Going away with kids isn't a vacation; it's a trip. Okay, so maybe that's a little extreme. But any parent will cop to the fact that taking kids to a destination usually requires more work than play. More often than not, there's little time for rest and relaxation. When was the last time you and your partner snuck away for an adults-only vacation? If you're still trying to remember, it's likely been far too long. The reality of it is that no matter how strong you marriage is, you still need some downtime to continue to nurture your relationship without any distractions. Of course, a romantic getaway is easier said than done. After all, what are you going to do with the children? You may want to consider these options. Recruit a family member or friend to stay in your home so that you can sneak off. Children will probably feel more secure if they're in their own surroundings. If that's not an option, allow them to stay at somebody else's house who you trust. You may even do a swap with another couple. You watch their kids so they can get away, and in exchange, they watch your kids.

Once you have the kiddie arrangements ironed out, choose a romantic destination. Maybe it's a Caribbean cruise or a weekend getaway to the city. Pick a destination that's new and exciting to both of you. While some couples may want to plan out every detail of their trip, others may opt to play it by ear. Before you ever leave your house, you should discuss what you both want out of your vacation. For example, if your goal is to simply lounge around the hotel for a few days, it won't come as a shock to your partner when you don't want to go sightseeing, snorkeling or parasailing. Make sure that you share the same agenda so there are no surprises. If a costly trip isn't in your budget, consider a staycation. That's where you get away from it all without ever leaving your zip code. Book an affordable room at a local hotel and stay holed up for the weekend. Spend the mornings in bed watching a good movie. Or maybe hit the beach or shops for the day. Remember, you can bond with your partner just about anywhere. All it takes is a little planning.