Ditch the Bucket List: 8 Epic Travel Resolutions for the New Year
New Year's resolutions are infamous for being set with enthusiasm and abandoned just as quickly. This year, make a lasting commitment: resolve to experience one—or all—of these eight extraordinary destinations that promise unforgettable adventures.
1. Witness the Great Migration
Regarded as one of Earth's most spectacular natural wonders, the Great Migration involves 1.5 million wildebeest, along with zebras and antelopes, trekking 1,200 miles northward across East Africa's grasslands. Starting in Tanzania's Serengeti as the dry season sets in, they follow the rains to Kenya's Maasai Mara. The prime viewing window is late June to October. For the best sightings, book a private guide or reputable safari operator—essential for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
2. Run the Paris Marathon
Combine sightseeing in the City of Light with a personal milestone by joining the annual Schneider Electric Paris Marathon, held on the second Sunday in April. Drawing nearly 57,000 runners from 145 countries, this world-class event starts at the Arc de Triomphe, winds through Place de la Concorde, and passes landmarks like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Runners often report crowds offering wine from the sidelines, adding a uniquely French flair.
3. Explore Your Seventh Continent
With climate change rapidly transforming Antarctica's pristine landscapes, now is the time to visit this remote frontier. Home to penguins, elephant seals, orcas, and blue whales amid breathtaking icy vistas, the continent demands preparation—pack extra batteries for those Instagram shots. Most cruises depart from Ushuaia's Argentina between November and March, but brace for the notoriously rough Drake Passage crossing if prone to seasickness.
4. Chase the Northern Lights
The mesmerizing aurora borealis offers an unparalleled natural light display. While visible across the northern hemisphere, Norway's Svalbard provides exceptional opportunities, including rare daytime viewings due to polar night from mid-November to January. Situated between mainland Norway and the North Pole, it's accessible via daily flights from Oslo or Tromsø.
5. Drive Iconic Route 66
The legendary Route 66 remains America's ultimate road trip, spanning eight states from Chicago to Santa Monica over 2,400 miles. Decommissioned in 1985 but still drivable on original alignments, it blends scenic wonders like Santa Monica Pier with quirky attractions such as the World's Largest Catsup Bottle. Ideal from May to October, the journey takes about two weeks and inspired literary giants like Steinbeck and Kerouac.
6. Dive the Great Barrier Reef
Australia's Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral system with nearly 2,900 individual reefs off Queensland, captivates divers of all levels with its vibrant marine life. Despite threats from rising ocean temperatures, it's perfect year-round, with August to January offering optimal conditions. Extensive facilities support beginners and experts alike.
7. Visit Hogwarts at Alnwick Castle
Harry Potter fans will feel the magic at Alnwick Castle in England's Northumberland, site of early Hogwarts scenes like Harry's first Quidditch lesson. Owned by the Percy family for over 700 years, it reopens in late March with daily tours, including the Alnwick on Location Film Tour, and kid-friendly Broomstick Training. Follow up with lunch in charming Alnwick town.
8. Summit Mount Kilimanjaro
For aspiring mountaineers eyeing the Seven Summits, Africa's highest peak at 19,341 feet in Tanzania's Kilimanjaro National Park is an ideal challenge. Best climbed January-March or June-October with a guided tour, which handles visas, route selection by fitness level, training programs, and gear. Expect 5-9 days, depending on acclimatization.
Ashley Bess is a former editor turned freelance travel writer. Short, opinionated, recently repatriated, and a lover of gin, travel, song lyrics, and movie quotes.
