As you and your dating partner grow closer, you may be thinking about going on vacation together. The idea of leaving the familiar behind to explore a new environment with each other is exciting. You hope that the experience will strengthen the connection you feel toward one another. Plus, there’s an inherent sense of romance associated with traveling together, as you leave friends, family, and acquaintances behind. But, vacations can either make or break dating relationships. Below, I’ll explain how to make sure that your vacation is anxiety-free and strengthens the bond you share with your dating partner.
Planning The Vacation
Take the time to plan your vacation together. That will give you and your partner the opportunity to include activities that are important to each of you. For example, you may want to visit clubs during the evening while your partner wants to visit a number of restaurants during the day. Or, you may prefer to start the day with coffee and a newspaper while your partner enjoys an early morning hike. This is an ideal opportunity to compromise. Plus, planning together gives you both a sense of ownership about the vacation, and it becomes a team effort in the process.
Being Flexible
At home, it’s easy to become accustomed to being in control. When you’re traveling with your dating partner, be flexible according to their needs or desires. Being on vacation means you don’t have to answer to a rigid schedule. If you or your partner are no longer in the mood to do something that you planned, don’t do it. If you want to eat at a different restaurant than the one at which you’ve made a reservation, cancel the reservation and follow your impulse. Being flexible is the key to having fun on your vacation.
Being Attentive
Being attentive to your partner is always important, but it’s crucial when you’re traveling together. Your attention is understandably divided at home between your job and other responsibilities. But, on vacation, you’re leaving those things behind. If this is your first vacation together, take the opportunity learn more about your partner, away from the distractions of home. Be attentive and enjoy each other.
Managing Your Expectations
A lot of dating couples have high expectations for their first vacation together. It’s easy to become idealistic with thoughts of romantic dinners, wine, playing on gorgeous beaches, and enjoying uninterrupted physical intimacy. In truth, traveling together for the first time can be stressful. After all, you’re in a new environment with someone whom you’re still learning about. Expecting the vacation to be a flawless romantic experience is likely to lead to frustration and disappointment.
Enjoying Each Other
The most important thing to remember is that your vacation is an opportunity to fully enjoy each other’s company and return home feeling closer to one another. It’s a chance to get away from all of the distractions of home and focus on your partner, absorbed in a new environment and sharing new experiences. By planning your vacation together, remaining flexible, being attentive, and managing your expectations, the time you spend together can strengthen the bond between you.