New Year's Travel Resolutions

I have always been a big fan of New Years Resolutions, but not in the way you are accustomed to. For me it is a way to look at the year ahead and decide what I want to focus on. I usually pick a couple of categories and then come up with a few goals for each.

That being said, like every year since I was 18, Travel is one of my categories. But instead of making a resolution to "travel more", I have opted to make a few smaller goals within the Travel category. I'll give you my goals, but as your reading, take the time to decide what travel goals you want to set for yourself this year. I've even included a few places I have already been as examples, so if you have the same travel goal, you can use them as a suggestion.

My husband Cody has never been to an island, so this year one of my resolutions is to take him to one and enjoy the sun while there. Here are a few ideas I have for this resolution.

1. Go on a Cruise. On of my girl friends swears by these, saying they are relaxing and enjoyable. Not sure how to be like a local on one, but definitely an idea. 2. I love all the Hawaiian islands. Disney even has a resort on the big island that we would love to check out. If you go to Hawaii, make sure to check out the Marriott, they have South African penguins there! 3. Dominican Republic, more specifically Punta Cana is a great all inclusive place to stay. You won't be getting out to explore like a local, but you will be drinking frozen adult beverages on the beach all day and having some great dinners. 4. Aruba is one of my favorites. the local food is great and the Marriott that I stayed at last time has it's own private island, half for adults and the other half for families, if you get what I mean. :-) 5. And my dream in the sun location, Atlantis. What can I say about this place... oh wait EVERYTHING! This ocean-themed resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, features a variety of accommodations built around Aquaventure, a 141-acre waterscape, which includes fresh and saltwater lagoons, pools, marine habitats, and water slides and river rides. This is pricing, but definitely on my bucket list.

While I love NYC, Seattle, and San Fransisco, this year one of my resolutions if to explore an international big city with Cody. Before we have kids, he needs to see more of the world, which is why this item is especially important.

1. London is one of my favorite city's and we have already decided that 2017 is the year we will visit it together. I plan on booking an AirBNB to get a more local fee and checking out a few local pubs as well. 2. My parents lived in Valencia for over 2 years a absolutely loved it. When I went to visit I fell in love as well. It might be the 3rd largest city in Spain, it is definitely worth the trip. 3. Cody has always wanted to see Ireland and I think Dublin would be a great place to start. Of course checking out a few other smaller cities will also be on my to do list. 4. And finally, by bucket list big city, Dubai. This city would be amazing to see, with so much culture and unique experiences to be had.

Everyone loves a good adventure and this year I want to go on a great one. I know that not everyone can plan a great escape, so check out GeoCashing as a local option where you can explore new things and have a great adventure doing so.

1. Whistler is such an interesting place. Great in the winter, of course for all your snow sports, but in the summer there is a ton of adventures to be had. Check out this place for a great time in Canada. 2. Jackson Hole is another mountain town that is teaming with adventure. I love mountain biking down a ski slope is just the tip of the ice burg. 3. Vip lining in Costa Rica is definitely on my bucket list. 4. I am in love with The Azores in Portugal. Geotourism is big there and you can go surfing, sailing, kayaking, and explore some caves. I really want to check this location out someday and when I do, I'll tell you how to see it like a local.

I love a good road trip, so much so that I wrote an article on How to Plan Your Road Trip, not that long ago. Trips like these can give you an interesting perspective on the area you are exploring and afford you the ability to really see a location like a local. That is why taking a road trip has made it on to my New Year's travel resolution list. Here are a few ideas I have to satisfy this desire.

1. San Fransisco to LA seems like a great trip to see Cali. Starting in the wine country and ending at Disneyland would be a blast! 2. I've done the Miami to Key West road trip before and it is amazing. The islands are so unique and you can really get a feel for them by driving around to find a great place to stop for lunch. 3. Vancouver, BC to Portland it the road trip I really want to do this summer. I love love love Canada and I've only seen Toronto, Quebec, and Montreal. Seeing BC would be great and everyone knows Portland is lush, green, and beautiful. 4. The Outer Banks of North Carolina is another great road trip that I have had the pleasure of taking. The bridges are amazing and the scenery is just wonderful. A must for any road trip aficionado.

So those are my New Year's Travel Resolutions, what are yours? Have you decided where you want to visit in 2017? I would love to hear from you, please comment below.