Travel

7 Characteristics of a Great Travel Companion

Published by
Deborah Stachelski
Share

Traveling more is on everyone’s wish list, but finding the perfect travel companion should be a close second. Exploring a new place is exhilarating, but with the wrong person it can be a very different experience.

Whiny and fussy travelers ruin it for everybody around them, and having different expectations of the trip can turn your dream destination into a little bit of hell. If you are considering inviting someone to come along on your next adventure (or you want to become the perfect travel companion), consider these seven traits.

 

A good attitude

Have you ever been out on the weekend with someone with a sour attitude? They complain about everything; the drinks aren’t good enough, the music is too loud, and they cant seem to come out of their funk. Your job becomes cheering them up rather than enjoying yourself. It is the same when traveling; Travel makes for lots of changed plans such as missed flights, late trains, and canceled hostel reservations. Having someone with a puss on the entire time will make those circumstances feel ten times worse, so choose wisely and travel with someone who has a go-with-the-flow approach, and knows how to find the humor in everything.

 

They don’t need baby-sitting

This is something we often neglect to consider. Going away with someone means you are likely going to be with them 24 hours a day, so you will undoubtedly need some breaks. Pick someone who doesn’t need to be tended to constantly, and is confident enough to go off on their own for a day every few days. This also includes someone who you can be completely (and peacefully), silent around. Uncomfortable silences have no place in your travels.

 

They are not moody

Moody people are hard to be around. They change like the weather, and can’t seem to snap out of it. If you know someone is moody, they will be that way wherever they go. Whether their mood is justified or not, that’s really not your problem when you are trying to enjoy a beautiful view in a place you’ve always wanted to see. Ditch the Debbie downer, and choose someone who has the ability to move on emotionally from those inescapable travel snags.

 

They have similar eating styles as you

You want to go to Africa a la Andrew Zimmern and blend into the culture and possibly hunt your lunch, but you invited along your friend who demands her yogurt to be organic. This is a formula for disaster, and probably a ruined friendship. The same happens if you are a clean eater and they want to try every burger in town. To ensure your journey is fulfilling, make sure your traveling companion has a similar eating mentality as you, and won’t cause an argument at every meal time.

 

They know how to take a great picture

You’ve been dreaming of Instagraming a photo of yourself on top of the Argentinian mountains with The Andes behind you with your hair looking totally cute for a whole year. You know the shot you want to get, and it’s guaranteed to get at least 100 likes. But what happens if your buddy doesn’t understand framing and chops off the top of the mountain, or worse, lets the tourist couple a few feet away photobomb your instafame moment? Most people wouldn’t think about this as an issue, but travel with someone who dislikes taking the time to take a good photo and you will quickly realize, it is very important. At the very least, have a conversation beforehand and set some ground rules.  

 

They can lift at least 100lbs

This may not seem like a big deal until you have to carry all of your baggage plus theirs everywhere you go. Trekking around with someone who can carry their own weight and is in good physical shape will help move things along much easier, allow for longer hikes, and overall better exploring.  Photo: jpinfo.com

 

They have a great sense of direction

Unless you have the sense of smell and direction of Tarzan himself, traveling can make anyone feel a little lost. Traveling is not the time for stubbornness and self-rightenousness, and wandering through Rome looking for the next sights with someone with a good sense of direction or who is willing to ask for directions can make life a lot easier.

Deborah Stachelski

Recent Posts

Pursuit Farms is Elevating the Art of Wagyu Beef

Pursuit Farms has become a beacon for discerning palates seeking the finest Wagyu beef available…

6 days ago

Caesars Entertainment Unveils Stunning Transformation with the Grand Opening of Caesars New Orleans

New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…

2 weeks ago

Best Halloween Cocktail Bars and Parties in Austin

Your Ultimate Guide to Halloween Parties & Themed Bars in Austin Looking for spooky fun…

2 weeks ago

Austin Food & Wine Festival Unveils 2024 Schedule

With just weeks until the much-anticipated event, the Austin Food & Wine Festival is gearing…

4 weeks ago

ACL Fest 2024: The Ultimate Guide to Eating Your Way through ACL Eats

ACL Fest 2024 brings not only an incredible music lineup but also a wide range…

1 month ago

Aburi Oshi Sushi Brings Flame-Seared Sushi to Austin

Austin’s sushi lovers have a new destination to explore, as Aburi Oshi Sushi makes its…

1 month ago