Ok, so we have talked about several important aspects in the planning process up to this point. Now I want to talk about "H" which is for honeymoon. The honeymoon is probably one of the most important memorable trips you will ever take. The groom is usually responsible for planning the trip although most brides usually have input in where they are going.
When thinking about the honeymoon there are several things that should be taken into consideration before making a final decision on the destination.
1. What are the traveling habits? Basically you need to think about what you both like to do. Do you like the mountains? Are you both beach people? Do you like the tourist attractions and excursions? Are you amusement park people? Do you like to relax and do nothing when you travel? Are you a spa person? Do you like the cold? Do you enjoy cruising? All these things and many more should be considered before you choose a destination after all, this is a trip for both of you and if you both are not having a good time the trip will be ruined.
2. How long are you going to stay and what is your budget? I definitely recommend if you are going to a destination where it is going to take a long time to get there i.e., Hawaii, you should plan on staying at least ten days. The average honeymoon is usually a week. When coming up with the budget take into account all travel expenses such as air for two, travel insurance, food, drinks, entertainment, lodging, rental car, souvenirs, passport, etc.
3. All inclusive versus ala carte. When looking into travel the all inclusive honeymoon resorts usually turn out to be great deals. Sandals happen to be rated the number one ultra all inclusive resorts in the world and I must say their properties are my favorite. Sandals has standard, concierge, and butler category rooms. If you can fit it into your budget, I strongly recommend getting a butler category room. Sandals has properties throughout the Caribbean and they have an exchange program which allows you to stay and one and play at all of the other properties in your area. That means that you could have several beaches to choose from, several restaurants to eat at, and even several spas to visit. Sandals provides entertainment, water sports, golf, scuba diving, excursions, the list goes on and on. The thing I like most about Sandals is the fact that everything is included, food, lodging, alcohol, water sports, entertainment, transfers, gratuities. The only thing you pay for are extras such as spa or excursions. Sandals even provides honeymooners with a honeymoon package that includes champagne upon arrival, first night turn down service and breakfast in bed one morning. Doesn't that sound nice? If honeymooning somewhere that is not all inclusive you will probably end up spending a lot more money upgrading to a nice category room, eating at least three meals a day, paying for drinks, entertainment and excursions.
4. Cruising is also a great option. The advantage of cruising is that you get to see several different places on one vacation. Cruising is also all inclusive so everything you need is provided on the ship. Keep in mind gratuities, alcohol and sodas are not included and you will need to pay that bill the night before you get off the ship.
5. Whatever you decide to do make sure you make the best of your trip. Do some very special things that you would not do on any other vacation. I am a Certified Sandals Specialist and a Certified Independent Travel Agent and would be happy to help you come up with an awesome honeymoon. Whatever you decide on I wish you the very best on your honeymoon.
Happy wedding planning,
Calandra Terry
An Event To Remember, LLC
Huntsville Alabama wedding planner