A bevy of emotions unleash during the process of separation or divorce … and rarely do any of them feel peaceful, settled or anything other than exhausting. Many people at this point consider taking a trip – however long or short – as a means of clearing their minds and bringing focus to their next steps. The thought of getting away after divorce or separation can be both exciting and paralyzing at the same time. So, how to go about it?
After Divorce Travel Advice from Family, Friends, and Strangers
If you were to ask everyone in your social circle – family, friends, and others – you would probably get a mix of responses as to whether you should take a trip to change your scenery and clear your mind after divorce or separation. Some people will say that it’s a great idea and you need (deserve?) some time completely to yourself. Others will say that it’s a terrible idea and that you should pull yourself together and first rebuild your life. Who’s right?
Only one person can answer that, of course, and it’s you.
After Divorce Travel – Where do I Start?
You’ve spent some amount of time, probably measured in years, living with another person. You have probably travelled with that person and are used to a certain level of comfort both simply by being part of a couple both at home and away. You’ve had comfort, and you’ve had a certain degree of safety. Now what?
- Choose your destination smartly. If going away is more important than going far away, there are plenty of local destinations that remove you from home without putting miles on your car. Just Google your city or town’s name and the word staycation. You’ll be surprised at what’s close by.
- If heading to another continent is more appealing to you because you truly need to put thousands of miles between you and everything that you’ve just been through, do your research. It’s one thing to be a strong, confident individual seeking clarity. It’s another to blindly throw yourself into harm’s way. Take a look at the State Department’s website for travel warnings before you get too far into your planning process. Scour the internet. Get information from others who have been there. Know what you’re up against before you go.
Is Traveling Alone Safe After Divorce?
The safety concerns of travelling alone exist for every person, regardless of relationship status. Independenttraveler.com gives these very useful tips for all solo travelers:
- Be your own judge. If it feels wrong, don’t do it.
- Walk with purpose and show confidence.
- Don’t look like a tourist.
- Leave the expensive and flashy jewelry and clothes at home.
- Don’t let on to anyone during your travels that you are alone for the whole trip. A little white lie is okay when it comes to ensuring your safely.
- Know where you’re doing and how you’re getting there before you leave your hotel. When your face is in a map, this tips everyone off that you’re unfamiliar with the area.
- Leave your itinerary with someone back home … just in case.
- Check out the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program [https://step.state.gov/step/] that can help the local U.S. Embassy contact and assist you in the event of a natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.
Your first trip alone after divorce or separation is not going to be easy. You’ll have emotions to work through, and memories sort through, too. It may, in fact, be exhausting to be taking complete care of everything at all times, including your own health and safety. Give yourself the freedom to reduce a packed itinerary if you’re tired or simply come home early if that seems like the right thing to do. Going on this little (or big) adventure is your choice and should bring you some peace in the end, not a lot of additional stress. And, do consult with your Findling Law lawyer to make sure that your presence isn’t going to be required for your separation or divorce process while you are away. We are always here to help you navigate change so you can move toward your new happiness.
About Findling Law
Findling Law, PLC – 414 W. 5th St. Royal Oak, Michigan 48067
Phone:+1 (248) 399-3300
After hours emergency?+1 (707) 968-7347
Email:Daniel@Findlinglaw.com
I have been exclusively practicing divorce and family law in Michigan for over two decades. The attorneys at Findling Law all share the core value of practicing law to help people navigate change in their lives, without compromising principles. We specialize in high socio-economic, high-profile and high-conflict cases, while also working with clients of all backgrounds. We recognize that the most important aspect of the practice of law is the application of the law to your specific circumstances.That is why we provide more free information on divorce and family law than any other Michigan law firm. We want to help you manage your situation. Allow our exceptional legal team to help you navigate the change in your life, without compromising principles.
By: Daniel Findling
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