**Chelsea Handler Outlines Vacation Etiquette for Family After Past Experiences**
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Comedian Chelsea Handler has taken to social media to establish a new set of rules for family vacations, following what she described as unsatisfactory experiences during previous trips. In a recent Instagram post, the 51-year-old performer shared a message detailing her expectations for those who wish to join her on holiday, stating, “If you want to vacation with me, these are the rules.”
Handler’s post comes in the heart of the summer holiday season, and features a letter she penned to her extended family, excerpted from her upcoming book, *I’ll Have What She’s Having*. The comedian expressed feeling “embarrassed and taken advantage of” during past family gatherings at her residences in Los Angeles, Mallorca, and Martha’s Vineyard, pointing to a “shortfall of manners” among her relatives.
One of Handler’s primary requests is that family members acknowledge the staff during their stay. While she clarifies that lengthy conversations are not necessary, she insists that a simple greeting to those involved in their holiday – whether housekeepers or delivery drivers – shows decency and respect.
When it comes to shared meals, Handler has set forth guidelines to foster a more considerate dining experience. She urges her family to tidy up after themselves by cleaning their plates and placing them in the dishwasher, as well as resisting the temptation to consume excessive amounts of alcohol. Additionally, she emphasises the importance of waiting until everyone has been served before reaching for seconds. Handler has also made it clear that if someone depletes the last pitcher of margaritas, they should be prepared to refill it.
Handler also believes in the importance of engagement during family activities. She encourages her guests, particularly younger relatives, to disconnect from their phones and gaming devices for a couple of hours each evening to fully participate in family bonding activities, such as games, movies, or dinners. Reflecting on one of her fondest memories from a family gathering, she recalled the joy of playing a game called Oval Office: “We only get those moments when we relax, and when we are present with each other,” she remarked. “They don’t happen when someone is on their phone. Moments like this are what family is and what it must remain.”
The comedian further highlighted that vacations together are not an automatic entitlement; rather, they require a “contribution” from participants in terms of their attitude and engagement. Handler explained, “A contribution does not mean financial. It means: What pleasantness are you planning to bring on vacation? It is not a free-for-all.” She added, “I don’t care how much our family annoys you. It’s the only one we’ve got, and we are stuck together for life.”
During an appearance on *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* in March 2025, Handler revealed that she has since implemented her proposed guidelines during family trips, but has opted to vacation separately with children and adults. “I split them up, because then I can be an aunt and have fun and the kids can be real … and then the adults, I vacation with alone. So that’s my new thing,” she explained, highlighting her desire to create enjoyable experiences tailored to each group.
Handler, who is the youngest of six siblings, has experienced the unique dynamics of family life throughout her upbringing in Livingston, New Jersey. Tragically, the comedian lost her eldest brother, Chet, in 1984 during a hiking accident at just 22 years old. While she has no children of her own, Handler sees herself as a significant figure in the lives of her eight nieces and nephews.
In June 2024, Handler showcased a trip exclusively for children on her Instagram, highlighting her commitment to ensuring that family experiences are fun and stress-free for all involved.
Through her candid reflections and outlined rules, Chelsea Handler aims to foster a more respectful and enjoyable atmosphere during family vacations, creating a space where everyone can genuinely connect and enjoy each other’s company.