we’re still friends, here’s how!

Hello Zesties!

In the last 8 years, I have travelled with different groups of people for varying durations - friends, family and colleagues-friends.

I went on a period of 10 days to 2 weeks to 6 weeks trips with different groups of people for exchange, leisure etc. I have heard of many horror stories of where friendships/relationships were strained after travelling.

Before we even travel/decide on room arrangements, these are some of the things I discuss/manage each other’s expectations:

1. Use of Footwear in the room

- Do you remove your shoes near the room door or wear throughout the room?

- Use of hotel room slippers?

2. Personal Sleeping Situations

- Do you snore / move a lot when you sleep (in case hit the other person on the same bed)

- Do you need to sleep in pitch darkness/blackout curtains or need some light (toilet light)

3. Cleanliness / Personal Hygiene

- Do you tend to place your items/clothes all over the room?

- Do you need to shower first before going onto the bed?

4. Making the Bed (essential for those going on Exchange)

- Do you make the bed before you leave?

5. Waking up

- Are you the type that sleeps in or wakes up for breakfast?

6. Planning

- Who is the navigator?

- Prefer to have a somewhat detailed planned itinerary or “go with the flow”?

- Prefer shopping? Or sightseeing? Or both?

All in all, it really depends on who you travel with and if you’re able to compromise despite having differing habits.

Hope this helps! 💖