How to Plan Your Perfect Honeymoon: Where To Stay
What type of accommodations should you book on your honeymoon? Several varieties are available. Depending upon the type of couple you are and the activities you plan to
enjoy, you can arrange whatever makes you happy. Here is an overview of the options available and what each includes.
1) All-Inclusive Resorts. As the name implies, these resorts include all meals, soft drinks, and most alcoholic drinks. Many also offer a selection of sports and other activities, and entertainment for a fixed price per person. Generally, they are located in warmer regions. These resorts try to provide for most guests' wants while they remain on their premises. They sometimes feature large-scale attractions such as a casino, golf course, theme park, and multiple accommodation sites. There are many big-name all-inclusive resorts and you have probably heard of a couple of them. Several of these resorts cater to couples only, which allows you to interact only with other couples. These are places where state-of-the-art meets natural splendor. They are usually four-star accommodations with cutting-edge facilities and incredible scenery that makes it perfect for a romantic honeymoon.
2) Resorts. Resorts are very similar to all-inclusive resorts except that your up front charges don't cover everything. Many of these resorts have names that conjure images of powdery sand warmed by the tropical sun. These resorts usually specialize in specific destinations: beach, mountain, lake, spa, golf, ski, etc. Many beach resorts, for example, have activities that include snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, parasailing, and boating. These activities are usually complimentary or offer a reduced rate for guests. Meals may be included; however, alcoholic drinks are usually not included. If you have a specific type of activity in mind, say golf, this type of accommodation will be perfect. Disney World is this type of resort but you can pay up front to make it an all inclusive thus avoiding hidden charges for transportation, meals, and activities.
3) Hotels. Most hotels charge for the cost of the room only. In some cases, you may be able to pre-pay the cost of a daily meal or two in their on-site restaurant. Many hotels also have a swimming pool and a fitness center included for their customers pleasure. However, this is not the best plan for honeymooners, as you usually don't know the cost for additional amenities until you are present. Water sports such as jet skiing, snorkeling, etc, are usually extra costs if at all available. Plus, unless the hotel offers a shuttle service, you will need to add the charge of a rental car to your costs. Additionally, your evening's entertainment also will be extra. A stand alone hotel can be very expensive for a honeymoon.
4) B&Bs, Inns & Cottages. These can be private residences, in which several rooms are set aside for overnight guests whose paid accommodations include breakfast. An inn is a public lodging house serving food and drink to travelers. Usually quaint and rustic, these accommodations can add a bit of whimsy to your honeymoon. Often appointed with period furnishings, many of these offer two-person Jacuzzis and/or balconies and many have fireplaces, too. Some may have a pool available, but aside from that your entertainment and activities are not included. Most people drive to these accommodations so a rental car is not necessary. But you must add in the price of meals to your costs. Here you can spend your days exploring local waterfalls or enjoying scenic drives, hiking, golfing, canoeing, fishing, mountain biking, or just relaxing. For the eco-adventurous, you can scale nearby mountains, take a tour or go to a nearby farm or ranch. Everything you do when staying at one of the establishments will be a la carte.
Rocky Resort in Koh Samui above
5) Cruises. Most first-time cruisers always want to know what's included in their cruise fare. Lots! Of course, your cabin, meals, (which includes: breakfast lunch, dinner, and as many snacks as you desire plus no charge room service any hour of the day or night) and several dining options frommany restaurants on board, entertainment (Broadway and Vegas-like shows, comedians, bands, etc.), fitness center, sports courts. There's usually an aqua park or water center, a library, card room, bowling alley, rock climbing wall, repelling wall, ice skating rink, internet café, art auctions, movie theater, and duty free shops are also included. Cruise lines also offer classes in myriad of subjects: Microsoft programs, photography, cooking taught by world-class chefs. There are also many other options available at a small fee: treatments including the famous hot-stone massage in a spa, beauty salon, casino. Plus when traveling abroad, there is no need for a electrical converter. They know you are American and you don't need to pack your hair dryer.
Where you stay is purely your decision; keep your honeymoon budget in mind. Many of these options offer various room categories. At an all-inclusive a mountain view vs. an bay view will cut costs. On a cruise, an ocean view stateroom will cost less than a balcony. There are ways to control your honeymoon budget. Take a 10-day trip rather than 14 days. Just please, do not charge your honeymoon. You certainly don't want to start off your marriage with new bills. The best way to go is to pay for your honeymoon over time while paying for your venue. You can take out money on it monthly or to find a registry that will cover your honeymoon costs. Or feel free to schedule your honeymoon a few months after your wedding. This will not only give you a chance to relax after the "big day," but to refill the coffers. Be prepared to really enjoy yourselves without going into debt.
Emma McKnight is travel agent specializing in cruise vacations. View her website at: Cruise With Emma or contact her.
