Friends , we love them as much as our family. We love having drinks with them in a bar (when possible), sharing video game nights , etc. But having friends also means going on vacation with them. And, let’s be honest, it can be all or nothing. Because even if you love them, living with them continuously for more than a week can turn out to be a different story. So if you’re planning on going away with a group of friends this summer, here are the types of friends to avoid, or, if you have no choice, here’s how to channel them (or yourself). Take a deep breath… it’s going to be okay.
The Control Freak
As soon as the holiday is booked, he organises a summit meeting to plan every detail of the trip. At first, he seems like the ideal partner: you don’t have to plan anything, except to bring your passport (and even then, you get a memo). Then comes the harsh realisation of your mistake, when, on the plane, he hands you a Word document with the schedule for the next two weeks.
How to neutralize it… Be frank by reminding everyone of your taste for spontaneity. Otherwise, there is the most radical option: leave your travel guide , highlighted everywhere, in any place to force him to wander around without any landmarks. He will be confused, but will have no choice but to follow you. After all, you are the only one who knows the city, since he has kept his nose buried in the map the whole time.
The social media addict
In the past, he would have brought his huge camera (set to automatic mode) and his countless lenses. Now, he makes do with a Polaroid (for the arty guarantee), his smartphone and his tablet for maximum flexibility. As if consumed by the fear of seeing his life flash before his eyes, of forgetting the monuments visited or the good times experienced, he shoots everything. Not only does it slow you down by photographing the slightest unusual object (a patio, a detail in the metro), but you are also forced to play the Instagram model, even when you wake up.
How to neutralize it… The only solution? Extoll the merits of digital detox and set some limits, such as a maximum ratio of selfies per day, not to be exceeded under penalty of having to pay for the next restaurants.
The friend who just got dumped
Of course, you came to his rescue so that he wouldn’t sink into the deepest depression. The idea of this vacation with friends was appealing… until you realize that the beach and the sun are not miracle cures for heart problems. All his thoughts continue to revolve around his ex and he doesn’t fail to let you know (” we always dreamed of coming to Sicily together “, ” hey, fries. That was his favorite dish “). In the evening, he ends the aperitif prematurely to stalk his Instagram account , curled up under the covers. In short, it’s not won.
How to neutralize him… The only thing he needs is a listening ear. Listen to him, but don’t hesitate to change the subject if you’re on the verge of overdosing, or alternate the role of shrink with the other members of the group. Hoping that someone else will make him forget his blues.
The inveterate party animal
When the question of the destination arose, he immediately set his conditions: a place where there is atmosphere. As a result, you dreamed of pretty Andalusian villages, but you land in a clubbing mecca like Mykonos. The problem with the party animal is that he lives at his own pace, only emerging at sunset, when the alcohol level in his blood has finally dropped. For your part, you try painfully to keep up the pace, while still making a few cultural visits (just to have a clear conscience).
How to neutralize it… It’s time to embrace your selfish side and chart your own course. No, this doesn’t mean you should leave it in a box and drive away. On the contrary, be fair: if you have different desires, separate for a few days. It’s also the best way to avoid a lifelong quarrel, consumed by frustration.
The cheapskate on duty
Times are tough, yes, but he’s far from having a hard time making ends meet. However, he cuts back on every expense , forcing you to walk blocks to avoid paying a subway ticket. When he’s not being picky, he pretends to have forgotten his wallet when it’s time to pay the bill. While your vacation budget is melting like snow in the sun, his is doing very well. You can even imagine him jumping into his golden pool like Uncle Scrooge.
How to neutralize it… Good accounts make good friends. Even if you fear creating tensions by putting your cards on the table, you will inevitably have to talk about money . By immediately distributing collective expenses, or even by listing all the expenses on an application.
