Still putting together you list of New Year’s resolutions? Here’s one: Explore your surroundings, be a local tourist.

Too often we take what we see every day for granted. There is history under our nose at every turn – and if it’s something we walk by every day, chances are that we don’t really take the time to get to know the story behind it.

Traveling in a city is a great time to learn about its history, how it grew, its key historical industries, the leaders that put the city on the map. But how many of us could speak intelligently about this kind of stuff for the city where we work, where we live?

How can you be a local tourist?
1. If your town has a historical society, take a walk in there one day. You’ll most certainly find someone who is passionate about your town and what makes it special. And you will undoubtedly walk out later in the day with a new appreciation for your surroundings. That statue you’ve seen hundreds of times will actually mean something. This street name or that park name will finally have some context and resonance.

2. Hit the local library and grab a couple of books about local history. Once you have the right book in your hand, it will be hard to put down, guaranteed.

3. Finally venture into that local museum dedicated to city history. Today is the day, give it a shot. Just start looking through some old photos and you are sure to be enthralled.

4. Seek out a local resident who has been there ‘forever’ and explore some local history over a cup of coffee. A first-person account is an invaluable way to build a historical picture. Granted this one may take a bit of courage to get the conversation started - but once you do, both you and your interviewee will be very glad that you did.

5. Take a guided or self-guided walking tour. If you live in a major city, chances are you’ll find a number of guided walks to choose from, whether via a local guide, a guidebook or, a personal favorite, an audio tour. Be careful, you may fall in love. In smaller towns, look for scheduled walks in the local papers. As a bonus in smaller towns, local walking tours are a great way to meet some of your neighbors.

2010 is the year. Explore your immediate surroundings and expand your horizons. You’ll find yourself empowered with some wonderful knowledge that all too few of your friends and neighbors have