Posted on: July 15, 2006
5 Tips for a Memorable ’moon
A special honeymoon requires a lot of planning… and some crowd control.
By Matthew M. F. Miller
CTW Features
To keep costs in check, as with planning your wedding, decide your honeymoon must-haves (keeping in mind that everything cannot be a must-have) and plan your trip around those details. You both want to spend time lying on a beach watching palm trees sway? Terrific. Realize that you don’t have to go to Hawaii to have that.
“Your honeymoon will be one of the most memorable vacations of your life, so don’t leave any part of the planning to chance,” says Michael Flory, vice president of Classic Vacations, San Jose, Calif. Here are his five honeymoon pitfalls to avoid:
1. More than money. Price should not be your top criterion when planning your vacation. Think instead about how you want to feel and what you want to do.
2. By the book. Don’t wait until the last minute to book the trip in hopes of getting a better deal. Doing so can lead to disappointment, as the best properties and the most exclusive activities have limited space and sell out early.
3. Remember the crowds. If you’re planning a summer honeymoon, keep in mind that you may be traveling during peak season for family vacations. If you want peace and seclusion, try a less family oriented hotel or destination, or honeymoon during the off-season.
4. Plan plans ahead. Booking at least a couple of things before you leave means you’ll guarantee your place in popular activities and spend more time enjoying your vacation once you’re there, rather than continuing to plan it.
5. Ask and receive. The choices for destinations, properties and tours are countless for honeymooners. Don’t spend all your planning time looking at brochures. Talk to friends and colleagues for recommendations, and contact a travel professional for assistance in making the right decisions.