Do couples always fight when traveling? 7 secrets to a happy trip with your girlfriend

Text/Photos /Cai A’ga, excerpted from "Cai A’ga Fun Flash Tours of Taiwan" published by Gao Bao

Bon Voyage！Little tips for traveling with her

1. Choosing the destination?

Before deciding where to go, it’s common to struggle to choose a destination due to differing preferences. A trick my buddy Erbo and I often use is “one person chooses at a time, and our bond stays strong.” It means we take turns considering each other’s preferences—if we go where Erbo wants this time, next time we’ll go where I want. This not only avoids arguments but also helps us plan the next trip in advance. Isn’t that a win-win?

2. Planning the itinerary?

What if you have lots of places you want to visit but limited time? Erbo and I usually list all the spots we want to go, then plan the route based on the overall schedule and available time. If we have to cut some places, we note them down too. Though the itinerary may seem imperfect, isn’t that sense of “missed opportunity” what motivates us for the next trip? Haha.

3. Getting lost?

During a trip, it’s common to lose your way. Don’t panic or get scared—thanks to technology, our greatest tool is Google Maps. Open it up and you’ll instantly get the right directions. If you accidentally end up without internet, the oldest and most reliable method is “just ask!” Traveling in Taiwan is great because people are so friendly—you don’t need to hesitate or feel shy, just ask for help.

4. Different food preferences?

What if I want this but she wants that? When your tastes clash, we suggest ordering different dishes to try. Since you rarely get out, it’s a chance to explore local snacks. If you’re afraid of picking something bad, one of you can choose a safe dish while the other tries something new. And if you’re really unlucky and get something totally unappetizing, just stay positive and think: “Ah, so this is what ‘unique’ tastes like!” (Haha)

5. Bad photos?

When it comes to taking photos, many guys face these struggles—like how no matter how I shoot, my partner says it’s ugly, or they don’t even want to be photographed. To be honest, I’m actually more into taking photos than Erbo (sweating). But here’s a tip for guys: communication is key. Try asking your partner how she wants to look, then bring out the patience and love you used when pursuing her—keep snapping until she’s satisfied. These photos not only capture the scenery but also preserve the footsteps of your journey. When you’re old and gray, you can look back and remember how you once were a heartthrob and goddess.

6. Can't agree on spending?

Travel inevitably involves money, but putting the financial burden entirely on one person can feel heavy. After all, traveling is meant to be joyful, so never let money cause arguments. We suggest setting up a shared travel fund—based on how much is saved, decide how much you can spend. This not only prevents money-related disputes but also turns the fund into a shared goal. Once you hit the target, you’ll have something to look forward to together, helping your relationship grow stronger.

7. Emotions flare up?

While we hope every trip is joyful and ends safely, sometimes life throws curveballs that can make you irritable. But never lose your temper—your long-awaited trip shouldn’t end on a sour note. The goal is to strengthen your bond, not score negatives. No matter what, try your best to stay happy during the trip. And if emotions do boil over, just sing “Let It Go” together.