If you want a healthy, rewarding social life, then it’s worth occasionally taking some time off to reconnect with your closest friends. This is part of what makes a great girls’ trip so worthwhile. It’ll provide an opportunity to create memories and to catch up in a way that isn’t possible if you’re just going for a night out. But how do you get the best from a trip like this? There are a number of factors worth thinking about.
[Photo by Taryn Elliott]
Choosing the Right Destination
To begin with, you’ll need to agree on the kind of holiday you want. While it’s possible to cater to a variety of tastes (if you pick the right resort), it’s unlikely that you’ll satisfy one person’s desire for a beach holiday if the rest of the group wishes to go skiing.
You’ll also need to take into account and pay attention to people's financial situations. If some members of your party feel under pressure to spend more than they comfortably ought to, then feelings of resentment and stress can creep in. Have an open and honest conversation and set an appropriate budget.
Speaking of stress, you’ll also need to think about the simplicity of the accommodation, and the ease of getting to/from there, as well as local attractions. Certain holidays, like Amalfi Coast trips, are the stuff of dreams and are definitely worth considering. But it’s worth ironing out the details — that way, you can keep everyone happy.
Crafting an Itinerary That Balances Rest, Discovery, and Together-Time
People tend to have different objectives when they travel. This might depend on the personality of the traveller, and the sorts of domestic and professional pressure they’ve been under.
Ideally, your holiday itinerary should offer plenty of variety. Relaxing downtime, with spa breaks and hours on the beach, might be combined with adrenaline-fueled experiences, and the occasional cultural one. You might want to tweak the balance depending on what’s available and what your party is looking for.
It’s important that one member of the group isn’t burdened with all of the responsibilities when it comes to planning. Use travel apps to keep track of everything, and where possible, delegate tasks – but make sure that someone actually confirms that the details are all sorted before you set off.
Accommodation, Value, and Comfort
You’ll need to stay in a location that balances comfort with affordability. If you’re going overseas, you may find all-inclusive hotels offer the most in terms of comfort, but a private villa may be of better value, depending on your group size.
Additionally, destinations with shorter flight times might be more appealing due to their tendency to be a little cheaper, plus you don’t have to deal with jet lag and can get the most out of the trip. All that really matters is that everyone is on the same page, so discuss these factors and explore options before booking.
Safety, Well-being, and Group Travel Considerations
No matter what, you need to take into consideration and be able to manage risks. Make sure that you investigate every part of your experience before you book it by checking reviews and booking through trusted providers. When actually away, don’t take any chances when it comes to nightlife and taxis, and stick together at all times.
