• When we travel, my partner prefers heading outdoors but I like exploring big cities.
• We plan trips we both enjoy by finding experiences and stays that feature our shared interests.
• We stay open-minded when trying activities one of us is way more excited about than the other.

In many ways, my partner and I are proof that opposites attract.

For starters, he adores mountains and hikes, while I prefer a big city and spas. Although we both love to travel, our preferred itineraries, activities, and destinations can be pretty different.

Over time, though, we've figured out how to plan couples trips that we can both enjoy together.

We try to book experiences and stays that combine our interests

Whenever possible, we try to find activities and excursions that feature something we're both passionate about, like cycling.

I love a spin class, and he adores mountain biking. So, when we travel, we look for bike tours. One of our favorite trips featured a bike tour through the French countryside that included a picnic.

We also combined our interests on a day trip to Tolantongo, just a few hours north of Mexico City.

Since we both enjoy being in and around water, we relaxed in hillside hot-spring pools, ziplined, explored caves hidden behind waterfalls, and lounged by a thermal river to end the day.

The experience combined the relaxing vibes of a spa day (my favorite) with a stunning outdoor landscape (his favorite) that blew us both away.

Plus, we try to combine our priorities and preferences when booking accommodations.

Last summer, he wanted to go horseback riding and camping in Montana's Big Sky. So, I found an Airbnb close enough to the wilderness (for him) with a massive bathtub (for me) to relax in after a day in the great outdoors.

We're patient and open-minded when doing activities the other is really excited about

Sometimes, the best gift you can give your partner is letting them introduce you to an activity that makes them light up inside.

This helps us lean into our individual interests while still making memories together. For example, I love spending a day vintage shopping for the perfect pair of boots or a jacket that I definitely don't need.

My partner is wonderful and patient as I rummage through racks of secondhand goodies — and I'm the same way when he takes me on a three-hour hike.

Plus, while trying activities my partner is excited about, I've learned more about myself and what I enjoy.

I'll never forget the rush of endorphins I felt while whitewater rafting in Colorado or how special it was to see a moose and her baby while hiking in Wyoming.

When in doubt, we take turns planning

If we're struggling to find common ground, we'll take turns choosing destinations and activities.

Usually, if I pick one trip, he'll choose the next. If neither of us really has a preference, we'll draw a destination out of a hat.

Doing so is easy because we prioritize each other's happiness and know each other's limits — he knows I'm open to camping, but only if there's electricity nearby.