With each turning of the New Year comes the inevitable decision to make resolutions for the upcoming year. Aside from the usual choices of watching less TV, eating healthier food, and losing weight, ‘traveling more’ is always a resolution that pops up on many lists.
So where is the best place to travel to live out this resolution to its fullest potential? Many would like to travel across Canada from sea to sea, past the lakes, across the plains, and over the Rocky Mountains. Others prefer to travel south to the Caribbean and take in the sights and sounds of the islands. For those who want to travel a bit further, here are a few outstanding places to check off your list this year.
Surfing in Bali, Indonesia
Bali, a small island in Indonesia, is home to some of the best surfing in the world. The large swells couple with the sandy ocean floor is a perfect combination for beginners and experts alike. Expect to see many Australian vacationers in Bali because it’s only a short flight over from Australia. Take advantage of an opportunity to travel inland and see the ‘Enchanted Monkey Forest’ in Ubud. This monkey sanctuary is regarded as holy territory. Be careful when walking amongst the monkeys because they are not shy and will climb into purses and handbags if there is food up for grabs.
Skiing in The Alps
The Alps are home to some of the best skiing in the world. These mountains trump anything in Eastern Canada with many of the gondolas starting at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level and going upwards of 2800 meters to the summits. For example, Sestriere, on the border of France and Italy, was the host location for skiing at the 2006 Torino Olympics and is based at 2000 meters. For the best après ski, check out the resorts in Austria. Austrians are no strangers to having a few shots of jagermeister after skiing all day and things can escalate in a hurry. St. Anton, Austria is known for having some of the best après ski parties in the world.
For a bit less rowdy vibe, try sipping a few Aperol Spritzes in the Italian ski village of Cortina. It’s the most popular destination for Italian celebrities and dignitaries.
See the Louvre, Paris
The architecture of the Louvre is as spectacular as the priceless artwork that it houses. Mix in a bit of culture with your travel aspirations with a trip to Paris. Not only is it home to the Louvre, but also the Musee D’Orsay which is home to the most impressive collection of impressionist paintings in the world. Of course, a trip to Paris is not complete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower. Grab a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of wine and enjoy the view.
Even though losing weight and eating healthier are great resolutions, they can be difficult to achieve. Make a resolution to travel more and it will be something that lasts a lifetime.