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HONEYMOON PLANNING TIPS
Get ready, groom-to-be.
Not long ago, you were watching the ballgame with some friends,
unequivocally stating, "I'm nowhere near ready to get married." But now, you
have proposed to the woman you want to spend the rest of your life with, she
said yes, and the planning for the big event has begun. If you are following
tradition, your fiancé and her family will most likely bear the brunt of the
planning and financial responsibility for the wedding. The honeymoon,
however, traditionally falls under the category -- GUY'S RESPONSIBILITY. If
you enjoy planning things, or even if this task reminds you of a trip to the
dentist, read below for quick, helpful pointers on subjects to consider when
booking your honeymoon.
Some men plan a
surprise honeymoon, while others communicate with their fiancé to ensure the
perfect honeymoon. The tips below are valid in either scenario.
When, Where And How
Much?
Have a budget in mind, as well as a few destinations and the date for your
honeymoon, then do some research. Be sure to find out about the following:
All-inclusive resorts
offer a great value, and going into the trip you will have a more precise
idea of what you will spend. You can then bring extra cash and spend it on
extra outings, such as snorkeling, horseback riding, a sunset cliff dive,
sailing, etc. Often, these extra adventures are even included in the price.
The
Documents
Once you choose the
location, be sure to determine the identification you will need. Some
foreign countries require a special visa as well as a
passport. Along the
same lines, some countries require specific inoculations. Check with your
doctor to determine required medical clearances, or strange diseases to be
wary of, as well as any shots you will need. Have these vaccinations
administered well in advance of your wedding day to guard against any
reactions. Finally, it is also a smart precaution to photocopy your
identification (passport, driver's license), travel itinerary, airline
tickets, and credit cards in case of theft or loss.
Travel Advisories
Now and then, the U.S.
State Department issues travel warnings and advisories for countries deemed
unsafe for travel by American citizens. If you are traveling abroad, be sure
to gain access to this information and plan accordingly. Also, it is
important to know the location and contact information of the local U.S.
Embassy in case of emergency.
The
Territory
Essential to the
enjoyment of your honeymoon will be your familiarity with the surroundings.
When booking your trip, contact the local tourism bureau and request a map,
brochures, and any details regarding special events in the area. If
available, purchase a travel guide such as a Frommer's Guide and read over
the details before you arrive at your destination. Having this knowledge and
a rough plan can save time and put you more at ease when you arrive. Also,
inquire about the expected seasonal weather in the area during the time you
will be there. More efficient packing means a lighter load to carry.
"We're On Our Honeymoon"
You will want to
publicize that you are on your honeymoon at select times before and during
the trip. Start with your travel agent if you're using one, and she can find
honeymoon specials and discounted rates. Selectively doling out the "We're
on our honeymoon" rap can pay off like a long overdue slot machine. You'll
be surprised how often it works in your favor for complimentary meals, room
upgrades, discounted tours and adventure outings, and other fringe benefits.
At the same time, be wary of vendors looking to overcharge honeymooning
newlyweds they believe will pay anything to avoid a confrontation.
Packing
Make sure you pack a
small carry-on bag that includes your essentials in case there is a delay in
receiving your luggage once you arrive at your destination. You don't want
to be caught without a change of clothes or your toiletries during the
travel day and first night of your honeymoon.
One master packing list
should be built over time before you leave, just to ensure you have thought
of everything you will need. Consider any honeymoon activities that will
require special clothing or equipment and consider buying some of the items
before you travel (scuba gear, sun block, hiking boots, etc.). This is more
difficult if the honeymoon is a surprise, since you'll have to pack her
things. If you are up to the task, go for it anyway.
The
Extras
Overextend yourself in
a few areas. First, be sure to bring more cash and traveler's checks than
you think you will need. You can't be caught penniless on your honeymoon.
Second, since this is a trip you must document, bring more film than you
think you will need. Finally, include a lot of quiet, down time when you are
alone. Sightseeing and other activities are great, but ultimately this trip
is the beginning of the incredible life's journey you have embarked on
together.
And
More…
Needless to say, there
are many details you must nail down when finalizing your plans.
Thanks to the web, you can do most of your
honeymoon research and planning online to save time. Once your plans are
set, be sure to keep all the information in one place and to double-check
your reservations, identification, and packing list at least a week before
you leave. Have a wonderful honeymoon!
IMPORTANT LINKS TO FOLLOW:
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We cater to the discriminating honeymoon couple looking for
that perfect honeymoon that most people dream about! By using an experienced
honeymoon planner, you will benefit from our first hand knowledge of the
very best resorts that are available to you. No detail is too small.
Together we can design the honeymoon vacation or destination wedding you
have been dreaming of...and make it a wedding or honeymoon getaway that you
will cherish forever!
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