The ultimate girlfriend getaway is waiting for you this year

Posted on Wednesday 23 January 2013 in England, London, Hawai, United States of America, New York

By Rory MacTavish

You never know when that urge to get away is going to strike, but when it does, you'll want to be prepared. Give your girlfriends a heads up that you're itching to plan a spectacular holiday and take a head count of who's in for the ultimate 2013 adventure. Whether you're planning a trip across the globe or a relaxing retreat somewhere in New Zealand, you'll be sure to recruit at least one of your close friends to join you on this special vacation.

Here are some tips on how to make your trip as memorable as possible, and some advice on why you should trust that voice inside telling you to go through with it:

Lose the guilt
Whether you're a mom of three kids or a devoted girlfriend, there's always going to be at least one excuse as to why you shouldn't go away on holiday by yourself or with friends. However, the benefits can outweigh the negative aspects, and might even lead to a happier family in the long run.

"You may think that by travelling with friends, you're taking something away from your family," Elizabeth Lombardo, a doctor and author of "A Happy You: Your Ultimate Prescription for Happiness," told Woman's Day. "But the opposite is true. Focusing on yourself and the joy of camaraderie increases your sense of fulfillment, confidence and resiliency. You become a better wife, and if you have kids, a better mom."

Find out the right size
A trip with seven other people might be too much, and one may not be enough to make for the perfect vacation. You have to figure out what it will take for you to feel at peace and relaxed on your holiday retreat, and then work to achieve that goal. If you're the type that enjoys a fun group, four can be a good number because it avoids the feeling of being left out of conversation or activities that may require pairs. 

Pick a place
Narrowing down your travel options is tough, but determining what you want out of your getaway can help. Love tropical scenery and spending all of your time outdoors? Consider Maui holidays, where yoga on the beach, surf lessons and dinners watching the sunset on a restaurant terrace are all regular parts of your day. 

Care for more of a cultural getaway in a historic city with tons of unique shops and vintage markets? Gear up your girlfriends for a trip to the States on flights to New York, or for European flair, plan London holidays and bask in the chic allure of Europe.

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