Crazy women setting out for adventure. I’m a firm believer that if you really want to get to know someone, go away with them. Whether for a special occasion or just to get the hell out of dodge, there’s something about being out of your typical element with amazing friends that really opens the lines of friendship and creates lasting bonds that you and your girls will cherish when your all married and saddled with kids. (Remember one creed: What happens on Girl’s trips stays on Girl’s trips)
That said, every girl’s getaway doesn’t need to be table-top danceathon complete with wild, drunken nights (though I’ve had my fair share). Girl’s Getaways can be as varied as the personalities in your group. The idea is to travel to a place that will not only breath new life into your friendships but allow everyone to be comfortable. Going away with friends is about crafting a dynamic that will make for a memorable experience (so if you’re planning a relaxing spa weekend leave the friend who can’t handle her liquor at home.)
When planning a trip with old and new friends alike here are a few tips to ensure that all ladies involved have the time of their lives and it’s worth everyone’s time (and moola)
1. Set expectations
Make sure that everyone is aware of the circumstances of the trip and expectations are set around it. Some will want to party while others will want to lounge by the pool. Knowing this ahead of time will allow for everyone to do their preferred activities and still be apart of the group. (But don’t be so rigid that people don’t feel they can be themselves on the trip)
2. Set a Date and Budget
Plan in advance and be reasonable. Everyone’s isn’t balling on the same budget. And by having the timing and money discussion early you can target appropriate venues and activities so that everyone is comfortable and not breaking the bank to be included. Additionally, be flexible with dates. Shoot for vacations across Saturdays and Sundays to accommodate everyone’s work schedules.
3. Decide on the Planner
Too many chiefs, not enough Indians? Sounds familiar. In my experience it’s best to let one or two friends (preferably one with a knack for party planning- there’s one in every group) take the reigns as the designated planner. She will gather everyone’s input and get consensus on venues and payments. On the flip side: Don’t take this responsibility if you’d rather just show up with your bikini. Nothing worse than a friend who mismanages the trip; you’ll never live it down.
4. Scout out the Unknown
Who goes on vacation to stay in the resort all day? Old married couples, that’s who. Get out and explore. Research local and off the beaten path events and activities where your traveling. Do things that will have you talking (and laughing) for months to come. Check out the nudist beach, go deep sea diving, check out a shoe museum, meet some men (if for nothing more than flirting). Be safe, travel in groups and try new things (just don’t get busted for smuggling drugs, this isn’t Brokedown Palace)
5. Save the Drama for your Mama
Real Housewives of NY showed us all what a girls trip should not be (Scary Island anyone?). Leave your baggage at home and the cattiness at the door. A trip full of women doesn’t have to cater to the snippy stereotypes. Let your stress melt away, enjoy amazing food, great friends and a beautiful GETAWAY.
Here are some cool trip ideas for your next All Girls Getaway. Send me a postcard!
Quickie, anyone?
For out of town quickies, grab one or two girlfriends (the fewer the better). Festivals, wine tasting or vintage hunting are great incentives to travel for a weekend.
Northern Virginia Wineries
Chicago Weekend Getaways
Essence Music Festival
Beach, Bikini and Booze
Cyndi Lauper had it right all along. Girls do just want to have fun (well at least I do) and what is more fun that hot beaches, hot guys and hot dancing? (I’ll wait)
Ibiza Nightlife
Guide to Cancun
Serenity Please
Let’s face it sometimes you just want to retreat. Get away from all the stress and rejuvenate.
Yes to Yoga
Be a Surf Goddess
Summer’s here, so start planning your next girls getaway! And remember I’m your friend so don’t forget to include me on the invite.
My last all girls getaway was more than eight years ago.
I enjoyed reading this post and what useful tips, too.
Nice weekend to you!;-)
I just stumble across your blog and think it is totally awesome and so are you. Keep it up!
Thank you!
It’s been too long since I had a good girly getaway. I’ve had some fun ones, though! A trip to the Bahamas (complete with faux Victoria’s Secret photos) and a last-minute road trip to NYC (we each had $50, tops) come to mind!
I love this article. You hit the nail on the head with several points. I haven’t done a girls getaway for a while but I have done a girls spa day and it was so refreshing.
Thanks Stephanie! All Girls Getaways are a must and a perfect way to reconnect. A spa days sounds amazing!
Thanks for the comment!
Stylishly Yours, Fajr
this was great advice hopefully I can motivate some of my friends to go with and have a getaway I had one but I wish I had more people who were committed and not back out so alot of ideas but more times than not im usually left by myself…… any advice on solo girl getaways? lol safe ones of course
Donna, girl trips are difficult to plan sometimes with everyone’s schedules and financial situation. I’ve never been on a solo getaway, though it is on my bucket list of things to do.
Thanks for the comment
Stylishly Yours, Fajr
[...] miles. Traveling with friends is an amazing bonding experience and I’m a huge proponent of girl getaways but when the crew can’t come you need to strap on your backpack and hit the road solo. [...]
[...] miles. Traveling with friends is an amazing bonding experience and I’m a huge proponent of girl getaways but when the crew can’t come you need to strap on your backpack and hit the road solo. [...]