As the calendar flips to another year, I find myself reflecting on the adventures we had over the last year and excitement for what awaits in the coming months. To be honest, I’m not usually one to make New Years resolutions. I’ve tried in the past, but only find myself asking, why is it the new year is the time to make resolutions? What about every other day of the year? If I had to think back on New Years resolutions I have made in the past, I find one that seems to be the same year after year…to travel more. 

While the world continues to evolve, so do my aspirations and desires for new experiences. For 2024, my travel resolutions are not just about visiting new places; they’re about embracing unique experiences, connecting with diverse cultures, and creating family memories that will last a lifetime. After all, that’s what travel is all about, right? Here are a few of my travel resolutions for 2024:

Embrace Slow Travel:

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, and a world the moves by so quickly, my first resolution is to embrace the art of slow travel. Now that we have a child, slow travel has become something we needed to get used to. We had no choice, other than to stop traveling all together. When we decide to have a child, my husband and I swore that we were not going to let a baby completely change our lives. I can hear you laugh when I say that, and it’s true that many aspects of our lives have completely changed. We have not given up travel though. Yes, it looks a little different, a little slower perhaps, but we are learning to embrace it. Rather than rushing from one destination to another, I aim to immerse our family fully in each place, savoring the local flavors, connecting with the community, and allowing ourselves the time to appreciate the nuances of each culture. Slow travel promises a more profound and meaningful exploration of the destinations we visit.

Explore Remote Wilderness:

There’s no doubt that living in Colorado allows for exploration of the great outdoors. As a kid, my sisters and I grew up camping, digging holes and building forts out of fallen trees and branches. The call of the wild has always been a powerful force, and in 2024, I’m answering that call by adding in more of the outdoor adventure that was once the only travel I knew. Whether it’s a hike through a mountain trail, a camping expedition in the in the sand dunes, or a journey to a tropical waterfall, I’m eager to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature in its purest form.

Immerse in Local Culinary Recipes:

I. LOVE. FOOD. Food is a universal language and this year; I resolve to become more of a culinary adventurer. From street food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, my journey will be a feast for the senses. I aim to savor authentic dishes and learn the stories behind local recipes. If my travels stay closer to home this year, I look forward to trying my hand at cooking traditional meals in my own kitchen.

Immerse Myself in Culture:

Travel is not just about ticking off destinations from a bucket list; it’s about immersing oneself in the local culture. This year, I aspire to connect with communities on a deeper level, whether it’s through culinary experiences, cultural festivals, or engaging in local traditions. By embracing diversity and understanding different perspectives, I hope to foster a greater appreciation for the richness of our global diversity.

Volunteer and Give Back:

Traveling is not just about personal enrichment; it’s an opportunity to give back to the communities that welcome us. In 2024, I am committed to incorporating volunteer work into my journeys, whether it’s contributing to local conservation efforts, participating in community development projects, or supporting initiatives that promote sustainable tourism. By leaving a positive impact, I hope to reciprocate the warmth and hospitality extended to me during my travels.

Learn a Local Language:

Anther resolution that tends to cross my mind year after year is to learn another language, Some may say that this skill will be obsolete and useless with further advancements in technology, but there is something much warmer about having a conversation with someone face-to-face vs. through Google Translate.  Language is a key that unlocks the doors to cultural understanding, and in 2024, I am determined to go beyond the tourist phrasebook. Whether it’s picking up basic greetings, engaging in conversations with locals, or even taking language classes, I aim to become more proficient in a language. I will strive to be less afraid of imperfection, as that is where meaningful connections begin.

Document and Share the Journey:

In the age of social media, documenting our travels has become an absolute must. However, my resolution for 2024 goes beyond capturing Instagram-perfect moments. I aim to tell the stories behind the photos, describe the emotions that we felt in the destination and share unexpected challenges that come with each journey. Through storytelling, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and broaden their horizons. I hope my daughter can look back at the posts, blogs and digital scrapbooks and be filled with happy memories and stories told at the dinner table for years.

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As the pages of the calendar turn, my 2024 travel resolutions are not just a checklist of destinations but a commitment to a fulfilling and meaningful journey. Through slow travel, immersion in local cultures, and a dedication to giving back, I hope to make this year a collection of experiences and lasting memories. Here’s to the adventures that await and the stories that will unfold!

What are your travel resolutions or destinations you hope for in the new year?

Cheers to the journey ahead and Happy 2024!