With the new year getting into full swing, my social media pages are filled with inspirational and motivational quotes. What better time to set myself 17 travel goals for 2017.
These are my new year travelutions.
1. Visit at least 5 places I’ve never been
I visited 5 new countries in 2016. That’s my benchmark. I really want to achieve the same, or dare I say it, more in 2017.
L -R: Japan, Iceland, Germany, Paris, Croatia
2. Revisit 1 or 2 places I’ve already been
Top of the list is Iceland and New York. I spent an amazing few days exploring Iceland in 2016. I seen the spectacular Northern Lights, bathed in the Blue Lagoon, and experienced remarkable natural phenomenon. Once is not enough in Iceland. I’m desperate to return.
As for New York, it’s been nearly 4 years since my last trip. I do believe it’s time for another visit. This time I want to take in New York’s lesser known sights, sounds and scenery.
3. Take a trip to London
Whenever I’ve visited London in the past, it’s been for work, concerts or hen weekends. Other than the obvious tourist spots (Buckingham Palace, London Eye, Tower Bridge etc), I’ve never really had a chance to explore the city. 2017 will be the year I explore the UK’s Capital.
Tower Bridge, London
4. See more of Scotland
There’s a wealth of travel and exploration opportunities right on my doorstep. Scotland is being hailed as a ‘must see’ destination this year, and 2017 is designated as Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. What better reason to get out and see as much of beautiful Scotland as I possibly can. It’s time to fall in love with my home country.
Meikle Bin, Carron Valley, Scotland
5. European City Breaks
I’m lucky that I live a stone’s throw from much of Europe. I intend to take full advantage of this over the coming year. I hope to spend a few weekends visiting some of Europe’s magnificent cities.
6. Travel Solo
Four years ago I set off on my first solo travel adventure. I had the time of my life! I’ve only managed a couple of solo trips since. Although I do love travelling with family and friends, this year I want to take at least one solo trip abroad.
7. Learn about travel blogging
If someone offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later. Richard Branson
You may have noticed I’m very new to this travel blogging malarkey. Having taken the plunge and published my site, I guess now’s a good time to learn how to become a great travel blogger.
In the meantime, please feel free to offer up tips and constructive critique.
8. Improve my photography skills
I think I’ve taken a few good travel photos. You can check out my instagram feed and decide for yourself. If I have, it’s been through luck more than anything else. But now I want to learn the basics of photography so I can take amazing photos every time.
9. Learn about digital marketing
What’s the use in writing a travel blog if no one reads it? I plan to do an online digital marketing course before the years out.
10. Improve my blog
If I can achieve 1 – 9 above, hopefully the result will be a kick-ass travel blog and a very happy karenallovertheworld.
11. Get published
Somewhere. Anywhere. I’ve no idea how, when or where. But hopefully, as I improve my writing, photos and marketing skills, it will all become clear.
12. Say ‘Yes’
A few years ago I was given a fantastic book called “Yes Man” by Danny Wallace. I vowed to live by it. But I didn’t. Saying yes to everything seems like a great idea, but it’s really bloodie hard, and not very sensible! Nevertheless I do intend to say ‘yes’ much more in 2017 than I did in 2016. Who knows where it might lead.
13. Pay it Forward
There are lots of ways to pay it forward whilst travelling. Check out my post 99% of People are Nice to read about the generosity and kindness of strangers. This year I want to be the kind and generous stranger.
14. Exercise
Healthy body = healthy mind = more energy. More energy = more travel!
15. Learn to snowboard
I had a snowboarding lesson last year and I loved it. It was really hard, but also really exciting. I’ve been meaning to book more lessons ever since but I’ve never quite gotten around to it. So this is the year I will learn to snowboard. Who knows, maybe this time next year I’ll be planning a snowboarding trip to Canada or Switzerland.
16. Do something that scares me
I doubt I’ll jump out of a plane this year, but my goal is to do at least one thing that scares me every month. Some will be travel related, some may not. I started in January by publishing karenallovertheworld.com I can’t wait to see what happens when I step out of my comfort zone throughout the rest of the year.
Skydiving in Queenstown, New Zealand
17. Sleep more
If I’m to achieve all my travelutions, I’ll definitely need to get more sleep. New year, new me!