Marriage Diaries: My husband is the summer holiday Grinch
Not in my house, however. My husband makes a face or groans if I even attempt to discuss summer plans. He has zero interest in what anyone else might be doing, and I have never heard him say, 'Ooh, I'd love to go there.' Clearly, for him, the prospect of a summer break is torture. I honestly think my husband would be happy staying at home all summer, but I don't think that's fair on our children – or on me.
Holidays can be eye-wateringly expensive, but it isn't a lack of funds making him behave like this. He'll happily shell out on golf club membership or a fancy accessory for his road bike, so I won't for one minute be accepting a line about 'cutting back' when it comes to a summer holiday. Plenty of my friends have suggested I just book something and present my husband with a fait accompli. While this is a tempting solution and would mean that, for once, I could organise the holiday I wanted, I'm not sure I can face the inevitable weeks of complaint or tutting my booking decisions will inevitably produce.
Instead, I'm resigned to the fact that when we eventually do arrange a trip, I will be a travel-agent-cum-PA and do all the research, admin and packing single-handedly. It's easier to take all this on myself than deal with the groaning if I ask my husband to take a hand in the logistics and do something as alien as find his swimwear or pack a suitcase.
Though he would never admit it, I think my husband does benefit from a change of scenery, albeit he'll be keen to board the return flight and get back to his home comforts. Like plenty of people, he takes a few days to chill out, but does get markedly more relaxed once we arrive and the warmer weather kicks in. However, I'm braced for moaning about food, accommodation, weather and travel delays – none of which are in my control. It sometimes jars a bit when friends are posting their glorious holiday-making all over social media and going on about 'making memories' or having long idyllic days of family bonding.
Our teenage kids have had their fill of grumpy dad on tour, and soon scarper to jump on jet skis or hurtle down water slides. Yes, it would be lovely to unwind together with my husband, sipping a gin and tonic in the sun, but I know from experience, it'll be hard work. And for anyone who says to me, 'He'll enjoy it when he gets there' – I admire your optimism. My husband will never be heard saying he's had a great time. I have persevered over the years and tried to tailor our holidays so he'll love every moment, but I'm past that now.
These days, I'm more inclined to ensure the children are catered for with things to do. I'll find us a resort that isn't filled with young families and toddlers but that has some other teens possibly to mingle with. I'll be packing a stack of paperbacks and my headphones so I can unplug and relax. It's taken years of holidays to realise I can't shift my husband's mindset. For him, a holiday – no matter where – is seemingly an endurance test. If only he would realise that having him as travel companion is exactly that.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Independent
42 minutes ago
- The Independent
How to get two theme park visits for the price of one this summer
The cost of summer holiday activities can quickly add up, which is why we're always on the hunt for cost-effective ways to have fun. Case in point: if you're looking for a cheap family day out this summer, we've found a deal that will save on theme park visits. Until Sunday 17 August, when you book a ticket for Alton Towers, Chessington, Legoland Windsor or Thorpe Park, you'll get a ticket for a second visit for free. This doesn't mean visiting the same theme park twice, as it can be used at any of the four parks. In order to qualify, you'll need to pre-book a 'twice the fun' ticket to get your hands on the freebie. You'll then receive a confirmation email with a barcode, which you can use to make your second booking, so keep this handy. The second ticket is valid until Tuesday, 30 September, so there is plenty of time to squeeze in a second visit. It is rare for a free ticket offer to come along, particularly during peak season. Advanced tickets to the theme parks typically start from around £34, so if you're visiting as a family, that's a chunky saving for your second visit. You can book your visit using the links below, or keep reading if you want more inspiration on which of the theme parks to visit this summer. Alton Towers If you've got little thrill-seekers to entertain this summer, Alton Towers is worth a visit. There are nine roller coasters to enjoy, including the Toxicator, which is new for 2025, while younger kids can head to the rides and attractions in CBeebies Land. Alton Towers is located outside of Stoke-on-Trent, so if you're based in the north of England, this is likely to be your nearest major theme park. Chessington World of Adventures There are plenty of adventures for kids of all ages to enjoy at Chessington, with rides inspired by the fantasy board game Jumanji, the tales of the Gruffalo and more. Your ticket also includes a visit to the park's zoo and aquarium, with the chance to see penguins, giraffes, monkeys and zebras. The park is based just outside of London, and there are regular train services running from the capital to Chessington South, which is around a 10-minute walk away. Legoland Windsor There are more than 50 rides and attractions to enjoy at Legoland Windsor. Kids can cool off on a hot day in the splash safari water play park, hop aboard the Lego submarine as part of the deep-sea adventure, get behind the wheel at the Lego driving school and lots more. The theme park is two miles outside of Windsor town centre, with shuttle services available from nearby train stations. Thorpe Park If you or your youngsters can't get enough of roller coasters, a visit to Thorpe Park is a must. The theme park is home to Hyperia, the UK's tallest and fastest rollercoaster, plus five other rides for those that want an adrenaline-filled day out. There are also plenty of rides and play areas for little ones, so the whole family can enjoy the day. The theme park is located in Chertsey, which is about 30 minutes outside of London, with shuttle buses running to the park from nearby train stations.
Daily Mirror
2 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Having one common drink on holiday could make you sick, expert warns
Ahead of the fast-approaching summer holidays, travel experts have warned that a popular beverage loved by Brits could lead to a slew of nasty side-effects including bloating, cramps and nausea Brits have been warned about one popular beverage that could make them ill when abroad - and it's not tap water. With the summer holidays just around the corner, swathes of UK households will be packing their bags for a week or two in the sun. Despite the cost-of-living crisis continuing to hit cash-strapped Brits hard, research from found that more than half (55 per cent) of us are planning an overseas holiday this year. If you have children that are still in school, you'll have little choice but to jet off during the summer months - despite travel agents ramping up their prices. The upside to this is that you're almost guaranteed constant sunshine and scorching temperatures. But, whether you're flocking to the party-mad hotspot of Benidorm - or the tropical delights of Thailand - falling ill can completely ruin your holiday. While most Brits are extra cautious about tap water or ice when abroad, many don't think twice about consuming milk. In a statement sent to the Mirror, Jessie Chambers from Global Work & Travel warns that unlike the fresh dairy milk that is abundant in the UK, many popular tourist destinations use UHT (Ultra-High Temperature) milk instead. This beverage is made by processing milk at 135C for several seconds, killing bacteria but also altering the milk's structure. It's designed to give the quickly-expiring product a long shelf life that can survive in hot climates. But adding it to your tea or coffee could lead to some nasty side-effects. "We get so many travellers saying they felt 'off' after a coffee or hotel breakfast, assuming it was the food," the travel expert said. "But in reality, they've just had a strong dose of UHT milk, which can trigger digestive issues, especially if you've got a sensitive stomach." While many Brits will be absolutely fine with drinking UHT milk, especially in such small quantities, Global Work & Travel says it could lead to symptoms such as bloating, cramps and nausea if you have IBS or gut sensitivities. Often, this is mistaken for food poisoning. Jessie therefore advises Brits to ask hotel or restaurant staff whether they have fresh milk, or only use UHT. If you're staying in self-catering accommodation, it's worth looking for labels such as 'UHT' or 'Ultra-Heat Treated' when picking up a bottle of milk from the supermarket. Even if it is stored in the fridge, you still might be accidentally picking up UHT milk instead of its fresh counterpart. If you're extremely sensitive to lactose or have a dodgy stomach, it could be worth skipping the milk altogether. The pro also warns against drinking unlabelled or room-temperature milk unless you're sure it's safe and pasteurised. "A strange-tasting brew might not be bad beans – it could just be shelf-stable milk messing with your gut," Jessie added. "Know what you're drinking – especially in hot climates where milk storage works differently to the UK."
Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Georgia Toffolo's husband James Watt forced to deny claims she is pregnant as she shares a post promising 'major news' on romantic getaway
Georgia Toffolo 's husband James Watt has hit back at speculation she is expecting her first child after sharing a post teasing 'major news' on Instagram. The couple are currently away on holiday in Iceland and Georgia shared a selection of snaps from the romantic getaway, which included a salmon fishing trip. Underneath the gallery of images, one person commented: 'Are you pregnant?', to which Georgia's husband retorted: 'I don't think she is'. Several people commented underneath the exchange that it was inappropriate for anyone to ask the former Made In Chelsea star such a personal question. Georgia's 'major news' was actually that she had finally caught her first Atlantic salmon, which she revealed she had already tried many times in three countries. She sweetly captioned the photos: 'Making memories with my forever person'. Georgia and James looked as loved-up as ever in the snaps, as they gave an insight into their getaway which included picturesque walks and fishing. The former I'm A Celeb star looked typically chic, even in her fishing gear, which included a jumper and waterproof dungarees. Another look saw her sport a striped top underneath a cream knit sleeveless jumper, accessorising with a burnt orange head scarf and shades. The couple were also joined by two black Labradors. Georgia and James said 'I do' on a fishing boat earlier this year. However, they ditched their fishing attire for much more glamorous ensembles for their church service. The reality star looked out of this world in a strapless corset dress and flowing veil, while James opted for a classic navy suit. The couple settled their pre-wedding nerves with a slice of jam on toast and a cup of tea in James' granny's kitchen. She sweetly captioned the photos: 'Making memories with my forever person' She captioned her post: 'So relaxed and happy. Pictures taken at James' Granny's house just before the church yesterday. We really did it our way!' Sharing snaps of their special and unique day, Georgia revealed she travelled to the church in a transit van and held some daffodils freshly picked last minute in the morning. The bride almost suffered a fall as she slipped over the bottom of her dress while walking to the same church James' grandparents married in. James wrote on his Instagram: 'Georgia and I got married today. 'Some key details: 1st March 2025 57.6722° N, 2.3372° W (Gardenstown, Northeast Scotland) 6°C, 17-knot winds (because Scottish weather never disappoints) Spaniel ring bearer 'Guests - whoever could get there with 24 hours notice, Scottish honeymoon incoming 'Married in the same church my grandparents were married in' The pair got engaged in October after the millionaire proposed with an exquisite eight carat triple-diamond studded band estimated to be worth £200,000 during a romantic getaway in Greece for Georgia's 30th birthday. And after the BrewDog founder previously insisted that the pair would be tying the knot this year, it appears that the couple were true to their word - though guests only had 48 hours notice to attend. Georgia looked stunning for her big day, slipping into a cream, fleece off-the-shoulder dress - perfect for keeping her warm in the chilly Scottish weather. The I'm A Celebrity star styled her blonde locks into an elegant up do' and added dainty diamond earrings and a flowing white veil to her bridal look. Perhaps not very bridal were the chunky brown boots she donned with the outfit, though this may have been for health and safety reasons amid their photoshoot on the boat. Meanwhile, James himself rocked an unconventional wedding outfit, donning a cream beanie hat and a thick cream jumper worn beneath blue fishing overalls. The couple certainly appeared to get in the spirit of things, with Georgia and James pulling different expressions as they got to grips with some lobsters. Georgia's post was greeted with a plethora of delightful comments from her fans and celebrity pals, who were equally shocked and overjoyed at her big news. After sharing her images to social media, Georgia shared a video to her Instagram stories shortly after walking down the aisle, excitedly remarking: 'We just got married!' Georgia, who was sat in a car next to James - who at this point was clad in a smart, dark suit - said to the camera: 'It was so unchoreographed! We just came out the church and were like "wait, where do we go now?" So we just sat in the car!
