Posted on Wednesday, 1 February 2017

Going on holiday together for the first time is a big step. Unless you already live together, such a trip is a great way to see how you get on in a 24/7 scenario – and whether or not you can appreciate your lover – 'warts ‘n' all'. But it's worth thinking about how you can avoid misunderstandings/arguments/breaking up forever.

Here are 10 things to think about.

Pick a place you both like

Sounds obvious, but in the early stages of passion, one of you may defer to the other's interests in order to keep them happy. But in the long run, this could backfire. If your partner wants to go bungee-jumping and white water rafting, but you'd rather sit on the beach with the latest Helen Fielding novel, then you should make this clear. Otherwise one of you may be going home early, possibly in an ambulance.

Make sure you can both afford it

When it comes to love, money is no object. Only it kind of is. One of you may be raking in a six-figure salary, while the other may be living on more modest means. If there is a big disparity in expendable incomes, try to pick a location you can both afford – unless the wealthier partner is footing the bill, which in today's egalitarian world could bring further problems!

Don't be tight

Equally, you don't want to be penny-pinching on your first holiday together. Make sure you've set aside enough money to enjoy the break properly. Any previously concealed tendency towards stinginess will inevitably come out on a getaway – and it's a quality some lovers don't like too much!

Do a dummy run

Take a short break together before the 'big one'. This will get you used to your partner's 'foibles' and better prepare you for the necessary compromises that lie ahead.

Avoid the green-eyed-monster

Jealousy – rubbish isn't it? Few other emotions can put a downer on what should be a romantic escape together. Work hard to keep your eyes off those bronzed beach bodies (yes, we're talking to you) and try not to get into passionate conversations with strangers (especially attractive ones). Travelling as a couple usually means you will have to remain more self-contained than group or lone holidaymakers – but then, that's why you went on holiday together.

Squeeze in ‘no-alcohol' days

Sangria and salacious-sounding cocktails are a part of most peoples' holidays – but don't overdo it. Drinking every day will eventually erode your mood and will stop you from enjoying birdsong at daybreak, romantic morning strolls on the beach – and the free buffet breakfast which stops being served at 10.

Avoid ostentatious romantic gestures

The waves gently lapping at the golden sands; leisurely days wandering through quaint little villages hand-in-hand; multiple hours with the 'do not disturb' sign on the door: All these can make you do stupid things like saying 'I love you' for the first time, or even Popping the Question. Think carefully before popping that bad boy, because it might scare the wits out of your beloved, or worse, lead to years of mortgages, nappies and tense Christmas dinners with the in-laws.

If something goes wrong, count to ten

It's no surprise that here at starttravel.co.uk, we know things do go wrong on holiday: Lost passports, stolen mobiles and getting horribly injured are just a few. Such problems should be handled calmly – don't go blaming your partner in any way or getting angry. All these things can be replaced or rectified without too much stress – especially if you take out a good travel insurance policy (you knew we were going to say that).

Don't try to do too much

You've probably seen those tour groups being herded onto coaches by stressed-out guides and being whizzed around half a dozen ancient monuments each day. Don't be like them, or otherwise try to pack in too much. This holiday is about you both, so ensure you have the space to get to know each other better.

Compromise

Compromise – civilisation is built on it – and so are civil partnerships (too soon?). Accept your partner's differing opinions and tastes and try to balance them with yours. If your beloved is going through a 'vegetarian phase' and you want to chomp down on a Big Mac, try to find a mature, sensible middle ground (suggest they order some French fries followed by a McFlurry).

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