Give your relationship a boost in Southern Norway

...and see each other in a whole new light?

"Everyone knows that a holiday creates new memories and gives you more time together. I guess there's nothing better than packing your bag, escaping the everyday grind, and exploring together," says Thuen.

“When you are on holiday, you have the opportunity to reconnect, for example by doing activities together that you both like, or by relaxing enough to show each other care and gratitude,” says the psychologist, who is an expert in family relationships. The goal is not only to have a nice holiday together, but also to rekindle your everyday life.

Sam and Stephanie from London are one couple who are experiencing challenges in their relationship. That's why Thuen is here to help as they embark on a romantic holiday to Southern Norway.

1. Wake up in beautiful surroundings and see each other in a new light

The fridge light on an early Tuesday morning isn't exactly as flattering as the sun sparkling on the ocean, or candlelight while enjoying a luxurious meal. Changing your surroundings can make you see your partner in a new way.

Southern Norway offers unique accommodation , whether you would like to spend the night in a cabin or apartment, stay at a hotel, go camping or spend the night in a lighthouse. The choice is yours!

2. Do an activity together that you've never tried before

Sharing new experiences enriches the relationship. Don't hesitate to try a slightly challenging activity. Research shows that this both speeds up your own body's happiness hormones – and creates new ones between the two of you! You can then support and cheer each other on, and experience a sense of fulfilment and mastery together. Not to mention that it's also exciting, of course! It's a great way to bring you together and create a sense of belonging. What about Stand Up Padling (SUP), mountain climbing, rafting or mountain yoga?

3. Enjoy delicious meals together

Southern Norway has plenty of good dining options. Share fantastic culinary experiences and enjoy. deep conversations in beautiful surroundings.

4. Rediscover common ground

What did you love to do before—together? Do you love art? Food? Hiking? Or maybe you love discovering secret little gems? Finding your way back to the interests you share also means rediscovering yourselves a little.

"In everyday life, the focus quickly shifts to ourselves and our own path. But on holiday you have common ground all the time. Remember the interests and pleasure you have together and take the time to cultivate them during holidays," says Thuen. This is what determines the strength of your bond.

For those who want to take it a step further, a holiday can also be a great opportunity to sit down together, perhaps on a mountaintop overlooking the sea, or on a peaceful quayside, and really talk, according to Thuen.

"Zoom out. Where do you stand together today? What would you like to have more of in the future when you are back in your everyday life?"

What did you love to do together? See a show or a concert, take a photo tour or a hike.

5. Learn to listen

This tip is for those who really want to take their couple's vacation seriously, according to Thuen. That is what can clearly make the relationship better in the long term, even after the holidays. There are three different ways you can deal with your partner in difficult situations: face them, turn away, or attack.

“Ask yourself how you usually respond to your partner if he or she brings up something difficult or criticizes you. Do you withdraw, lay blame, or are you open and responsive?” asks Thuen.

Many people have a habit of either becoming passive and retreating to avoid confrontation, or getting angry and responding in kind. If this becomes a pattern, it can cause problems in the long run. Unsurprisingly, it is the couples who meet each other halfway that are most successful, according to researcher John Gottman.

Thuen believes that a holiday can be a golden opportunity to examine your own patterns and learn to listen to each other. Because maybe it's over a fine meal with a lovely view that you will be relaxed enough to see how you can improve together...?