5 new year's resolutions for travellers

If you're stuck for a new year's resolution, Brendan van Son provides some food for thought. Whether you're travelling at home or overseas, there are many things you can do to improve your adventures:

1. Travel more responsibly
It's easy to travel the world, but travelling the world while doing it responsibly is more of a challenge. It's also a challenge that we should all take up. Travelling responsibly means taking into account the repercussions of your travels, and doing your best to make sure that you leave a positive mark on the world. Responsible travel goes beyond simple “green” travel. When one travels responsibly they are respectful of local cultures and customs, they are helpful when they can be, and they give a positive face to the outside world as a result.

2. Volunteer abroad
There are so many opportunities to volunteer while abroad, and so many great options to do so. One doesn't need to spend their entire vacation time volunteering, you could spend a week of the month or even just one day of the week. I'm sure that you'll find your time volunteering to be as rewarding as any part of your vacation. Chances are you'll be telling stories about your time volunteering for years to come.

3. Explore home
One of the biggest mistakes that travellers make is that they don't explore home as much as they should. It is a sad fact that most people know more about their vacation destinations than their home towns. Even though it might feel strange, head out and explore your home turf whether it be a local museum or even just hiking a local trail.

4. Get out of your comfort zone
One of travel's greatest gifts is that it often forces you out of your comfort zone. You don't need travel across the world to get out of your comfort box however, you can complete this resolution even at home. Simply think of something you've always wanted to do but have always been to scared to do, then do it. For me, there is nothing more rewarding to my personal growth than finding a way to beat my creature comforts.

5. Build a bucket list and knock some things off it
It's good to have goals, and a bucket list is a traveller's check list. A good bucket list doesn't just include places you want to see, but experiences you want to have as well. If you don't yet have a bucket list, creating one makes for a great resolution, and is also a lot of fun. If you already have a bucket list then go out there and knock a couple things off the list, or maybe add some more items. The beauty of a bucket list is that it never really gets completed. As you grow as a traveller you only continue to learn about new destinations and experiences to add to the list.

What's your new year's resolution? Tell us about it in the comments section below or share it with other travellers on twitter and Facebook.

If you're ready to start planning your 2012 adventure, take a look through our list of destinations. Once you've picked the perfect trip for you, why not order a FREE brochure. And don't forget, it's just a $250 deposit to guarantee your spot!

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