Its 2010 which means I am in my fifth year of writing Travel Rants and I am out enjoying myself, celebrating a new year. It has been an odd year for me because while they are many positives to write about, the libel issue that I found myself in left a rather bad taste in the mouth.

Libel issue left me bruised but not out

At the time I was on the verge of closing the blog and moving on to pastures new but I decided to give myself six months to see how things worked out. Those six months have just come to an end and I think that Travel Rants still has a part to play in the travel industry.

Thankfully, I have found that people have been so supportive and it’s time to look forward to a new year.

Proud to be part of a great community

I sit back and look at what I have achieved, but that would not be possible without this great community. I want to thank every single one of you who have joined in the discussions. Especially to those that have been on here in the early hours answering consumer’s questions in difficult times.

Just before Christmas I was sat here reading comment’s, people worried about their holiday, newlyweds going on honeymoon, family holidays ruined, my fantastic readers and I were here to help, that made me so proud and it’s at that point that I realised I had to continue with this blog.

I still have that passion and fire in my belly.

Achievements in 2009

Mentions in the national press, nominated for awards by Lonely Planet and Travolution, recognition from the travel industry by the likes of Cheapflights and Lastminute.com and my appearance on BBC television and radio, yes a great year, but many more goals to achieve in 2010.

New Year, new goals and challenges

One of my goals this year is to use this blog to help the industry deal with big issues like holiday protection, yes, I do write about the negative aspects of travel but I think consumers, like me, have a role to play in making the industry better and that is why I write this blog.

New personal challenges

One of my biggest challenges outside of blogging is to lead a healthier lifestyle, I also want to do some fundraising and walk across part of the Great Wall of China, more on that soon. Regular readers will know that I work full-time, and run this blog in my spare time, that will hopefully change.

I wish you all the best for the coming year and here’s hoping that it is a healthy one for you all.

• Reflecting on a year of ranting about travel
• Travel agents coming together to help consumers
• Shaping the future of Travel Rants
• Travel Rants is a great little community
• It’s Time for a new Challenge

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