TROPICAL HONEYMOON - Make It A TRIP OF A LIFETIME
The honeymoon is a much-needed respite after months of wedding prep. For many couples, it's also the trip of a lifetime — the first long, tropical trip to the beach you will take together. Here's our insider knowledge on how to plan a honeymoon that's low on stress and big on savings.
1. Start Early to Get the Best Prices
Wondering when to book a honeymoon? The ideal time to book your honeymoon is six to eight months prior, especially if you're planning to go to a specialized resort, as premium rooms book up early.
2. Be Specific About What You Want
When you think "exotic destination," does that mean a luxury resort on an island renowned for its natural beauty? Or do you define it as a completely exotic where you don't speak the language? The difference between your "relaxing" and "boring" isn't always immediately clear. Talk it out with your fiancé and figure out what you both really want. When speaking with our travel experts, we will ask the right questions to narrow down your preferences. All-inclusive or not, large or boutique resort, we will ask these questions.
3. Don't Rely Entirely on Web Research
Starting your honeymoon planning with a Google search is perfectly fine, but don't rely only on search engines. Sometimes reviews can paint a picture that doesn't match reality, and it's best to thoroughly vet your ideal destination by talking to friends and family who have been there, as well as a travel specialist. Travel specialists are "Human Trip Advisors". Instagram is also a great resource to see pics that real people have snapped of certain locations, and geotags make it that much easier to pinpoint amazing locations.
4. Use a Travel Specialist
Travel specialists are your best friend when it comes to planning. They have insider knowledge on deals and discounts and cultivate personal relationships with hoteliers, which can sometimes mean a room's suddenly available in a booked-solid hotel. They also save you endless research time and can offer first-hand destination knowledge. They can advise you if the resort you found online in reality is as special as the pictures portray.
5. Set Aside an Appropriate Budget for the Honeymoon
Your ceremony is one day- your honeymoon last longer, so do not let the honeymoon be an after thought. If not budgeted properly, your dream of 7 nights might only be 4 nights based on cost. Work with an experienced travel specialist that can provide you recommendations within your budget- we want you to start your life happy ever after not deeply in debt!
6. You Don't Have to Leave for Your Honeymoon Straight After Your Wedding
It happens in movies: The happy couple floats strait from their reception to the airport, en route to their honeymoon. But the pros advise giving yourself some time to catch your breath between the ceremony and the big trip. You may have had a little too much to drink the night before, and you'll definitely be exhausted, so give yourself a chance to rest. Sherri Miller, Master Travel Specialist and Owner of Vacationista Travel & Co. recommends when at all possible, leave on a Monday or even Tuesday following a Saturday wedding. Most flights departing the US to tropical destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico depart very early in order to make connections possible.
7. Balance Adventure with Relaxation
For most couples, a mix of adventure and relaxation makes for the perfect honeymoon. You'll want to explore new lands and take part in exciting activities together, whether that means zip-lining, kayaking or diving in cenotes. But you'll also need time to recharge before getting back to reality. Be sure not to wear yourselves out—or give yourselves an opportunity to get bored.
8. Schedule Surprises
While it is great to work side-by-side with your fiancé to plan your honeymoon, try to sneak a few surprises for him/her in there, too! Pricey or full-day activities are best to discuss as a duo, but adding a couple's massage into the mix or scheduling a special dinner unbeknownst to your new hubby/wifey is the perfect way to add a bit of excitement to your vacation. Even better, work with your travel specialist as they have experience and ideas as well as can do the planning for you.
**Vacationista Travel & Co charges NO Honeymoon Planning Fees! Over 30+ Years Experience!**