Summer Vacation

It's that time of year again! The time all college students leave their cares behind and head for some beach somewhere. Cancun. St. Thomas. Miami. Jamaica. The point is to get away and leave all of the stressors of school behind you. After exams are finally over, you may think it's a good idea to go on a vacation with your boyfriend, but is that really for the best??

Sometimes, it can be too early in the relationship to take such a big step. Going on vacation is difficult enough with your family, (insert horrible childhood road trip experience here) so you have to be sure that you are 100% ready to attempt something like this with your significant other. You really learn what someone's made of when you are stuck in a car with them (or on a plane, or on a train...). I have gotten in several fights over directions going a few miles up the street, so that's definitely not what you want on a long distance trip!

While going on vacation with your boo can have negative outcomes, it could have a very positive one as well. Going away together could be a great way to see his habits in a way that you would if you were to live together, without the messiness of moving in, splitting bills, and getting in over your head! On the trip, pay attention to how he brushes his teeth. If he squeezes the toothpaste down to the end and you don't like that, take note. And it's up to you to decide if that's something you can live with or not, but at least now you'll know!

Another thing to be mindful of is how he handles certain situations. For instance, if there is an unforseen issue with the hotel reservation and he blows up on the front desk clerk, that may be a red flag for you! Take note of how he interacts in this situation because it is when people are out of their element that they are most likely to show their true colors.

Susan Johnston, a freelance writer who covers career and lifestyle topics, had a great article on Taking Your First Vacation Together.

Her top 4 suggestions were:
1. Agree on a destination
2. Start small
3. Allow for time apart
4. Decide on who's paying for what before you leave

I think all four recommendations are appropriate, but my two favorite are #2 and #4. There is nothing worse, than fighting about money on a trip that is supposed to be fun and relaxing. Work out all of the details at home in a way that is civil and fair for both parites. While many of my friends recommended a trip to Vegas or a cruise to the islands (and that sounds nice), I am a firm believer in putting your pinkie toe in the water before you dive in! If you start out small and are successful, there's always room for bigger & better trips together!

But the most important thing when going on your first "sleep away" trip is to HAVE FUN!!!