There are very few people in the world who do not like going on holiday. Almost everybody likes to relax, to visit new places and see new things. Holidays are obviously great ways to do this but, before booking a trip, we all have to decide with whom to travel – is it better with family, with friends, or alone?
Holidays with family can be hard work and there can be many arguments. One friend told me that both she and her sister were in tears after arguing on holiday … before their flight had even taken off. Not everybody in the family wants to do the same things. In my own family, Dad always wants to go to a museum, Mum and sister want to shop, and I want to go to a coffee shop. Alone. The majority rules and we end up shopping. Travelling with family can be very cheap or even free, though, if parents pay.
Holidays with friends are not usually as cheap but money always plays an important role. It is normal for everyone to have different budgets and there needs to be a lot of compromise, from where you stay to where you eat. This inevitably causes problems.
Nonetheless, travelling with friends can be incredible fun. When on holiday with friends you do different things than you do with family. It is also good for learning more about your friends, and sharing experiences together. Even though we spend a lot of time with our friends, travelling with them is different and a way to strengthen a friendship.
When choosing with whom to travel, there is another option: alone. Travelling alone has advantages over travelling with other people. For example, you do not have to compromise on money issues. You can choose what you want to do and it can also be a good opportunity to meet new people, especially when staying in hostels.
Of course, travelling alone is not always good. It can be lonely and, sometimes, dull with no one to talk to. And, when at the bus station or airport, there is nobody to look after your suitcase when you want to go to the bathroom.
Personally, I prefer travelling alone because there are fewer arguments. Of course, sometimes I like holidays with other people. That way, there is always someone to talk to.
