Stats suggest 45% of Americans typically make resolutions with the turn of the calendar year, and yet only 8% actually fill them. Perhaps the best way to increase that 8% is to combine an epic vacation with going after goals! Below are three popular resolutions many of us try to attain, along with the perfect places to make them come to life.
Be more adventurous
Everyone wants to step outside of that comfort zone and be a little more daring in the new year. And just because it’s winter doesn’t mean we need to be stuck inside! Consider heading to Salt Lake City, the epicenter for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. The Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel is conveniently close the the airport, and a short drive away from dozens of beautiful peaks, fresh powder, and a new adventure for beginner and expert ski bunnies alike.
Or, try heading a bit more south to Flagstaff, Arizona—a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts— with seven incredible parks (including the Grand Canyon) only 80 miles away! Little America Flagstaff is a quaint and cozy place to stay to get some sleep before heading outdoors for trail runs, canyon hikes, and national park exploration.
Shed some pounds
Perhaps the most popular resolution, losing weight is a goal that at first glance may seem hard to accomplish while traveling. But think again: a trek to Europe could be the perfect answer, since Europeans typically not only eat healthier, but they eat less.(All about those portion sizes!)
So reconsider an expensive gym membership and head to Spain instead, and indulge in delicious tapas before building up a sweat at a dance club or enjoying a walking tour of Barcelona. Hotel Arts Barcelona is perfectly located next to sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and several majestic Gothic churches and Roman ruins to explore.
Italy is another option, too! (Yes, even with all those “carbs.”) Enjoy a food-tour of realingredients, versus the processed stuff, plus a cuisine that typically chooses heart-healthy olive oil over butter and mayo. Grand Hotel La Favorita is situated in Sorrento, Italy, with its back to the beautiful Bay of Naples. Explore the city by foot; be sure not to miss iconic attractions like the Sorrento Cathedral, Chiostro di San Francesco, and Museobottega della Tarsialignea.
Get your om on!
Sometimes the best resolution is the one that looks inward. A good balance of outdoor adventure and losing a little weight is keeping stress levels at bay and focusing on a little yoga and meditation!
Cue the Dominican Republic, a great excuse to escape the cold and also attend a yoga or meditation retreat, or simple find some quiet moments under a waterfall. This all-inclusive, Barceló Punta Cana, has beautiful beaches, pools, saunas, and more, to relax even more after a day’s worth of yoga, restoration, and a lot of “om’ing.” Or try the PUNTACANA Hotel, known for its waterfront views, eco-friendly accommodations, and plethora of peaceful natural springs.
Another option a bit closer to home is Boca Raton, a tropical city nestled on the eastern coast of Florida. With over a dozen of yoga studios to choose from, along with the option of rolling out the mat on the beach itself, there’s no chance this destination couldn’t add some zen to life! Embassy Suites is an optimal place to stay, located in the heart of the city with yes—a soothing waterfall and atrium in the lobby to make anyone’s first steps inside feel tranquil.
