Relationships, especially romantic relationships with your special someone are an integral part of our lives as humans but sometimes in the course of the journey, you realise that the spark is gone and the exciting feeling is fading.

Your relationship doesn’t have to crash at the slightest difficulty. Even if everything is okay, it’s never wrong to add a little spice and take it to the next level!

It doesn’t matter if your relationship is a few weeks, months or even years, here are six ways you can use in spicing up your relationship and be happier with your partner.

1. Try Something New Together

One of the most important keys to building a healthy relationship is  connection, and trying new adventures together is a great way to strengthen that connection. Whether it’s taking a class, hiking or even cooking together, the bottom line is the excitement and bonding that comes with these moments helps your relationship.

2. Surprise Each Other

Take time to surprise your partner

Nothing is as beautiful as the memories you make in your relationship and one way to deepen your intimacy and create a lot of happy memories is surprises.

And no you don’t have to do anything expensive or tasking. You can make their favourite meal, leave their favourite chocolate under the pillow or leaving them a sweet note. In relationships, the gestures and thoughts matter more than the price or cost of gifts.

3. Focus on Communication.

If you want to have a beautiful, nurturing relationship, you have to be open with your partner.

Whether it’s talking about your feelings, gisting and filling each other in about your day or week or even talking out conflicts, communicating is an essential ingredient to not just spicing your relationship but building a long-lasting relationship.

4. Plan Regular Date Nights

Date night

Spending quality time to know and understand your partner on different levels is one key ingredient to strengthen your bond and intimacy.

So whether it’s a cinema date, a movie night or a cozy dinner out in town, make sure to keep the romance alive!

5. Compliment and Appreciate Each Other

Compliment and appreciate your partner

Sometimes what you need to keep the relationship going is recognizing and telling your partner how much they are loved and valued.

What do you love about them? What’s one trait that they have that you respect? Tell them and let them know they are truly treasured.

6. Keep Physical Touch Alive

Physical touch is important in relationships

Whether it’s holding hands and hugging, keeping physical touch alive is an important factor to keep your relationship alive.

Building a beautiful, nurturing relationship isn’t always the easiest as there are challenges to overcome and issues to sort through, but it’s not impossible and hopefully, these relationship tips help you spice up your relationship.

ALSO SEE: REKINDLING INTIMACY: 10 PRACTICAL TIPS FOR BUSY COUPLES 

Preparing for a trip can be both exciting and stressful. Even if you’re traveling within Nigeria, heading to another African country, or flying overseas, not having the essential items can turn a smooth journey into a frustrating experience. From power outages at the airport to unexpected weather changes, travelers from Nigeria often face unexpected challenges that require smart packing. But no matter where you’re going, having the right necessities can make all the difference.  And if you’re reading this from other  parts of the world, you’ll find these tips just as useful for your own trips

To help you travel with ease, we’ve put together six must-have items that will keep you comfortable, organized, and stress-free on your next trip.

Power bank And Adapter

1. A Power Bank and Universal Travel Adapter

If you’ve ever experienced a dead phone at Murtala Muhammed International Airport or needed to send an urgent message in transit, you understand the importance of a reliable power bank. Flights get delayed, buses break down, and sometimes, power outlets are scarce.

A high-capacity power bank (at least 10,000mAh) will keep your phone, earbuds, or even a mini fan running. And if you’re traveling internationally, a universal adapter is a must. Many Nigerians visiting the US, UK, or Europe forget that power outlets are different from those back home. You don’t want to be stranded at a hotel unable to charge your phone because you didn’t bring the right adapter.

Pro tip: If you’re flying with a power bank, make sure it’s in your carry-on, as airlines don’t allow them in checked luggage.

Necessary Document

2. Original Copies of Important Documents (Plus Digital Backups)

A trip can be swiftly ruined by misplaced passports, unaccounted-for tickets, and unremembered hotel bookings. Always bring these important documents:

•  A passport (if going abroad, one that is valid for at least six months).
• Documentation for a visa, if necessary.
• Travel insurance information.
• Hotel bookings.
• Vaccination records (yellow cards for certain locations).

Take photos and upload copies to your cloud storage or email instead of simply keeping them in your backpack. Having digital backups will make it easier to replace your documents in the event that they are lost or stolen.

For Nigerians who are going overseas: Make sure you have a return ticket on hand if you are on a visitation visa, as Immigration officials   frequently need evidence that you do not intend to remain longer than necessary.

Cold and hot weather

3. Lightweight, Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Packing the wrong clothes can make a trip uncomfortable. If you’re leaving Nigeria for colder regions, don’t assume you’ll “manage” with a hoodie, buy proper winter jackets. Likewise, if you’re heading to a sunny destination like Dubai or Ghana, go for breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.

Ladies, as much as that bodycon dress looks good on Instagram, consider comfort, too. Gentlemen, a well-ironed kaftan is great, but ensure it suits the weather.

For travelers in Nigeria, keep in mind that harmattan can be unpredictable. A light sweater might be useful even when traveling within the country.

Pro tip: Pack versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched. This reduces luggage weight while keeping you stylish.

Essential Toiletries

4. Toiletries and Medications

Yes, hotels provide soap and shampoo, but what if the quality isn’t great? Worse, what if they don’t provide any at all? To avoid unnecessary expenses, carry your own toiletries:

• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Soap and deodorant
• Face wipes (especially for Lagosians dealing with dust)
• Lotion (harmattan can be brutal!)

For medications, even if you’re healthy, always carry basic drugs:

• Painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
• Antimalarial drugs (for trips within West Africa)
• Allergy medication
• Prescribed medications (if you take any)

For Nigerians traveling abroad: Some drugs that are common in Nigeria, like certain pain relievers, may be restricted in other countries. Always check travel regulations before packing medication .

Cash

5. Cash and a Functional Bank Card

Although carrying actual cash may seem outdated in an age of digital banking, anyone who has had their Nigerian bank card rejected overseas will tell you that it’s a lifesaver.

Sometimes network problems or expenditure caps cause international transactions to fail. It’s equally crucial to have cash for local travel.

ATMs can be unreliable in some places, and not all taxis or small vendors take transfers.

A pro suggestion is to let your bank know in advance if you will be travelling abroad to prevent your card from being blocked for “suspicious activity.” And in case of an emergency, always have a small amount of foreign currency on hand.

Hand luggage

6. A Reliable Hand Luggage Bag

Your checked bag may not always arrive with you, ask anyone who has flown through certain airports. That’s why a well-packed carry-on bag is essential. It should contain:

• A change of clothes (in case of lost luggage)
• Snacks (because airplane food isn’t always filling)
• Headphones (to block out noisy passengers)
• A neck pillow (for comfortable naps)
• A book or downloaded movies (to pass time)

Make sure your carry-on is lightweight but spacious enough to fit your essentials.

Wrapping off :

Whether you’re traveling for work, vacation, or even japa, these six essentials will help keep stress at bay. The goal is to be prepared without overpacking.

For Nigerians, travel can sometimes feel like an extreme sport because of fluctuating exchange rates, long queues at the airport, and unexpected expenses. But with the right items, you can navigate any trip with ease.

Also if you’re in any other country, these tips are just as useful. After all, a stress-free trip starts with smart packing. Safe travels.

related articles: Top 5 Exotic Nigerian Resorts to Check Out This Holiday Season

Between work, kids, financial stress, and daily responsibilities, many couples find themselves drifting apart without realizing it.

At first, it’s just a missed date night or a conversation cut short by exhaustion.

Then, days turn into weeks, and suddenly, you realize you’re more you like roommates than lovers.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Many couples struggle to maintain intimacy because life gets overwhelming.

By the time you’re done with work, house chores, and everything in between, you barely have the energy to talk—let alone connect emotionally or physically.

But here’s the good news: intimacy doesn’t have to fade.

With a little effort and intentionality, you can bring back that spark and feel close again.

Here are 10 practical ways to rekindle intimacy, even with a busy schedule:

1. Prioritize Quality Time Together

Love thrives on time and attention. Even with a packed schedule, setting aside moments of connection makes a difference.

— Start the day together – have coffee or chat before work

— Go for evening walks – a simple way to unwind together

— Have no-phone dinner nights – focus fully on each other.

You don’t need hours—even 15 minutes of undivided attention can help rebuild connection.

2. Communicate Openly and Honestly

The quickest way for intimacy to fade? Lack of communication.

— Talk about more than just chores and responsibilities

— Share your thoughts, dreams, and feelings

— Ask open-ended questions to deepen conversations

A simple “How was your day?” isn’t enough. Try “What was the best part of your day?” or “What’s been on your mind lately?” Deeper conversations bring emotional closeness.

3. Reintroduce Small Acts of Affection

It’s not just the big romantic gestures that keep love alive—it’s the small, daily touches.

— Hold hands, cuddle, or share quick kisses

— Leave sweet texts or love notes during the day

— Greet each other with warm hugs instead of a rushed “hey” Physical connection builds emotional intimacy.

4. Plan Regular Date Nights

When was the last time you both had fun together—without distractions?

— Schedule monthly date nights (even at home!)

— Try new activities together to break routine

— Surprise each other with spontaneous plans

Date nights reignite excitement and remind you why you fell in love.

5. Explore New Experiences Together

Routine can make a relationship feel stale. Shake things up with something new.

— Take a dance class or cooking lesson

— Go on a spontaneous road trip

— Try a new hobby together

New experiences create fresh memories and deeper bonds.

6. Balance Work and Relationship Time

Work stress can kill intimacy. Set boundaries to protect your relationship.

—Leave work at work – avoid bringing stress home

— Limit screen time when spending time together

— Establish a “no work talk” rule during personal time

Your job is important, but so is your relationship.

 

7. Express Appreciation and Gratitude

Over time, couples stop noticing the little things. Show appreciation daily.

— Thank your partner for small efforts (cooking, errands, support)

— Compliment them—not just on looks, but on who they are

— Leave unexpected “I love you” texts

Feeling valued and seen strengthens emotional intimacy.

 

8. Keep the Romance Alive

Romance isn’t just about anniversaries and birthdays. Keep it alive daily.

— Send flirty texts during the day

—Plan a surprise weekend getaway

— Recreate your first date or favorite memory

Small romantic gestures keep love exciting.

 

9. Address Issues Before They Escalate

Unresolved conflicts create distance. Don’t sweep things under the rug.

— Address concerns calmly and early

— Listen without interrupting

— Focus on solutions, not blame

A healthy relationship thrives on understanding and teamwork.

 

10. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you’ve tried everything and still feel disconnected, don’t be afraid to seek help.

— Couples therapy can provide new perspectives

— Seeking help is a sign of commitment, not failure

Sometimes, an outside perspective is all you need to reconnect.

 

Conclusion

Rekindling intimacy takes effort, but it’s worth it. By making each other a priority, communicating openly, and nurturing your bond, you can keep your relationship strong—no matter how busy life gets.

Which tip will you try first? Let me know in the comments!

Read Also: Dealing with casual sex: risks and reward.