Travelling with friends can be an exciting and beautiful experience which leaves you with lifelong memories. It is also the perfect opportunity to strengthen the bonds in your circle.
However, it can also be quite disastrous and the terrible planning of a sweet getaway can unfortunately result in sour relationships.
Knowing how to plan a trip and enjoy it without losing friends is essential. Here are a few tips for a fun and fantastic friendcation:
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Start with a short trip
If you are travelling with your friends for the very first time, starting with a short trip to test the waters may be a good idea.
For example, book a weekend staycation at a resort nearby as a trial run before jetting off to an international destination where you intend to spend a week or more. This will help you understand each other’s travel options, and the main trip will be a little less intimidating.
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Align travel goals
Before you and your group of friends jet off to your dream destination, it is important to discuss your travel goals and expectations. What does each person aim to accomplish on the vacation? Is the focus going to be solely on relaxing, sipping on cocktails and enjoying gorgeous views? Or do you intend to be in full ‘tourist mode’ as you explore the attractions and culture of your destination?
It is essential to get everyone’s goals and expectations. This way, you can prepare for a satisfying journey and avoid disappointment.
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Money, money, money!
Money can be a very tricky topic. When travelling as a group of friends, it is important to be on the same page about the budget. Speak about how you will be sharing expenses, including paying for accommodation, restaurants and activities.
Will everything be divided equally? Will you be taking turns to pay for meals or activities? Having the money chat in the planning phase is important and will help you avoid uncomfortable situations.
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Have a flexible itinerary
Having an itinerary which fits everyone’s preferences is important and can serve as a guideline for the trip. However, make sure it is not set in stone and avoid packing too many activities into one day.
Avoiding a crammed schedule will provide more ease for the entire group. Additionally, wiggle room will allow for any minor changes which may need to be made.
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Leave room for alone time
Although you love your friends to bits, having them around you every second of the day for an entire two weeks may not be the best idea.
Some personal time is important because your relationship with self constantly needs to be nurtured. See where you can fit in some alone time. This can be in the form of journaling for a few minutes before bed or even a solo swim early in the morning before the day’s group activities.
