Happy New Year ! The start of a new year is when many of us feel obliged to adopt a ‘new year, new me’ outlook with promises and intentions to be healthier, take up a new hobby, give up old habits and so on. However by mid January, most of us have quickly fallen off the new years resolution hype and instead are battling with the long grey winter days and instead, dreaming of escaping to somewhere warm and sunny. So how about if you actually did think about your resolutions but in a new way that could actually lead to better holidays? Not sure where to begin, we’ve got you covered…

SKIP YOUR DAILY COFFEE RUN

Many of us working on the go pick up a daily coffee from one of the conveniently located coffee chains dotted all over the UK. When our body craves caffeine, a latte really is only a moment away, however, if you skipped buying your daily coffee on the go for six months, you could save anything from £400 or more, which could see you jetting off for a city break in Prague or Amsterdam this Summer instead – not bad right? You can still have your daily coffee fix too… just maybe switch to instant for a while! 

CREATE A TRAVEL BUCKET LIST

If travelling is your thing, or perhaps you’re just ready to explore more, creating a travel bucket list is a simple way to note down all the locations you want to visit. So from the exotic jungles of Thailand to the bright lights of Las Vegas, intentionally writing down the places you always dream of visiting will give you that extra push to stop postponing and book your next holiday, or maybe even take that year out travelling you’ve always dreamt of.

LEARN A LANGUAGE 

French, Spanish, Italian? Many desire learning a new language and as New Year is often the time we take up a new hobby or skill, why not begin now. By the time your next holiday comes around, you could be saying more than Bonjour, Hola or Ciao in these European favourites and who knows where a little better communication could lead to on your next holiday. French is the language of love after all…

MEDITATE

It’s no secret we are all living increasingly faster paced lives and with an ever digital world, when we do take some time away, switching off (especially from all things online) doesn’t necessarily come naturally. Why not make it your resolution to take up meditation and train your mind to escape from the everyday. By the time your next getaway arrives, you’ll be switching off in no time and ready to sit back, soak up the sun and sip on a cocktail or two before you’ve even packed your suitcase. Discover Need some 2019 travel inspiration? Explore some of our favourite destinations...

AMSTERDAM

An unforgettable city break with a laid-back atmosphere all year round, Amsterdam is a city with a big heart brimming with culture and charm. Whether you’re planning to whisk your partner away for a romantic city break, or thinking of booking a weekend away with friends, there’s always something new to discover in the city.

Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit when Amsterdam is well and truly blooming with tulips decorating the city. Take a boat ride along the iconic canals, indulge your historic interests at Museum Square and for the more adventurous, explore the cities eclectic nightlife - or step off the beaten track entirely and see what this popular destination has to offer tourists and locals alike.

CRETE

Sitting pretty in the Aegean Sea, the idyllic island of Crete is a Mediterranean gem waiting to welcome summer holidaymakers. Surrounded by dazzling blue waters and golden sandy shores ready to invite tourists, Crete is a wonderful summer holiday destination for couples and families alike. 

Indulge in authentic Greek dishes along the waters of Elounda, or head into the capital of Heraklion to experience some of the islands history. With heavenly beaches adorning the coasts and a warm year round climate, you really will be spoilt for choice with how to spend your time in Crete.

NEW YORK

The Big Apple really is as magical as you see in the movies and for many, it’s a bucket list destination that once visited, you’ll want to keep returning to time and time again. From iconic spots like Central Park and the Empire State Building, to the more laid-back borough of Brooklyn, there’s a reason this is the city never sleeps…

Mild temperatures in the spring and autumn are a perfect time to explore the sights, shopping in the city and entertainment on offer. From a cruise along the Hudson River to spot Lady Liberty to taking the little ones to explore the Museum of Natural History, New York boasts something for every type of traveller to enjoy.

DUBAI

Seeking the sun this year? Dubai promises a tempting year round climate to increase your dose of vitamin d. Nestled on the Persian Gulf Coast, Dubai may have a luxurious look, but don’t let that put you off if you’re on a budget as it’s home to some of the best all inclusive hotels in the world.

A holiday hotspot designed to welcome one and all, Dubai’s vibrant mix of shopping, desert safaris, waterparks and bars are only just over six hours away. Claimed to also be the world’s fastest growing city, this modern UAE oasis really does take some beating as an extraordinary holiday destination. Only visiting on a stopover, don't worry - discover our guide of the best things to see and do in Dubai in just 48 hours.