How The White Lotus Turned a Dream Vacation Into a Total Disaster

Over the weekend, I was binge-watching the second season of The White Lotus.

Basically, two couples take a trip to Sicily.

It sounds lovely, but it was the TRIP FROM HELL.

So many things went wrong that I found myself yelling at the TV.

I had to put my thoughts on paper because I realized—this was great content!

At first, my notes were just a chaotic mess of frustrations. But after some refining, I distilled everything into three key lessons you can use for your next group trip.

Let’s dive in and discuss what they should have done differently.

1. Only Travel with People You Actually Like

This trip was doomed from the start.

If your first reaction to a group trip invitation is to cringe—don’t go!

It doesn’t matter if they’re paying for the trip or if you love the destination. If you don’t genuinely enjoy being around these people, it’s not worth it.

2. Pay Attention to Your Subgroup

Subgroups exist within group trips—spouses, significant others, kids, or even best friends.

Here’s why they matter:

Even if you’re okay with an activity, if your subgroup isn’t, it can ruin the entire trip. An uncomfortable partner or a cranky kid can turn a fun moment into a full-blown disaster.

3. Communicate (Properly!)

We all know communication is important, but how you communicate matters even more.

Set clear expectations:

• What do you absolutely want to see or do?

• What are your hard no’s?

Spoiler alert: For example, it’s probably a good idea to communicate that you’d prefer if no one in the group sleeps with your significant other. Just saying.

Avoid the mistakes these characters made, and your trip should go much smoother.

Keep traveling, 

Andrew

Have you ever gone on a trip with people you didn’t actually like? How did it go?

Cocktail of the Week

The Godfather cocktail is believed to have originated in Italy during the 1970s, inspired by the popularity of the film The Godfather and the cultural association between Italian-American traditions and whiskey. This simple yet bold drink blends Scotch whisky and amaretto, creating a smooth, nutty flavor that embodies both strength and sophistication.

Recipe:

• 1 ½ oz (45ml) Scotch whisky

• ¾ oz (22.5ml) amaretto

Preparation:

• Fill a rock glass with ice cubes.

• Pour Scotch whisky and amaretto over the ice.

• Stir gently to combine the flavors.

• Optional: Garnish with an orange twist or maraschino cherry.

• Enjoy neat or slightly diluted as the ice melts.

Random Travel Thought

I'm becoming a content hoarder. I've got a pile of videos ready to post, but I keep hesitating to hit send.

Follow me on Instagram.

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com : This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner : An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing : I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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