TravelAwaits

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New Year, New Trip: Welcome to the World of Transformational Travel

New Year, New Trip: Welcome to the World of Transformational Travel

Not all vacations serve the same purpose.

A vacation probably conjures a few associations—like downtime, beachy vibes, and tons of sunshine.

A trip, on the other hand, might bring to mind international travel and long-distance destinations. (If someone says they’re on holiday, by contrast, you’re probably talking to a European.)

There are wellness retreats, solo journeys, wilderness adventures, friend trips, bachelorette and bachelor parties, and all types of travels in between.

I usually classify travel into two over-simplified categories: commercial and transformational. (Not counting business trips, of course.)

Commercial trips are usually built around resort stays, popular sites and museums, and other buy-it-here types of experiences. Transformational travel is more focused on personal growth.

Neither is better than the other—and some trips might include both commercial and transformational elements.

But there’s a growing trend for travelers, especially Gen Z, to seek out more transformational experiences when they plan their trips. These ‘transformational’ elements are designed to spur personal growth in all shapes and forms.

Rather than log off with total relaxation or put together an enviable trip itinerary, some travelers are looking to shake up their worldview by immersing themselves in new places.

I know—it’s a vague description, at best. But with the future of travel hinging on more personal, perspective-shifting experiences, you might be seeking out a transformational trip sooner than you think. Here are the core tenets of this trend.

What is transformational travel? Core ideas

Transformational travel takes whatever shape you want it to—no suffering required

Many people associate transformational travel with trips that revolve around volunteer work—but that’s far from the only case.

You can have a fully transformational trip without sacrificing comfort and familiarity. In my opinion, the most important element is keeping an open mind.

For example, let’s say you have a week-long all-inclusive resort stay booked in Cozumel, Mexico, and put aside one day to leave the resort and take a tour from local guides to explore local traditions. That opens up a window for you to transform your outlook and grow as a human being, even if it’s a brief experience.

You don’t need to join the Peace Corps, in other words, or sacrifice your comfort. You just need to make time and leave energy to foray into the unknown a little bit.

Transformational travel can be uncomfortable—roll with it

The example of leaving an all-inclusive resort in Cozumel is pretty basic, but it highlights that transformation can happen on just about any trip.

That being said, the more transformational the trip, the more uncomfortable you might find yourself when encountering new experiences.

A great example is entering a nude spa as an American. We’re not very comfortable with nudity but most saunas in central Europe don’t allow you to wear clothes. It’s a transformative experience that doesn’t last very long and probably feels uncomfortable—but it’ll shift how you see nudity, saunas, and central Europe, in certain respects.

Once again, this is a very basic example. A truly transformative trip might include multiple days of boundary-pushing experiences like this. By definition, growth includes periods of discomfort—so don’t shy away.

Transformational travel can be cheap as hell—meaning just about anyone can go for it

My favorite part about transformational travel: It’s got a sliding budget.

I’ve covered ultra-luxury trips that are transformative, such as Few&Far’s Unknown Trip. The provider takes travelers straight into the unknown where they can get on the ground floor of conservation movements and social projects.

But most of my experiences in transformational travel were highly affordable or free. For example, even a humble wellness retreat can give you the tools to re-align yourself and grow. The same goes for a wilderness adventure or a digital detox retreat.

Remember—transformational travel comes in all shapes and sizes.

Transformational travel happens by accident sometimes—and that’s how it should be

Sometimes, transformational experiences come up without any planning at all. That’s the case with my trip to Cuba back in 2016.

A day before me and my partner arrived, Fidel Castro died—and the country went into a period of official mourning. For our week-long trip, laws forbade music, dancing, drinking, and celebrations of any kind.

It wasn’t ideal in many ways—but not only did we get to experience a historic moment in the country’s history, we also saw Castro’s coffin pass in a procession.

To add another dash of surprise, I got swindled buying a carton of cigars and spent almost all of our money on our first night in the city. Americans couldn’t get cash out of the ATM at the time or use credit cards—so we had to share two meals per day for the rest of the trip.

I’m not joking. We spent a week in Cuba not drinking mojitos and desperately planning out our meals. Luckily, one of my friends was in Cuba at the time and dating a local who helped us find some cheap eats.

Did I intend for a transformational trip? No, but Cuba had other plans, and that’s how travel goes sometimes.

That’s part of the magic of transformational travel—it’s very human, and it resists our planning.

Insider Travel Tips: Exclusive Interview with Priceline’s Christina Bennett

Priceline released my favorite trend report of 2024.

As a travel writer, all travel-focused trend reports interest me—but Priceline’s stood out thanks to its unique range of predictions and its visual appeal. (I always judge books by their covers.)

Priceline’s ‘Where to Next?’ unearthed more intriguing leads—from mom vacations to an uptick in interest in traveling for sports like tennis. As the company launches its GenAI planning tools and its AI travel assistant, Penny, it looks like Priceline is poised to continue influencing the way travelers research and finalize their trips.

But I always want more information—more insights, more opinions, more novel new ideas.

And Christina Bennett, a Priceline Consumer Travel Expert, sat down to help me dig into the travel tips in the Priceline trend report and what they will mean for travelers in the coming years.

Want a closer look at some of the lesser-known features, benefits, and tools available on Priceline? Here’s what Bennett wants travelers like us to know.

Key takeaways: Travel tips & insights from a Priceline Consumer Travel Expert

  • Pay close attention to where you’re staying in a city; the better the neighborhood, the greater your chance to immerse yourself in local culture
  • For all the moms out there: Priceline is working on building out features that make it easy for you to plan relaxing trips—take advantage when you’re planning your next getaway
  • To make trip-planning easier, use Priceline’s iOS app and let its GenAI build your itinerary using data-driven insights
  • And don’t forget about Penny, Priceline’s AI travel assistant, who can help you find the best restaurants, tours, museums, and more
  • If you’re interested in savings, the best way to save money while planning trips on Priceline is to book everything as a bundle, from car rentals to hotels

Exclusive interview with Priceline Consumer Travel Expert, Christina Bennett

People are falling in love with what we’re calling ‘Awayborhoods.’ Instead of racing through the usual landmarks, travelers (especially younger ones) are choosing to really immerse themselves in specific neighborhoods.

They’re grabbing coffee where locals do, shopping at family-owned stores, and getting a genuine feel for the area’s culture.

[This interview was conducted shortly before the protests in Tbilisi began; please be mindful about booking trips to Georgia.]

With Asia being the final region to lift COVID-19 restrictions everyone’s rushing to visit – especially Japan! And, while the classic tourist spots aren’t going anywhere, there’s this cool shift happening where lesser-known destinations like Algarve, Portugal are suddenly in the spotlight.

Gen Z and Boomers are trendsetting right now. Not only do they have specific travel preferences, but they are also both in unique life stages that allow them more freedom and opportunity to travel.

I haven’t seen any other trend reports covering mom vacations like the Priceline 2025 trend report. Does Priceline offer any resources that are specific to moms who are looking for rejuvenating vacations?

[Mom vacations = trips designed for mothers to take care of themselves, reflect, and rejuvenate after years of childcare.]

Right now, we have filters to identify property features – including luxury features like spas, as well as AI-curated reviews for solo travelers. We’re also continuously innovating new tools to better support customers in their quest to find the perfect place to stay – including moms.

We know how important it is for moms to find accommodations that meet their needs and help them truly relax, and we’re working on making our platform even more helpful for them.

What are some of the lesser-known ways that travelers can use Priceline’s platform to plan their trip?

One of my favorite new tools is Priceline’s GenAI itinerary builder available in the iOS app.

Instead of spending hours researching things to do, the app now generates a suggested itinerary for you, complete with dining and activity options tailored to your trip. It’s a great way to save time and discover new experiences without all the planning stress.

In terms of travel tips and insights, what do you think is the coolest feature that Priceline offers?

I’d say Penny, Priceline’s AI travel assistant. Whether you want to chat via text or voice, you can simply ask Penny for help planning your trip.

Need a hotel recommendation? Want to know the best restaurants in town? Or maybe you’re not even sure where to go yet? Just ask Penny! It’s like having a smart travel concierge right in your pocket.

Which features are users most excited about, in your opinion?

While our customers are buying everything from hotel rooms to rental cars to flights, they’re starting to catch on to this really smart hack: booking everything together as a package. This is one of my biggest savings tips for travelers as it unlocks incremental discounts.

Cruises and all-inclusive resorts are also having a moment right now because who doesn’t love having everything taken care of, from your meals to your entertainment? It’s perfect for the ‘flocking’ phenomenon that’s happening, where people are craving those social connections during their trips.

I see quite a few features focused on family travel. Do you have any travel tips for families?

We primarily cater to leisure travelers, with many coming to Priceline to book their family vacations. With so many different needs to consider – from activities catered to different age ranges, and varying preferences, to required bedding configurations –family travel can be more logistically complex than other trips.

That’s why we’ve designed specific tools to help families book their trips with confidence, making sure everyone’s needs are met, no matter how big the group.

What does Priceline do that similar platforms don’t?

Priceline is a unique platform dedicated to delivering both best-in-class deals and a cutting-edge user experience powered by advanced technology.

Our mission is to be the best dealmaker in the world with the goal of helping everyone experience the moments that matter to them.

We’ve introduced conversational commerce with Penny Voice to make the booking experience easier than ever, we offer custom booking features like Express Deals and Pricebreakers to give customers extra savings opportunities, and created a loyalty program, Priceline VIP, that lets you start saving with your first booking.

Every deal we offer and product we create is designed to provide exceptional value and simplify the booking process.

Yes, Ice Hotels Are Real—And You Can Find Them Around the World

Confession time: I’m addicted to Hallmark Christmas movies.

The more dubious the plot and the acting, the better.

(If you’re looking for suggestions, then stop what you’re doing and watch Hot Frosty. You’ll thank me later.)

A week ago, I turned on A Royal Christmas Crush. This Hallmark Channel flick follows a young architect who is chosen to work at the Royal Ice Hotel. There, she runs into the Royal Prince and—through the magic of Christmas cheer—they fall madly in love.

Of all the wayward plot points I’ve encountered in Hallmark Christmas movies, this one stood out thanks to being set partly in an actual hotel made of ice.

This real-life ice hotel is a popular attraction in Valcartier, Quebec known as Hôtel de Glace. (That’s Ice Hotel for any of you who don’t speak French.)

I had so many questions about the ice hotel that it actually took me out of the film.

What’s the temperature in the hotel? How does the heating work without melting the walls? What do guests wear to bed? Why isn’t there a floor anywhere?

And, for the love of god, how does the plumbing work if all the pipes are frozen?

If you’ve seen the film and asked the same questions, then I have answers. It turns out that the world of ice hotels is pretty varied. Let’s explore the trend, starting with Valcartier’s Hôtel de Glace.

Ice hotels you can book today

Hôtel de Glace – Valcartier, Canada

Hôtel de Glace (TripAdvisor)

Only twenty minutes outside of Quebec City, you can find the Valcartier Vacation Village—which includes the Ice Hotel.

This is a no-joke, full-scale ice hotel that includes compacted snow floors, walls made of ice, and a spa with sauna and hot tub features.

Guests must watch a mandatory training video and abide by strict three-layer clothing techniques. Oh, and there aren’t any beds—only military-grade sleeping bags on soft mats.

That being said, every room at the Ice Hotel includes a room at the four-star Hôtel Valcartier, meaning you have a place to leave your luggage and escape to if the nights are too cold in your ice-room.

Book a room

Laplands Hotels SnowVillage – Kittilä, Finland

Lapland SnowVillage (TripAdvisor)

I imagine Valcartier’s Hotel de Glace isn’t for the faint of heart—but it’s probably child’s play compared to the temperatures at the Lapland SnowVillage in Finland. (Lapland is one of the world’s last wild frontiers—and it’s almost always layered in snow.)

For that reason, this grand ice hotel is great for those who have a truly adventurous spirit and a naturally high body temperature. But SnowVillage also provides suits and boots, making it a bit easier to stay warm.

There’s also a stronger focus on entertainment, as SnowVillage includes elven helpers, massive snow and ice sculptures, and plenty of opportunities to get warm with a treat and a drink.

Book a room

Icehotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Icehotel (TripAdvisor)

Launched in 1989, this is one of the first permanent ice hotels in the world (though it’s rebuilt every year, the grounds and design don’t change).

From the train ride into town to the short walk to the hotel, you’re in for a gorgeous, picturesque treat. Seriously—this is where Hallmark should have filmed A Royal Christmas Crush.

Icehotel offers unique Christmas programs designed to immerse your family in holiday cheer. But I’m more interested in the art and design gallery. Like I just mentioned, Icehotel has stunning displays of frozen-water-ingenuity. Even the bedframes are bespoke works of art that are created each year anew.

Book a room

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel – Alta, Norway

Igloo Hotel (TripAdvisor)

It’s not the oldest and it’s not the closest for American travelers—but this igloo ice hotel is the northernmost option in the world… and it’s also the largest ice hotel I could find.

Located in Alta in Norway’s Arctic region, Sorrisniva is a massive almost 27,000 square-foot palace and hotel.

Like the Icehotel, it has a massive and state-of-the-art gallery with new works every year. It’s also a popular spot for weddings thanks to its gorgeous ice chapel. Similar to the Hôtel de Glace in Quebec, you can also bundle your stay with a hotel room at the Arctic Wilderness Lodge.

Book a room

My 5 Favorite Detour Destinations in Europe

I love travel; I hate crowds.

It’s a difficult time for wanderers like me given the growing popularity of international travel.

That being said, my desire to avoid crowds at all costs has taken me to a few interesting places. Sometimes, I skip a big city for a smaller one. Other times, I head straight into the Boonies.

And this isn’t unique to me.

In fact, one of the biggest travel trends slated for 2025 is the rise of detour destinations. Detour destinations let travelers skip out entirely or partially on overcrowded cities to seek out smaller and more meaningful spots.

Next year, Expedia predicts that places like Girona, Cozumel, and Abu Dhabi will start to replace the hype surrounding Barcelona, Cancun, and Dubai, respectively.

But I’d like to take you just a little bit further off the beaten path to some of my favorite and most unexpected detour destinations in Europe.

 My favorite detour destinations in Europe

  • Skip Stockholm and go to Umeå
  • Skip Warsaw and go to Krakow
  • Skip Rome and go to Syracuse
  • Skip Berlin and go to Hamburg
  • Skip Galway and go to Killarney

My favorite detour destinations in Europe

Umeå, Sweden over Stockholm

Sunshine in the forest outside Umeå (Getty)

Located in northeast Sweden, this small university city isn’t a popular tourist stop. I only ended up here thanks to a World Rally Championship race (my partner is into rally racing) back in 2022… in February, nonetheless.

After spending a few days at the rally grounds, we took off into the wilderness to spend a few days at a rural forest resort.

Even in the dead of winter, the resort was almost full. Guests and locals alike were incredibly friendly and helpful—we even got a lightning-fast joyride on a snowmobile from a local.

We also had the chance to go dog sledding, take a forest hike to identify plants and animals, and other nature-centric adventures… again, in the dead of Swedish winter.

From small cities like Umeå, Scandinavia becomes even more accessible—even when you might assume the weather is too cold.

Tips on enjoying Umeå

Zakopane, Poland over Krakow… and Warsaw

Jaszczurowka Chapel in Zakopane, Poland (Getty)

My partner is Polish, which means we usually head to the country at least once a year and find ourselves delighted in some new, novel way.

Zakopane is a mountain town accessible from Krakow; we took a full-day tour into the mountains before spending the afternoon at a hot spring spa.

Let me paint a picture for you. A large tour bus picked us up from our Airbnb, and then ferried us into the mountains. We stopped in a small village to take some smoked sheep’s cheese (I’d sell my soul for it) before heading further into the snow-capped mountains.

We stopped at a small skiing resort where we shopped around the carnival-style stalls and games. (My man won me a fuzzy, stuffed heart that has since become chihuahua fodder.) Then came the hot springs—which were a massive outdoor pool steaming at full power while fist-sized snowflakes lazily drifted down from the sky.

*You can enjoy Zakopane as a day trip from Krakow or spend a few days in the mountain town.

Tips on enjoying Zakopane

Syracuse, Italy over Rome/Milan/Venice

Ortigia (Getty)

Forget Rome. Forget Venice. Forget Milan and Florence and Turin. I vote you go straight to Sicily—and, once again, avoid the big cities like Palermo and Catania. Instead, head for the south to areas like Fontana Bianche and Syracuse.

Syracuse is located on the coast and includes the tiny island of Ortigia. Ortigia is home to gorgeous Roman ruins, a rocky coast with crystalline waters, and restaurants that will bless your palate.

It’s not exactly unknown to tourists, but it’s one of those places that’s gorgeous and relaxing enough that I’d battle a few crowds to enjoy.

*You can stay in Syracuse and walk into Ortigia or rent a place on the island.

Tips on enjoying Syracuse

Hamburg, Germany over Berlin

Hamburg (Getty)

I love Berlin—and it’s hard to recommend travelers not spend their time, money, and youth in its graffitied streets. That being said, I fell in love with Hamburg when I visited earlier this year.

The city has a gritty, industrial feel while being dotted with homegrown shops of all kinds. From record stores to massive miniature museums, it’s full of surprising finds.

Also, the food was delicious. As someone from the Midwest, I think I’m geared to enjoy a hearty, wintery meal. If you’re the same, you won’t go hungry in Hamburg. (The same is true in Poland and Sweden—these countries know how to survive winter.)

Tips on enjoying Hamburg

Killarney, Ireland over Galway

Coloured Rowing Boats, Killarney (Getty)

Killarney might be one of my favorite places on the planet. I’m partial to electric-green forests, which were on full display during my visit.

Between the charming and cobbled streets of Killarney’s center to its lichen-covered forests, it felt like a piece of Ireland from a fantasy.

That being said, I still recommend you spend a few days in Galway. I really enjoyed the picturesque city and its vibrant feel; it’s a great place to land before setting off for more rural escapes like Killarney.

Tips on enjoying Killarney

My Top Pick for a Romantic Retreat This Winter: Wolf Cove Inn

Ask any avid traveler what their favorite type of trip is and I bet they have an immediate answer.

For me, it’s romantic getaways.

First, because I’m in a long-term relationship—and romantic getaways are one way to keep the love alive. Second, I’m an introvert who isn’t always interested in exploring and adventuring. Third, adventures for two are easy to organize and book.

Does the recipe sound appealing to anyone else? The promise of alone time, a cozy setup in the middle of winter, and a calming escape.

If it does, I have good news for you: Dozens of bed and breakfasts specialize in these types of romantic, midwinter getaways.

If you’ve got a little time to spare over the next two months and a lover to impress, then I’ve got a hidden gem that’s worth booking immediately.

Welcome to the Wolf Cove Inn in Poland, Maine. This cozy little spot has been on my radar since it was recommended last year… and I’m starting to get antsy about planning my escape.

In terms of romantic retreats, it’s pretty unbeatable at any time of year. But during the cold winter months, the Wolf Cove Inn’s charm factor gets turned up all the way.

New England locals—take note, this affordable spot offers endless ways to enjoy the winter with your lover. And even if you’re not local, keep this bed and breakfast bookmarked—it’s well worth the wait.

The short of it: Why Wolf Cove Inn is my winter romance pick for 2024-25

The grounds at Wolf Cove Inn (TripAdvisor)

What makes Wolf Cove Inn such a stellar choice for a romantic retreat? I’ll get into the nitty-gritty below covering the inn’s romantic packages and offers.

For now, let’s zoom out a little bit.

The first reason Wolf Cove Inn stands out is its historical appeal. The inn dates back to 1894 when it was built as a private four-bedroom cottage. Since then, the grounds’ various innkeepers have gone to painstaking lengths to preserve and celebrate the inn’s history.

Second, it’s got a spa and sauna. That’s an important note given the Wolf Cove Inn’s northern location—you’ll get extra care and TLC when you visit in winter thanks to its gorgeous sauna and spa services. I think that bodes well for romantic trips, too.

Lastly, I’m in love with how much pride and care the Wolf Cove Inn puts into their packages, holiday parties, seasonal offerings, and activity lists. It’s a dynamic inn that lets guests take full advantage of their escape, whether they want a nice bottle of champagne, an ice bath treatment, or even a prenatal massage.

*I feel like this is a good point to leave a disclaimer: This article isn’t sponsored by Wolf Cove Inn. I’m just really impressed.

Best programs and offers at Wolf Cove Inn for a romantic retreat

The sauna spa at Wolf Cove Inn (TripAdvisor)

Holiday Romance Retreat Package

A two-night escape that includes a pizza dinner for two, special keepsakes, fire & ice sauna experiences, and bed & breakfast each morning.

Winter Wonderland Escape Package

A three-night package that includes a pizza dinner for two, special keepsakes, breakfast in bed each morning, fire & ice sauna experiences, and priority check-in and check-out.

Winter Retreat Extended Stay Package

A four-night deal that includes a pizza night special, special keepsakes, breakfast in bed each morning, multiple fire & ice sauna experiences, and multiple optional deluxe add-ons.

Special Occasion Package—a DIY option

If you want to take control of your own romantic escape, then Wolf Cove Inn also lets you put together a special occasion package that includes sparkling wine, hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries, fresh flowers, and other customizable elements.

It’s Our Honeymoon Package

The ultimate romance offer—the Honeymoon Package. This offer includes a 13% discount, plus things like flowers, champagne, and chocolate treats upon arrival, breakfast in bed on the first morning of your trip, expert assistance in planning activities like dog sledding and antiquing, and all concierge services.

Romance Getaway Special

If you don’t want a specific package, you can also look around for a great special. The Romance Getaway Special includes sparkling wine, fresh flowers, and chocolate treats upon arrival, plus breakfast in bed each day. Wolf Cove Inn also lists a few suggestions regarding its most romantic rooms.

When the Clock Strikes Midnight: Weirdest NYE Traditions Around the World

I’ll never forget my first New Year’s in Barcelona when I bore witness to one of the weirdest NYE traditions out there.

I was celebrating on a rooftop with a group of friends from around Europe and South America. For some reason, the Spaniards brought grapes with them. A lot of grapes for a winter night, by my standards.

I didn’t think much of it until, as the clock neared midnight, they laid out twelve grapes. After a few questions, I learned about the Spanish tradition of eating twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight.

One grape per month. One seed, too, since seedless grapes aren’t really a thing here.

Every year, I watch in fear as someone attempts the feat.

Turns out that it’s just one of many weird NYE traditions from around the world. If you’re a traveler who likes spending those big holidays abroad, you might want to know about a few of the world’s weirdest NYE traditions.

Weirdest NYE traditions from around the world

Kissing (US)

I imagine most Americans remember at least one New Year’s Eve when they ran around desperate to find someone to kiss at the stroke of midnight. This cheeky tradition was first recorded by The New York Times back in 1893.

The tradition had gained steam after being brought over by German immigrants who would congregate on the big night, then exchange hugs and kisses at midnight.

Eating twelve grapes (Spain)

Oddly enough, Spain’s grape-eating obsession was also first recorded around the same time as our penchant for kissing at midnight. Back in 1895, a small publication explored the custom of eating twelve grapes at midnight as a way to usher in good luck and prosperity.

But it really took off in 1909 when farmers in Southern Spain had an abundance of grapes to sell—and needed to find a way to boost sales quick.

Heading to Spain soon? Make time to learn about culture with the country’s most popular tours.

Jumping seven waves (Brazil)

Brazilians who live on the coast prescribe jumping seven waves at midnight in order to bring luck and strength. This tradition comes from an Afro-Brazilian religion known as Umbanda. Jumping the waves gives honor to Iemanjá, Goddess of the Ocean, and purifies the jumper of any negative energies.

Heading to Brazil soon? Dive into culture with the country’s best tours.

A speech from a monarch… and sofa-jumping (Denmark)

Scandinavian countries are often regarded as secular paradises—but every New Year’s Eve at 6 pm, Danes sit down to watch a speech from the ruling monarch. This year, that’s King Frederik IX, who will deliver a speech to his subjects.

After that, many Danes enjoy jumping off the couch at midnight to signify a leap into the new year. Jumping the sofa might not be one of the weirdest NYE traditions out there, but a king’s speech is certainly one for the books.

Heading to Denmark anytime soon? Explore the country’s most unique tours and experiences.

Eating soba noodles (Japan)

Eating Toshikoshi soba noodles at midnight is one of the preferred ways to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year in Japan. In fact, there’s even a specific type of soba noodle used, known as ‘year-crossing noodles’.

This tradition stretches all the way back to the Edo period when it was said to bring good luck and health.

Heading to Japan soon? Immerse yourself in local culture with the country’s coolest tours.

Making predictions with potatoes (Colombia)

Want to predict your next year? In Colombia, you can do so on New Year’s Eve by taking three potatoes and hiding them under your bed. One you will fully peel, one you will half peel, and one you will leave whole.

At midnight, pull one out to see what the next year holds in store for you. The peeled potato signifies prosperity; the half-peeled potato predicts normalcy; the unpeeled potato brings with it financial challenges.

Heading to Colombia anytime soon? Don’t miss out on Colombia’s best experiences.

Beating the walls with bread (Ireland)

One of the more unique traditions from Ireland is beating the home with old Christmas bread—sometimes at the stroke of midnight, but not always. This is a centuries-old tradition that brings good fortune and positivity by scaring away any evil spirits and inviting in benevolent ones.

Heading to Ireland soon? Get more out of your trip by scheduling an unforgettable tour.