There’s a saying that couples who can travel together, stay together. Well, this isn’t always the case. Yes, travelling has the power to unite two people, but only if you adventure, fight-free.
Don’t let your travels cause you to drift apart. Make sure your trips are something you look forward to, not dread. Here’s how to holiday with your partner:
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Go phone (and TV)-free
There’s nothing sadder than seeing a couple stuck to the phones, looking down, when they’re in front of the pyramids of Egypt, the Great Wall or Niagra Falls. It’s not easy because your iPhone is also your camera, but let us tell you something. Whatever’s on your phone isn’t more important than what’s right in front of you, in real life.
Practice a no-phone holiday. Use that beautiful camera that you bought and have hardly used. Break free from the addictive grasp of your phone to experience a true holiday. Save your ‘home check-in’s’ and Instagram photos for when you’re back relaxing in your hotel. Post those travel-envy snaps in your down time.
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It’s okay to have space
Just because you’re on a romantic getaway, it doesn’t mean you have to live in each other’s pockets. It’s healthy to have space, so you can cherish the moments you share. If you love running, why not get up early and do a few laps of the area around your hotel. At the beach or on an island? Grab a coffee and catch the sunset. Then, bring those vibes back to your lover.
We all need space, even when we are out on a couple holiday at private couple’s resorts. Avoid going stir-crazy.
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Do things you both love
Like every good relationship, sharing is key. The same goes for travelling in a pair. There’s gives and take. He (or she) might want to go snorkelling but you prefer lazing by the pool. While it’s fine to a couple of things alone, it’s also important to show your partner that you’re open to do what they want, too. Aim for 80-90% together, 10-20% apart – not the other way around. Plan in advance to make this process easier to avoid arguments. It even comes down to places to eat dinner. You’d be surprised how much of an issue this can be. If you need, take turns or pick places you’d both like to try, in advance.
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Don’t bring up past fights
There’s nothing more stressful than a negative dynamic on holiday. Well, maybe missing your flight but if there’s good energy, you can overcome any travel hiccup. Know your triggers and don’t let small things get on your nerves. Relax, remember why you’re on holiday, and be open with your partner.
Don’t let things like money and planning (or lack of it) cause tension. There’s no point being on a tropical island if you can’t enjoy it.
Get things right between the two of you, first, and the world’s your oyster.