Valentine’s Day will be here soon and there’s no better way to celebrate your love than with a romantic getaway. However, travel can sometimes be stressful, and some trips can induce heartburn rather than be heartfelt. Much of that can be caused to poor planning or too high of expectations. Here is a list of "Do’s" and "Don’ts" when planning a romantic getaway.
Yes, we used romantic in the title of this article, but we had to in order to get your attention – but don’t let the word leave your lips. Why set expectations so high before you even leave home? Call it a mental health weekend or a trip to recharge your batteries. There should be no pressure on either of you during your stay.
This is a time to focus on each other, not run up your bar bill or eat until you’re bloated. Yes, it’s certainly okay to have a glass of wine with dinner or share a dessert, but just don’t overdo it. You want to be attentive and feel great during your trip. That isn’t going to happen if you get inebriated or you need to suck down a bottle of Mylanta each evening.
Nothing is sexier than if your partner thinks you are really focused on them. Don’t just go through the motions. Listen to what they are saying. Ask questions. Take note on what they would like to do on the trip. They will give you hints. You’ll get lots of extra bonus points if you put it all together and act on it.
Experiencing something that is new to both of you is a great way to deepen your bond. Activities like ziplining, scuba diving, or even taking a tour can make memories that will last long after the trip is through. For some great ideas, please read Romantic One-Day Trips from Siesta Key.
Packing too many activities into a trip isn’t the point. Make sure you have lots of downtime to spend together. This is the time to stay in bed until noon, or order room service for dinner. Give your partner an unexpected massage, dance on your balcony, or fall asleep on the sofa while watching a movie. These things can’t happen if your schedule is chockfull of activities.
We get it, money is tight for everyone. Finances can be a complicated and stressful topic for most. That is why the subject should never come up during the trip. Avoid the subject like the plague. In fact, avoid any subject that could possibly be stressful and lead to an argument. This is a trip to deepen your relationship, not lead to anxiety.
If you are going to watch a movie in your room, make it a comedy. If you go out for a late-night activity, consider a comedy club. Play Frisbee on the beach or build a sandcastle. Do something together that will make you laugh. Laughter truly is the best medicine. Laughter strengthens your immune system, puts you in a great mood, and protects you from the damage of stress. It also relaxes your whole body and triggers the release of endorphins. So laugh, and then laugh some more!
Just so we’re clear, this is a no-child trip. You can’t focus on each other if your first priority is looking after your little one. Leave them in good hands back home. It’s okay to check in every once in a while, but that’s it. They’ll be fine. Seriously, they’ll be fine. Focus on your partner. They need your full attention during this trip.
It doesn’t have to be something expensive or elaborate, just something to express your undying love. For some great examples, please read Planning a Romantic Getaway.
Every couple needs to get away now and then. With a little planning, and following these simple Do’s and Don’ts, you just might have the most fun you’ve had in years.
