It’s my birthday month, and while I don’t have a big trip planned this year, I usually like to do some kind of getaway. And having helped many plan their birthday trips, I know it can get a little tricky, so let’s talk about it!
I don’t know if you’ve seen this topic floating around social media, but Lord knows I have! Or maybe you’ve encountered some of these in real life! Let’s talk about some birthday trip faux pas.
Inviting everyone: It’s tempting to want to invite everybody you’ve known since 3rd grade. It’s also tempting to invite a lot of people because we are often nervous that no one will come (sorry for saying the quiet part out loud). Here’s the thing… inviting people you wouldn’t necessarily want around can certainly backfire, so be sure you keep that in mind when planning your guest list.
Budget Blunders: I know what you’re thinking! “It’s MY birthday, I DESERVE to go somewhere nice!” And you do! But if you want others to join you in your celebration, you must take into account the budget of your invitees. “But if they wanted to, they would!” Maybe, but life be lifeing, and yet folks would love to show up for you. Be considerate. Give folks plenty of time to plan and pay. Remember, that at the end of the day, everyone may not be able to swing it and that’s okay too! Try not to take it personally.
Over-Planning or Under-Planning: I know there are itinerary people and non-itinerary people when it comes to a vacation. I believe there is a fine balance between the two. For a birthday trip, it’s nice to plan a group activity or two, maybe a nice group dinner. Sorry to burst your bubble, but do your best not to fill your friends’ vacation days with things that are all about you. WHOA!! How dare I say that?! Listen, it’s their vacation too! On the other hand, if you invite folks out of town with you, you should probably not ignore them the entire time. They have paid to come celebrate you, so be sure there’s some celebrations involved, but resist the urge to overdo it.
Being Rigid: Along with the previous point, be sure to be flexible! After all, it’s a vacation! So even if your yacht party gets canceled because of the weather or the restaurant where you’d planned to have your group dinner happens to not be open that night, remember, it’s not the end of the world. Always have a contingency plan in mind and even if that doesn’t work, be adaptable. Adjust the plan, go with the flow and just enjoy yourself. It would suck to be upset on your birthday trip.
Communication: Most people agree that everything is usually better when people communicate well. From the planning process all the way through the trip, just communicate. This goes for your friends and family, your travel agent (*wink wink*) and any vendors or destination staff you may be in touch with. Make sure your communication is always kind and respectful. If you have to have a tough conversation, lead with kindness and compassion. It’s okay to stand your ground, push for what you want and need, but it’s never okay to be disrespectful. Let’s not lose friends over a trip!
What faux pas have you run into on birthday trips? Also, while I’m referencing birthday trips, the same principles apply to any celebratory group trip. Quite frankly, it can even apply to birthday dinners and parties too!
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