It’s officially time for resolutions season, but I’m not talking about join-a-gym-and-lose-weight kind of resolutions. I’m talking about realistic and motivating travel resolutions…which you have a much higher chance of actually keeping this year, anyway.
1. Find a travel buddy!
See if anyone in your circle would be up for jetsetting with you by asking your sister, brother, parent or good friend about where in the world they’ve been and where they’d like to go. Chances are you’ll get an enthusiastic response and just have to make it happen! Talk to them about plans for a city break or trip together before the year is over. It’ll put a good amount of pressure to work out a week or two that suits you both to go have some fun exploring a beautiful new place!
2. Save money.
If you have a particular destination (city, town, iconic landmark, etc) that you have been dying to see and just never have the time or the money to go see: scope out Expedia’s Bargain Fare’s. I’ve lucked out numerous times with this slightly risky purchase because you don’t know the number of stopovers or time of your flight until you buy it. But generally the flights are reasonable times and I’ve lucked out with nonstop flights! So pick a time of year that would suit your personal calendar and would also be a nice time of year (weather-wise) and start checking prices 6-8 months in advance! This will allow you to have an idea of the price range of the tickets to start saving up. Then, take the plunge 3-4 months before you want to go and book the tickets! This is a lot better than waiting until 3 weeks before departure when all the prices are jacked up and utterly un-affordable for you.
3. Do it alone.
If you can’t find a travel buddy (this definitely doesn’t mean you don’t have friends – it just means they’re all too busy to squeeze in a bit of travel fun), consider a solo trip! I know this is a daunting idea, to travel alone to a new place that probably doesn’t speak your language, but look upon it as a good challenge for yourself. It’ll boost your confidence and get you out of your comfort zone.
4. Hostel power.
Book into a hostel! Staying in a hostel is great for two huge reasons: first, it saves you a hella lot of money. Secondly, it is a great opportunity to meet people. Whether you are traveling with your buddy or solo, you can talk to fellow travelers at breakfast, chat to the person at the front desk and find out about day trips, pub crawls, etc and have a great time!
5. Save, save, save!
I can’t stress enough how important it is to set aside cash specifically for travel funds. Do you really need another sweater? Instead of randomly splurging on clothes and stuff, put that money towards a flight or ho(s)tel accommodation. You’ll be able to hop on board your flight to Barcelona (or wherever your dreaming of) much sooner and you’ll be much happier with the payoff.
Wishing you all the best for the New Year, and make 2015 your year of travel adventures and happiness!
