Let’s face it, even those with the best intentions find it hard to keep their New Year’s resolutions past the first few months of the year. This can sometimes be from a lack of detailed resolutions or resolutions that follow the same old patterns. Rather than the normal “I want to travel more this year,” try spicing things up by making more specific goals that can either add up to traveling more or at least make the most out of your travels. Here’s a few ideas to get you started:
Focus on a culture’s signature dish.
Open your mind and your palate to new and exotic flavors this year. When traveling, don’t try to find restaurants that have menus that are similar to those back home. Even if your travels keep you in the U.S., there are still opportunities to taste new cuisines. Trying local cuisine will take you a few steps closer to understanding the culture of wherever you are visiting.
Unplug and actually relax.
Tech gadgets and travel apps can certainly make life on the road much easier, but they also can be blocking you from truly relaxing. Try to be more present and enjoy your surroundings. You can always check your emails and post your travel photos to social media when you get back.
Be a tourist in your own town.
There may be times when you feel like you really need a vacation but either schedules or finances just won’t allow it. Try being a tourist in your own town or region. With a little research, you’ll be surprised at how much there is to do and see that is just a short drive (or even walk!) away.
Read an inspirational travel book.
Not quite sure where you want to travel to next? Grab an inspirational travel book to get the trip planning juices flowing. You’ll start to imagine yourself in new and exotic settings in no time. Check out Conde Nast’s 86 Greatest Travel Books of All Time and get reading!
Take that trip you’ve been talking about forever.
Bite the bullet and FINALLY take the trip you’ve talked about for years. Want to taste your way across Italy or explore the magnficent wines Argentina has to offer? Do it! And if it truly doesn’t fit into your 2016 schedule, you can resolve to plan out your itinerary for 2017 so that when December rolls around again, you’ll be starting to pack your bags and getting ready to check that trip of a lifetime off your bucket list.
No more half-hearted resolutions. Let’s make 2016 your best travel year yet!
