WINTER SUN

[TRAVEL] Whether you've got time off in January, or just doing some winter sun window shopping, Uwern Jong has picked out 5 interesting destinations for January.

Let's face it - it's pretty gloomy here in London at the moment. And unless you're reading this from exotic climes, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. And that aside, now the craziness of Christmas and New Year is over, we all need something to look forward to. On facebook today, I noted a handful of friends are lucky enough to have some time off this month and are looking for a place to go catch some rays (and no doubt post a whole load of deckchair lounging pics to make us green with envy). I usually skim read these updates and the very useful comments of suggestions that follows, but one of my friends actually asked the question: "Where can I go that's a 'luxurious break from the norm, somewhere a little different, somewhere to switch off my Blackberry and no one would know I'm there? I couldn't help but interject, so here are my 5 suggestions for that something a little different in January 2012.

VIETNAM

Some prefer the South. Some prefer the North. Each to their own, but as diplomatic as I am, I prefer it somewhere in the middle. And after a week at either the Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay or the Anantara Mui Ne, you'll come back a totally different person. True hideaways, true luxury, great value - but oozing with local culture and charm. The sparkling new Vietnam Airlines will get you there.

INDIA

India is on the verge of coming out. There's no doubt about it. With some legislative changes and shifting opinion, this country is a jewel fit for any Maharaja. And despite popular opinion, India is luxurious (check out Taj Hotel's properties all over the country) and a feast of flavours. It really is a place to find yourself - from spiritual journeys, to those about the mind, body and soul, culinary trails, culture, history and anthropology. And each part of the country is so different, Kerala, Jaipur, Rajastan. I defy you not to be awestruck.

COSTA RICA

A country without an armed forces? Well this just goes to show the attitude that Tico's (the nation's ever friendly locals) have. San Jose is an exciting metropolis, the Arenal area isn't to be missed, but to zone out, my tip is to skip down south to Manuel Antonio, where gays guys meet pelicans, spider monkeys, big-eyed frogs, zip-lining, gastronomy and luxurious deck-chairs in a truly unforgettable landscape. Try the Gaia or the old faithful boutique, Villa Rocca.

EGYPT

As the country is famous for its pyramids, the Nile and its ancient history, it may be a little difficult to pass all of this up since you're visiting. But if you're on a R&R mission, head for the Red Sea. Don't be tempted to visit Sharm El Sheikh and its tourist traps, but head a little over an hour north to little town of Dahab and you'll find a much more relaxed vibe. Go on a camel safari, navigate the Coloured Canyon, snorkel the Blue Hole or take mollasses-sheesha in Dahab's chilled-out, beachfront restaurants. For some casual luxury, try the Hilton Dahab.

THAILAND

The old faithful, Thailand is a country that just keeps on giving - but you've got to know where to go. The West coast in out of the monsoon this time of year, but forget Samui, Krabi and Phuket - check out the far more picturesque and less-traveled routes. Koh Yao Noi, Raileh and the southernmost part of Koh Lanta are great places to absorb this wonderful country and its generally liberal minded way of life. On KYN, try the new Six Senses, Raileh - the BhuNga Thani and Lanta, the Pimalai.