10 New Year’s Resolutions For Travellers In 2017

www.awol.com.au

The end of the year is nigh, so it’s time to lock in our goals for the new year. For us budding travellers, this list will probably involve a pact to get out there and travel more – and with a new year looming, we’re on a mission to make our travel goals a reality.

We here at AWOL have decided to pull together ten new year’s resolutions for those of us keen on seeing more of the world in 2017. Hopefully they’ll inspire you too.

#1 Check-in early

In 2017, we vow to always check-in the night before and forgo the mad dash to the check-in counter the following day. After all, travelling should be fun, not stressful.

#2 Pack right

We resolve to pack like pros this year by simplifying our wardrobes, rolling instead of folding, using elastic bands and staying organised. Here’s a visual aid to help…

#3 Give couchsurfing a go

With a name that envisions late-night shenanigans and uncomfortable futons, the reality of couchsurfing is more chilled-out strangers (or friends you haven’t met yet) offering their couch for a night or two for zero dollars. Not only will you save money, but couchsurfing is a brilliant way to make new friends across the globe. Think of it as a cultural exchange with your host, where you’ll learn what it’s like to live like a local.

#4 Learn the language

While there’s a certain charm to trying to converse with a stranger using charades and exasperated facial expressions, being able to easily communicate while you’re abroad can not only make things less stressful, but far more rewarding. Thanks to the Internet, it’s never been easier to learn the basics of a new language – just a simple “hello”, “thanks” and “please” can go a long way – and if you’re looking to really immerse yourself, there’s nothing like picking up a few more phrases to help you get by.

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#5 Don’t let money rule

A bigger budget doesn’t equal a better experience. Repeat that. Sure, it’s hard to ignore the allure of scenic infinity pools and degustation dining, but spending less and sticking to a budget doesn’t have to be so ho-hum. If you chase what’s cheap, it will often lead to tastier meals, eclectic neighbourhoods and exciting personalities. Which goes hand in hand with…

#6 Live like a local

Living cheap is often like living local, and an authentic travel experience like this is something money just can’t buy. So this year we resolve to get off the beaten path and out of our comfort zones because that’s when things start to get interesting.

#7 Get up earlier

Things are always better in the morning – less crowds, quicker queues, better lighting – so in 2017 we resolve to start the day earlier to get more in. Bonus: starting just a few hours earlier means you’ll have extra time in the afternoon – you can use this time to take a nap, call home or just sit and chill in a brand new city.

A Weekend Exploring Nature Around the Gold Coast

#8 Get on your bike

There’s never been a better time to hop on two wheels and explore – after all, biking sure beats hoofing it on two feet. Just this year Canada announced plans to open a car-free bike path that spans across the entire country. Poland announced that they were introducing eco-friendly glow-in-the-dark bike lanes. And our intrepid reporter Samuel Davison proved it’s easier than you think to ride from Berlin to Copenhagen. Biking is the way to go in 2017, so get on your bikes and ride.

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