

Now, Kyoto will be cold, just like Aspen and some of the other beautiful cities on this list. But, they have something very special going for them – the onsens or hot springs. If you stay at the Ritz-Carlton, for example, you’ll have every modern amenity and luxury at your fingertips, as well as onsite onsens to enjoy. Coming here in the new year really is special all around because there are countless celebrations taking place, and each one will inspire a sense of renewal in your soul. Without question, you’ll leave Kyoto resolved to make 2025 your best year yet.