Turbulence Tests: The New Romantic Travel Trend
A Booking.com survey found 37% of people willing to test relationship compatibility on vacation, dubbed a 'turbulence test.' Couples take short or long trips to gauge long-term viability. Relationship expert Kimberly Miller notes travel reveals conflict resolution and communication differences. Hotels like The Loutrel in Charleston, SC offer incentives: $100 bar credit, conversation cards, and a free elopement if engaged after a year. General manager Karl von Ramm says the hotel aims to deepen bonds or provide clarity. Journalist Latifah Al-Hazza takes partners on trips within the first month to quickly uncover traits like prejudice or frustration. Travel influencer Lauren Durie used two turbulence tests, the last leading to marriage after a Grand Canyon hike and an international trip. Miller advises using tests for information, not as pass/fail exams.
Key facts
- 37% of people willing to test compatibility on vacation
- Booking.com survey cited
- Kimberly Miller is chief divorce educator at PartWise
- The Loutrel hotel in Charleston offers turbulence test packages
- Karl von Ramm is general manager of The Loutrel
- Latifah Al-Hazza takes partners on trips within first month
- Lauren Durie used turbulence tests twice, last led to marriage
- Miller advises using tests for information, not definitive pass/fail
Entities
Institutions
- Booking.com
- PartWise
- The Loutrel
- Veranda Lounge
Locations
- Charleston
- South Carolina
- Zanzibar
- Aspen
- Grand Canyon
- Havasupai
- New York City
- Melbourne
- Australia
- Southeast Asia
- Europe
- Asia