OROKO Travel Guide | Where to travel by month
With such a variety of places to visit in the world, it’s hard to know where to go and when! Brought to you by our Travel Specialists who spend weeks every year travelling the globe, we are sharing some of our favourite places to visit each month. Of course, there are lots of different destinations that you can visit, but we think this will provide a little inspiration to kick-start your year. For further information, discover our complete catalogue of travel inspiration by month.
January
January is the ideal month for ski enthusiasts to hit the slopes of Europe. The wide-treelined hills of Austria’s Zell Am See, the varied inclines of France’s Val d’Isere and the sunny undulations of Switzerland’s Verbier, the European slopes offer amazing variety. However, for those looking to avoid the cold weather, there are many destinations that shine at this time of the year. Winter sun is inescapable in the Indian Ocean. A nation of islands with unrivalled luxury, stunning white-sand beaches and an amazing underwater world, Seychelles is an obvious choice for a true holiday of a lifetime. The timeless beauty, tranquillity and diversity of Seychelles are the perfect remedy to the winter blues.
February
February is a perfect month for exploring long-haul destinations, especially in Asia and South America. Ideal for families and couples alike, why not consider Vietnam. A land of verdant valleys, exciting cities and delicious cuisine, Vietnam is fantastical in its charm. Although hot in the summer months, the high humidity leads to significant rainfall. The weather cools down this time of year and it is much drier while still being bright and warm. Patagonia is another incredible February holiday destination. Stretching across the wilds of Chile and Argentina, the vast wilderness of Patagonia is home to a staggeringly diverse and awe-inspiring landscape, perfect for eager explorers.
March
As Spring approaches, the weather in Europe can remain unpredictable, so it can be best to explore destinations further afield if you’re in search of sun. This is one of the best months to visit the north of India, as the weather is more likely to be warm, sunny and dry. During this time, clear blue skies overlook the wonderfully chaotic streets of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. March is also a great time to visit Mexico. The dry season has yet to end, and cold nights are beginning to warm up in the city. Along Mexico’s Pacific Coast, great waves, food and abundant sunshine awaits.
April
A wonderful time of the year, flowers begin to bloom across the landscape. Japan’s famed cherry blossom season, known as Sakura, makes it a beautiful destination for this time of year. A celebration month, Japan comes alive as people gather in colourful parks and gardens, picnicking under the colourful trees. April is also the perfect time to tick the Pacific Coast Highway off your bucket list. In California, the weather remains comfortably warm with little rain, and sunlight permeates through the redwood forests of the north right down to the amber beaches of the south.
May
As May begins, a wealth of destinations come into their prime. A luxury safari in Zimbabwe is the perfect May getaway. In Zambezi National Park, the dry season has begun and wildlife sightings increase significantly as the ‘Big 5’ game animals laze about in the sun. Indonesia is an ideal honeymoon destination this time of year as the weather is perfect for island hopping, snorkelling, and beach relaxation. Those looking to escape high temperatures might consider a luxury cruise through Alaska’s icy waterways, passing magnificent glaciers and shoreside villages.
June
The beginning of summer, June brings temperatures perfect for short breaks and explorations to the coastlines of Europe. From the glamorous Côte d’Azur to cosmopolitan Lisbon, sunshine is easily found close to home. For a destination further afield, why not consider Namibia. Completely different from any other African safari destination, Namibia’s temperatures are just above 20°C and the chance of rain is low at this time of year. This is also the best time for wildlife viewing, making it peak travel season — you will need to plan well in advance.
July
July is peak travel season as children are off school and people are in search of the sun. Whether you want to go island-hopping across azure waters, explore ancient archaeological sites and monuments, or visit the ancient capital of Athens, Greece has a lot to offer. A great destination for families, planning in advance is key when travelling over the summer. Long haul destinations that blossom in July include Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Tropical and volcanic islands, turbulent waters and traditional estancias, relaxation and adventure come together in Ecuador and its archipelagos.
August
With a wealth of destinations perfect in August, it can be hard to choose. For culture and adventure seekers, why not consider South America? Heartland of the Incas, Peru is still filled with sites that showcase this powerful empire’s prowess as master builders, most notably Machu Picchu. This time of the year is Peru’s dry season, which sees sunny days, bright blue skies in the Andes and chilly nights. Wildlife seekers can venture to the Arctic, realm of the polar bear. August is prime time to cruise Svalbard’s legendary archipelago, and spot mighty polar bear, Arctic fox and beluga.
September
September is a perfect month to explore Europe’s beautiful cities and coastlines. Italy is renowned for its art, architecture, style and food. With stretches of beautiful coastline, endless countryside, and renaissance cities, Italy is a jewel of both nature and culture. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the temperatures are comfortable and there are fewer crowds. For an off the grid adventure, September brings festivals and tribal gatherings to the forefront in Papua New Guinea. The remarkable wilds of Papua New Guinea are home to marvellous unexplored native villages and rugged heartlands.
October
A country that dances to a flamenco beat, Spain retains much of its traditional charm at the same time it embraces the new. Many people opt to visit Spain in autumn as they are attracted by pleasant temperatures and lighter crowds. Venturing further afield, the mountains and vineyards of British Columbia are beautifully covered with the colours of fall. Road trip through Canada’s wild auburn landscapes and lively towns as you go. Hike through the Autumnal Rocky Mountains, witnessing swooping canyons, towering peaks and incredible rock formations.
November
As winter has officially arrived, it is difficult to find warmer climates close to home. Southeast Asia is an ideal destination, especially Cambodia. The intricately carved temples of Angkor are Cambodia’s main draw, but elsewhere in the country, you’ll find vibrant minority villages and great swathes of wilderness. There is little rain in Cambodia this time of year, instead clear blue skies make it a great place to enjoy a relaxing getaway. Cooler November temperatures also make for great weather when visiting the Middle East. A destination of escapism, Jordan is a wonderland of ancient wonders from the healing waters of the Dead Sea to the lost city of Petra.
December
In December, The Maldives is at its prime. Tropical islands with swaying palm trees, pure white beaches and brilliant turquoise lagoons, luxury Maldives will never disappoint. At this time of the year, the climate is warm and tropical, perfect for beachside relaxation and exploration of its colourful reefs. During this festive period, New Zealand is another excellent option. Still in its summer season, the spectacular landscapes of towering mountains, turquoise lakes and incredible fjords are bathe in summer sun.
