This Year, Are You Team Sun or Snow?

Written by: Poppy Skinner Created: 25 January 2023

Chill on the beach or swoosh down the slopes - here are the best options for both this year.

Team Snow: Embrace the winter chill

Iceland

A lone island country right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Iceland is as mysterious as it gets. For the curious traveller, it is the ideal place to roam: You’ll discover imposing volcanoes, mighty geysers and thermal lagoons — to name a few.  In January, snow is in abundance and nights are illuminated by the ethereal Northern Lights.  Some of the incredible encounters that the you can look forward to while there include a breathtaking helicopter ride across famous landmarks like the Langjokull glacier, and snowmobiling across the surface of the renowned Eyjafjallajokull volcano.

Canada

Majestic mountains, vast forests and glistening, glass-like lakes — there's so much to see and do in Canada, especially in January, which turns the country into a winter outdoor lover's winter playground. January is also perfect for skiing; British Columbia's abundant powder snow and superb terrain will not disappoint.

Whistler, Canada is around 120 km from Vancouver and is home to two spectacular mountains connected by a pedestrian village; Whistler and Blackcomb. And if you want a break from all that skiing, try a dog sledding trip of even heli-hiking.

India

Experience India like you’ve never before in the incredible valleys of Ladakh, home to an incredibly rare range of mountain animals. Swap warm weather for colder climes and the chance to spot the elusive snow leopard. Explore the winter wilderness of Ladakh on foot and by SUV with a guide who works closely with the locals to narrow down potential sites where the snow leopards are likely going to be. Meanwhile, you get to immerse yourself in local culture, gaining insights into folklore, customs and traditions. 

Team Sun: Explore these sun-drenched gems

Maldives 

Indulge in a getaway like no other with a generous dose of relaxation in the Maldives coupled with a culture-rich exploration across Sri Lanka. Catch the Maldives in its dry monsoon season in January to avoid rainfall and gloominess. Located in the unspoilt Raa Atoll in the northwest of the Maldives, the Emerald Maldives offers an all-inclusive experience. With world-class cuisine, excellent service and a stunning view of the beach with over-water villas, this resort is the ideal place to catch a break from the bustling city life.  

Sri Lanka

Visit balmy Sri Lanka, the land of the finest tea. Have a luxurious stay at Ulagalla, a charming traditional hotel. At the Hill Country, a night at Ceylon Tea Trails will tantalise your tastebuds with the vast variety of flavourful tea brewed specially for you. Complete your cultural journey with a tour of the verdant farmland surrounding the lodge, which is bound to take your breath away. 

Egypt 

Home to magnificent ancient monuments such as the Pyramids of Giza, one of the best times to visit Egypt is in January: Explore and marvel at its iconic sites and desert landscapes comfortably as you visit during one of the country’s coolest seasons.

Thailand

Lunar New Year is one of the best times to visit Thailand as it boasts lively festivities happening all across the country. Explore a lesser-seen side of Thailand and take a trip to Chiang Mai, host to some of the country’s most colourful festivals. In February, you can partake in the Chiang Mai Flower Festival and also enjoy the cooler weather. This festival is a three-day festival held in the first weekend of February, where you can indulge in the beautiful sights of tropical flowers in full bloom. 

Or venture to the legendary Golden Triangle located in the north of Thailand, and stay at the luxurious Four Seasons Tented Camp. Here you’ll take a deep dive into lush rainforests and learn more about the fascinating culture and tradition of the region with activities such as river trips on the mighty Mekong or a visit to a Shanga workshop where you can admire and purchase the immaculately hand-made jewellery. 

Whether you’re team snow or team sun, if you want to whisk yourself away this Lunar New Year, Scott Dunn’s team of travel experts can help create a bespoke itinerary just for you. For more information - see here. 

Written by: Poppy Skinner

Poppy covers a wide range of topics at Billionaire, having spent the past 13 years at companies including Singapore Tatler, Her World Plus and Harpers Bazaar UK. She has a passion for fashion, jewellery and travel as well as an avaricious fascination with crime novels. Follow her at poppypskinner on Instagram.