Getting away in January is one of the few ways you can combat the Christmas blues. After a good few days of consuming your own weight in turkey and drinking copious amounts of alcohol, it is hard to get the endorphins back flowing through your body. However, January hardly has an abundance of sunny vacations possible for us. So, instead of looking for the sun, look for the snow. Look north, not south.

If you visit transun.co.uk you will soon discover numerous places in the North of Europe to get away from the Christmas come down. So what can you see and do in the northern realms of Europe in January?

Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of nature’s greatest events. The aurora borealis, as they are properly called, is a phenomenon that takes your breath away. The vivid green, and sometimes red, light that envelops the night sky is spectacular.

by Jökull Másson

Besides going to the desolate islands of Canada, you can see this wonder in all its glory in Norway, Finland, Sweden, and, if you are really feeling adventurous, Iceland. Do not fear if you cannot afford a trip to Scandinavia, there are some places in Britain that get treated to a glimpse. Just keep a watchful eye on Aurora Watch.

Whale Watching

The sheer size of whales is simply staggering. These water mammals, the largest on the planet, love the chilly climes of the Arctic. Humpback whales are the native residents in this ocean, the Arctic, and the sound of them coming up to breathe fills the fjords.

by Simon K Ager

One whale is something, but a whole school of these gargantuan beings is stunning. It is more than likely that you will encounter a school out hunting for some tasty herring, and that is a sight that soon warms even the most depressed souls.

Husky sledding

Huskies are one of the more beautiful dogs. It seems that everyone has a natural affinity for them. And while they are easy on the eye, they are even better on the reins. You cannot head to this part of the world and not partake in some husky sledding.

by Tambako the Jaguar

With a history dating back nearly 30,000 years in what is now Mongolia, dog sledding is an integral part of life in these snow-filled regions. Not only is it wicked good fun, but it is also the quickest way to get around. If you have had one too many drinks the night before then this is the perfect hangover remedy.

Sleeping in an Igloo

by Podknox

Nothing says the Arctic more than sleeping in an Igloo. These ice houses are synonymous with the snow and staying in one should be considered a must by all snow lovers. The northern lights, the snow, and the huskies are all important aspects of this part of the world. But it is sleeping in an Igloo that will give you the greatest bragging rights back home.

Ice Fishing

There’s nothing quite like ice fishing to make your holiday truly memorable! Ice fishing is a popular activity in many parts of the north during wintertime; there’s something so peaceful about spending time on an icy lake, surrounded by nature whilst waiting for fish to bite at your hook.

Equipment such as insulated clothing, ice picks, augers, and rods are all easily accessible for hire or purchase in most northern towns. The fish you will likely be able to catch include pike, whitefish, perch, and rainbow trout – making your holiday even more worthwhile.

For those interested in learning more about ice fishing and the equipment required for such an activity, there are plenty of websites offering beginner-level information to get you started. Ice fishing is a great way to experience something truly unique during your winter vacation!

Snowshoeing

Experience the beautiful scenery of the north on a snow-filled day with snowshoeing! Snowshoeing is an ideal outdoor activity for those who wish to explore snowy terrain at will – no need to worry about trails or terrain that is too challenging as you’ll be making it up as you go.

All equipment for snowshoeing can usually be rented from shops in northern towns or online hire services. Depending on where you’re traveling, there may also be guided snowshoe tours available – these are often conducted by local knowledge experts such as park rangers and aboriginal guides who can provide a fantastic insight into their region’s history and culture.

Snowshoeing is an excellent way to spend time outdoors during your winter vacation – don’t miss out!

With all these options, there’s no doubt that your winter holiday in the north will be one you won’t forget in a hurry.

In conclusion, it does everyone a world of good getting away for a little part of January. Otherwise, the month can be a misery. If you do have a little bit of spare change and can afford to get away then it is imperative that you look north. There cannot be any point in looking for a holiday destination that may have the sun. And even when they do it still isn’t going to be as hot as you would like. That is unless you are planning on vacating in the Southern Hemisphere. If that is the case… enjoy!