Irresistible Blue Monday holiday deals for a sunny winter escape

In 2005, Dr Cliff Arnall, a psychologist specialising in seasonal affective disorder at Cardiff University, devised a formula to identify the saddest day of the year. His equation took into account factors such as debt, motivation, weather and the time elapsed since Christmas.

According to this theory, the most miserable day falls on the third Monday in January, when the optimism of New Year’s resolutions has faded and the festive glow has well and truly worn off. The date was soon dubbed “Blue Monday”. 

If the idea of short-haul travel doesn’t quite hit the spot, the paperwhite beaches of the Caribbean offer the kind of sun-kissed holidays designed to put a spring in your step. Browse these hotel deals for January and turn daydreaming into a reality. 

It is no wonder that Punta Cana has ended up on our Blue Monday holiday deals list. With an endless supply of sunshine, paradise beaches and delicious rum, the Dominican Republic is an ideal place to shake off the blues. The relaxing murmur of the crystal-clear waters lapping against the Coconut Coast will melt away all stress. And while you’re still buzzing from the adrenaline rush of windsurfing, ziplining, or kayaking, exploring the island’s creative scene is a fantastic way to engage with the locals. Punta Cana’s January hotel offers are an excellent opportunity to book one of Punta Canaʼs top all-inclusive hotels. From there, venture to Uvero Alto, a swanky neighbourhood in northern Punta Cana, where you’ll find artisanal souvenir shops. Then, as night falls, retreat to the resort and enjoy a cocktail to the soundtrack of gentle Latin tunes as you relax and settle into one of the best mid-January all-inclusive vacations imaginable.

Gazing at the Caribbean Sea in mid-January will no doubt make winter easier to bear. The idea of cheap hotels in January may sound grim, but wait until you have swooned over these all-inclusive hotels on the Riviera Maya. Gain a deeper appreciation of the roots of the Riviera Maya as you explore the region. Archaeological complexes like the majestic Chichen Itzá are a great starting point for those interested in discovering the mysterious world of the Mayans. Fast forward to today, and seaside towns like Tulum have become bohemian hotspots and a must-visit for anyone interested in soaking in some international artsy vibes.

To give the winter blues the final death blow, indulge in some spa break January deals. Many hotels include spa treatments right on the premises so you can start the year afresh. Once your worries and tension have melted away, venture onto the streets where brightly colored street art murals act as the backdrop to the burgeoning creative scene. And don’t forget to stop and taste the delicious street food that can be found on every corner. This is truly authentic Mexican food at its best.

January travel sales are one of the best things about the new year. With a little luck, you’ll find surprisingly cheap getaways in January when you choose Cancun as your destination. Check into an all-inclusive hotel and restock your levels of vitamin D while lounging on the 13 miles of fine white sand. If you are fond of scuba diving, you can visit an underwater art gallery. If dry land is more your thing, stroll around the city streets of the residential development off Avenida Bonampak in downtown Cancun and contemplate the imposing street art murals painted onto buildings by local artists. Fans of Frida Kahlo will enjoy a trip to the Frida Kahlo Riviera Maya Museum, which features exhibits and curiosities from the life of the renowned Mexican artist.

Nestled off the coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are Spain’s answer to the Caribbean without the long-haul flight. In January and late winter, these islands are baked under a golden sunshine with temperatures hovering around the low-to-mid twenties. 

Fuerteventura isn't your standard bucket and spade destination. Its volcanic landscapes, like Montaña de Tindaya, provide dramatic hiking opportunities, while its consistent winds and waves have gained it a world-class status for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. During your Fuerteventura holiday, explore charming, inviting villages like Betancuria and get to grips with the history of the Canary Islands through the culture and cuisine. 

Don’t forget to try the famous queso majorero goat cheese. However, the main draw of Fuerteventura is its 150 kilometres of coastline, including the eye-catching Popcorn Beach. Dive into the refreshing waters of Cofete or explore the wild paradise of Corralejo Natural Park. When it comes to Fuerteventura, there is a beach to suit all needs.

If Fuerteventura is about the shoreline, Tenerife is all about big sky living. Home to Spain’s tallest point, Mount Teide, this island is a hotspot for nature lovers eager to explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes. Spend your days sunbathing on the black sand beaches, chasing sunsets from north to south, hiking the winding mountain paths and gazing up at the award-winning night skies to make a wish on a shooting star. Life here is best lived slowly, at the pace of the tides, giving you time to admire the beauty of nature during your Tenerife holiday.

Lacking creative inspiration this winter? Head to Lanzarote, the island made famous by architect and artist César Manrique. Explore the whitewashed towns perched on the lava-sculpted landscapes, admire landmarks like Jameos del Agua and sip wine from the island’s curiously designed vineyards. What this island lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. It is impossible for visitors not to fall in love with its quirky style and laid-back island vibes during their stay in Lanzarote. 

Overlooked by the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Agadir, on Morocco’s southern Atlantic coast, is the perfect remedy for the winter blues. Fancy a spot of golf? No problem, the courses here are complete with ocean views for an unforgettable game. The crescent-shaped beach is a must-visit when you want to catch some rays, and the promenade overlooking it is the perfect vantage point to spot surfers riding the waves. Don’t leave your Agadir holiday without tucking into some delicious local cuisine or stocking up on souvenirs in the souk, perfect for providing a pick-me-up when back in the grey and cold.

If there was an ideal time to enjoy a break in Dubai, it is probably January. This buzzy metropolis attracts savvy travellers and families in search of sunshine thanks to its world-class restaurants, shopping centres, fine golden sand beaches and innovative attractions. Choose from spending your days exploring landmarks like the Dubai Frame, Dubai Miracle Garden or the iconic Museum of the Future. Cool off from all the sightseeing with a refreshing dip in the sea before enjoying all the luxury of the hotel spas and restaurants. It is impossible to feel down in the dumps in a setting like Dubai.

Not one for the beach, but still want an escape from your routine? Spain is a perfect pit stop for the mind and body. Whether you are exploring the historic neighbourhoods of Barcelona or diving into the foodie scene in Valencia, there is something for all kinds of travellers. 

One way to banish the winter blues is to snap up Blue Monday holiday deals to Barcelona, the Catalan capital. If you love Mediterranean culture, architecture and street art, a holiday in Barcelona will feel like food for the soul. Barcelona has long inspired artistic greats such as Gaudí, Picasso and Miró, whose influence is visible everywhere,  from its iconic buildings to world-class museums. With creativity woven into daily life, hotel stays in January in Barcelona offer the perfect dose of inspiration just when it’s needed most.

A Blue Monday holiday to Valencia is the perfect way to shake up your mood and feel alive again. This sun-soaked Mediterranean city blends historic charm with bold modern design, from its atmospheric old town to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. Stroll along the palm-lined streets, golden beaches and enjoy the relaxed pace of life. Valencia is definitely a city that invites you to slow down and recharge. It is the birthplace of paella, a testament to its thriving foodie scene, and the wealth of culture and green spaces within the city make it an easy January getaway. Valencia offers the perfect lift when winter feels at its longest.

Take advantage of the Blue Monday holiday deals and plan some travel for when the temperatures rise again. One destination worth keeping on your radar is the Balearic Islands. From Mallorca’s dramatic coastline to Menorca’s unspoilt coves, the islands are rich in daydream-worthy places. A holiday in Mallorca is more than a beach break, although the protected sands of Cala Mondragó are a must-visit. Palma’s striking La Seu Cathedral, the historic streets of Ciutadella and the Serra de Tramuntana mountains offer culture, scenery and memorable day trips wrapped up in one island escape. 

Holidays in Menorca offer a slower dose of island life with stunning coves like Cala en Turqueta offering a postcard-perfect beach day complete with brilliant white sand and shallow, crystal-clear seas. Explore the ancient talaiots and spend your days floating from the ocean to the pool on repeat. Break the taxing routine to explore Menorca’s quaint hilltop towns to really feel rested and restored.