A successful romantic trip

There's nothing better than planning a long or short romantic trip with your partner every now and then, to finally take the time to reconnect as a couple, to (re)discover each other, or even to (re)propose marriage.

What are the dos and the absolute don'ts on such a trip?
Here are a few tips.

The "Do's" of a romantic trip

• Think about it well in advance. Booking far enough ahead gives you a better choice and often more attractive prices.
• "Romantic trip" doesn't necessarily mean "expensive trip". Not-too-expensive hotels can also be full of charm. Have you heard of glamping?
• In secret: choose subtly based on your partner's (secret) wishes, but make sure you get it right! Or
• In full transparency: make the choice together. This way you'll take a first step in shared enjoyment.
• Plan (surprise) activities that you'll both enjoy and share. But also build in moments of individual freedom, especially for activities you enjoy less but that your partner loves (e.g. shopping, visiting a museum, ...).
• Set aside some free time and take your time.
• Disconnect from work, your phone, your computer, your stressful schedule. Your romantic getaway should be disturbed as little as possible by your professional (or other) activities.
• Let yourself be surprised by the unexpected, take the time to wander off or go off the beaten track.
• We don't always think about it, but nothing is more annoying than falling ill on a romantic trip. So don't forget your medication and your travel first-aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, etc.
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The "Don'ts" of a romantic trip

• If you're booking a "surprise" destination, make sure it doesn't bring back bad memories of a previous visit or a visit with an "ex".
• Don't plan activities that risk exposing your partner to a phobia or an unwanted reaction (e.g. asthma, anxiety, …).
• Only book your romantic trip if your relationship has already proven itself, not if you've only been together for a few days. Your partner might misread your intentions, or might not yet be ready for this kind of trip.
• A romantic getaway is difficult, if not impossible, if you're surrounded and constantly needed by your children.
• Don't ruin your trip over a small argument or a disagreement. It's normal that, once out of your usual routine, you may want activities or a schedule that doesn't always match your partner's. Be accommodating.
• Taking selfies is always fun and lets you keep wonderful memories. However, don't take them on the edge of a cliff. It's statistically proven: selfies cause more deaths than shark attacks!
• On the subject of engagement rings: planning to surprise your loved one and propose abroad with an engagement ring? Don't put it in hand luggage that might get searched right in front of your future fiancée. That would kill the romance...
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