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Tips
For Planning a Honeymoon
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After
all the wedding planning, most newlyweds want to drop
everything and completely relax during their honeymoon.
Before you go, you should be aware of some
basic travel knowledge. This is expecially true if
you are going to leave the United States.
Here
are some basic travel tips to help things run smoothly on
your private getaway:
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Initial
planning. Choose a reputable travel agent
with whom you have worked before, or get a trusted recommendation.
Many travel agents don't charge a fee, so take advantage of their
services and spare yourself the research. Meet the agent in person
with a firm budget range and some desirable destinations in hand.
If
traveling outside the United States, find out immediately if a
passport, special visa or medical clearance are required -- these
things take time.
Evaluating
all-inclusive packages or cruises. Generally,
all-inclusive resorts or cruise packages can offer good value for
honeymooners, but be sure to look closely to see exactly what is
included in the price, and then compare it to an "a la
carte" vacation.
One
of the best things about all-inclusives is that they allow couples to
know exactly what they will spend ahead of time; often, another
benefit for active honeymooners is the chance to try snorkeling,
horseback riding or other new experiences without worrying about extra
cost.
Packing.
Prepare a master packing-list well before the
wedding, so that you don't have to spend any extra time debating about
what to bring before you depart.
Check
to see if your hotel provides hair dryers, irons and robes so that you
don't have to lug your own. Stock up on basic sundries such as
Band-Aids, aspirin, sunscreen and toothpaste -- these items often are
expensive at a resort shop.
Put
a contact name and address on the inside and outside of each piece of
luggage, and carry essentials with you, including your itinerary with
emergency contacts, your travel agent's phone number, and hotel and
car-rental confirmation numbers.
Trip
safety. It's easy to get caught up in the
fun and romance of a honeymoon -- to the point where basic caution is
forgotten. Be realistic about security: Keep a close eye on your
luggage en route; use traveler's checks or credit cards instead of
flashing cash. Ask your rental car agency about emergency assistance
or request a car phone (you're often only charged if you use it);
store valuables and airline tickets in your hotel or room safe.
Use
Credit Cards When Out Of The Country. Almost all countries will
accept US Dollars in tourist areas. Unfortunately, local
merchants are experts at ripping you off using the Dollar Value to
their currency. Almost all major US credit card companies will
automatically convert your purchases to US Dollars using the correct
current conversion. Check with your bank for details.
The
National Safety Council has brochures on safe vacationing.
Call
(800) 621-7615.