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Come January, the holiday season is over, and you may be feeling the post-holiday blues. While you might want to take a break from traveling after bustling airports and traffic during the holidays, it’s essential to note that winter presents some of the most magical experiences in Europe. This article highlights the best places to explore during January when prices are lower, crowds are thinner, and winter wonderlands await. So, bundle up in warm jackets and hats, and let’s dive into these must-visit destinations.

Cape Town is South Africa’s crown jewel, often regarded as the most European city on the continent. Established by the Dutch East India Company in 1652, it was the first major settlement in South Africa, earning the affectionate nickname “The Mother City.” Its strategic geographical position at the southwestern tip of Africa has historically made it a significant hub for global trade. Today, Cape Town stands as one of South Africa’s three capital cities, encompassing a metropolitan area of 950 square miles, housing approximately 3.5 million residents. The breathtaking natural scenery, including the coastline nestled beneath Table Mountain National Park, complements its complex history. While Cape Town is still on the journey of recovery from the apartheid era that ended in 1994, tourism has experienced steady growth since the city co-hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2010, despite ongoing challenges such as crime and corruption.

Sydney and Melbourne often get top billing for travelers from North America planning their Australian vacations; however, Australia boasts many small towns that offer an attractive escape from city crowds and a chance to immerse oneself in local culture at a more leisurely pace.

As the adage goes, big things come in small packages. This couldn’t be truer for the following 15 small luxury hotels, where room counts are under 20 but thoughtful service and high-end amenities defy expectations. Considered design schemes make these hotels feel larger than life, too, but fewer guests mean intimacy and privacy of the highest order. Here, our picks for 15 of the best small luxury hotels with fewer than 20 rooms.