With the holiday season over and the suitcases packed away for another year, holiday fun gives way to normal life routines.

Well for over 10% of couples that reality is worse since returning home, their relationship will be over for good.  In many cases the holiday may have been the catalyst for the break up.  Simmering discontent about a partner is magnified before they even make it to the holiday destination.

Holiday expectations usually far outweigh reality.  We take it for granted we will have a wonderful time with our partner.  The food, accommodation and weather is expected to be just right.  When things fall short of our ideals, we might react out of all proportion to the problem, and the end result could be relationship problems.

Planning the destination can be stressful enough, her idea of heaven is spending all day at the pool or beach.  He might like the idea of an activity break, like playing golf  every day.

Spending one or two weeks away together, when people  are with each other constantly, could be another source of arguments.  Back home they might just be with each other at weekends and a few hours during the day.  Stick that couple together for much longer than they are used to, include easily available alcohol, and there is scope for tension.

Holidays away can be the perfect tonic, especially for those in a stale relationship in need of freshening up.  Why not try planning your holiday together, so some of it can be spent apart, if that’s what will make you both happy.  You could then come together at the end of the day for dinner and drinks.

You could also try leaving ‘work,’ the Blackberry, and laptop at home, and bring your sense of humour.  Many people find it difficult to stop stressing about their jobs, and so really should try and lighten up.

If the relationship is strained, it’s best to discuss it so you both agree that the upcoming holiday would be a perfect opportunity for build bridges.  You never know you might  just end up enjoying a holiday together!  Well, ….until next year!