5 Ways To Turn Your Family Vacation Into A Romantic Getaway

By Thien-Kim Lam

My family just returned from our first vacation to Disney World. My sister met us in Orlando to explore the happiest place on Earth with us. While I enjoyed having another adult to help out with the kids, having their Auntie stay in the same room with us also meant that my husband and I didn’t have any "happy endings" at the happiest place on earth.

Sad, I know.

Here's what I'll do during our next family vacation to make sure we have plenty of opportunities to get intimate:

1. Book a suite or adjoining rooms.

This option wasn't in our budget, but if you can swing it, I recommend it. (At least with a suite, you'll have a living room area with a pullout couch or portable cot.) Once the kids are fast asleep, you can shut the door to your room. If you’re traveling with other adult family members, book adjoining rooms. The kids can have a sleepover with the other adults.

2. Shower together.

Either wake up early or let the kids watch TV while you're in the shower. (My husband and I occasionally shower together at home so this wouldn't be out of the norm for us.) If your kids question you, tell them you're helping dad soap his back.

3. Take advantage of kid's camp.

Cruise ships and some resorts offer free daytime children’s activities. Drop the kids off and head back to your room for some extracurricular activities of your own.

4. Hire a sitter.

Splurge and hire a sitter (your resort can recommend one) to take the kids to a midday or evening activity such as walking the boardwalk or playing at the arcade. Then you can grab some take out and feed each other in bed.

5. Get freaky in the bathroom.

If you just want a down-and-dirty quickie, put on your kids’ favorite TV show or movie and lock yourself in the bathroom. While you might not have time for 20 minutes of foreplay, don’t knock the power of the quickie.