This summer, my husband and I did something bold — some might even say scandalous. We left the kids at home and took a cruise through Europe. That’s right. No juice boxes. No chicken nugget negotiations. No “Are we there yet?” every 12 minutes. Just us, a suitcase full of linen outfits we barely wore, and a cruise itinerary that screamed “we still got it.”
We sailed through Provence, Italy, and Barcelona like two people who once knew how to sleep in. And let me tell you, the experience was nothing short of magical.
Provence: where I temporarily considered moving and starting a lavender farm because it smelled like peace, quiet, and freedom from sticky fingers.
Italy: where we ate gelato daily with zero shame and remembered what it was like to have uninterrupted conversations — although we did find ourselves pointing out playgrounds “the kids would love,” before quickly redirecting to Aperol Spritzes.
Barcelona: where we danced in the street, stayed out too late, and didn’t have to wake up early to find someone’s missing sock. A dream.
But beyond the wine, the scenic strolls, and the fact that nobody cried when their pasta was “touching the sauce,” this Europe trip reminded us that we’re more than just co-parents — we’re partners. We laughed like we did when we were dating. We took naps. Real naps. In the middle of the day. On purpose. Because we could.
Was there guilt? A little. Did we FaceTime the kids and feel a pang of “awww”? Sure. But you know what else we felt? Rested. Reconnected. Recharged. And when we came home, we were better parents — happier, more patient, and way more fun (at least for a week).
So, if you’re wondering whether a kid-free European cruise is “too much” — let me assure you: It’s not. It’s just enough. Book it, pack light, and don’t look back. You deserve more than just a date night — you deserve a whole continent.
