Another Post-Divorce First: The Vacation

I thought I had gone through all of my "firsts" following my divorce.

The first post-divorce first date.

The first post-divorce holiday back home.

The first post-divorce dinner alone.

The first post-divorce party with our former couple friends.

The list goes on.

But, it turns out my list got a new addition this summer: the first post-divorce vacation.

It was fun. It was scary. It was something I now can't wait to do again. But, the next one will be better. Here is what I learned in the process.

1.Get the King.
When you are vacationing alone, it doesn't matter if you are alone in that bed, get the King. You deserve to celebrate yourself.

2.Make It Real.
You don't have to go to "single friendly places." It may be fun to try them out or go to a traditional spa, but there is nothing wrong with planning a real vacation for yourself. Go to Europe, take a cruise, hit the slopes or drive along the coast.

3.Have A Plan.
Plan each day out. It doesn't mean you can't be spontaneous, but it's a good idea to have a plan each day so you are not sitting somewhere reminiscing about the old vacations you used to take as a couple.

4.One Of Many.
Realize this vacation will not be your last. Enjoy the fact that you are courageous to do what so many people may not be comfortable doing. Enjoy your time alone or meeting new people. Next year, you may be on a completely different trip in the journey of your life.

5.Take Any Time.
You don't have to plan a huge trip. Make it a weekend away. Then, once you are comfortable, make it a little bit longer. Baby steps eventually turn into marathons.

I would love to hear from you if you took your first post-divorce vacation this summer or if you need help planning one.

Bon Voyage.