What’s in (and out) for 2024
According to the internet, 2024 will exist in a pretty simple binary: if it’s not in, it’s out. ‘Ins and outs’ lists are latest form of resolution setting, boiling trends and goals down into bullet-journal-style lists that tell us what to focus on (and what to forget) in the year ahead.
Is it a trend that’s sure to die down? Of course – in fact, we think these ‘ins and outs’ lists are already on the way out. But that won’t stop us from getting in on the fun while we still can.
So, without further ado, we present: our official ‘ins and outs’ list for 2024.
INS
Farmers markets
If we’re not spending at least one morning each weekend with a basket in one hand, coffee in the other, browsing stalls of fresh produce and artisanal wares, we’ll consider 2024 a total write off. For the scout team, this year is all about spending carefully, buying intentionally and getting back to basics – and the farmers market is the perfect place to start.
Shopping small
Whether it’s beautiful homewares, new (or at least, new to us) books, or vintage clothes, we deem 2024 the year of shopping small. The last few years have proven the importance of supporting small business owners – not just through the highs, but the lows as well – and we intend to keep that energy up in the year ahead.
Trying new things
None of us are getting any younger. Why not make this the year that you finally try that new hobby or activity you’ve always wanted to try? It might be committing to a running program, trying your hand at pottery or braving the waves with a surf group. Whatever it is, just try it – that’s all you have to do.
Getting out of town
Don’t get us wrong – we love the Gold Coast. But whether you’re a born and bred local or even just a visitor, there is always a new town or destination worth checking out. Take a day trip, a road trip, go camping (or glamping, if you prefer) or just take a few hours to frolic among the flowers or grab a pub meal.
OUTS
Boring weeknights
No more living for the weekend – this year, we’re making the most of the fun weeknight activities happening around town. From night markets to pub trivia, drag bingo and live music, there’s so much to fill your calendar with. Why not keep the fun going through Sunday, too?
Drinking out of habit
Drinking is a huge part of Australian culture, but more and more Aussies are bucking the trend and going sober – and we plan on joining them (even if it’s just for a week or month here and there). This Gold Coaster’s account of sobriety might just inspire you to do the same.
Expensive holidays
You don’t need to spend a small fortune to see the world. Of course, a European getaway is always nice, but there are plenty of other ways to travel if it doesn’t fit in the budget. From overseas destinations like Japan and Malaysia to local getaways that won’t break the bank, get creative with your travel plans this yar.
Sunbaking
Looking and feeling your best is always in – but risking skin cancer for a tan? That’s totally out in 2024. We won’t lecture you about the importance of protecting your skin here (we’ll do it here, though). Instead, we’ll direct you to these fool-proof tips for faking your summer glow.