How to Keep Your Relationship Strong After a Vacation, According to a Divorce Coach

A vacation with your partner can feel like a dream — until reality hits when you get home. Divorce coach and psychologist Jenny Sutton says the real trouble often starts after the trip, not during it. Her advice for couples was recently shared by the Mirror.

Sutton explains that a shared holiday doesn't destroy a relationship, but it can reveal truths that busy schedules and daily distractions have been hiding for years. "In everyday life, couples often act like coworkers — juggling work, kids, chores, meals, and after-school activities. With such a packed routine, husbands and wives rarely spend uninterrupted time together," she says. That lack of emotional connection can surface during vacation, leading to tension.

To repair the damage, Sutton recommends that couples set aside just 10 minutes each day after returning home to talk. Use that time to discuss what went well that day and what could have been better — in terms of communication, connection, and commitments to each other. "Listen and respect your partner, don't argue defensively," she advises.

Another tip: skip alcohol during your vacation. "Swap drinks for non-alcoholic options. Harsh comments, silence, or coldness can leave an emotional scar that lasts long after you've unpacked your bags," Sutton warns.

In related news, men have shared surprising things they learned about women after marriage — including that crying is often a way to cope with stress, not a sign of a major crisis.