The start of a new year is often accompanied by the desire to start fresh and strive to become better human beings. However, the so-called “January slump” can complicate our plans and quickly demotivate us. This scenario leads to “Blue Monday,” considered the saddest day of the year. But at the same time, this day has become a fantastic opportunity to find great discounts for our first big trip of the calendar.
What is Blue Monday and where does it come from?
The term “Blue Monday” first appeared in 2005, when British psychologist Cliff Arnall invented a formula to determine the saddest day of the year. Arnall combined several factors: weather, debts incurred during December’s holiday season, failure to follow through on New Year’s resolutions, and the lack of motivation typical of this time of year. The idea quickly spread in the media, establishing the third Monday of January (January 20 this year) as the supposedly most depressing day.
Over time, this date has attracted the attention of brands that offer exclusive promotions at a time when sales are generally low. Hence, Blue Monday hotel deals present a great opportunity to plan last-minute getaways, easing the winter chill and the daily grind with a few days of rest… or adventure. While the scientific basis behind the “formula of sadness” is debatable, there’s no doubt that savvy travellers make the most of this date to secure amazing discounts.
Cultural Destinations in Europe
History, gastronomy, and art come together in the cities of the Old Continent, with countries brimming with charm and an unmatched cultural heritage. Despite the winter cold in much of its geography, Europe is perfect for strolling along cobblestone streets, visiting museums, and savouring traditional dishes typical of this season.
Spain
It’s not the world’s second-most visited country by sheer chance. The cultural diversity offered by cities like Madrid, Barcelona, or Seville is combined with a vast range of events, monuments, and gastronomy.
Moreover, one of Spain’s advantages is a much milder climate compared to the rest of the continent, thanks to the Mediterranean Sea’s influence in much of the country. Not enough for you? Then there are the Canary Islands, with a subtropical climate that guarantees you won’t feel the cold at all.
Italy
Another country that needs no introduction is Italy. Who hasn’t dreamed of visiting Lake Como, riding a Vespa through the streets of Rome, or tasting Neapolitan pizza on Naples’ bustling avenues?
Aside from those must-see visits, Florence or Venice have a special charm in winter, much more romantic than you might expect. Milan, the capital of Italian fashion, can also be a fabulous city to recharge your energy and close out January in style.
Germany
Of the three European options, Germany might be the coldest, but you won’t regret having to pack plenty of warm clothing. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg manage to blend modernity and tradition in a fascinating way.
If you can only choose one, it should be Berlin, especially if you’re a big fan of recent history. Its espionage stories on both sides of the Wall, vibrant cultural life, and contemporary art galleries will give you a getaway unlike anything else you can find anywhere on the planet.
Sun and Sand Getaways
If you’re someone who hates the cold in any form and needs to escape Canada no matter what, sunny beach destinations can be the perfect getaway. The idea is clear: heat, relaxation, and sand.
Mexico
From the Riviera Maya to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is synonymous with idyllic beaches, culture, and gastronomy. And no, what you may try at your favourite Tex-Mex fast-food chain has nothing to do with what you’ll find in the country.
Mexican hospitality, especially in the Mexican Caribbean—Cancun and Playa del Carmen—makes you feel almost at home. The turquoise waters of these regions, along with a great nightlife, will let you enjoy some of the best days of your life. If you want more peace and quiet, the Pacific coast is more bohemian… and if you like surfing, you’re in luck.
Dominican Republic
White sand, crystal-clear waters… if you hear that and the Dominican Republic isn’t the first place you think of, it’s time to pack your bags and discover it. Punta Cana, La Romana, or Samaná are some of the most popular options for those looking to enjoy good music and taste local cuisine, rich in tropical flavours.
One advantage of this country’s tourism industry is that hotels almost always offer packages with group activities. For that reason, it becomes one of the best destinations for travelling as a couple, with family, or friends.
Cuba
Visiting Cuba is entering a universe of colour, rhythm, and remarkable hospitality. The beauty of Havana, with its colonial buildings and classic cars, provides a retro, authentic experience that will transport you to the 1950s and 1960s.
But there’s a reason we’ve included this Caribbean country among the sun-and-sand destinations. That reason is Varadero. A paradise of transparent waters and ideal resorts where you can forget your stress. Unlike what you may find at home, January in Cuba boasts very pleasant temperatures, perfect for swimming in the sea without freezing.
Adventure and Nature
Cultural vacations or those spent unwinding in a resort are always welcome… but some people need an added dose of action to truly feel they’ve done something different. If that’s you, these destinations are right up your alley.
Costa Rica
Famed for having one of the greatest biodiversity on the planet, Costa Rica boasts national parks, pristine rainforests, and beaches perfect for catching waves. Check on sites such as Google Flights for cheap plane tickets and enjoy your visit to this Central American paradise.
Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde, or Arenal are some of the most renowned natural areas, featuring lush wildlife, waterfalls, and volcanoes. Costa Rica has established itself as a benchmark for ecotourism, making it the perfect choice for travellers seeking an environmentally friendly, action-packed experience.
Morocco
Although part of its territory borders the sea, the country’s main attraction lies in its diverse landscapes. The dunes of the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains allow the more adventurous to engage in intense activities such as hiking or camping under the stars among sandy expanses.
But please, don’t forget the cities. Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca may not be as action-packed as the desert wilderness, but they add plenty to the magic of a country that hasn’t yet revealed its full potential as a major tourist destination.
Egypt
It’s impossible to think about Egypt without putting the Pyramids of Giza at the forefront. They’re among the most visited places on the planet for a reason, but they’re not the only part of Ancient Egypt you can see: the Temple of Luxor is another must.
Travelling here for adventure is also a great idea. The colourful reefs of the Red Sea sometimes go unnoticed, but diving into these waters provides one of the most stunning sights in the world. Sailing on a felucca—a traditional local boat—along the Nile River is another option for those who want to discover a more adventurous Egypt without venturing into the desert.
Gastronomy and Local Experiences
Much of the charm of travelling the world is savouring each place’s traditional cuisine. And if we’re talking gastronomy, Europe is once again the continent to visit.
Portugal
It’s right next to Spain, and sometimes that causes it to go somewhat unnoticed… but foodies are making sure the entire world discovers it. Cod prepared in as many ways as you can imagine, pastéis de nata, and Port wine are some of the gastronomic hallmarks of this Lusophone country.
Lisbon and Porto, with their steep streets and breathtaking viewpoints, also offer a wonderfully complete urban getaway, with strolls through the historic quarter, visits to medieval castles, and a vibrant nightlife. If you go to Porto, be sure to visit one of its wine cellars—you won’t regret it!
Greece
January is the low season for this country… which makes it the ideal time to go if you want to save a bit of money. Greece remains incredibly charming, with a mild climate.
When it comes to Greek cuisine, fresh products and preparations with millennia of history can truly dazzle your taste buds. A classic recommendation is gyros, one of the country’s national dishes, easily found at any street stall you come across.
Hungary
Thermal baths and the rich history of Budapest make it a fantastic destination to visit, even during the harsh Hungarian winter. And to combat the cold, there’s goulash, the country’s national dish, which will warm you up from the very first bite.
Budapest is still a relatively affordable capital compared to other European cities. If you add to that the fact that we’re in the low season right now, you’ll have an economical and spectacular country to enjoy.
