If you already live in an exotic, tropical locale, it’s pretty easy to become complacent when it comes to travel. In my case, I see something novel, bizarre, or downright ridiculous every single day just by walking out onto the streets of Goa. So, the motivation to seek out a new adventure can evade me at times. And, since I have now identified the issue, I’ve come up with a list of New Year’s Resolutions for 2020, all pertaining to travel. Have a look:
Try Bombay Duck
Before arriving in Goa, India, I had already heard about the popular Bombay Duck dish! Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmer featured the delicacy as cooked by Mum’s Kitchen in the capital of Panjim. What makes the dish special, or bizarre, is that you can eat the bones. Basically, a lizardfish is seasoned with Goan spices, breaded, and fried. The bones become soft enough to chew and swallow easily. And, here I am, just 30 minutes away from the place and I still haven’t made the trip. I guess that’s why we make New Year’s resolutions.
Visit Nepal
Nepal has intrigued me since childhood. And, the natural beauty of the country and the strange customs of its people still call out to me today. I’ve had a handful of opportunities to visit, but the logistics just never worked out. I often find Nepal entering my thoughts; and yet, I still haven’t made the trip. In one sense, Nepal is close. The country borders on India. In another sense, it would still take some doing to make the trip. Perhaps 2020 will represent the year I finally go. Making it one of my New Year’s resolutions certainly won’t hurt.
Learn Konkani
I find it a little embarrassing that I still haven’t learned Goa’s local language: Konkani. Sure, I know a few words. And, about half of them represent a sure way to start a fight. The urge to find a good tutor remains strong. But, truth be told, I am still waiting to encounter one. Also, just about everyone under 60 years of age speaks English here. So, the motivation to learn Konkani has dwindled over the years. Maybe New Years will give me the little nudge that I need.
Hit the Beach
Goa enjoys significant worldwide fame for its beautiful beaches. And, I definitely have my favorite beach. I even have my favorite beach shack. But, over the last few years, I’ve found it difficult to hit the sand more than 3 times per month. I think it’s important that I take the family to the beach at least once a week. I mean, it’s right there, my 1 year-old-daughter loves it, and my wife and I always return home more relaxed. The tourist season has started; so, let’s see if I can stick to this New Year’s Resolution.
Practice a New Sport
While many travelers believe a culture can best be understood through its food, I’d like to think you can also learn a lot about a people through their pastimes. As you make your way around the globe, you’ll discover no shortage of strange, yet vaguely familiar, sporting activities. Whether it’s Jai Alai, log rolling, India’s own kabaddi, or something else entirely, I’ve got to find a way to try something new. And, to do that, I’ll probably need to plan a little vacation for this year.
Hi there! What are you travel-related New Year’s resolutions for 2020? Let us know in the comments!
