How to Plan for Your European Hen-Do

Your partner put a ring on it, now it’s time to celebrate with the girls! I had my own hen-do/bachelorette party in sunny Miami, which was a total blast. However, now that I live in London, I wish I could do it all over again, European-style! There are endless destinations at your fingertips from the UK for a truly unforgettable hen-do. Whether you’re bestie just got engaged or you want to take all your friends on a ladies-only holiday, a destination hen-do is the perfect chance to let you hair down and have a wonderful time abroad.

Grab Your Girls and Get Inspired

Before making any decisions about your fab hen-do, you’ll need to make sure everyone is on the same page. Of course there will need to be a few compromises, but all the ladies looking to enjoy a wonderful holiday together need to be happy with the destination. Check out resources online for trendy hotspots, special deals and other great tips, such as Expedia’s Hen Hub.

The best way to narrow down some ideas is deciding what kind of trip you’d like to have. Are you looking for a wild party in Ibiza? What about a foodie escape in Italy? Or maybe a beach bum experience in the south of France?

How to Book a Hen-Do

To keep things organized, rooms, activities and other planned attractions should be booked together. Either collect funds from your friends ahead of time before reserving hotel rooms, or decide later who owes what. The last thing you want is to worry about details while out having fun. Some activities can be left to spontaneity, but if traveling with a group it’s smart to have flights and hotels booked in advance.

There’s some sites that also let you reserve accommodations without a deposit and free cancellation. These can work best for hen-dos that might need last minute changes. Compare prices and stay within everyone’s averaged budget so no one feels pinched.

Pack All the Right Things

It’s the worst when you realize that essential item was left behind on your hen-do. Make sure each person is responsible for something (like hairdryers, bottles of bubbly, etc.) that can be shared with your squad. Otherwise, have a checklist for the rest of the luggage so ensure nothing goes amiss. Check the weather a week before so the right outfits are sorted.

Consider a few things that might come in handy with groups. For instance, take a few portable phone chargers so you don’t miss any Instagram shots of the hen-do. A power strip for the hotel room can also help with plug-ins, especially is several girls are together in the space.  Layer up for ski breaks with waterproof jackets, or snag a sarong that can double as a beach cover up and a colorful skirt on a night out.

A Couple Great Destination Ideas

It’s tough to pick just one place to go on your hen-do, but I have a few suggestions from my on travels and girls getaways!

• With a smaller group, try a road trip through Ireland for some great pubs or Italy for a little coastal sunshine.
• Give Romania a go for rich cuisine, bumping city nightlife and tons of gorgeous castles to explore.
• Dip your toes in the sand near Barcelona, then peruse the Gaudi garden and houses.
• Have some fun on the beaches of the Algarve, Portugal, then head inland for some cultural exchange and crafts.

 Cover photo credit: Rhianne Jones Photography