January – Beijing
It’ll be cold, sure, but imagine exploring the Great Wall of China under a blanket of snow. Less people visit in winter, meaning you’ll have the wall to yourself.
Stay here: For an architectural marvel, stay in Commune By The Great Wall.
February – Porto
From stunning 18th/ 19th-century buildings to wine bars serving the city’s signature drink (that’s port, come on guys), it’s a charming mix of both old and new.
Stay here: The Mercador Guesthouse is nestled away on the artsy Rua Bombarda.
March – West Coast of Mexico
All the California cool, with bigger waves. Start in Baja California for whale-watching, then go south to Oaxaca, for the beach town Puerto Escondido.
Stay here: Casa De Las Bugambilias, in Oaxaca, is cheap but charming.
April – Amman
Tourism in Jordan is in a bad state due to conflict with Syria. It means this beautiful, vast country is now quite empty, and there’s no better time to wander around world wonder Petra.
Stay here: Try Petra Palace – it’s a stone’s throw from Petra.
May – Fez
A wave of boutique hotels and innovative food, alongside its colourful tiled palaces, has made Morocco’s oldest city a strong alternative to Marrakesh for a little while now.
Stay here: The Maison Bleue, near the iconic Blue Gate.
June – Reykjavik
Yes, you’ve seen Iceland’s pastel hues all over the ’Gram. No, it’s not too late for you to visit. Explore Thingvellir national park, or lose your mind in 72 hours of uninterrupted daylight at Secret Solstice festival.
Stay here: 101 Hotel, a sleek boutique.
July – Tahiti
The French Polynesian island might take a while to get to, but it’s a surfer’s paradise. Papara’s black-sand beaches are ideal for rookies, or watch the pros at the Billabong Surf League.
Stay here: Le Meridien Tahiti, in an overwater bungalow.
August – Newfoundland and Labrador
Make your way to Canada’s rugged, eastern-most province for stomps through the wilderness.
Stay here: Fogo Island Inn, located in the village of Joe Batt’s Arm, for minimalist chalet vibes.
September – Gothenburg.
With a cutting-edge art and design scene, Gothenburg’s café culture will have you barking to anyone you meet that it’s the new Berlin/Portland/ Copenhagen.
Stay here: Hotel Flora for canalside convenience.
October – Russia
The world’s longest railway line, the Trans-Siberian express, is popular in summer, but colder months offer a cheaper alternative. Expect 5,772 miles of stunning frozen landscapes.
Stay here: Sleeper cars are available in first and second class.
November – Guatemala
Perfect if your idea of fun is a mix of ancient ruins, opulent palaces, volcanic lakes and a sense of awe. Which should be everyone’s idea of fun, really.
Stay here: La Lancha, Francis Ford Coppola’s secluded jungle retreat.
December – Macedonia
One of the coolest places to ski right now. The crescent-like mountain ranges and gentler pitches mean the ski runs here are perfect for long afternoons going off-piste.
Stay here: The Radika spa resort in Mavrovo.
