I ’m not the kind of person who’s into New Year’s resolutions (possibly because every one I have ever made has lasted a maximum of 17 days). But I do love the idea of reinvention, and I think we all manage to reinvent ourselves more than we know—particularly those of us who seek out new experiences.

In this issue, inspired by Erin McGrady’s Side Roads column, we’re parking tired old resolutions in favour of revolutions. I don’t mean the dramatic, overthrow-the-government kind (regardless of how much we might want to).

I mean the quiet revolutions. The personal ones. The decision to take the long way. The choice to finally drive the road you’ve always dreamed about.

Agnes Holland and her best friend did exactly that, tracing the full length of Route 66 just ahead of its 100th anniversary—proving that friendship and a loose itinerary are still among the best navigation systems ever invented. Across the country, spring is staging its own uprising in feathers and birdsong, as John Rakestraw discovers in his birdwatching feature. America turns 250 this year, which feels like an excellent excuse to visit the places that shaped the story of our country—and perhaps reconsider the story that you’re writing of your own life.

Also in this issue, there are waterfalls to chase. Boozy trails to follow (purely for research, of course). Vans to pack. Gear to obsess over. Side roads to take simply because they’re there.

Travel, at its best, is a gentle rebellion against autopilot. It’s a reminder that we are allowed to change direction, throwing away old ideas and starting afresh. It’s a way to find things within ourselves that only changing course can reveal. So, here’s to the revolutions that begin with starting the ignition.

See you out there.

Gemma Peckham

Editor

ROVA