Phone: +43 680 30 97 431  |  Email: elisabeth@happycouples.at

Holidays between two worlds –

How travelling to your partner’s home country can strengthen your relationship

Holiday time is a special time. Especially when you’ve been looking forward to it all year, it’s only natural to think about it a lot – especially when your holiday together takes you to your partner’s home country.

Perhaps you’ll get to know his or her roots for the first time. Or maybe you’ve been there before, know what to expect, and want to take precautions this time around to prevent any potential conflicts from escalating. You want this holiday to be good for you, to strengthen your relationship and allow you to relax together.

Because one thing is clear: a holiday in your partner’s home country is often more intense than a normal couple’s holiday. You are particularly close – but without your familiar surroundings. Insecurities can quickly arise: Will I be accepted? How do I address what bothers me? Will my needs be heard? Perhaps you are worried about whether you will fit in – or feel left out by family expectations. Relaxation may also be in short supply.

And yet you know that it is important for your partner. You want to support them – and it is natural for you to share this part of their life.

Holidays between two worlds

I will show you how your holiday together can be a truly enriching experience rather than a test of endurance – for you, your partner and your relationship.

Because as challenging as this holiday can be, it also holds enormous potential: you get to experience your partner at their best, in their familiar surroundings, talk to their family, and get to know their native language and culture better. This creates closeness and promotes personal and relationship growth.

But to make sure it’s a success, it’s worth thinking about a few important things in advance – and discussing them openly with your partner. Find out exactly what these are now.

Clarify expectations – start with yourself

Before you talk to your partner, take some time to reflect:

  • What does relaxation mean to me personally?
  • What makes a successful day on holiday for me?
  • What often stresses me out on holiday?

This self-clarification will help you communicate your needs more clearly – and avoid having to make hints later on, when it may already be too late.

Open conversation – timely and honest

Don’t wait until you feel overwhelmed on holiday. Talk about your expectations early on:

‘I’ve noticed that I really need some peace and quiet now and then – maybe some time just for myself.’

 ‘What do you need to feel comfortable when we’re with your family?’

Get support for these conversations if necessary – they can be crucial in determining how you get through the holiday together.

Family, friends, expectations – what can you expect?

Dealing with your partner’s family can be particularly challenging. Perhaps you are worried about not fitting in – or you don’t know what is expected of you. Ask yourself:

  • Where would I like support from my partner?
  • Are there moments when I consciously need some space?
  • What can I do if I feel overwhelmed?

Discuss possible scenarios openly. It’s not about controlling everything – it’s about mutual understanding and emotional preparation.

Perfection? No thanks.

No holiday is perfect. And that’s not the goal.

In challenging moments, consciously tell yourself:

‘I am allowed to feel uncomfortable – and still enjoy the time.’

 

Write down things you want to address later when you have time – this helps you stay present in the moment without suppressing issues.

Specific tips to enrich your holiday

Small gesture, big impact: language

Learn a few words or phrases in your partner’s native language – e.g. a polite greeting. This shows respect and immediately creates a connection.

Ask your partner to teach you a few phrases – this strengthens your relationship and makes you a team.

Meeting the in-laws – curiosity instead of pressure

You don’t have to do anything ‘right’ – it’s your interest that counts.

  • Ask open questions about culture, everyday life and traditions
  • Bring a small gift from your home country – it’s often better received than you think
  • Agree on little ‘rescue signals’ with your partner for when you need a break

Rediscover your partner – a gift

Your partner will often show you a whole new side of themselves in their home country. They may seem more confident, use different codes or have habits you haven’t noticed before.

Ask them: ‘What do you miss about your country? What would you like to show me?’

Immerse yourself in their world – be curious, not judgemental.

Shared experiences (e.g. visiting a market, cooking with the family, a village festival) can connect you as a couple more deeply than any wellness holiday.

Self-care remains important

It is especially important to take good care of yourself in unfamiliar surroundings:

  • Treat yourself to little breaks – a walk, an hour with a book, a coffee on your own.
  • Explain to your partner in advance: ‘I need some time to myself now and then – it doesn’t mean I don’t want to be with you.’
  • If you feel overwhelmed, communicate this clearly and lovingly.

Example: ‘After dinner, I need an hour to myself – please tell your family that it’s nothing against them.’

How this holiday will strengthen your relationship

Discovering new worlds together, getting to know new sides of each other, mastering unfamiliar situations together – these are milestones in any relationship.

You are allowing your partner to share their background with you – and that is a gift that can create deep bonds.

Cultural differences, language barriers and new dynamics are not obstacles, but opportunities to strengthen trust and communication skills.

Conclusion: Between withdrawal and curiosity – how to strike a balance

  • Be honest with yourself: what do you need?
  • Talk openly about your concerns and wishes in advance.
  • Make sure to plan in some time for yourself.
  • Keep the conversation going – not just on holiday, but afterwards too.

And remember: not everything has to be clarified ‘in the moment’ – some things can mature and be discussed later in peace.

If you notice that certain issues keep coming up – whether it’s insecurity, a lack of words or cultural differences – I’d be happy to accompany you during the preparation or debriefing. Often, a few conscious conversations are enough to find new ways to connect with each other. I offer support and solutions that are far more personal than traditional therapy – feel free to get in touch! Write to me now: elisabeth@happycouples.at

Your holiday is more than a trip – it is an opportunity to grow as a couple. I wish you an enriching time full of connection, new perspectives and genuine closeness.