Comedian and author Chelsea Handler just announced a new plan for the next time her family takes a trip together. She established boundaries with her family after a difficult visit. Handler’s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. She shared that she once wrote a “harsh missive” to her in-laws, which outlined strict guidelines for family vacation behavior.
The comedian and author, known for her candid humor, opened up about the family dynamics that led to this decision. Although Handler was extraordinarily generous to pay for a beautiful, extravagant, all-expenses-paid family vacation, the trip was spoiled by rude behavior. Her immediate family jumped at the chance to throw each other under the bus. This was enforced especially when someone polished off the liquor without replenishing the stash. The cause of the problem was mainly underage drinking by some of the family members.
Handler wrote a letter dictating the conditions of travel on all upcoming vacations. She also stressed the importance of being attentive, totally engaged and free of distractions, when spending time with family. She refused to allow phones out at the dinner table.
“You have to be off your phone at dinner. You can’t be sitting there when we’re engaging and playing a game. You have to be present,” – Chelsea Handler shared during her appearance.
Handler pointed out the need for more basic courtesies too, like saying please and thank you.
“And I’m like, part of it is my fault — I take responsibility for providing these kinds of extravagant vacations. But I said these are the requirements moving forward. I need everyone to say please and thank you a lot more — not to me, to everyone you come into contact with.” – Chelsea Handler explained.
The letter’s effect proved powerful, as even eligible family members had to deprogram themselves and apologize for the predatory conduct towards their families.
“So I sent it, and they slowly started saying, ‘We’re really sorry.’” – Chelsea Handler recounted.
Handler’s decision to establish some bright-line rules went well beyond her own children. She circulated the letter to her peers, encouraging them to use it as a template for their own stays. When they reported finding it useful, she considered it the “ultimate validation.”
Handler’s travel guide rules didn’t stop there, though – she expected employees to make eye contact with each person who walked into her house.
“I was like, ‘Listen, you have to make eye contact with every person that comes inside the house,’” – Chelsea Handler emphasized.
She even personally addressed the problems of beer bottles being left under the deck. She illustrated the need to refill the pitcher after drinking the last margarita.
“Don’t leave beer bottles under the deck. Don’t drink the last margaritas without filling up the pitcher.” – Chelsea Handler advised.
Since sending that initial letter, Handler has successfully gone on more peaceful and pleasant vacations with her family. She is back to working with two distinct player groups, keeping everyone informed and focused on the rules they set at the beginning of travel.
Handler’s experience in entertainment reporting covers more than five years, with her coming over to Entertainment Weekly in August 2022. Her expertise on relationships and interpersonal behavior on vacation are just the tip of a many-sided career known for many things.
