Girlfriend Getaways

Planning a trip with your best girlfriends? Here’s how to make the most out of the getaway.

By Lynda Waters

Stay close – but not too close. Choose accommodations that will allow for visiting but without too much togetherness. A two-bedroom suite with two baths, living area, and kitchenette for storing snacks and drinks is ideal. Insider tip: Call the resort directly, as these larger units may not be available for online bookings.

Try new things! Have each woman select something adventurous that you have never done before and try it – such as parasailing or just sampling a type of cuisine you’ve never tried before.

Preserve your memories. Create a fun souvenir package for the weekend. If you are visiting a beach resort, you could include a monogrammed beach towel, resort cookbook or fun beach novel. If you are staying multiple nights, each person in the group could be assigned a “turn down” gift to give away each evening – like whimsical picture frames, personalized wine labels and matching pajamas.

Dress up, dress down. Here’s your chance to put on that fun, fancy dress in your closet you never have a reason to wear. One night, go to an exclusive restaurant and order expensive food and wine. The next night, create an in-room pajama party with room service, movies or games, and fuzzy slippers.

Make “me” time. Let it be OK to have some down (or even alone) time. Especially with a larger group, everyone will not want to do the same things at the same time. Have everyone agree that you are all on vacation and are welcome to spend time however you choose – no pressure. Consider a spa visit, where you can all go together, select the services that meet your individual needs and have a little relaxation time to unwind on your own.

Lynda Waters is the Vice President of Marketing for TradeWinds Island Resorts.