HONEYMOON Your Guide 17397 views

Sorting out your honeymoon should be one of the most exciting aspects of your wedding planning, but many find it adds to their stress levels. Sarah Richardson suggests some points to consider before you book.

Your dream
If your budget will stretch to it, take time to consider what your dream honeymoon consists of (as if you needed prompting!). This might sound obvious, but many people book a honeymoon that is not right for them. The dream will be different for everyone, and may be quite different to the generally accepted idea of what makes a good holiday. For some it’s a lazy fortnight on a remote island; for others, it’s a trip to one of Europe’s romantic capitals, or a once-in-a-lifetime safari. The important thing is that you and your partner agree on the destination and type of break it’ll be. Once you have some ideas, research a list of potential destinations.

Alternatives
Most people’s budget will not stretch to their idea of the perfect honeymoon, but whether you’re off on the exotic trip of a lifetime or are spending time closer to home, you can make your honeymoon the ultimate romantic treat. Candle-lit dinners, your favourite music or a massage may sound like clichés but don’t knock them till you’ve tried them! Above all, this is the chance for you and your partner to unwind from the hectic build-up to your wedding, and to remind yourselves why you got married in the first place. You can do this regardless of your surroundings.

Travelling off-peak is a great way to save money and avoid crowds but there is often an underlying reason for the attractive prices. Find out if shops, services and attractions are closed at particular times of year, or if there’s a risk of your chosen destination being extremely wet or windy if you go there off-peak.

Package holidays are a popular choice for honeymooners because they’re often good value and include travel, accommodation, airport transfers and sometimes meals. Always examine the small print of any package to be sure you know what it does and doesn’t include.

Delayed flights, missing luggage, pricey air fares, damage to the environment… Could this combination of factors lead you to ditch the thought of flying and stay closer to home? You could use the money you’ve saved to reserve a room at a top-notch local hotel.

Travelling abroad
If you do decide to travel abroad, make sure your passport is in order. If it’s due to expire in less than a year, check if you need to update it, as some countries will not let you in unless there is a certain amount of time left on it.

Credit cards are convenient and offer peace of mind in case of an emergency. Check your credit limit before you leave, and consider asking bank to temporarily extend your credit limit if you think it might be necessary.

Don’t forget travel insurance. However unpleasant it is to think about, you never know when illness or an accident might strike.

If you’re off to tropical climes, make sure you have the relevant immunisation jabs before you leave. Visit your GP or vaccination centre at least 6 weeks before you plan to travel.

Be realistic
Whatever type of honeymoon you opt for, maintaining a sense of perspective will stand you in good stead. Sky-high expectations leave you open to disappointment, so it’s far healthier to accept in advance that no holiday is likely to go without its hiccups. Appreciate the positive aspects of the situation you’re in, and take pleasure in each other’s company. After all, that’s what you’re supposed to be celebrating!

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