Traveling Pops Shireen and I have traveled extensively, and while we’ve had incredible moments, we’ve also learned a lot about making compromises to make the trip enjoyable for both of us. To help you and your partner have an amazing trip without all the stress- We’ve put together a guide packed with detailed tips and personal experiences.
1. Plan the Trip Together, so you kill all the birds with one stone.
One of the biggest mistakes couples make is letting one person do all the planning. It’s easy to fall into the trap of “I’ll handle it because I’m better at planning,” but this can lead to frustration. The planner may feel burdened, while the other might feel uninvolved, and the truth is two heads are better than one.
How to Plan as a Team:
• Have a pre-trip discussion. Talk about what you both want. Are you looking for a relaxed getaway or an adventure-packed trip? Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Discussing these things early on guides you to be more focused because you know the plan.
• Use shared planning tools. We like Google Docs or Apple Notes to list costs, possible destinations, activities, and accommodations. That way, we both have access and can add our ideas.
• Divide the research. One person can look up accommodations while the other finds activities. If one of you loves planning more, the other can handle logistics like flights, transportation, or restaurant bookings. Shireen is an absolute wiz at this type of planning and I thankfully leave her to it.
• Agree on a rough itinerary. Leave room for spontaneity, but have a general plan so neither of you feels lost or overwhelmed.
Personal Example: On our Zanzibar trip, I was all about finding the best eating spots, while Shireen focused on cultural experiences. We combined our interests, and our itinerary included both—making the trip exciting for both of us.
2. Balance Your Interests (Again – compromise is Key!)
You and your partner won’t always have the same travel preferences. Maybe one of you loves museums while the other prefers outdoor adventures. The key is to find a nice balance, to make sure you are both enjoying the travel experience.
• Take turns choosing activities. If your partner wants to visit an art museum, go with them—and maybe later, they’ll join you on that scenic hike you’ve been excited about.
• Schedule solo time. There’s nothing wrong with splitting up for a few hours so you can each do your thing. Maybe one of you wants to explore local markets while the other lounges by the pool.
• Mix relaxation and adventure. If one of you prefers laid-back trips and the other loves fast-paced travel, alternate between exploring and unwinding.
Personal Example: In Thailand, I wanted to visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, while Shireen was more interested in a scenic river cruise to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. We “compromised”, and planned our day to include both activities.
3. Communicate Openly
Traveling is lot of fun, but can also be stressful – learn to go with the flow – getting lost is part of the fun! Unexpected bumps are bound to happen – These can often lead to the most amazing discoveries!
Tips to be make sure you are being inclusive and understanding :
• If you know your partner gets hangry keep snacks handy. If you need alone time, negotiate and agree on how you both can accommodate each other’s needs. Some of this scheduled alone time you may be able to build into your itinerary, while others could be discussed and agreed on the trip. Examples : tomorrow morning I would like to do some work. Can we spend the morning at the pool instead of going out? I would like to have a power nap etc. etc.
• Use the “20-minute rule.Sometimes, a 20 minute walk is all you need to come back feeling ready for the next activity.
• Communicate how you feeling – Instead of saying, “I feel rushed—can we slow down a little? Small adjustments make the trip more enjoyable.
• Remember: You’re a team. If something goes wrong, work together.
Personal Example: In Indonesia, we got lost looking for a hidden beach. I was getting frustrated, but instead of arguing, Shireen suggested we stop for a snack and recheck our map. Taking a short break helped us reset, and we found the beach without any fuss.
4. Expect the Unexpected & Stay Flexible
No matter how well you plan, things will go wrong. Flights get delayed, weather changes, and sometimes, you just have to go with the flow. The happiest couples on the road are the ones who can adapt without letting small hiccups ruin their trip.
How to Stay Flexible While Traveling:
• Always have a backup plan. If your outdoor excursion gets rained out, have an indoor activity in mind.
• Embrace spontaneity. Sometimes, the best experiences happen when plans change. Don’t get too attached to a strict itinerary.
• Laugh off the mishaps. Travel disasters make for the best stories later, so try to see the humor in them.
Personal Example: In Italy, we had planned to rent a car for a scenic drive, but the rental agency ran out of vehicles. Instead, we took a bus and ended up discovering a small local pizzeria with the best pizza we’ve ever had—an experience we wouldn’t have found otherwise!
5. Make the Trip Romantic (Even on a Budget)
It’s easy to get caught up in sightseeing and forget to create romantic moments. But a little effort can keep the spark alive while traveling.
Easy Ways to Add Romance:
• Surprise your partner. Bring them their favorite coffee in the morning, plan a spontaneous date night, or write a short love note. I’m very good at love notes.
• Plan special moments. Whether it’s a sunset picnic, a candlelit dinner, or simply holding hands while strolling through a new city, these little things make a difference. Shireen and I both love creating special moments. She has amazing out of the box ideas and she is most definitely the best travel partner!
• Take couple photos. Not just selfies—ask locals or use a tripod to capture beautiful memories together.
Personal Example: In Paris, instead of dining at an expensive restaurant, we had a picnic under the Eiffel Tower with a delicious salmon and cheese baguette, compliments from chef Shireen, and some sparkling grape juice, to toast our incredible holiday in the most romantic destination! It was a simple, affordable, and one of our most romantic travel memories.
6. Give Each Other Grace & Focus on Having Fun
At the end of the day, travel is about making memories, not following a perfect itinerary. Be patient with each other, enjoy the experience, and appreciate the journey together.
Final Takeaways:
- Travel challenges are normal—be patient and kind.
- Balance your interests so both partners feel included.
- Communicate, communicate, communicate
- Stay flexible—some of the best moments come from unexpected detours.
- Prioritise romance and fun, even during hectic trips.
Final Thought: Traveling as a couple isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about growing together. So pack your bags, embrace the journey , and create memories that will last a lifetime.
