It should be idyllic - a whole week, just you and your partner on the holiday of your dreams. But this intense period of togetherness coupled with high (and often different) expectations on both sides often lead to arguments. So how can you avoid bickering at the beach?
Here's how you can make it through your romantic holiday without fighting with your man. © Cover Media
Why?
One of the most common reasons for getaway gripes is that each party wants something different from their break: you'd rather chill at the beach while your partner wants to plan non-stop activities - or vice versa.
Particularly if you don't live together, spending a whole, non-stop, 24/7 week with your loved one could drive you crazy. Even those who cohabit could run into difficulties without the independent, everyday routines they have at home.
How can you prevent it?
Compromise through planning
It's all about compromise and planning together, as a team. If one of you is the one booking the flights, the accommodation, the activities, you could soon find your partner isn't on board with everything you've arranged. And the one who's done all the leg work could begin to feel resentful, particularly if their other half seems ungrateful.
Instead, sit down together and make a list of destinations and activities you can agree one. Plan an alternating schedule if need be - one day of rest, one day of activity and so on. You might even discover a hobby you never knew you enjoyed!
Also: don't be afraid to do some things alone. If you partner is happy to book a diving excursion by themselves and you'd happily finish the last chapter of your holiday read, then go for it!
Prep for holiday
You'd do all the usual holiday preparation: pack, change up money, buy new swimwear - so why wouldn't you prepare emotionally? It might be a good idea to take a couple of extra days off work at the start of your holiday to spend more time than usual with your other half. Get used to spending more time with your partner and start getting excited about the getaway together.
Deal with problems first
Any niggles or worries should be deal with before you go away. Leave it until the last minute and you'll feel under so much pressure not to ruin the holiday, it might all come out at once. Have a calm and frank discussion and try to reach compromises. If you're worried about money, bring it up before that holiday feeling kicks in and your partner is tempted to splash out. Set a budget or take a fixed amount of money - and stick to it. © Cover Media