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While running away for a romantic weekend sounds like heaven, the reality is that it doesn't happen quite as spontaneously as this! Planning is key to creating an environment where you can relax and reconnect with your par tner in ways that aren’t always possible when you are surrounded by the minutiae of daily life. Whether you book a 'last minute' package or organise a surprise getaway here are a few things you can do in advance to minimise 'holiday stress' and make the most of your precious time together.
Planning a Surprise. Organising a weekend away 'just because' is a gesture you'll both enjoy (and it will win you serious brownie points!). So if you want to show your beloved what they mean to you, it's time to take control. The key is to think of and organise EVERYTHING yourself. It's only a few hours out of your life researching, planning and booking but you and your partner will be able to cherish the memories forever.Think selflessly. Choose a short break you know they will like just as much as you (or even more). What's their idea of a really good time? Sipping shiraz by a roaring open fire at a mountaintop lodge or room service breakfast in a five-star suite? Would they prefer fish and chips on the beach at sunset or sharing a gourmet picnic hamper after bushwalking through the rainforest? Think about what your partner has been watching or reading lately – chances are they may have already given you the information you need by pointing out somewhere “they’ve always wanted to go” or something “they’ve always wanted to do”.
Research. Once you've narrowed down your choices take a look through this magazine or hop on to our website to check out potential locations and accommodations. Many places will offer deals or even 'romantic packages' which could really cap off your stay.
Check your timing. Give school holidays a miss if you can and check out the weather conditions of your shortlisted locales. If you aim to leave on a Friday afternoon and come back Monday then organising it with your partner's work could earn your extra kudos but the main thing is to do everything you can to choose a date which suits them. If you book a weekend you know they are already busy and they've told you about it in advance then they're not likely to be thrilled about your 'surprise' no matter how good it is.
Check in your children. If you're going to have to organise a babysitter, ensure they are someone you both
trust such as a grandparent and arrange it well in advance. You don't want any last-minute stress about who exactly is looking after your little darlings. Upgrade. If it doesn’t completely blow the budget then opting up to a room with a view, a courtyard or a pool could be the difference between wow and WOW! Be organised. Once you've booked, make sure you have a confi rmation number or print out plus clear directions to avoid any hassles either getting there or checking in. en-then having a fi ght about it in the car isn't really going to set the mood. Also, investigate a few things you can do while you're there. If there's a kitchen in your little love nest then fi nd out where you can stock up on delicious gourmet treats nearby. If you know you'd both enjoy a wine tour or round of golf, book it in. And fi nd out if there's anything you need to bring yourselves such as towels or linen.
Pack well. You'll probably need to give your beloved a few tips on what to bring, especially if you're planning an evening out. They aren't going to thank you if all they've brought are T-shirts and fl ip fl ops and you're taking them to the swankiest restaurant around. And ensure you have all the necessary documents, directions and essentials – see our check list for more must-pack ideas.
Get cashed up. While none of us have an unlimited budget it's important to be prepared financially for the events you have carefully planned - and for anything unexpected. You don't want to be asking for a loan to cover the mini bar when you're the one who suggested raiding it in the fi rst place. Have some cash on hand and clear a little space on your credit card, just in case. Enjoy the surprise. Giving really is better than receiving, and if you manage to organise an escape your partner really loves (without having to consult with them) it shows that you really know and listen to them. Now you can breathe a sigh of relief and have fun!
Planning Together. Much of what we've talked about above is also relevant to planning a short break together but the main difference is communication – it’s vital at every stage, from deciding on a destination you’ll both love to nominating a weekend which suits you best to designating whose job it is to remember the toothbrushes. Start by looking through magazines together and throwing ideas around about whether a beach break, a mountain escape or a city sojourn will ring your mutual bells best. When you've decided on a date be clear about when it is and make sure it's marked on the calendar. Decide between yourselves who is doing what and when and follow through with your end of the bargain. Often couples will decide on a location together and then share the responsibility when it comes to making and managing a booking and packing the car. If an unexpected emergency crops up, let your partner know straight away so you can change your bookings accordingly. And most importantly, plan for the break you both want and need and you'll give yourselves the best chance for romance.
And Finally ...The final step is the same whether you are planning a surprise or organising your break together – relax and enjoy. A weekend away is a time for indulgence, spontaneity and fun. It's a time to pamper one another and to really talk – to reminisce, share dreams and generally catch up. You've done the groundwork so now it's time to reap the rewards.
Good luck love birds!