If you are a step-parent or a step-child feeling that awkward distance, maybe a shared project is the key. For us, it was the Goa plan. For you, it might be something else. But give it a chance—you might be surprised at how well you fit together.

She helped him set a simple budget: food, local travel, small souvenirs, emergency fund. They set daily limits and discussed a backup plan if someone’s card failed. She also taught him to screenshot important info (hotel address, emergency numbers) and save it offline.