Grey and cold weather means (with a few exceptions) Europe is best avoided for honeymoons in January. But fear not, there are some amazing January honeymoon destinations to choose from. From sandy beach paradises to party cities and rugged beauty spots, we've gathered our eight of our absolute favourites here.
Where to Honeymoon in January
1. St. Lucia
Paradise with a view. St. Lucia is not only home to glorious beaches but also the astounding peaks of the Pitons mountains and Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens. This is what you imagine when you think of a classic island honeymoon.
Weather to Expect: Rainfall is much lower than during the autumn months and daytime temperatures average around 27-29°C. Expect a cooling breeze in January, which make touring during the day very pleasant.
2. Chile
The Atacama is ruggedly beautiful but is also home to high-end resorts like Tierra Atacama. If you arrive in time to spend New Year's join the party on the streets of ValparaÃso.
Weather to Expect: The average monthly temperature in Santiago in January is 21°C and daytime usually hits 30°C. As it's summer, there are longer days for enjoying outdoor activities, however the evenings are cooler, so you can sleep well.
3. Brazil
Brazil is known for its warm welcome. Brazil boasts beautiful beaches, friendly locals, great weather and great parties and dancing. Again, if you make it for New Year's make sure you're in Rio. Try windsurfing in São Miguel do Gostoso, or look for jaguars by canoe in the Amazon rainforest.
Weather to Expect: As it's summer in Brazil, it's great for a honeymoon in January. It's warm and sunny enough to hit the beaches as temperatures range from 24 -30°C. However, there might be heavy downpours in the evening.
4. Hawaii
Hawaii is made up of six main islands. Kauai's got beaches while Oahu is famous for surfing. Island hop to experience them all and find your personal favourite. Be warned though, there are no direct flights from Dublin so your trip will take about 20/24 hours. Perhaps a stop-off at another destination on route?
Weather to Expect: The average high temperature is around 26°C but you will need a sweater in the evenings, and maybe a light rain jacket for day trips in case of a shower. Still the days are sunny and lightly humid and you get longer daylight hours than elsewhere in the US, with sunrise around 7am and sunset around 6pm.
5. India
There's nowhere quite like India. Stay in a resort in Goa, Kerala or the Andaman islands for a luxury experience but be sure to explore to embrace the rich culture, varied landscapes, inexpensive food, deserts and temples.
Weather to Expect: The average daytime temperature in Goa hovers around 25°C, rising to around 31°C during the hottest part of the day. At night the temperature dips to around 20°C, so sleeping is quite comfortable even without air conditioning, and best of all - rain is highly unlikely!
6. Scotland
Get cosy in Scotland and experience the rugged beauty of the highlands paired with the cultural and culinary delights of Edinburgh for a mini moon closer to home. In January Scotland hosts the biggest fire festival in Europe - Up Helly Aa - which never fails to get positive reviews.
Weather to Expect: Very cold, with temperatures hovering around freezing ur just above, making snow a possibility, so make sure to wrap up well.
7. Mexico
As well as sandy beaches, palm trees and fabulous food Mexico is home to the largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Americas. Opt to go for full on luxury in Las Cabos, or experience more authentic Mexican culture - or of course a mixture of both.
Weather to Expect: It's best to stick to resorts in the southern, coastal areas in January. Average temperatures range from 21°C to 29°C.
8. Thailand
A trek to get to, but once you do it’s all palm trees, sea salt and coconuts. A real beach paradise and the second biggest coral reef in the world, so perfect for crystal clear snorkelling and diving.
Weather to Expect: One of the best months to visit Thailand as it's sunny and dry. Temperatures hover between low 20°s and low 30°s.
If you're still not sure when to go, then see our handy month by month guide for an overview of all the best places and follow us on Instagram for more tips!