It's that annual moment again when bloggers reflect on the past and plan for the future. Before you roll your eyes, I actually enjoy writing these posts—they help me organize my thoughts and set priorities. Without a clear roadmap, it's easy to fall into comfortable routines. Starting the year with defined goals helps me break free and achieve real accomplishments. At least, that's the hope.
Looking back, my past attempts at setting goals have had varying success. Some years were better than others, but I always tried. At least I began each year with good intentions, aiming to make positive changes and spot new opportunities. So once again, I'm sharing my personal goals—ways I want to improve and places I'd love to visit. Some are confirmed, others are dreams, but having targets is smart, and it's fun to see how many I can check off.
Confirmed Trips
Route 66: Driving the Mother Road has been on my bucket list for ages, and 2018 is finally the year. Partnering with Marriott International, I'll traverse the entire route from Chicago to Santa Monica, CA. I've long wanted to reconnect with my own country and discover its quiet corners. Along the way: quirky roadside attractions, strange motels, and national wonders. Just like travelers in the 50s and 60s, I want to experience a classic American road trip and uncover aspects of America I've never seen.
Northern Iceland: I've visited Iceland roughly once a year recently, each time exploring a different region. Though small, Iceland has much to offer, and I've deliberately taken my time. This year, I'll tackle the last unexplored part—North Iceland. I've left it for last due to laziness; it's harder to reach than touristy areas. But it's Iceland, so I'm sure it will be stunningly beautiful and fascinating.
Maybe India: India evokes strong reactions—love or hate, no middle ground. I've postponed visiting, fearing I wasn't ready. Now I think I am. I've said I'd only go the right way, hopefully with an expert operator. Plans aren't confirmed yet, but I hope 2018 is the year.
Where I'd Love To Go
Central/South America: I've barely scratched the surface of these continents. Brazil tops my list—big cities, rainforests, jungles, and beautiful coastlines. But crime, high prices, and travel difficulties deter many. I want to see for myself if these are real issues or media hype.
Switzerland and Portugal: I've seen most of Western Europe but not all. I visited Switzerland for just two days. Instagram shows it's incredibly beautiful and full of cheese—great reasons to visit. Add vibrant cities, chocolate, and watches—sounds perfect. Portugal has completely eluded me, though everyone loves it. I'm nervous about the food (no fish/seafood), but pastries might lure me in 2018.
Tasmania: I've traveled extensively in Australia, visiting almost every state except one—Tasmania. Based on photos, I know it'll be love at first sight. Slightly remote, amazingly beautiful, and different from the mainland. I really hope to make this happen in 2018.
Arctic: I love expedition trips—Antarctica, Galapagos, etc. Feeling like an explorer rather than a tourist. A true Arctic expedition is high on my list. Many ways to get there, but I'd love to spend weeks exploring this remote region.
Back to Africa: Africa is infectious. I've visited several times and feel its call again. I'd love to revisit favorites like South Africa, but also explore new places. As a wildlife lover, a gorilla trek in Uganda or Rwanda is near the top of my wishlist.
Resolutions
Talk to more people: I was recently asked to list people I met while traveling who impacted my experiences. I couldn't think of many—that worried me. It showed I didn't engage enough last year. In 2018, I need to get back to my roots and chat with people on the road.
Walk the road not taken: I think I've fallen into a travel rut. It's not necessarily bad, but not good either. In 2018, I need to stop being so regimented, put down guidebooks, and explore on my own. I've become obsessed with documenting everything and not missing 'important' things, sometimes missing the spirit of discovery.
Be more patient: Patience is a virtue I lack. It's especially problematic while traveling. It starts at the airport—I hate waiting in lines, annoyed by people who don't know what they're doing. This continues on the plane. I need to learn to take a deep breath and relax. I'll get to my destination; nothing that bad will happen.
This article originally appeared on LandLopers.
