Have you got your New Year’s resolutions sorted? Why not pick up surfing in Sydney, skiing in Aspen, or re-centre and refocus for the new year in the Kii Peninsula in Japan. Whatever the adventure, start ticking off your New Year’s resolutions with these 11 destinations which offer opportunities for travellers to dive into new experiences and pick up new skills!
South America
Learn about the night sky over the Atacama Desert, Chile
Chile’s Atacama Desert offers 300 days of guaranteed clear skies, making it a premier destination for stargazing. Here, visitors can explore the universe with the naked eye or powerful telescopes at free observatories. The Atacama’s high altitude, dry climate, and minimal light pollution provide an unparalleled view of constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way. Local guides offer stargazing tours, from as little as €30pp – visit chile.travel/en/ for more information.
USA
Travel to diverse destinations all within one state, California
If your goal is simply to ‘travel more’ then look no further than California. The ultimate road trip destination, the state provides a huge diversity of experiences within it. Opt to fly into San Francisco and check out iconic pots like the Golden Gate Bridge or Chinatown, the oldest in the US. From San Francisco, head south along the breathtaking Pacific Coast Highway, stopping in Monterey to explore the renowned aquarium. Continue to Big Sur, where dramatic cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean. Then, journey inland to Yosemite National Park, and enjoy the pristine hiking trails and cascading waterfalls. Wrap up your adventure with a visit to the Napa Valley for world-class wine tasting. Visit visitcalifornia.com for more information.
Learn how to snowboard in Steamboat, Colorado
If your New Year’s resolution is to master snowboarding, Steamboat Ski Resort in Colorado is the perfect place to start. Renowned for its gentle, beginner-friendly terrain and world-class SnowSports School, Steamboat offers wide, mellow slopes and expert instructors who make learning easy and enjoyable. The resort’s signature light, fluffy “Champagne Powder” snow provides a soft, forgiving surface, perfect for building confidence on your board. Plus, after a day of progress, you can relax in the resort’s natural hot springs. Steamboat is available on the Ikon Pass lift pass which includes access to 17 resorts in North American and 50+ worldwide. Visit IkonPass.com for more information.
Learn to Ride Like a Rodeo Cowboy in Houston, Texas
Experience the thrill of bull riding in Houston, home to the world’s largest rodeo—the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. This legendary event, which began as a modest gathering in 1931, now attracts nearly two million visitors annually in early March. Learn how the professionals do it with lessons from a rodeo legend at the Great American Days Rodeo Bull Riding School. You’ll master essential techniques, from perfecting your ride to executing safe dismounts, all in a structured programme tailored to your skill level. Then step into the ring, channel your inner rodeo cowboy and put your newfound skills to the test and try a ride, with livestock matched to your ability. Visit visithouston.com for more information.
Learn to ski in Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Aspen Snowmass is the ultimate destination for first-time skiers, offering four unique mountains tailored to every skill level. For beginners, Buttermilk stands out with its gentle slopes, wide-open terrain, and a welcoming atmosphere. The world-class Aspen Snowmass Ski and Snowboard School has expert instructors who provide patient guidance to help visitors build confidence and enjoy the thrill of skiing. Whether you’re starting on Buttermilk’s family-friendly runs or exploring the expansive Snowmass trails, learning to ski here promises an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most iconic winter destinations. Visit aspensnowmass.com for more information.
ASIA PACIFIC
Reclaim adventure in The Islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia
Start 2025 with the resolution to embrace adventure and step outside comfort zones in the breathtaking islands of French Polynesia. From snorkelling with marine life in the coral gardens of Taha’a to exploring the jungles of Raiatea on a guided hike, every corner of this paradise invites visitors to reconnect with nature and their adventurous spirit. For thrill-seekers, surf the iconic waves of Teahupo’o or diving into crystal-clear lagoons to encounter manta rays. Balance action with culture by exploring ancient marae (Polynesian temples) to uncover the islands’ rich history and traditions. Visit tahititourisme.uk for more information.
Learn to surf in Sydney and New South Wales
From city surfing at Bondi beach to catching a wave at iconic Byron Bay, the 2000km of rugged New South Wales coastline offers a range of gnarly surfing experiences for all levels of experience. Renowned for its reliable waves and relaxed surfer town vibes, Byron Bay is one of New South Wales’ favourite surf destinations. Book a lesson at Byron Bay Surf School or head to Belongil, the most northern beach of Byron Bay to avoid the crowds during peak seasons. Head South to Mollymook where ocean temperatures stay warm all year round and the waves are gentle, beginners can even take a lesson with former world champ Pam Burridge. Advanced surfers can head to Shoalhaven to try their luck at surfing world-renowned breaks like The Farm and Mystics. Visit sydney.com for more information.
Recentre & refocus for the new year in Kii Peninsula, Japan
The Kii Peninsula, home to some of Japan’s most sacred pilgrimage routes, is ideal for those seeking to recentre and refocus for the New Year. This UNESCO-listed region boasts the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, which wind through misty forests to connect the “Three Grand Shrines of Kumano” — Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha. These trails offer a chance for deep spiritual reflection and immersion in nature, making them ideal for starting the year with clarity and mindfulness. For a more immersive experience, consider a temple stay (shukubo) at a historic Buddhist site, such as those on Mount Koya (Koyasan). Here, visitors can join monks in meditation, enjoy traditional vegetarian meals and experience serene rituals that inspire inner peace. Visit Wakayama, Visit Mie and Visit Nara for more information.
Embrace creativity in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
In Ishikawa Prefecture, visitors can kickstart their New Year’s resolution in the region’s rich artisanal traditions. Known as a hub for Japanese craftsmanship, Ishikawa offers opportunities to explore Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing, Kutani porcelain painting and Wajima-nuri lacquerware. Visitors can participate in hands-on workshops led by skilled artisans, creating their own colorful textile designs or delicately painted ceramics to take home. These experiences not only foster creativity but also provide a deeper appreciation for Japan’s cultural heritage. Visit ishikawatravel.jp/en for more information.
Learn to harvest pearls in Ise-Shima, Mie Prefecture, Japan
Learning to harvest pearls with the Ama divers in Ise-Shima offers a rare and immersive glimpse into an ancient Japanese tradition. The Ama, renowned female free divers, have been practicing their craft for centuries, diving without modern equipment to harvest pearls and seafood from the ocean depths. In Ise-Shima, visitors can join these incredible women to experience the intricate process of cultivating pearls firsthand. From understanding the delicate art of implanting the pearl nucleus into the oysters to witnessing the divers’ skillful and graceful underwater techniques, the experience is both educational and awe-inspiring. This hands-on journey also provides insight into the Ama’s unique way of life, which blends sustainable practices with a deep connection to nature and community. Visit iseshima-kanko.jp/en for more information.
Learn to make your own Udon, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan
In Kagawa, the birthplace of Japanese Udon, visitors have the opportunity to explore the flavours, stories and people that have made Sanuki Udon the soul food of the region. Hosted by the Udon House, the programme includes an Udon Master Class on day one, a night’s stay, and an Udon Breakfast Tour on day two. Participants will not only craft their own udon from scratch, under the guidance of local specialists, but they will also learn about the different types of Udon and the various renditions that have come about. Prices from €200 per person. Reservations required. Visit japan.travel/en/uk/ for more information.
