Vacation for couples: stress or strengthening love? The secret conflicts!

Vacation for couples: stress or strengthening love? The secret conflicts!

A vacation can be an exciting but also challenging time for couples. According to a recent ElitePartner study of 3,970 people, travel can have both positive and negative effects on relationships. While over 50 percent of those surveyed are convinced that a vacation strengthens their relationship, 27 percent of women and 20 percent of men report stress that arises from organizing and planning the vacation. These conflicts are often exacerbated by different expectations and needs during the time spent together.

A fundamental aspect of the study shows that 60 percent of couples have good conversations during their vacation. In addition, every third couple reports that they get along better on vacation than in everyday life. What is particularly striking is that older couples (60-69 years old) experience fewer conflicts and have more similar ideas about vacation planning than younger couples (18-29 years old). Over 80 percent of older couples agree on their vacation destinations, while only 60 percent of younger couples agree.

Challenges and stress factors on vacation

Furthermore, the results of the study show that intimacy and closeness are also critical issues on vacation. Over 20 percent of men are disappointed by a lack of intimacy and sex, which is also confirmed by 22 percent of partners and 11 percent of female partners. When it comes to disruptive factors, 15 percent report that they are bothered by partners who spend too much time on their cell phones. In addition, 10 percent of those surveyed express dissatisfaction with excessive alcohol consumption or eating, and 11 percent are bothered by wasteful use of money.

The need for space and retreat is also important within the couple relationship. 16 percent of women and 20 percent of men miss having enough time for themselves on vacation. Psychological expert Lisa Fischbach recommends having open conversations about expectations and individual needs before your vacation in order to avoid disappointment and find a healthy balance between spending time together and personal moments of retreat.

The importance of traveling together

What is surprising is that, despite the challenges and stress factors mentioned, 8 out of 10 couples in Germany travel together at least once a year. 45 percent of respondents say they travel several times a year, while 36 percent do so once a year. It also shows that younger couples under 30 tend to travel more often once a year (49 percent), while older couples aged 60 and over travel less than once a year (19 percent).

In conclusion, vacations for couples can play a crucial role in strengthening their relationship. 64 percent of couples have meaningful conversations about their future and relationship while on vacation, and 62 percent report special trips that they rave about again and again. It is therefore important to recognize the challenges that come with vacationing together and to actively work on strengthening the relationship.