I live in the north and I am done with dark and gray in January.
Would you recommend a city for me to live during the month of January?
I'd like to try east coast or south. I like museums, ballet, great restaurants.
Perhaps I'll spend a week in 4 cities. I like New Orleans but a week would suffice.
Cost isn't an issue. I'm good at finding lower cost air tickets and hotels.
What would you recommend?
TIA!
New Orleans, Charleston, then any number of cities in Florida (Sarasota, West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando).
Yes, it can be cold in New Orleans and Charleston, but probably not a problem for you. Maybe you can be flexible or just stay a few days in each in case one of those Chicago artic blasts spills towards the south. And yes, Orlando has been cold a few days in its life, but if it is near freezing at night, it is likely going to be sunny and 60 that day.
I would avoid counting on any beach time north of West Palm. It could happen, but I know a lot of people disappointed as well. Also, you sound like you want culture, so close to the beach seems to drop in that regard in many ways.
If you consider Orlando, try a smaller city (suburb) like Winter Park. GREAT restaurants, shopping, and the Sun Rail runs to many major locations including airports.
Here are some average , high/low temperatures. Consider that 20 degrees below these can happen, so bring winter coat just in case, and you should be fine.
Orlando 72/50
New Orleans 62/43
Charleston 57/42
Chicago 32/18