The new season of reality show Divas Hit the Road has become a hit. A reminder of summer vacations, the show encourages viewers to prepare for adventures of their own.
Whilst going on holiday with close companions might seem a good idea, a shared week in the sun could cause tension and rifts to even the strongest of friendships.
Why can friendships be put to the test during a holiday?
Different expectations
One of the biggest problems with going on holiday with friends is the difference in personalities and ideas of what makes a holiday special.
While you may be looking forward to relaxing on the beach and lying in bed, your friend's mission could involve visiting every scenic spot possible within a 50-mile radius.
Lack of communication before and during the trip
No matter how well you think you know your friends, you don't really know them until you've lived under the same roof.
Communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings, disappointments, and feelings of rejection; talking things out in advance, making plans for what to do together or individually, and being sincerely honest with each other will ensure everyone's needs are met.
In the interest of preserving friendships, here are a few things to organise before you check in at the airport.
Talk before you walk
It's not enough to say, "Let's travel Europe together!" You need to discuss each other's habits, routines, accommodation expectations, transportation, sightseeing and spending. It's easier to organize arrangements before the trip rather than after.
For example, if you book an apartment in AirBnb in the middle of a trip, who will get the bigger room? It may seem like overkill to drag out these details with a good friend, but it's better to be cautious and clear than cross and in conflict.
Learn to compromise
Compromise is the key to every single successful relationship, but it's hugely important if you are going to travel with friends. Even if you think you're soul mates, you may not want to do all of the same things.
Occasionally doing something that one of you doesn't necessarily want to do ensures everyone is happy – and you may find you like it after all!
Communication is everything
Do what you can to stay on the same page while you're traveling together. Voice your concerns as soon as you sense some friction, otherwise it can lead to resentment, which is definitely the last thing you want to feel towards your travel partner.
Build in some space
There's no need to be joined at the hip with your friend. In fact, taking breaks can make your time together more enjoyable. Traveling on your own from time to time is important, because it allows you to learn about yourself and grow confident, social, and resourceful.
It's best to schedule some solo downtime beforehand -- not when you feel that you cannot spend another minute together.
You can learn a lot both about a person and the world itself by taking a trip with friends. A little preparation and planning, learning to lean on and learn from one another will help you all to step outside of your comfort zone, whilst ensuring smooth sailing for you and your travel partner.
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