Hey ConvenienceBigs,
As I reflect on this year's craziness – getting stabbed in Colombia, moving to Paris, hosting a conference, doing a book tour, and, finally settling down in Austin, I'm struck by the central question from one my favorite books of the year, Dark Matter:
Am I happy with my life?
It's a question I think about a lot.
As the saying goes, life is what happens when you are busy making plans.
One day, we wake up and find we're far from the path we had hoped to traverse. We took a different job; suffered a health issue, family death, or financial disaster; decided to go back to school; or met someone who inspired us to travel the world.
If I learned anything from this year, it is that life teeters on a knife's edge and can change in the blink of an eye.
Last week, I drew up a list of all the things I plan to do in Austin next year: get a car, take cooking classes, join a CSA, go to city council meetings, and continue to try to eat better and workout more.
We must take command of the present — and forgive past failures.
So, am I happy with my life? How could I not be? I have my health, my friends, and a job I love. That's all you need.
I did a lot this year. And there is still more to do.
But life is a marathon.
And, though, I may slip, stumble, and change my mind (I am a Gemini after all), every day is a chance to forget the past, release our burdens, and start fresh.
"I will make today better than yesterday" has become my mantra.
So, as I close out the last email of the year, I want to thank you. Writing this blog helps keep me on track and accountable to my goals. My life wouldn't be the same without you all. I appreciate your participation in this community!
In 2020, the team and I have a lot of things planned for you: more events, more articles from other writers, the return of reader stories, and a new site design.
But, until then, thank you and have a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year!
Community Reminders
1. If you're looking for some last-minute travel-related gifts, check out my gift guide and pick something up for the traveler on your holiday shopping list!
2. Applications for our next FLYTE trip are now open! FLYTE is our community charity that sends students from underserved communities on overseas school trips. If you are a teacher (or know one) who wants funding for a trip, click here to learn more and apply.
3. If you're looking for some travel and blogging inspiration, check out some interviews I've done recently:
4. If you missed our Cyber Monday deal, don't worry! We're doing a flash sale now until December 26th where you can get 50% off all of our blogging/writing/vlogging/photography courses. Just use the code 50OFF at check out to save!
(Also, all of our guidebooks are on sale too! Just use the code 35OFF at check out to get 35% off!)
5. I'm speaking at the NYT Travel Show! If you're in NYC in January, I'm giving a talk about the best ways to save money in 2020. The event is awesome and one of my favorites of the year. Click here to grab your ticket!
Latest from the Blog
Looking for some new books to read? Check out this list of the best books I read all year! Travel, personal development, science-fiction — there's something for everyone!
The Girl's Guide to Hiking Solo
Thinking about doing a solo hike? In this guide, solo female travel expert Kristin Addis shares everything you need to know to plan an epic, fun, and safe solo hike.
In this detailed article, Cuban-American blogger Talek Nantes shows you not only how to get the most from your visit but how to do so without breaking the bank!
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As always, if you have any questions or need advice, tips, or guidance, send me an e-mail! I'm here to help!
P.S. - Leaving soon? Use these helpful links to book your trip:
- GUIDEBOOK REMINDER: If you're traveling soon, be sure to check out our destination guides and get your copy today!
- Book your travel insurance with World Nomads (Under 70) or Insure My Trip (Over 70)
- Book your flight with Momondo or Skyscanner
- Book your accommodation with Booking.com or Hostelworld
- Book a tour with Intrepid Travel (Nomadic Matt readers get special discounts!)
- Looking for a new rewards card? Here's a list of my current favs! (U.S. only)
- Need something else? Check out my list of favorite companies on my resources page and book with confidence.
I personally use all these companies listed (here or on the resource page) and, by booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, run events, create new guides, and keep the website going!
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