Now that the big day is over, it's time to focus on just the two of you and plan a honeymoon that you'll both remember as the perfect cap to your perfect wedding.
Deciding on a honeymoon destination isn't as easy as it sounds, though. To help you pick the perfect place, we have put together a list of things to think about when choosing a destination for your romantic getaway.
Sit down with your partner, have a read, and start planning the kind of trip you'll tell stories about for years to come!
1. How much do you want to spend?
Even if you have money to burn, it's still important to talk about what you're both comfortable spending. Your honeymoon should be a special trip, but it doesn't have to be the most expensive vacation you've ever taken. There are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing quality, so figure out what's most important to you and start planning from there.
Remember: it's about the experience, not the price tag. And you won't have fun on your honeymoon if you're fretting about all the bills waiting for you when you get back home.
2. What do you like to do?
Your honeymoon should be a reflection of your interests as a couple. Going with the first appealing place you see in a travel brochure is a surefire way to end up disappointed.
Before you start looking at destinations, make a list of the things you both like to do on vacation.
Does lazing away on a Mexican or Caribbean beach with sand between your toes sound perfect to you? Or would you rather explore a bustling cultural hub like Tokyo or Berlin, getting lost in its winding streets and stumbling upon hidden cafés and bars? Maybe dancing your nights away amidst the glittering lights of Las Vegas is more your style?
Your interests will help guide you to the right destination. If you each have different ideas of the perfect trip, try to find a destination that has a little bit of everything.
3. When are you getting married?
The time of year you get married will have a big impact on where you go for your honeymoon.
If you're getting married in the rainy season, for example, the beach might not be the best choice. Wet weather and hurricane season are two things you'll want to avoid.
A summer wedding opens up a whole world of possibilities, but you'll want to avoid the hottest, most crowded destinations if you're not a fan of large crowds.
You can't help when you're getting married, but you can always wait a bit 一 there’s no rule that says you have to go on a honeymoon before the ink on your marriage contract dries.
If you want to go somewhere popular, aim for a time of year when it's less crowded. You'll have a better chance of getting discounts and upgrades then, and you won't have to deal with the crowds. If you're not too picky about where you go, take advantage of off-season deals and travel to your dream destination for less.
4. How adventurous are you?
Are you the type of couple that likes to plan every minute of your trip, or do you prefer to wing it and see where the wind takes you?
Your travel style will have a big impact on where you decide to go for your honeymoon. If you're the type of person who gets anxious without a solid plan, you might want to choose a destination that's easy to navigate and has plenty of activities to keep you busy.
On the other hand, if you're more spontaneous, you might want to go somewhere off the beaten path where you can explore without worrying about sticking to a schedule. Flea markets, local festivals, and hidden beaches are just a few of the things you might find if you're willing to wander.
5. What’s happening around the world?
Keeping up with current events will help make sure you choose a destination that’s safe to travel to. While it's unlikely you'll experience any serious problems, it's always best to be prepared for anything.
Keep an eye on the news and check with the State Department for travel advisories before you book your trip. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, so you don't accidentally offend anyone while you're there.
Doing your due diligence now—however boring it may be—will ensure that you keep the romance alive on your honeymoon. There's nothing romantic about spending your first days as husband and wife, sick or stuck in a foreign jail!
Keep It Fun and Sweet
Choosing the perfect honeymoon destination is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be a stressful one. It could even be a fun bonding activity, looking at all the dreamy places you want to see, together. Discuss these five factors with your partner before booking anything, and you'll be sure to start your marriage off on the right foot!
With a little planning and some flexibility, you're sure to have the trip of a lifetime.
If you'd rather spend your time gazing into each other's eyes than planning your trip, we can't say we blame you. Let us do the work for you!
Our team of travel experts can work with your plans, budget, and interests to craft the perfect honeymoon just for you. Contact us today to get started!
For additional references and cool ideas, click here.