life hacks for those who are going on a trip with friends
The idea of going on a trip with friends always seems amazing. But often the trip ends in quarrels, bad mood and even hostility. Find out how to avoid this and have a great vacation.
Choose a good travel companion
Spontaneity is good when traveling, but not when it comes to choosing a travel companion. Bring along friends whose company you have enjoyed over time and in different situations. If you have been through a lot together, you can predict each other’s behavior and adapt, which means the trip will be more joyful and calm.
Find out what each of you expects from the trip
Discuss in advance what sights each of you wants to see, what daily routine you prefer (what if one of you is an early bird and the other is a night owl), discuss the choice of a hotel or hostel. The more detailed you discuss the upcoming trip and your habits, the more enjoyment you will bring. Sometimes even the choice of a place to dine can be the cause of discord, because you may prefer different cuisines and formats of establishments.
Remember that qualities that you do not notice at home can manifest themselves in a trip with triple force. For example, the habit of criticizing.
Discuss the budget
The most serious source of conflict is money. This issue should definitely be discussed in advance, because your vacation plan depends on it: excursions, choice of restaurant, modes of transportation and much more. An unpleasant situation can arise suddenly. For example, you get caught in a pouring rain and one of you prefers to walk, just to save on travel, and the other wants to stay dry. Before you start planning, discuss your financial capabilities and desires regarding housing, food and entertainment.
Don’t try to spend all your time together
Allow yourself and others time alone if needed. Resentment about your vacation and your fellow travelers can easily arise when you feel like you are giving in too much and neglecting your own interests.
Set aside about an hour a day to spend in a café or just sitting in the hotel lobby reading a book or answering emails. You don’t have to spend every free minute together and feel guilty if you want to be alone for a while.
Pay attention to your friends
If you are lucky enough to find a good travel companion, then paying attention to them will only improve your trip. Respect their mood and fatigue. Try to find a balance in each other’s needs. Be tidy in the room if you live together.
Think over a meeting system
This is a good idea if you decide to split up, for example, at the market and do not rely on smartphones. It is also important in case someone gets lost. Set a time and place to meet and strictly adhere to all agreements.
Be open to new communication
Don’t limit yourself to the people you came with. Make new interesting acquaintances. A variety of communication will relieve tension in relationships with your fellow travelers and liven up your vacation. In addition, it is useful to meet locals. This is excellent practice of a foreign language, a deeper understanding of the country’s culture, an opportunity to see amazing places that are not listed in the guidebook.
Be flexible
Improvise! If you come to Paris and don’t like it, go to Nice. If instead of the planned excursion your companion suddenly suggests a more exciting pastime – agree. The main goal of a vacation is to get emotions and pleasure. With flexibility, spontaneity and humor you can spend the perfect trip.