The round-up: New Year’s resolutions that you’ll actually want to achieve
Okay friends, it’s time to blow off the year that was and welcome 2017 with wide open arms. Generally, January is the time when you make up an overly ambitious list of what you want to achieve for the year ahead. If your only New Year’s resolution so far is to remember to write 2017 instead of 2016 (let’s be honest – that can take a solid few months to master) then keep reading. We really, really like you – so we’ve taken the liberty of putting together a list of well-balanced New Year’s resolutions that we think are totally achievable – for us, for you, for everyone. Strap yourselves in Gold Coast, it’s time to tick some boxes.
Eat a hearty breakfast. Like, every single day
We don’t really get how some people ‘forget’ to have breakfast or simply skip it – it’s the most important and arguably the most delicious meal of the day. So, kick-start your metabolism this year (that’s our excuse) with a hearty breakfast, daily. Yep, that’s 365-ish breakfasts this year. Don’t worry if you’re not handy at home with a toaster and egg poacher – egg yolk porn like this can be really hard to master. Here’s a handy local list to inspire your morning munch.
Invest in quality activewear and be active in it
If you’ve already gone and got that new year gym membership, then high five, mate! Though, you know what almost always give you extra motivation? New gear. Ladies, don’t fade willingly into the background – there are plenty of brands and local labels that will add a little pizazz to your sweaty wardrobe. This goes for the gents too. We want you all looking as cool as a cucumber when you’re getting your sweat on this year.
Treat ‘yo self (in moderation)
Yes, we strategically placed this after our rant about eating breakfast and being active. It’s okay friends, remember – it’s all about balance! Sometimes (just sometimes) you need to treat yourself and, you know, live a little. You really shouldn’t deprive yourself of delicacies and decadent treats all of the time. We’re not saying you should eat dessert for breakfast (we’ve all been there), but look, you only live once, so if you feel like dessert or a Nutella-filled doughnut this year, then go head and treat yourself. Everything in moderation, okay? You like our New Year’s resolutions don’t you? You’re welcome.
Save your pennies and still eat, drink and be a total baller
There’s no need to be an (oxy)moron about it – you can totally eat, drink and have loads of fun on a budget. There are plenty of cheap eats across the Gold Coast so there’s no need to get your hangry pants on. If you just want to have some flat-out fun whilst still saving your pennies – as in, the type of fun that doesn’t involve sitting on the couch watching Netflix – there are plenty of free and cheap activities too. Got a few nice drops as Christmas gifts? Well, keep them handy and bust them out for your next BYO dinner outing.
Try new places
It’s easy to get into the routine of going to the same cafe for coffee every day, ordering the same bacon, eggs and avocado on toast from your local cafe every single weekend and getting the same ham and salad sandwich for lunch. We reckon 2017 should be the year you try new places. It’s time to mix it up, pals! There are plenty to get through, so here’s your starting point.
Take a road trip
A sneaky getaway can sometimes be all you need to add some extra pep into your life – you totally need to make day trips or overnighters a regular occurrence this year. We’re lucky that the wonderful world of Byron Bay is only 45 minutes away, so when you’re feeling like 2017 is becoming all too much, then jump in the car and head south for a day trip, or an overnighter if you’re really living on the edge. There are plenty of cool new places to stay after you eat, drink and shop your way around Byron. If you’ve got a bit Bear Grylls in your blood, then maybe you should venture further afar at these top-notch camping spots or go and chase some waterfalls.
Buy clothes that drive social change
Clothing labels that have a genuine social conscience actually do exist, (they really do), so next time you’re scouring the online stores for some new threads, consider local brands, socially aware labels and makers of environmentally friendly gear. Only then can you say that your new jeans or killer tee has actually made a difference to the social fabric of the community. It’s an ethical revolution, folks – get on this.
Eat healthy food and actually enjoy it
So, 2016 saw a wave of new healthy, wholefood-inspired eateries open on the Gold Coast, which means our New Year’s resolution of eating and drinking healthy (most of the time) will be incredibly easy to achieve. Cocktails infused with activated chia seeds and charcoal are, in fact, healthy … what a time to be alive.
Go Go and explore Brisbane
There’s not place like home. However, the great South East is a wonderful place, so if you feel like mixing up your weekend, why not venture up the M1 and explore Brisbane. If, like us, you like to plan such trips around what you’d like to eat and drink, then we’ve got you covered with this list of Brisbane’s newest bars, restaurants and cafes. If you’re on a post-Christmas budget, then you can still explore on the el-cheapo.
Develop an appreciation for quality alcohol
When it comes to a tipple, it’s all about quality over quantity. Luckily, there are plenty of eateries, bistros and bars that share your new-found appreciation of local, small-batch alcohol and natural wines. Australian Gin is totally in, so that’s a good place to kick-start your research and develop your fancy taste buds. If craft beer is more your jam, then get yourself acquainted the suds from these local brewers. Quality turps is way cool, and your head with thank you for it.
The Stumble Guide is our comprehensive Gold Coast dining guide with more than 870 places to eat, drink, shop and play.