- ‘Self-expanding’ trips can increase couples’ passion and relationship satisfaction
- A better sex life lasts long after couples return if they make at least two trips a year
Forget quiet, romantic getaways.
Adventure holidays are the best way to boost your sex life, research shows.
Couples who go on “self-expanding” trips where they learn a new skill, try a new sport, or taste new foods have greater passion, physical intimacy, and relationship satisfaction.
Researchers found that the extra boost in the bedroom lasted long after couples returned if they took at least two exciting trips a year.
Meanwhile, those who spent their holidays lounging on the beach or relaxing at spa retreats had less passion and engaged less in physical intimacy, such as hand holding, kissing and sex.
Forget low-key, romantic getaways – adventure holidays are the best way to spice up your sex life, research shows (stock image)
Professor John Coffey of Arizona State University said: ‘An experiential holiday with your partner can improve your love life even after the trip is over.
‘These experiences don’t have to be hugely adventurous if extreme activities aren’t your thing.
‘Activities as simple as trying a challenging walk together or a new local cuisine are enough to explain the higher passion after the holidays.
‘Our research has shown that this applies regardless of the length of a couple’s relationship. So whether you’ve been together for a year or thirty, traveling together and trying new things is a good way to maintain intimacy and passion.’
The study, published in the Elsevier journal Annals of Tourism, looked at the experiences of 450 couples.
The study found that those who engaged in exciting or “self-expanding” activities while on vacation reported greater romantic passion and better relationship satisfaction when they returned.
Couples who go on “self-expanding” journeys where they learn a new skill, try a new sport, or taste new foods have greater passion, physical intimacy, and relationship satisfaction
They also enjoyed more physical intimacy and affection than that
The researchers suggested this was because memorable shared experiences produce happiness and strengthen relationship bonds, making the couple feel closer.
“Self-expanding” experiences and situations don’t have to be expensive or complicated, it added – simply trying new things or exploring new places can be enough.
Professor Coffey said: ‘We now have empirical evidence that holidays play an important role in the health and maintenance of romantic relationships in the long term.
‘The tourism sector can benefit from our research by offering and promoting a range of self-expanding activities.’