Time for Romance: Getting the Most out of Your Honeymoon

Ah, the honeymoon – such bliss!  All of the wedding planning and functions are finally behind you, the wedding day has come and gone, and now it’s time for your own personal celebration of your union.  Planning and picking the perfect honeymoon can be a little overwhelming, though, and sometimes it’s nice to have some advice and options ready and waiting for you.  If you agree with this, then you’ll be happy to know that you came to the right place for just that.  Get your pen and paper ready, and your mind open to the possibilities, as you’re about to get a crash course in honeymoon 101.

Advice to Plan By:

The very first rule of thumb in the honeymoon process is timing.  This pertains not only to booking your trip well in advance, but also being mindful of the tourist season of certain locales (when it might be ridiculously crowded), as well as certain dates that might offer you a better deal on your trip.  Also, don’t rush straight from the wedding to the honeymoon.  Plan it so that you leave for your honeymoon a few days after the wedding so that you have time to unwind and also to double check that all your ducks are in a row.

Wrapped up in the perfect timing of your honeymoon is its perfect budget.  As soon as that unforgettable, “Yes,” has been uttered, you need to set aside or start setting aside a honeymoon fund.  Keep this separate from your wedding fund; otherwise, you may easily find that the wedding has stolen your romantic getaway.

Make sure to do your research, too.  Check out the location you’re interested in, including what the climate is like and what kind of weather to expect during the time you’ll be visiting.  Be thorough in researching reviews of hotels and services you might want to partake of (snorkeling and diving trips, boating adventures, etc.).

More than anything, be open to the possibilities.  Jot down a few things that you both know for certain you want to do, but don’t plan out every day down to the last minute.  Embrace adventure and give into relaxation – you’ve earned it.

Getaways You Won’t Want to Leave:

Santorini – A volcanic, Greek island, Santorini is thought to be the inspiration for the legend of Atlantis.  Whatever its legendary origins might be, present day Santorini boasts whitewashed, blue-domed buildings, breathtaking views, shimmering blue waters, and unique black sand beaches.

The Loire Valley – Paris is seen as the traditional, default honeymoon destination, but let’s think outside of the box here.  The City of Lights is great, and all, but it can also be crowded.  The Loire Valley is far more scenic and just as deeply steeped in history, culture, and romantic beauty.  Explore graceful chateaux, visit vineyards, and meander through medieval towns such as Amboise, beautifully perched above the Loire River.

Gotland – Probably not all that well-known, especially as a honeymoon destination, the Swedish island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea offers the perfect opportunity to disconnect for a little while from the hustle and bustle of modern life.  Gotland’s main town, Visby, is located right on the coast and offers lovely views of the Baltic, as well as some of the best preserved medieval buildings and ruins in Scandinavia.  Also known as the City of Roses, Visby is warm and pleasant in the summer, without being stifling, and is accessible only by ferry or plane.

Bali – This Indonesian Island comes with an expansive mountainous terrain, as well as scenic coastlines.  Known for its beautifully intricate temples, diverse flora and fauna, and relaxed vibe, this island paradise is perfect for unwinding after months of stressful wedding planning.  Tour temple complexes, visit cascading waterfalls, or watch in awe as a volcano erupts in showers of lava.

Quebec City – A little taste of France without even having to leave North America.  Quebec City combines beautiful architecture with a cosmopolitan love of culture and fine living.  Enjoy scenic views of the St. Lawrence River – even take a ferry or cruise ride – and explore the city’s many historic buildings and churches, as well as its museums and art galleries.  If you’re looking for a winter getaway, the surrounding area is perfect for skiing, boasting numerous ski resorts and even an ice hotel.

Viking River Cruises – Cruise down the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers with this European cruise service.  Visit cities such as Amsterdam, Vienna, and Budapest.  Enjoy the benefit of wandering destinations at your leisure, without having to be burdened with the logistics of your cruise.  You’ll enjoy great cuisine and have the chance to get to know various cultures in a single trip.

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