How to Travel With a Pain in the Ass
There is nothing quite like a defeated parent at Walt Disney World. You see them cursing the name of Mickey Mouse in their heads as they push their screaming children through the crowd in 95/35 degree heat. I don't have any children, but I, like many other travelers, identify with that parent. Anyone who has traveled with a pain in the ass knows the feeling of wasting both money and vacation days to accidentally construct one's own personal hell.
It is easy to fall into the trap of traveling with someone you can't stand. Sometimes you don't have a choice, while other times you don't realize the person you are traveling with gets on your nerves until it's too late. Here are five tips that can change your nightmare scenario into a dream vacation.
Image Credit: Jon Rawlin
1. Think Ahead
Prevention is key. Any good traveler does their research on the country they are traveling to, so naturally you can't overlook doing research on the people you are traveling with. Before committing to traveling together, make sure you discuss your travel style. Some travelers prefer to lounge by the beach, while others prefer to swim with the sharks. Some create a meticulous itinerary months in advance, others just buy a ticket last minute. Discussing the expectations of what you want to get out of your trip can really help to avoid conflict in the long run.
Make sure your fellow travelers know what to expect from the place you have chosen to visit. Try to prepare them for the food they will eat, the customary differences they will encounter and the climate they should expect. There is nothing more frustrating than traveling with someone who complains like a Frenchie because they simply were not prepared.
It is also important to note that when picking a group to travel with, less people means less opinions. While big groups can be a fun way to travel, they require much more planning. If you are nervous about not getting along with the people you travel with, try to keep your group small.
Image Credit: Hervé Vanel
2. Have the Talk
People are not going to be able to make changes in their behavior if they don't understand that it's wrong. Sit down and talk to them about what is bothering you. Be upfront. Sometimes a little honesty can go a long way, and so can a little reality check about the fact that travel is a privilege (refer to tip #4). Explain your frustrations, but at the same time listen to what they have to say.
Also, try and reflect on your own actions. Perhaps you are being too harsh on your friend(s). Remember that you are in this experience together, so try and put your differences aside and take advantage of the time you have on your trip.
3. Get Some Space
Don't be afraid of alone time when you travel. While it may feel like you are stuck with your pain in the ass for every waking moment, that may not be the case. If you can't agree on activities to do or sights to see, then suggest splitting up for a couple hours (as long as you are in a place where it is safe to do so, of course). Going off by yourself presents an opportunity for personal growth, and some of the best travel experiences can come from flying solo. Not to mention, you get a little break from your travel nuisance! It's truly a win-win.
4. Maintain Perspective
Remember that travel is a privilege. Many people will never get the chance to see the world, but you can. So make the most of it. Additionally, be sure to keep an open mind. Travel presents a fantastic opportunity for bonding and getting to know people. Perhaps your pain in the ass isn't so bad after all!
In the words of Henry Miller, "One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things". So think of this situation as just another factor that will change the way you see the world.
And always remember that if all else fails, there is one last option...
Image Credit: Picography.co
5. Find the Alcohol
That's right. Handle this situation as if you are tolerating a family member at a holiday party. If you are traveling to Paris, find the wine. Trust me, it won't be hard. Going to Russia? Vodka will do too. Just find your country's poison of choice and hope that it gets you through this nightmare. Sometimes a little something to take the edge off is the only solution. Just remember to drink responsibly!
And from one traveler to another: Hang in there.
