When traveling with someone else we always need to compromise. Sometimes our hopes and expectations are very different, but we want to travel together. The best way to have a most successful holiday is to plan ahead. This does not mean every moment is planned just the basics. So ask each other what your expectations are, what do you really want to do and see? I suggest you each make a list separately. Limit the number of items to what is most important. And maybe prioritize the list. Then bring your lists together. I bet you will find you can accommodate each other on your lists. You may find your partner wants to go to the Opera at La Scala in Milan and you have never heard an opera, but you may learn that watching a live performance in one of the premier opera houses is wonderful!
Divvy up activities. I would keep it to part of each day. To go a day or two where you are not doing what you want to do may lead to unpleasantness. One of the joys of travel is experiencing something new! If you really do not want to go to the opera than plan a separate event for that night. But do compromise and accommodate since it will be fun.
When planning with children think as a child when planning or ask the child “what would you like to do?” If they are too young, just think like a five year old. This summer for example I am taking Sophia to Tanglewood, where the Boston Symphony Orchestra performs in the summer to hear Mozart 39, 40, and 41 symphonies. The seats are on the lawn, we will have a picnic, and she can dance to the music. Then I want to take her to a museum (it is never too early.) In all the times I have gone to the Berkshires (mountains in western Massachusetts) I have never been to the Norman Rockwell Museum. A child sitting on a stool with a policeman…how can she not love it!
When you think about it, it is easy to plan with another person. Just make sure you are talking and sharing ideas. Well, maybe not with everyone but most.
Speaking of sharing. I am thinking of planning a February getaway for 2016. Nothing fancy! Would you like to join me? I’m going to St. Marten and will stay at the Grand Case Beach Club. http://www.grandcasebeachclub.com/ It is on the beach and at the end of town. It’s easy to walk to all kinds of restaurants and shops. Just a few days to get some warm sunlight. It has Wi-Fi so I will work part of the days but enjoy the heat and sun. Come join me… we can have some fun. Let me know your thoughts. ‘Til then…
P.S. If I am doing plans for 2016 it is not too early for the rest of 2015.
AlwaysHarriet 