5 Tips for Travel with Friends
A recent Harris Interactive Poll commissioned by Hampton Hotels found that 43% of adults travel with friends at least once a year and at least 74% prefer to take a road trip when they do. The survey also found that the most discussed aspect of a trip is deciding where to go (34%), followed by what to do (27%), and finally agreeing on the budget (14%).
For me, one of the best parts of traveling is sharing the experience with others: both the people traveling with me, and those I befriend along the way. So I was delighted that Hampton (part of Hilton worldwide) recently tapped me as a spokesperson to provide advice to them and their guests on traveling with friends. Here are some of the tips to strengthen the bonds of friendship and avoid unnecessary hassles; they may be timely during these last weeks of summer.
Don’t Snooze When You Choose
Select your travel companions wisely and make sure they’re people whose company you enjoy and with whom you feel comfortable and relaxed. Any vacation with friends offers the potential to bring you closer and to create shared memories that can last a lifetime.
First Class or Coach?
Talk costs upfront; some friends are more frugal than others. You may all covet lavish vacations but you’re also realistically constrained by budgets. Let’s be honest, it’s a bit uncomfortable to talk about money. Being clear about any budget limitations will make the trip less stressful each time you have to reach for your wallet.
Pick a City, Any City
Where you travel depends on the friends, their tastes, their pocketbooks and the season. Decide if you want to expose yourself to new cultures with different foods and customs or just sit back, relax and enjoy your vacation.
Fail to Plan? Plan to Fail
Make sure you and your friend(s) are on the same wavelength about your destination and at least agree on a rough itinerary before you leave home. There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination and finding out on the first morning that you have vastly different expectations.
Personality Detours
Allow for flexibility when it comes to travel. No two people behave or think exactly the same way. It’s okay to have different habits, lifestyles and ideas about travel as long as friends are flexible, respectful, and willing to compromise when you are together.
Do you have any questions/suggestions about traveling with friends or experiences to share?
Category: Travel with Friends
Dear Irene,
I am thrilled that you will be the friendship spokesperson for Hampton Inn. You always give the best advice; and with great concern and thoughtfulness. Congratulations!!!!
With love,
One of your “best” friends,
Linda
Thanks so much for your kindness! I’d go on any trip with Hilary—or you.
Best,
Irene
and leaving a note, Debbie. Any friend of Jackie’s is a friend of mine!
Best,
Irene
What great advice on traveling with friends. I’m sure you had a great time. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Jackie in person when I purchased her book about Arizona. I’ve been following her blog too.
What a great gig, Irene. Congratulations–You’re the best person for the job!
Another word of advice if all else fails: Let the smartest woman in the group plan everything! Just ask Hilary over at http://www.mainetravelmaven.com/ (She’ll know what I’m talking about).
And about that photo…Ice cream. It’s meant to be eaten when you’re with friends, right? 😉