Summer is almost and your romantic vacation fantasy is about to come true. To avoid having your dreams turn into nightmares here are some tips to make traveling with your loved one a first-class experience.
1. Anticipation is an aphrodisiac so make your vacation plans as far in advance as possible. Not only will you get the best rates and locations, but it also gives you something wonderful to look forward to.
2. Traveling and chaos go hand in hand. Accepting that there will be problems with lateness and logistics helps you to maintain a positive attitude. Give yourselves a little extra time by leaving earlier than necessary for everything. If you have to wait, dream about your vacation.
3. If you bring the family, make sure that you get to have some couple time. If the kids need supervision plan ahead for childcare.
4. Don't try to do everything. Many people come back from vacations more tired than when they left. Schedule in some rest time, if you get exhausted it can make you cranky and unromantic.
5. Give your partner a choice of activities. If you make all the plans your partner may feel that his or her desires are not being considered and you could come home with hurt feelings as one of your souvenirs.
6. Go along for the ride. If your partner wants to bungy jump and you're not that radical go with him or her as support (and to take pictures). You'll see more, your partner will feel loved and you may even be inspired to take the leap yourself.
7. Splurge, but don't go hog-wild. It's important to treat yourself and your partner lavishly every now and then, but be careful you don't come home with a bill that requires you to sell the family silver.
8. Fall in love again. Unwinding will allow your emotions to flow much easier. Take time to look into your partner's eyes and remember what you love about him or her. Be sure to make it a point to share your loving feelings with your partner. It will make your time away even more memorable.
9. Don't argue. Make a deal with each other that you won't fight for the whole trip. If a conflict arises remind yourselves of the deal and stop immediately. You are on vacation to get better connected and to recharge, not to push each other's buttons.
10. Have new experiences. If you only do the same things you do at home (eating similar foods, shopping, watching TV) you won't be getting the most out of your time away. Swim with the dolphins, climb a mountain, stay up all night and have room service often. Doing things differently while you're on vacation will inspire you to do things in a new way when you return home.
Taking time away with your sweetheart is one of the best things in life. It can rekindle romantic fires and extinguish old conflicts. Take every opportunity to make it as much of a honeymoon as possible.
Honored by several professional associations, Dr. Barton Goldsmith is a three-time award winning psychotherapist, a syndicated columnist and radio host, as well as a recognized keynote speaker. He has appeared on CNN, Good Morning America, Fox & Friends, CBS News, NBC News, and Beauty and The Geek. He was also named one of America's top therapists by Cosmopolitan Magazine.
His books, Emotional Fitness for Couples - 10 Minutes a Day to a Better Relationship (New Harbinger) and the sequel, Emotional Fitness for Intimacy - Sweeten and Deepen Your Love in Just 10 Minutes a Day were included in the Oscar "Swag Bags" as well as the Primetime Emmy gift bags. To learn more about personal and organizational growth, as well as Dr. Goldsmith's other books, please visit www.bartongoldsmith.com
