10 tips for every couple travelling together for the first time
So you’ve decided to take your relationship to the next level and plan for an overseas trip together. It is undoubtedly a huge step, being around your significant other 24/7.
And understandably, emotions might run high and little squabbles might occur. But you’ve set aside a small amount of money for a relaxing getaway and the last thing you want to do is to end up ignoring each other for the entire trip.
Your holiday should be spent admiring the sights and city while enjoying each other’s company. Well, to help you get into the right state of mind, here are some tips for every couple who are planning on travelling together for the first time.
1. Location Is Key
Don’t fall for the ruse of holiday planners and visit conventional ‘romantic’ locations just because of their labels. Understand each other’s interest. Are you looking for an adventure or do you want to soak up the local sights and sounds?
Are you a nature-lover or a shopaholic? Understanding what both of you hope to get out of the holiday will help set expectations right from the get-go and aid in choosing the ideal destination filled with activities that you actually wish to do.
2. Play On Each Other’s Strength
Like how responsibilities in a group project are divided based on every team member’s strengths, couples should play on each other’s strength as well.
If you’re meticulous and organised, offer to take on the role of the planner to book the various flights and accommodation. If you’re a food lover, research the various spots in town for a good meal. This way, you’ll both be contributing to the planning process whilst streamlining the whole procedure.
3. Compromise
You might have heard this before, but it’s more important than ever to learn how to give in. Don’t let pride get in the way of having a good time. And more importantly, get ready to compromise.
That’s not to say that your trip will certainly end up in a heated conflict, but having a forgiving mindset will help you overlook the minor details and focus on the bigger picture – having a great time together.
4. It’s Okay To Be Alone
Yes, it is perfectly alright to not spend every waking moment together. If you’re just making a quick run to the convenient store nearby, or you just really want to do something you know your partner isn’t interested in, there’s no need to drag him/her along with you.
Having the stress of doing everything together can ironically ruin the trip. Seems counter-intuitive but it’ll sure help in preventing a major squabble.
5. Don’t Take Things For Granted
Did you pack the passport? Did we leave anything behind? Have you brought along the necessary documents for check-in? When travelling together as a couple, these concerns becomes a shared problem.
Don’t take it for granted that the other person will definitely do it. Having a hand and playing a part helps even out the roles and assure each other that you’re both investing into having a good time.
6. Be Open To Change
Knowing that even the best laid-out plans don’t always go smoothly can help prevent a case of finger-pointing. Unforeseen circumstances are bound to happen, and being spontaneous and flexible can help prevent the blaming game that puts a dent on your trip. Be ready to adapt and go with the flow.
7. Money Talks
The question of whether should you keep financials separate or together remains a touchy subject, and one where ground rules should be laid out well before the trip.
If you’re going to keep them separate, develop a system so the shared costs can be divided equally. And if you’re going to keep a central pool of fund, set rules on how or what this sum can be used for and what it can’t be. Just like a business account, transparency is key!
8. (Public?) Display Of Affection
Be mindful of the cultural norms of the country you’re visiting. PDA might be acceptable in some countries but frowned upon in other conservative ones. You don’t want to get into trouble for smooching your significant other – it certainly is something hard to explain to your friends and family when you come back.
9. Remember To Set Time For Dates
Just because you two are together 24/7 doesn’t mean that you can’t plan and go on dates.
These specially reserved blocks of time can help reconnect the two of you and remind each other of the whole point of the trip. Rushing from point-to-point and navigating the streets can almost feel like hard work, and setting aside special time to go on romantic dates can feel extra special in a new and exciting place.
10. Test The Water
Instead of plunging head first into a five day long trip, try spending 24 hours with each other first so you know what to expect. Does he or she snore? Do you sleep with a night light on?
Having a trial run where you stay together for an extended period of time can help give each other a glimpse to how it’s like on a holiday and take note of any quirks/eccentricities (like packing ear plugs or eye masks, for example).
Remember these 10 advices before embarking on that virgin experience with your loved one. They say you’ll never truly understand someone else’s colours until you travel together with them. We agree. Wholeheartedly.
This article first appeared here. ShopBack gives you up to 30 per cent Cashback on top of discounts and credit card rebates at 500+ online shops. Get Cashback rewards, promo codes and discount coupon at ShopBack Singapore.
