Dating | Weddings

Honeymoon Ideas

The stuff of Blackpool post cards, but that doesn't make it your dream destination. You need to plan carefully if you are hoping to find your ideal blissful bolthole, with guaranteed sun (or snow).

Just so you know, it is traditionally the responsibility of the groom to plan the honeymoon. However, times change and the bride often wants equal involvement.

So what exactly does 'honeymoon' mean? It originates from the times when a man captured his bride and they would hide from the bride's parents before marrying. They would remain in hiding for a further cycle of the moon after the wedding. During this period they drank honey wine.

You will probably need a break after the wedding to recover from the all the stress and chaos of the run up to the big day. In which case, plan the honeymoon carefully and make sure you splash out on a few extras like cars to meet and transport you, and nice comfy airline seats. Tell everyone that you are honeymooners because you will often get free upgrades with rooms and flights if they are available, and nice touches from the hotels, such as complimentary champagne in the room.

You can always choose one of the specialist packages on offer. Most companies have a specific brochure that relates to honeymoons, but different companies may offer the same hotels with different rates and packages so make sure you shop around before settling. If you are using a travel agent, make sure that they present you with some options and earn their commission; don't just always settle for the first option that they come up with. Some hotels often insist that you produce your marriage certificate to qualify for special treatment, so don't forget to take it.

If you are booking directly, make sure you are very clear about what is included. The images you will be shown do not necessarily reflect your room, so ask if you will get a room of a comparable standard. Don't take anything for granted, such as a sea view, as you need to get written confirmation from the hotel about what you will be offered.

WHERE TO?

Make sure you have a serious think about all the honeymoon options. You don't have to go with the traditional destinations in the brochures. It may be sold as the fantasy of every new honeymooner, but if you are usually rock climbing or clubbing at the weekend, is being marooned on a sleepy island really right for you? It can be huge pressure for you to go from busy working lives to suddenly staring at each other every day across cocktails in coconuts. If you do choose a resort holiday, make sure you take time off from each other with the odd spa treatment or round of golf, so you can look forward to seeing each other again.

If you have ever wanted to take a longer break, many companies offer the option of a lengthier getaway than your usual two-week allowance. You could always use this as a chance to visit the rainforest in Brazil or go whale watching in the North Pole.

MAKING IT STRESS FREE

When planning your honeymoon, consider the location of your wedding and the reception. You might like the idea of jetting off straight away, but a four-hour car journey to the airport can take the edge off your exciting day. Consider booking a special hotel nearby so that you can still leave the reception, but don't have to turn up in a flustered state. Have your suitcases delivered to your wedding suite in the morning so you don't have to think about it as the honeymoon begins. Make sure its special suite, and a pretty location. You might not see much of the grounds or spa on this visit, but you might want to return there for your anniversary.

Practically speaking, you need to make sure that you have all you need before heading off. Some more exotic locations may require special jabs and documentation, so ensure that you have this covered before you hit the airport. As soon as you have chosen a destination, get a list of required vaccinations and make sure you have time to get them done; you might need to take a course, or have them spaced out, so allow enough time.

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