How My Best Friend and I Have Taken a Trip Together Every Year Since College—and Why Our Getaways Look Very Different
A promise after graduation
The writer describes Lisa as her sorority Little who became a soul sister. They spent much of college making plans together and did not want distance to end that closeness after graduation.
Lisa is from the Boston area, and the writer is from Connecticut and moved to New York City after college. They agreed to make time for an in-person visit every year.
A tradition changes pace
Soon after college, the pair spent several sunny days together on Long Beach Island, New Jersey. Their days included catching up, followed by bar hopping and dancing to live music late into the night.
More than a decade after graduation, the summer tradition continues, but the activities have changed. They now brunch at Lemon Press, visit boutiques, shop for Lisa’s children, have cocktails at CRU, ride beach cruisers past hydrangea-lined homes and relax at the beach.
Making time for each other
The friends now plan their trip more carefully, beginning in early spring so they can find a summer date that works for both. Their lives have also changed: Lisa married her high-school sweetheart and has two children, while the writer and her husband recently bought their first home and are working on renovations between trips.
Despite the different pace, the friends still talk, relax and laugh together throughout their getaways. The writer says silences feel natural, and describes their friendship as strong enough to keep the summer tradition going.
Key points
- The friends have met in person for a trip every year since college.
- Their early Long Beach Island visits featured late nights and live music.
- Their current outings include brunch, shopping, cocktails, cycling and beach time.
- They plan ahead to protect time for their friendship.