Mastering Your First Romantic Getaway: Essential Tips for Couples
WORDS: Alex Mellor-Brook, Dating and Relationship Coach, Co-founder at Select Personal Introductions
The first trip away together has become a big deal - part of the story of a successful relationship and a comedy trope for every romcom where the couple discover they are completely incompatible. But your first romantic getaway doesn’t have to be stressful - our complete guide helps you make this and every other romantic break into a success.
Discuss your ideas
We all have expectations, and sometimes they don’t match up. Talking in advance can help you understand how your ideas of the perfect holiday might not align. You might be all about relaxation whilst your partner is committed to adrenaline and adventure, but don’t worry! By understanding each other’s needs and each compromising a little, you can still create an ideal getaway with elements for you both.
Decide a budget
Talking openly about money is key to happy relationships, and your first trip away is a great place to start. Work out likely costs together, create a plan and agree a budget - while you can’t plan for everything, having a clear financial understanding is the basis for future trust.
Pick the perfect destination
You know what you both want from a holiday, and you’ve agreed a budget; that makes picking your destination much simpler. Make sure you’re catering to both your needs, do some research and create a shortlist. If you choose a destination that works for you both, you’re much more likely to have an amazing time than if one of you gives way to the other.
Plan activities
The most successful romantic weekends are a blend of exciting activities, relaxing downtime and space for spontaneity. Booking in some key events means that you can plan for memory making, including pictures and videos, without spending your whole time documenting your trip and failing to live in the moment. Allowing time for the unexpected also means that you can enjoy the random, wonderful moments that nobody can predict.
Be a perfect packer
Packing early avoids stress, and checking online what others consider to be essential items for your trip can help you be the perfect packer. Plan ahead for weather and activities and maybe include a couple of surprises for your partner: a new book, a special outfit for a romantic dinner or a favourite scent.
Disconnect to reconnect
Consider taking a digital detox during your getaway. If you can agree some guidelines for screen use, you may find you end up with more quality time and fewer moments where one of you feels neglected.
Navigate personal behaviours
Gone are the days when couples were married before they discovered each other’s annoying habits. However, the first getaway can be the time you realise that your partner has some challenging behaviours: snoring, leaving the bathroom a mess, dawdling around in their robe all morning etc. Be prepared for such minor annoyances and decide which need to be addressed and which can be accepted as just an idiosyncrasy. Plan personal time apart so quirks don’t become constant irritations, and remember you may have a few odd little behaviours of your own to help you keep a sense of proportion!
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