Beating the blues: the best destinations for a feel-good getaway in 2026

With shorter days, colder weather, and the return to normality after the festive period, it’s easy to feel out of sorts in January, so why not find happiness in travel?

After an indulgent end to the year, with food and feel-good festivity abound, getting back into the swing of everyday life in the new year can feel especially difficult. As the world marks ‘Blue Monday’, our team have been looking at how travel can help you raise your spirits throughout January and beyond. 

According to a study in the Tourism Analysis journal, people who travel often tend to feel more fulfilled and lead happier lives. With that in mind, a short getaway might be just what you need to start feeling yourself again.

Given that January also happens to be Mental Health Wellness Month, there's no better time to treat yourself to something, or somewhere, completely new? To really help you make the most of your time away, our team have been focusing on happiness and the best cheer-inspiring spots across the globe. From the natural wonders of Iceland and Scandinavia to Costa Rica’s coastal highlights and  Oceania, there’s something to suit every taste.

What are the happiest places in the world?

Norway, Europe

Over the past few decades, Scandinavia has often been ranked as the world’s happiest region, and according to the 2025 World Population Review, that trend isn’t due to change any time soon. With Denmark, Norway and Sweden all ranking in the top seven happiest countries globally, this magnificent Nordic region is ideal for a short break abroad.

Of the three countries, a common favourite for travellers is the Norwegian Fjords, and there are few bases better for exploring them than colourful Bergen. Known for its Hanseatic buildings, bustling harbourfront and proximity to Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord, this charming town offers memorable exploration at every turn and is sure to lift your spirits.

Iceland, Europe

While it isn’t technically a part of Scandinavia, Iceland shares a great deal of similarities with its Nordic neighbours, from its cultural heritage to its climate, and that extends to the happiness of its citizens, too.

Of the island’s numerous wish-list sights, Reykjavík’s popular ‘Golden Circle’ route comprises the highest density of natural wonders, inner-city landmarks, and charming small towns. Whether you’re after a dip in the steamy waters of the Blue Lagoon or want to see the East Coast’s most dramatic landscapes, this striking region is an ideal choice for a 2026 escape.

The Netherlands, Europe

Another country which consistently features among the happiest places to live is the Netherlands, and with shorter travel times and a host of historic attractions within easy reach, it’s perfect for a January escape. It’s not just the welcoming local people, either, that make this European gem such a worthwhile addition to your travel wish-list.

With charming canal-lined cities, authentic fishing villages, and an artistic heritage to rival any of its neighbours, there’s a lot to love in the Netherlands.

If you’d prefer a springtime escape, the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens, home to colourful wildflower collections and iconic tulip fields, are sure to lift your mood. For culture buffs and those favouring an escape later in the year, few feel-good experiences compare to an evening with Dutch maestro André Rieu – and there’s no better place to see him live than in his native Maastricht.

Whether you’re tapping to the beat of one of the world’s living musical legends or marvelling at the country’s spectacular springtime colours, the Netherlands is one of mainland Europe’s happiest holiday destinations.

Costa Rica, South America

If warmer weather is key to your happiness, our next pick will be the ideal choice for you. Colourful Costa Rica is an animal-spotters’ paradise with a temperate subtropical climate and a wide range of exquisite national parks to explore.

To the north, the country’s Caribbean Coast promises a wealth of wildlife beneath the waves and fertile plantations, where age-old traditions are upheld to this day. Further west, you’ll find the vast cloud forests of Monteverde, geothermal spa resorts, and the popular beach resorts of the country’s Pacific Coast.

Australia, Oceania

Rounding out the world’s top 10 happiest nations is idyllic Australia, with its easy-going atmosphere, vast Outback vistas and cosmopolitan centres. In terms of average happiness, this Oceanian nation scored 7.06 out of 10 – and once you’ve experienced its coastal lifestyle, it’s easy to see why.

Comprising memorable inner-city attractions, golden-sand beaches and a handful of remarkable national parks, it’s the Australian coastlines which often top travel wish-lists. That said, there’s even more to discover inland.

From breath-taking Uluru (Ayers’ Rock) to heritage railways and secluded rainforest villages, a wish-list trip to Australia promises exploration that’s as enjoyable as it is rewarding.

Beat the January blues with a Newmarket Holidays tour

Whether you’re after a warm-weather escape across the globe or a feel-good getaway closer to home, we have the perfect option for you.

Give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today to get the ball rolling on your next adventure, or browse our entire range of year-round escorted tours by visiting our dedicated destinations page.