10 Things Every Honeymooner Needs to Know

2008-12-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

While weddings are frequently a collaborative effort with family and friends, a honeymoon is often the first big decision you make together as a couple. Not all newlyweds take a honeymoon, but if you can, do so. It'll help you to recover from the wedding and give you a few much-needed days alone before real life intrudes. Here are some tips to ensure your honeymoon is everything you hope for:

1. Decide on a budget. Does your wallet allow for a night at Motel 6, a round-the-world tour, or something in between? Figure out how much you have to spend beforehand, and perhaps count on some wedding-gift money to add to your stake.

2. Discuss your idea of the perfect vacation. Who likes sports? Who likes sun? Who wants to explore an exotic destination? Make a list of the things that mean the most to you, and compare notes. Marriage is going to call for lots of compromise, and this is the place to start.

3. Pick your destination. If you're on a budget, keep in mind that many places adjust their rates seasonally. For instance, it's cheaper to visit the Caribbean in warm weather, and ski resorts that offer a lot of activities (but no snow) in summer will also be less expensive.

4. Use a travel agent. It doesn't cost any more, and he or she can make all the arrangements without you having to worry about them

5. If you're going abroad, leave plenty of time to make sure your passport is current, you have the visas needed. If inoculations are required, get them well before the wedding.

6. When you make reservations, let them know you're honeymooning. People will want to please you (in the hope that you'll return). You may get upgraded to a better room at no charge, receive a welcome bottle of champagne, and who knows what else.

7. Protect your privacy. This is especially important if you have a destination wedding, where the guests tend to hang around. A honeymoon is for the two of you, period. No kids, no pets, no company.

8. Take more money than you think you'll need. (To make things uncomplicated, you may want to pre-pay for everything, or select a resort that offers an "all-inclusive" rate, which usually covers food, lodging, activities, drinks, transfers, tips, and more.)

9. Schedule time to do nothing at all. While it's great to know you have plenty of options in terms of things to see and do, this is, after all, a honeymoon.

10. Be considerate of your spouse's wishes.

source:Susan Breslow Sardone
About.com

Honeymoon Planning Information

2008-12-06T08:34:00.000-08:00

Although the task of arranging a honeymoon can seem daunting if you haven't traveled much before, the Web makes it easier than ever. Couples planning a honeymoon can find a wealth of information here about honeymoon planning, honeymoon locations, and honeymoon tips. You can also discover ways to save money on a honeymoon, what to pack, the best times to travel to a variety of places, and much more. Begin exploring below.

Honeymoon Basics
Everything you need to know to organize a honeymoon that's custom-made for the two of you.

Honeymoon Destinations
You can honeymoon anywhere you like, of course, but there are certain places that are known more than others for grownup fun and romance. Here you can begin to find out more about legendary getaways and extraordinary places where couples choose to start their married life together.

Booking Your Honeymoon
While it's true that you can take off on a whim and go anywhere the the wind leads you, that's not advisable for a honeymoon. Unless your time and funds are unlimited, you'll want to nail down where you will stay and how you will get yourselves there. Use the following tips to make planning honeymoon travel arrangements easier on yourselves.

Love & Romance
What would a honeymoon or romantic getaway be without passion? The following features can help you fan the flames wherever you go.

Saving Money on a Honeymoon
Every couple has a different honeymoon budget. Whether yours is small or vast, you will still want to get the most value when you travel. The following can help you spend less and enjoy more.

Packing for Your Honeymoon
Whether you're going on an overnight honeymoon or one that lasts weeks (or longer!), you'll want to prepare for the occasion by packing the essentials. Since this will be your first official trip together as Mr. and Mrs, you may also want to make it special by including some items other vacationers do not. And if you need to start wedded life off with new luggage, this can help guide you to buy what you really need.

Traveling Smart
Advice and resources to help you plan a honeymoon without making the mistakes that some first-timers fall prey to.

Vacation Weather
One of the biggest concerns couples planning a honeymoon have is whether or not the weather will cooperate. Obviously, no one can foretell exactly what will happen in advance of a give day. But if you play the odds and know the best times to travel, the likelihood that your honeymoon will be ruined by a hurricane, heat wave, or other undesirable weather condition is diminished.

honeymoon travel

10 Things Every Honeymooner Needs to Know

Honeymoon Planning Information