How to Survive the In-Laws During the Holidays

For many, Thanksgiving and Christmas are a time for celebration, parties and getting together with friends and family. But not you… no, you’re already switching to panic mode because of the impending arrival of your in-laws. 

This year, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts will help guide you through this minefield when the parents-in-law come to town, including practical, no-nonsense tips on how to make this festive period more enjoyable than you ever believed possible.

Prepare conversation topics 

You can’t escape having to converse with your partner’s parents eventually, however, just a few minutes of additional research can pay massive dividends when inevitable one-on-one situations arise. 

Don’t miss this excellent opportunity to steer the conversation in your favor, have some topics of discussion lined up ready. Maybe he likes fishing or perhaps he’s a secret NASCAR fan, why not score bonus points and take the lead in initiative topics of your father-in-law’s interests? 

Plan plenty of outdoor activities 

There’s nothing like getting the whole family involved in festive outdoor activities. A game of football, group ice skating or a family walk. These activities help to build closer family bonds, but it also has the added benefit of wearing everybody out. What host doesn’t rejoice after hearing the kids and grandparents requesting an early bedtime?

Suggest they take a day trip out with the grandkids 

This top tip frees you from entertaining the kids all day and encourages the rest of the group to be out of the house. If well-planned, they could be vacating the house before sunrise, to beat the crowds, and not return until after dark. 

Encourage your in-laws to stay at a nearby Best Western hotel 

Let’s face it, a little space may be necessary during the holidays. Be sure to book early and let Best Western® Hotels & Resorts take the stress out of this festive season’s in-law visit. With spacious rooms in more than 4,000 locations, reserving a room is easy in just a few clicks.