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This past summer, I embarked on a two-week adventure to Europe with my teenage daughter—just the two of us. My husband opted to stay home, and this wasn’t our first solo trip. However, it was certainly the longest getaway we’ve enjoyed without him.
When I share stories about these trips with friends and family, I often receive puzzled expressions. Some people readily express their belief that a family vacation should include both parents, implying that we’re somehow doing it wrong.
Here’s my perspective: these journeys actually strengthen our family bond in many ways. Allow me to explain:
- Three’s a Crowd: Traveling as a trio can inadvertently make one person feel like an outsider, especially with an only child. We consciously chose to have just one child, aiming for a fulfilling family dynamic without loneliness. While we do take family vacations, traveling just with my daughter allows us to focus on each other without the need to juggle everyone’s preferences.
- Engaging Conversations: Traveling one-on-one opens up a world of meaningful dialogue. When we’re away from our daily routines, I gain insights into my daughter’s thoughts and feelings. It’s a stark contrast to our home life, where coaxing a 15-year-old to open up can be challenging. On vacation, the conversations flow freely, creating a deeper connection.
- Cherished Memories: Beyond conversation, these trips cultivate unforgettable experiences that I hope will stay with her for a lifetime. Not every moment is perfect, but the positive experiences far outweigh any bumps along the way.
- No Need for Compromise: Solo-parent trips eliminate the need to negotiate destinations or activities. For instance, my husband wasn’t interested in our recent European excursion, but my daughter and I were eager to go. The solution: a parent-child getaway without compromise. Plus, traveling with one less person saves money that can be used for future trips, like when my husband and daughter plan to see a Green Bay Packers game together—definitely not my scene!
- Valuable Alone Time: The importance of some alone time for the parent at home cannot be overstated. As many parents know, a few quiet hours alone can feel like a luxury. When I get the chance to unwind or tackle household tasks without distractions, it rejuvenates me. Upon returning, everyone is excited to reunite and share their experiences.
It’s worth noting that these solo adventures began once my daughter reached her teenage years; I wouldn’t have considered it when she was younger. Now, we find ourselves in a race against time to make memories before she heads off to college.
These trips also pay homage to a family tradition from my own childhood. My father used to take one of us kids out for lunch every Saturday, and I looked forward to those moments of undivided attention. I see my solo vacations with my daughter as an extension of that same idea.
While some may not understand my enthusiasm for these trips, that’s perfectly fine. They work wonders for us. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I can feel the allure of vacation-planning websites calling my name; it’s time to start plotting our next great escape!
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Summary
Taking solo vacations with my daughter has been a rewarding experience that fosters communication, creates lasting memories, and allows for personal time. These trips not only strengthen our bond but also reflect cherished family traditions. While not everyone may understand, these adventures are invaluable to us.