By Lori Zaslow and Jennifer Zucher for Project Soulmate
Summer has finally arrived, and we are diving right into the month of June! This season brings with it lots of sunscreen, bikini bods, and the exciting — albeit sometimes dreaded — family vacation. Let’s say that you’ve finally met someone special, and you are contemplating whether or not to bring them to your family’s beach house. If you do take the plunge and invite your partner along, here are a few simple rules to consider:
First, if you are a guest in someone else’s home, make sure you let them know you are bringing a plus-one. This way, they can decide the sleeping arrangements. Your host may think that separate beds isn’t a big deal, but if it is to you, then speak up! If you’re pitching in and paying for this vacation, then you should have a say in what room you get and whether or not your significant other can stay in it with you.
Related Link: A Summer of Love
It’s probably best that your family isn’t meeting your beau for the first time on this vacation. This step will ensure that your love feels somewhat comfortable with your relatives so you don’t have to worry about them having a good time. If you have the chance, introduce them to family members they may not know yet to avoid any awkward moments or embarrassing small talk.
Remember to help out and be neat around the house — and encourage your partner to do the same. You don’t have to cook a five-course meal every night or do your brother’s laundry, but helping with the dishes after dinner, hanging up the beach towels, or making a trip to the grocery store are all small acts that will not go unnoticed by your loved ones.
Take some alone time if you need it. Your sweetheart should feel comfortable enough to say no to cards with the guys or the annual family volleyball tournament. Just don’t turn down every offer; you don’t know what great traditions you could be missing out on! If you are really serious about this person, it’s good to immerse yourself in these customs since they might be a part of the family one day.
Always be on time for arrivals and departures as well as any pre-planned excursions. When things go wrong during traveling, as they often do, try and keep your cool. You won’t remember that night spent without your luggage or getting attacked by mosquitos on a morning bike ride, but your family will always remember that first vacation with your significant other.
Related Link: 10 End-of-Summer Date Ideas
Be respectful that this is vacation time and leave your work at home. If you or your boo have to check email regularly or do a few hours of work each day, talk with your family and let them know. Then, unplug and enjoy yourself for a while! This simple act shows your relatives that your significant other is committed to learning about them and can really unwind and relax.
Finally, remember to be yourself. Show your family who you and your partner are as a couple. Following these tips while on vacation will ensure that you have a great time with your sweetheart and that they create long-lasting bonds with your family!
How did you prep for bringing your partner on a family vacation? Share in the comments below!
