h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

How do you make a long distance relationship work while saving the funds to relocate?

I highly recommend the following:

* internet chat (download ICQ, AOL instant messenger, mIRC, or a similar program)
* email
* internet greeting cards
* regular snail mail for letters and photos taken by:
* a cheap (possibly disposable) camera and/or a webcam for your computer
* an internet-enabled florist for very special occasions

However, all the tools in the world will not save a relationship in which both participants are not equally dedicated to seeing things through. Truly solid relationships can survive without most of the above. The important thing is to communicate frequently. Do your honest best not to become a stranger to the one you love, and expect the same in return. Good luck!

I strongly recommend writing letters. They can be saved in bundles and savored later on, unlike e-mail, which is kinda dull and ordinary looking if you just print it out. Try to use unusual stationery & ink & stamps to make them more special. Also, on the florist tip, if you visit your honey's area, note phone numbers of nearby shops that deliver not just flowers but groceries, toys, chocolate, whatever. You can always call them long-distance and order stuff for local delivery using your credit card.

Once again the answer here is 'Honesty'

Don't try and avoid the distance by using phrases like 'I'll see you SOON'- You have to both be aware of what you are taking on and exactly how long you are going to have to spend apart.

Then theres appreciating exactly what the strains are (Not seeing each other is the obvious one but there are others- having your own lives and you're own friends and changing and growing with them) and work out ways to deal with them- this is where the honesty comes in. It IS going to be hard at times and that can lead to doubt. At times like this, for god's sake, TELL each other, and understand that there is going to be doubt along the way.. Otherwise it can just degenerate.

Oh, and one other thing- when you do see each other, make the most of it. Spend time before hand planning what you're going to do, arrange surprises for each other- make sure you leave with nothing but happy memories

I managed to survive a year in a long-distance relationship and in the end it was jealousy that broke us up- she developed a friendship with a bloke and she spent a lot of time with him and the seeds of mis-trust were planted. Needless to say I chased her right into his arms.