My 5 holiday resolutions

1. The more holidays, the better

My first resolution for this year is, of course, to go on holiday as much as possible. Sometimes I even think about just emigrating to Spain. Especially on days when it rains for hours on end and I get completely soaked on the bike both to and from work. By the time I've somewhat dried off, I realize that the Netherlands isn't so bad after all. But I certainly love to hop on a plane as often as I can. And the best part is always having something booked to look forward to.

2. Highlights

In a previous blog, I talked about restaurant tips; now I'm thinking about sightseeing tips. These are quite difficult for me to give because I actually never do much during holidays. The highlights are usually quickly checked off, but that's about it. I'm always too busy sunbathing, swimming, eating, and going out. I often have no idea what people are talking about when they mention certain places in regions I've been to many times. So it's time to rent a car more often and undertake a bit more!

3. Applying sunscreen

How badly have you ever been sunburned? More than once, I've gone for a walk in the middle of the hottest part of the day to explore a bit around my hotel. Not wearing sunscreen, because you only did that when going to the beach in the past. Took a wrong turn, leading to a long way back... completely burned. Going out in Argentina without sunscreen while everyone else is enjoying a siesta is something I can't recommend to anyone. With peeling skin on my face, I vowed never, ever to go out in the sun without applying sunscreen again. But... once you have kids, you mostly ensure they're well-protected and sometimes forget that you also need a bit of sunscreen.

4. Pack less

In recent years, I've been taking way less with me than before. Yet, I still pack more than I need. Every time, a few 'what if' items sneak in, an extra outfit to choose from on location, and the e-reader, which I really won't use in Ibiza. Especially when we all go on a summer holiday, I tend to bring too many clothes. As if your little ones need three t-shirts a day by the pool. Such a waste of carrying! So... I solemnly promise: this year, I'll pack only the essentials.

5. Eat and drink healthier

At home, I don't eat very healthy, but on holiday, it becomes a real mess in terms of food. Fries, pizza, ice cream, chips... It's snack time all day long. Not to mention the number of alcoholic drinks consumed every 24 hours. Against better judgment, I always buy a bunch of grapes or a few apples. These then lie around rotting in the apartment all week, only to be thrown away at the end of the holiday. I've made up my mind to skip the salty snacks more often during this year's trips and eat more fruit. As for the alcohol... I'll leave that as it is; we shouldn't overdo it, of course.