Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Learn a New Language Before Your Next Trip

Learning a new language before your next trip can enrich your travel experience in so many ways. Being able to communicate in the local language allows you to connect with people on a deeper level, gain insider knowledge of the destination, and feel more confident navigating your trip.

Even just learning a few key phrases can make a big difference. You'll be able to order food, get directions, and have basic conversations with locals. This leads to more authentic interactions that help you understand the local culture. Elizabeth, who learned basic Italian before a trip to Rome, said, "It made me feel so much more comfortable chatting with servers at restaurants and store owners. I loved practicing my Italian and hearing their reactions."

Going beyond phrasebooks to become conversational can open up even more rewarding experiences. Mark spent 6 months learning Spanish before an extended stay in Colombia. He shares, "It let me make friends, talk about complex topics, and understand jokes and nuances in a way I never could have otherwise."

Language skills also allow you to visit less touristy areas with more confidence. Paulette took French lessons before traveling around Morocco. She says, "I could explore villages and markets beyond Marrakech and talk to Berbers in their native tongue. It gave me a window into Moroccan life that most tourists miss out on."

Even simpler gestures like reading signs, menus, and transportation schedules in the local language can make navigating a new place much smoother. After studying some Japanese, Greg said, "I felt so much more independent wandering around Tokyo than only knowing English would have allowed."

You don't need to become fluent to reap rewards. Focusing on common phrases and key vocabulary can go a long way. With apps, books, classes, videos, and immersion tools, learning basics in a new language is very achievable, even with a busy schedule.

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Get a Travel Rewards Credit Card to Save on Flights and Hotels

With the cost of travel continuing to rise, finding ways to save money on flights and hotels is essential for budget-minded jetsetters. One of the best tricks? Getting a travel rewards credit card. The perks and point bonuses these cards offer can lead to serious savings on upcoming trips.

Frequent flyer Janine swears by her airline credit card. She explains, “The sign-up bonus was 50,000 miles - enough for a free roundtrip ticket to Europe. Plus I earn miles on all my everyday purchases. Last year I got three free flights just through my regular spending.”

Hotel credit cards can provide similar value. Frank used the points from his hotel card to book over two weeks of free hotel nights. He says, “The sign-up bonus was huge. But I also rack up points on gas, groceries, restaurants - everything I buy anyway. It’s an easy way to save hundreds on lodging costs.”

Even general travel rewards cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve offer big perks. Emma raves, “I used my sign-up points to book a safari that would’ve cost over $5,000. The annual fee is high but it’s more than paid for itself through the free trips I’ve taken.”

Beyond sign-up bonuses, these cards provide lasting value through ongoing rewards on spending. Mark explains, “I earn miles on all purchases with my United card. In just a few months I had enough for a free flight.” Similarly, Jen uses her Capital One Venture Rewards card for everything. She says, "The 2x miles I earn really add up. It’s saved me so much on airfare and hotels.”

Credit cards that offer bonus rewards on travel purchases are especially lucrative. According to Matt, “My American Express Platinum Card gives me 5x points on flights and hotels. I’m saving hundreds on vacations with points.”

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Finally Take That Dream Vacation You've Been Putting Off

For many travelers, that dream vacation sits idly on their bucket list waiting to be checked off. But what leads someone to put off that trip of a lifetime time and time again? And what finally motivates them to just do it?

According to dream trip deferer Lucy, "Life always seemed to get in the way. Work, family obligations, financial constraints - something always came up that was 'more practical.' But I realized I was just making excuses. The trip wasn’t getting any cheaper or easier by waiting."

Max, who postponed a safari for years, admits, "I was intimidated. It seemed so expensive, complex to plan, and far outside my comfort zone. But when I finally went for it, none of that mattered. Being totally immersed in the African wilderness was worth every uncertain moment leading up to it."

For some, mustering the courage to travel solo holds them back. Kate explains, "A solo multi-country backpacking trip across Southeast Asia was my dream. But as a woman, I worried about safety. When I finally took the risk, it was so empowering. Traveling independently is now my favorite way to explore."

Health issues can also derail dream trips. James reveals, "I have a chronic illness that made me hesitant about long flights and foreign hospitals. But with careful preparation, I made it to Japan and realized I’m capable of more than I thought."

So what finally prompts people to embark on these long-awaited adventures? Jessica says, “As I entered my 40s, I was tired of the same routine. I realized if I didn’t book that Australia trip now, I might never have the health and stamina again.”

Major life events can also provide motivation. After a divorce, Adrienne explains, “I needed something for myself. An Alaskan cruise I’d always fantasized about but never thought I could justify felt like the perfect self-care.”

Sometimes passion just wins out over practicality. Former luxury travel planner Mark admits, “That overwater bungalow in Bora Bora was just too alluring to resist anymore. The splurge was 100% worth it.”

And simple wanderlust can eventually defeat excuses. For globe-trotter Paulette, “My craving for adventure and new cultures just grew stronger every year. I finally realized my dream trip to Bhutan deserved to be more than a pipedream.”

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Set a Goal to Visit More National Parks This Year

America's national parks offer some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes and unique ecosystems on the planet. From towering sequoias in California to volcanic peaks in Hawaii, the diversity of scenery across the U.S. park system is unparalleled. 2023 is the year to finally experience more of these national treasures firsthand.

Intrepid explorer Mark has committed to visiting at least four new national parks after being blown away by his trip to Yellowstone last year. "Backpacking along prismatic hot springs and witnessing the sheer power of Old Faithful inspired me to explore more of the natural wonders in our own backyard," he shares. His plans include hitting the trails through petrified forests and painted deserts in Arizona, then venturing north to take in the glacial fjords and coastal rainforests of Alaska.

For wildlife lover Jessica, connecting with diverse ecosystems and their inhabitants motivates her national park bucket list. "I was fascinated learning about the desert bighorn sheep in Joshua Tree and seeing the wild mustangs of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Observing animals in their natural habitats is such a privilege," she says. Jessica hopes to add Kenai Fjords, Glacier Bay and other Alaskan parks to her list to witness bears, whales, seals and more thriving in the wilderness.

Those seeking solace in nature are also drawn to experience more national parks. Following a difficult year, newly minted van-lifer Chris found healing through extended stays in Utah's national parks. "Spending quiet mornings watching the sun rise over Delicate Arch and nights stargazing under endless desert skies brought me such serenity. I can't wait to find that feeling in more parks," he reveals.

For history buff Greg, exploring the lesser-known national parks connected to America's past is a priority. "I was fascinated learning about Native American cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde and walking the CCC-built trails at Shenandoah. I'm excited to explore parks that highlight more forgotten stories," he explains.

The centennial celebrations planned in many parks this year add extra incentive for travelers to visit. Unique exhibits, speakers, festivals and other special events offer engaging ways to commemorate the 1916 creation of the National Park Service and gain a deeper appreciation for these treasured places.

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Plan Your First International Solo Trip

For many travelers, their first international solo trip represents a pivotal moment of growth and self-discovery. While daunting at first, journeying to a new country alone pushes you outside your comfort zone, builds confidence, and allows you to craft the trip of your dreams. For solo travel devotee Max, planning his inaugural overseas adventure to Thailand was the perfect antidote to a bad breakup. “I needed to prove I could take care of myself, on my terms. Making my own itinerary tailored to my interests, navigating a foreign place independently, and meeting new people on the road made me feel so capable.”

Other first-time soloists cite feeling stagnant in their lives as motivation. Emma explains, “I was stuck in a rut personally and professionally. An impromptu trip to Iceland forced me out of my bubble. Facing the unknown in such an extreme landscape reminded me I could handle anything life throws at me.” The transformative nature of solo travel also lured Jen abroad. “I wanted a trip that was just about me, not trying to accommodate anyone else. Hiking the Camino de Santiago was the introspective experience I needed to gain clarity in my life.”

While traveling alone has its perks, many experience pre-trip jitters. Safety concerns weighed heavily on Michael’s mind before his Egypt trip. He admits, “Being responsible for myself 24/7 in an unpredictable place was nerve-wracking. But committing to sensible precautions gave me peace of mind to embrace the incredible adventure.” For Jessica, doubting her own abilities was the biggest hurdle. She reveals, “I was anxious about navigating Paris alone with my mediocre French. Once there, I grew more confident each day. My solo trip showed me what I can achieve through courage and perseverance.”

Despite initial hesitations, all discover unexpected rewards. Kate treasures the anonymity solo travel allows. “No one knows me, so I can be whoever I want. It’s fun to try on different personas and follow my whims.” James values the flexibility. “I love creating plans that max out every minute if I want, or just sitting in a café people watching for hours with no agenda.” And for introvert Lucy, time alone recharges her. She explains, “Being on my own energizes me in a way constantly being ‘on’ around others drains me. Solo travel lets my social battery fully replenish.”

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Start a Travel Savings Fund and Contribute Monthly

Taking a dream trip often requires diligent saving for months or even years in advance. Luckily, starting a dedicated travel fund you contribute to regularly makes reaching your vacation goals much more achievable. Simply setting aside even small amounts each month empowers travelers to afford that bucket list getaway sooner than they thought possible.

For 24-year old analyst Ava, foresight and discipline were key to financing her first international excursion. “I had always longed to experience Europe, but never traveled abroad before and didn’t have much savings,” she explains. Not wanting cost to continue deterring her wanderlust, Ava took action. “I opened a separate savings account and automatically transferred $200 from each paycheck. In just under two years I had enough saved for two weeks in Italy and Greece!”

Other travelers turn mindless spending into travel money. Trevor, who loves skiing, found sacrificing his daily coffee habit quickly added up. “I put the $3.50 I’d usually spend on a latte into my ski trip fund each day. In six months, I had saved over $500 without feeling deprived,” he reveals. Reevaluating needs versus wants transforms even small luxuries into big travel perks.

Of course, budgets and saving capability vary. But the power of consistency makes travel funds feasible for anyone. Chris, a teacher, manages to stash away $50 a month. He says, “It seems insignificant day-to-day. But dedicating that small amount monthly allowed me to pay cash for a 10-day Costa Rica adventure I never could’ve afforded otherwise.”

Automating transfers helps travelers pay themselves first before money gets spent elsewhere. Freelancer Julia explains, “I have a set percentage go straight from my checking to savings as soon as I’m paid. Out of sight, out of mind. Automation makes saving painless.”

Watching your travel fund grow steadily can actually boost motivation. “Checking my balance whenever I was tempted to splurge inspired me to keep going,” Wendy reveals. “It forced me to keep my eyes on the prize of Tahiti instead of instant gratification.”

Beyond just saving, travelers also suggest finding ways to increase your contribution capacity. Taking on additional hours or seasonal side hustles can significantly speed up your progress. “I picked up weekend bartending shifts for two months,” Mark says. “The tips easily added hundreds more to my Italy fund.”

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Learn the Top Tips for Finding Cheap Flights

Finding cheap flights may seem like an elusive art, but insiders know there are tried and true strategies to score savings on airfare. Understanding the tricks of the trade can help you sniff out deals, avoid pitfalls, and maximize your budget for more epic adventures.

Flexibility is key when chasing deals. Being open to nearby airports, indirect routings, and off-peak travel widens your options dramatically. Flight prices fluctuate constantly, so remaining agile with dates and flight times ups your chances of catching a dip. Insider tip: Tuesday afternoons around 3 p.m. EST are ideal for domestic U.S. deals.

Leveraging technology also boosts success. Google Flights makes it easy to visualize prices over months at a glance to pinpoint cheap periods. Fare aggregators like Kayak allow you to watch for drops. And social media unlocks access to mistake fares that vanish quickly when posted. Turn on notifications so you never miss an urgent deal alert.

Booking far in advance, especially for international flights, can secure the lowest fares but lacks flexibility. Try searching right when schedules open 11 months prior, then again after a few months when sales pop up. Last minute deals happen too but require zen-like patience.

Consider open jaws and hidden city ticketing where allowed. An open jaw flies into one city and out of another, letting you visit multiple destinations on one ticket. Hidden city books a layover as your final stop, skipping latter legs. Just beware of risks like lost bags.

Don’t limit yourself to nonstops either. A one stop ticket with the same airline can slash costs, and self-connections through the same hub work smoothly. For lengthy trips, consider breaking it into multiple one ways. You may find it cheaper to fly there direct, then back with stops.

When possible, avoid peak seasons and blackout dates around major holidays when prices spike. Even traveling a day before or after can yield huge savings. Popular tourist cities usually offer deals in their off-season when hotels and attractions are desperate for visitors.

Shop incognito and clear your browser cookies when searching. Sites track your history and will show higher fares on future visits. Using a VPN or searching in private/anonymous browsing mode prevents this price gouging.

Finally, don’t forget tried and true loyalty programs. Sign up for airline and hotel points cards to rack up bonuses and fast track your path to free flights and nights. A little strategic gaming goes a long way.

Ring in 2024 with AFAR's Top New Year's Travel Resolutions - Commit to Reducing Your Carbon Footprint When Traveling

With climate change threatening our planet, many conscientious jetsetters are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint when traveling. The good news is that small tweaks to your planning and routine can make a meaningful difference in your impact.

Frequent flyer Mark always opts for the most fuel-efficient routing, even if it costs a bit more. "Nonstop flights burn less jet fuel, so I'll gladly take a connection or two if it substantially shortens the mileage," he explains. He also diligently uses carbon offset programs. "For $15 I can make a 3,000 mile flight carbon neutral by funding renewable energy projects."

Eco-traveler Emma switches to trains or buses for shorter regional trips. She reveals, "Traveling overland cuts emissions drastically compared to flying. I'll gladly spend an extra few hours en route knowing I'm sparing the planet a ton of carbon." She also choses accommodations strategically. "I pick LEED certified green hotels that implement practices like low-flow plumbing, energy-saving lights, and composting programs to reduce their footprint."

Many travelers curb food-related emissions by altering eating habits on the road. "I eat less meat and dairy and focus on plant-based, locally-sourced meals to minimize my impact," shares vegan vacationer Julia. Supporting local also means avoiding imported goods. "Stocking up on local produce and items at farmers markets reduced the carbon cost of transporting my food," explains conscientious backpacker Chris.

Cutting down on cruises and reduced air travel help some frequent jetsetters make an impact. Former cruise fanatic Janine admits, "The carbon footprint of ships is massive, so I'm sticking to low-impact travel like bicycling and camping. And I've committed to limiting flights to once annually."

Eco-conscious roadtrippers like Michael and Trevor rent electric vehicles rather than gas-guzzling RVs and SUVs. Michael explains, "I did the math - even when charging my EV camper van on the grid, it still produced fewer emissions than a traditional gas van would have." Trevor adds, "I use PlugShare to find charging stations on national park road trips. A little planning makes EV roadtrips just as smooth as in a regular car."

Many focus on improving practices at home to counter travel emissions. "I switched to a renewable energy provider and installed solar panels to reduce my overall carbon footprint," shares sustainable traveler Wendy. "It makes me feel better about the inevitable emissions from plane trips."