Although not quite as bad as finding bedbugs in your suitcase (which thankfully has never happened to me or our Contributing Editor Matt), we can agree that having the “wrong” travel companions can be a total buzz kill.
Matt and I are mostly solo travelers, but we sometimes embark on Bleisure Living trips with friends or colleagues. Among the types that can get under our skin (not unlike those insects) are:
- “Whining Winnies” find fault with EVERY detail of the trip. Even Springtime in Paris or a free penthouse upgrade is a reason to kvetch.
- “Control Freak Frankies” believe it’s their way or the highway. Unless, of course, their way IS the highway…in which case you’re just expected to follow along and not say a word.
- “Anxious Arties” express their worries out loud and make YOU nervous, too if you’re not careful. Or, you turn into a mobile therapist or aren’t able to enjoy the trip.
- “Confused Cathies” act like they’ve never been in a car or a plane and rely on you to navigate (literally and figuratively). If you like to help and teach, they may be your best companions.
- “Frugal Frannies” may be on a limited budget, but rather than finding fun and creative things to do at no or low cost, they seem to carry a spreadsheet around in their heads and stress about every Uber or cocktail. (See #3.)
We all may have those qualities inside us, too. But when you embark on a journey with another person, be aware of what other baggage they may be bringing along besides their suitcase and plan out how you might deal with them. Good, helpful feedback and setting realistic expectations can keep the peace on the road.
