Traveling can Make/Break the Deal

Exactly a year ago, I was settling back from a 2 month excursion around Europe with my girlfriend, Becky. It was our graduation treat for completing our University studies, plus we wanted to explore the world.

I remember Sue, Becky’s mother, tell her that our relationship would be tested during that period. Tested was a vague way of describing it. It was more like getting to know the other person in as many different circumstances.

TIME has a great article on the subject. Judy McGuire entertains the idea that traveling is a couple’s true test. I could not agree anymore. Traveling exposes one’s vulnerabilities and strengths. It is quick window into a someone’s personal traits … the overt and covert ones.

McGuire claims, "A far more pleasant (and less litigious) way to figure out whether or not you and your beliked are compatible is to hit the road."  

I remember getting into a fight with Becky before we had taken off for Europe over whether or not I would take my laptop. She did not want me to take it and I wanted to take it … well maybe I am more like an addict and I needed my laptop. We reached a compromise and I did not take it but I did purchase and take along an iPhone as part of our deal. 

Jessica Reinhart states, "You have to go somewhere on a plane — not a two-hour ride up north. And you have to be away for at least a week. People can keep their guard up for three or four days, but after that, your guard goes down. That’s when someone’s true colors fly through."

I still remember standing in the lobby of our hostel in Madrid hearing a young female’s account of her last 24 hours. She had just landed in Madrid, Spain with her boyfriend … correction … ex-boyfriend. Apparently, they had gotten into a fight during their 10 hour flight from the states. Upon landing they each went their own ways. Instead of beginning a 3 month trip with her boyfriend, she would have to travel a different path than she had planned.

I on the other hand was lucky. Our 2 months had ups and downs but at the end I was sure I had made the right choice.