Where do you want to go in 2011? (Comstock Complete)

Did you make a New Year’s resolution? If you did, you’re not alone, and if you didn’t, it’s not too late.

Instead of resolving to lose weight or exercise more, why not resolve to broaden your horizons and plan to visit somewhere you’ve always dreamed of? Not only will you enjoy it more than dieting, studies show that people are more likely to keep travel resolutions than any other kind!

If you do plan on travelling, here are some good resolutions to keep during your holiday:

Turn off your cell phone! How can you be truly immersed in your surroundings when you are constantly emailing the office or the folks back home. Remember, there once was a time when people got along just fine without you - because they couldn’t reach you!

Go somewhere new! There’s nothing more exciting than exploring a new destination. While it is sometimes easier or cheaper to go where family or friends are, the excitement of turning a corner and finding something extraordinary is lost.

While you’re planning, try to learn a few local phrases, or at the very least, read a book set in the place you’re visiting. Not only will it help you understand more about your destination, you may feel like you’re on vacation before you even set out!

Take a day off from being a tourist! While we all want to see those big-ticket attractions like museums and monuments, take a day to wander at will, or simply sit and watch the world go by.

Watch where locals are getting their lunch and follow them in. As they order, make note of what the speciality seems to be, and try it. There’s got to be a reason it’s a speciality, right? I guarantee that your day as ‘a local’ will be one of the most memorable days of your holiday.

Take a deep breath when things go wrong! As with many things in life, there is almost a guarantee that something will go wrong during your trip. When it does, take a deep breath and calmly find someone that may be able to help you. If nothing else, think about the funny story it will make when you get home!

And who knows, travelling could help you with your other resolutions. While you’re out there sightseeing, you’ll probably get more exercise than you would get while you’re at home!

Julia Bryan handles communications and public relations for DeNure Tours in Lindsay, Ont.