It’s a common occurrence. You and your partner plan a lovely, relaxing getaway, intending to return rested and recharged. But then you spend the entire trip stressed out about airplane departures and your limited budget.
Vacation should be a time to rest and spend quality time together, not stress and bicker. Here are a few effective ways to relax more during your vacation so that you return recharged.
Plan Rest Days
If you spend your entire trip running from one attraction to the next, you won’t have much time to actually relax. It’s fine to plan a visit to that museum or monument you’re excited about. But try to be intentional about scheduling relaxation days as well, especially if the purpose of your vacation is resting rather than sightseeing.
This doesn’t mean you have to spend your relaxation days in the hotel, though you absolutely could. Maybe spend one day lounging around by the pool, having quiet time, and enjoying the hotel amenities. On another day, you could sleep in before taking a walk through the city and window shopping, then round off the evening with a nice dinner.
There are many different ways to plan relaxing days besides just staying in the hotel. What’s most important is the pace—you shouldn’t be trying to rush anywhere on a relaxing day.
Create a Budget Buffer
If you and your partner struggle with money stress, know that you’re not alone. However, don’t let it disrupt your vacation. You’ve likely spent quite a bit of time and effort saving to go on this trip. Don’t let it go to waste by spending it fighting.
Once you’ve budgeted out the essential items, such as meals, airline tickets, and a rental car, budget for discretionary items. Set aside money for admission to any attractions or events you want to see. Be sure to research these numbers in advance so that they don’t catch you by surprise. Plan to have a little spending money for souvenirs. Also, make sure there’s room in the budget to buy a coffee in the morning or go out to a nicer dinner than usual.
Then, create a buffer. A good rule of thumb is to plan as if you’re staying another night in the hotel. That should give you an approximate number to aim for. This budget will cover any unexpected costs, such as surprise fees or needing an emergency hotel for the night because of a canceled flight.
Choose a Relaxing Destination
The destination makes a big difference. Big cities have lots of activities to do but usually aren’t the most relaxing locations. Instead, choose a small town in a beautiful scenic area. The fresh air, quaint restaurants, and small-town charm are sure to make for a relaxing trip. After all, there are plenty of gems you likely won’t find in the big city. For example, the small-town food scene in Newberg, Oregon, is unique and diverse.
Focus on the Positive
One of the most effective ways to relax while on vacation is to just take a breath. Travel can be stressful, and there will be curveballs, but the most important thing is that you’re spending time with your significant other. Enjoy the uninterrupted time with them—even if you’re waiting for your delayed flight.
