How To Plan Your Perfect Honeymoon
An ideal honeymoon means something different to each couple. The most important part of the process is understanding what you’re looking for when it comes to the perfect honeymoon. Not all couples wish to be secluded or cocooned; some prefer to have a lot of activities available, other people around, and nonstop entertainment. Some wish for luxury, others eco-adventure.
Here are the top 5 recommendations for creating your own perfect honeymoon.
1. Deciding on a Location 
The first step in planning any honeymoon is determining the location that will make you happy visiting. Many couples may not even know where they want to go and so discussing where they have traveled before in order to get some insight on what they like is important. Talking out what you enjoyed about the trip will give insight to your desires. If there are any specific interests or things that you like to do together or that brought you together, find an appropriate destination that includes those interests.
2. What To Do
Create a list of à la carte activities. It’s your interests that lead you to choose the ideal romance destination; you need to set up activities that include those interests. Even if you really don’t want to, plan at least one or two activities you’re interested in. Couples who do nothing but sit on the beach have fewer lasting memories than couples who do some activities together. Activities can help lend a sense of place to the honeymoon. It’s about creating memories. Now is the time to think outside the box. Not everyone wants to swim in a pool, staying in a secluded cabin in the mountains, touring the art exhibits in Italy or learning a new skill together—horseback riding and scuba lessons or even baking lessons can be just as romantic.
Make decisions about what you want to do. One of my clients was adamant about parasailing. She didn’t care what else they did on their honeymoon, but she wanted to create that memory. Whether it’s rock climbing, snorkeling or quiet time together, create that image. After all, a couple that wants romance on a cruise is not going to want a honeymoon that is about camping out under the stars. Adventure-seeking couples might want to share new experiences like zip-lining, bungee jumping and hiking in a rainforest. You should be open to new experiences with your new life partner.
3. Keep Track of Your Budget 
Determine your budget so you’ll have a better idea what you can do. As you know, this can vary greatly. Don’t covet a champagne trip if you only have a beer budget. Also remember that the time for travel is part of the budget process. Is the date you want to go flexible? Departing a week or a month later may save you money. Some honeymooners don’t want to travel the day or two right after their wedding, so figure out what‘s going to be best and most cost-effective for you.
Those looking to save money, especially during these tough economic times, can take advantage of an online honeymoon registry. The more money you get, the less you’ll have to spend out of your own pocket. An online wedding registry, where the guests, friends and family can donate to the honeymoon as a wedding gift, saves the couple money. Plus they will have those honeymoon memories much longer than a toaster.
4. Vacation Protection
It may be unromantic, but if you’re spending $1,000 or more per person you definitely need it. For a few extra dollars you will have peace of mind for yourself, your luggage, and your travel connections. You never know what could happen. I’ve had clients whose luggage arrived in time for their trip home. If you have to purchase a nightgown, toothbrush and a couple of pairs of shorts, you are covered. If a broken shell cuts your new hubby’s foot while running in the sand, your employer’s insurance usually does not cover his stitches if you are outside of the USA. Also, if you live where it snows and you’re taking a cruise, you should leave the day before. This ensures that you will be there, on the ship, when it departs. You certainly can’t rely on Mother Nature.
5. Upgrade
This is when you should go for upgrades. Why splurge on Chiavari chairs at your reception when gray folding chairs would do? Now is the time to splurge on the extras. Your guests didn’t need sushi to have a great time. But you knew they would enjoy it. Since a honeymoon is also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, get that private transfer or the upgraded suite. It will be worth the money in helping you create your valuable memories.
Lastly, contacting a professional is imperative. The one, singular must-have for the perfect romance honeymoon is an experienced travel agent. You can have your ideal honeymoon with some careful preparation.
Emma McKnight is a travel agent specializing in cruise vacations. View her website or contact her by email with your travel questions.
