“Blue Monday,” is often touted as the most depressing day of the year. While its origins are rooted in marketing, the term has entered common parlance, reflecting a shared experience of winter blues and the challenges many face in the early part of the year. For me to help with the blues, no matter what time of year, travel is one of my favorite ways to do it. Here are 5 places to travel to that will give your mind, body, and soul an uplift.
Important Note: Blue Monday is a marketing concept. If you are struggling with feelings of sadness or depression, please reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional for support. Additionally, This article is for informational purposes only, for fun, and should not be considered medical advice.
First, What Is Blue Monday and How Did It Begin?
This year, Blue Monday falls on January 20th, the third Monday of the month. This date is often touted as the most depressing day of the year, a concept popularized by a 2005 press release from a UK travel company, Sky Travel. It asked psychologist Cliff Arnall to find a scientific formula for the January blues and the best day to book a holiday.
Their “equation” considered factors like weather, a fading Christmas spirit, debt levels, and post-holiday blues to arrive at this supposed low point. While the scientific validity of this calculation is highly debated, the term “Blue Monday” has stuck, becoming a symbol for the winter blues and the challenges many people face in the early part of the year.
Fighting the Blues: 5 Travel Destinations to Consider
If you’re feeling the January slump, consider a quick getaway to boost your mood. Here are five travel destinations that might just chase away those winter blues:
A Tropical Paradise: Escape the cold and embrace the sunshine with a trip to a tropical island. Think white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees. Destinations like the Maldives, the Caribbean, or the Philippines offer the perfect antidote to the winter doldrums. If you don’t want to pull your passport out of storage, head south to Florida think Central Florida theme parks) or visit Southern California where the weather is lovely in winter.
A City Escape: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of a bustling metropolis. Explore world-class museums, indulge in delicious cuisine, and experience the thrill of city life. Consider destinations like New York City, London, or Tokyo for a dose of urban excitement. I love visiting Manhattan in January. The crowds are at their lowest, hotel prices are less expensive, and walking around the city is lovely.
A Winter Wonderland: Embrace the winter weather with a trip to a snowy destination. Enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating. Cozy up in a charming cabin by a fire, or explore a picturesque winter wonderland. Consider destinations like the Swiss Alps, the Canadian Rockies, or the Rocky Mountains in the United States.
A Cultural Immersion: Discover a new culture and broaden your horizons with a trip to a foreign country. Immerse yourself in local traditions, sample authentic cuisine, and learn about a different way of life. Consider destinations like Japan, Morocco, or Italy for a truly enriching experience.
A Wellness Retreat: Prioritize self-care with a trip to a wellness retreat. Enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, participate in yoga and meditation classes, and reconnect with nature. Consider destinations like Bali, Costa Rica, or Thailand for a truly transformative experience.
If you’re unable to travel, consider a day trip to a spa, spend time with friends, or even go out for a nice meal instead. If all else fails, get up and move, dance, or sing. They always help my attitude.