What happens when one partner dreams of an adventurous journey while the other prefers relaxing by the pool? For the Margriet Summer Special, Isabel Mosk spoke as a travel trendwatcher and tourism strategist about couples with different travel preferences.
More women are choosing to travel without their partner—alone, with a friend or as part of a group. According to Isabel, this development is connected to financial independence, changing gender roles and a growing desire among women to make space for their own interests and wellbeing after years of caring for others.
Isabel and her partner also occasionally travel separately. While she is passionate about adventurous and lesser-known destinations, her partner prefers relaxing holidays and surfing. Different travel preferences do not have to cause problems, provided partners give each other the freedom to travel in a way that suits them.
Published in: Margriet Summer Special 2026
Article: No holiday match with your partner? Then I’ll travel by myself!
Written by: Jessica van Zanten
Publication date: 11 June 2026