So, you've said "yes," and now you're looking forward to the day you can say "I do." But let's not forget about the exciting journey that comes right after the wedding—the honeymoon! Planning this special trip can be just as important as planning the big day itself. After all, this is your first adventure as a married couple. So how do you make sure it's as dreamy as you've always imagined? This guide is here to help you navigate the ins and outs of honeymoon planning and execution.
**Full disclosure: We did not honeymoon in Tokyo. But I really like this picture, so I used it. Shout out to Soma and Travel Japan Together!
1. Plan Your Honeymoon Together and Understand Each Other's Travel Style
Why
The first step to a successful honeymoon is planning it together. This ensures that both parties are equally invested and excited about the trip. Moreover, understanding each other's travel style can make your time away more enjoyable and less stressful.
How
Discuss Interests: Sit down and have an open conversation about what you both want from this trip. Is it relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both? Make a list of activities and places that interest you both.
Identify Travel Styles: Some people love to have every minute planned, while others prefer to go with the flow. Some enjoy the finer things in life, while others are happy with budget-friendly options. Discuss your travel styles and find a middle ground that satisfies both.
Create a Wishlist: Both of you should create a wishlist of things you'd like to do or places you'd like to visit. Then, compare notes and see where there's overlap. This can serve as the foundation of your itinerary.
2. Budget Wisely
Why
Financial stress is the last thing you want on your honeymoon. Having a clear budget helps you avoid unpleasant surprises.
How
Detailed Budgeting: Create a spreadsheet that includes all possible expenses—flights, accommodation, meals, activities, and even souvenirs. Also, keep a reserve amount handy in case of unforeseen situations.
Honeymoon Fund: Consider adding a honeymoon fund to your wedding registry. This can help offset some of the costs and allow you to enjoy activities you might otherwise skip. Websites like HoneyFund (a no-fee honeymoon registry) are easy to send to your guests.
Track Expenses: Keep track of your spending as you go. There are several travel budget apps that can help you manage your finances while you're away.
3. Be Flexible
Why
No matter how well you plan, unexpected things can and will happen. Being flexible allows you to adapt and make the most of any situation.
How
Pivot: Have a general plan but be prepared to deviate from it. If the weather ruins your beach day, perhaps it's an opportunity to explore a local museum or enjoy a spa day. This adds a little fun energy to your trip.
Backup Plans: Always have a Plan B. Whether it's alternative activities or dining options, having a backup ensures you won't be left scrambling.
Cancellation Policies: Scheduled sightseeing tours and activities are great, but make sure you understand the cancellation policy and if you can move the appointments based on travel changes and weather.
4. Communicate
Why
Communication is key in any relationship, and it's especially crucial when you're spending an extended period together 24/7.
How
Daily Check-ins: Take a few minutes each day to check in with each other. Discuss what you're enjoying and what you'd like to do in the coming days.
Be Open: If something is bothering you, it's better to address it immediately rather than let it fester. Your honeymoon is a time for joy, not for harboring grievances.
Set Expectations: Before the trip, talk about your expectations regarding activities, downtime, and even intimacy. This can help prevent misunderstandings later on.
5. Take Time to Relax
Why
After the whirlwind of wedding planning and celebrations, you both deserve some downtime to relax and enjoy each other's company.
How
Scheduled Downtime: Don't pack your itinerary so full that you don't have time to relax. Schedule in some 'do nothing' time where you can simply enjoy being together.
Spa Day or Room Service: Consider treating yourselves to a spa day or ordering room service and watching movies in bed. Sometimes the best memories are made when you're doing absolutely nothing.
Nature Walks: Sometimes, a simple walk on the beach or through a forest can be incredibly rejuvenating. Make time for these simple yet fulfilling activities.
6. Try New Things
Why
New experiences can not only be fun but also strengthen your bond as a couple.
How
Local Experiences: Try to include activities that are unique to the destination you're visiting. This could be a cooking class, a traditional dance lesson, or even a local festival. I love to take walking food tours to get a sense of neighborhoods and to enjoy great cuisine!
Adventure Activities: If you're both adrenaline junkies, consider adding some adventure activities like zip-lining, scuba diving, or hot air ballooning to your itinerary.
Food Adventures: Don't just stick to what you know when it comes to food. Be adventurous and try local cuisines. It can be a fun and memorable experience.
7. Be Present
Why
In today's hyper-connected world, it's easy to get distracted. Your honeymoon is a time to focus solely on each other.
How
Digital Detox: Consider having periods where you're completely unplugged. No phones, no social media—just you and your partner.
Mindfulness: Practice being in the moment, whether you're watching a sunset together or enjoying a romantic dinner. These are the moments that make a honeymoon truly special.
Quality Time: Make sure to allocate time for just the two of you. Whether it's a private dinner or a secluded beach day, these moments will be the ones you cherish the most.
8. Keep the Romance Alive
Why
The honeymoon is, after all, a celebration of your love and commitment to each other.
How
Romantic Gestures: Small gestures can go a long way. Leave a love note on the mirror, plan a surprise date night, or simply hold hands as you wander through a new city.
Intimacy: Don't forget to carve out time for intimacy. It's an important aspect of keeping the romance alive.
Surprises: Everyone loves surprises. Consider planning a small surprise for your partner during the trip. It could be as simple as a surprise picnic or as elaborate as a surprise excursion. (But if your partner wholeheartedly dislikes surprises, definitely ignore this one!)
9. Have Fun!
Why
This is the beginning of your life together, and it should be enjoyable and memorable.
How
Laugh Together: Don't take yourselves too seriously. If things don't go as planned, laugh it off and make the best of it.
Celebrate: You're on your honeymoon—every day should be a celebration! Whether it's with a bottle of champagne or a simple dance in your hotel room, find ways to celebrate your love every day.
Be Spontaneous: While planning is great, sometimes the most fun moments are the spontaneous ones. Be open to unplanned adventures; they often make the best stories.
10. Don't Hesitate to Ask for Help
Why
Planning a honeymoon can be overwhelming, especially when you're already juggling wedding preparations. Sometimes, it's okay to seek a little help.
How
Friends and Family: Don't underestimate the power of personal recommendations. Ask around—your friends and family might have some hidden gems to share.
Travel Influencers: Follow some travel blogs or Instagram accounts that align with your travel style. They often provide valuable insights and can offer a fresh perspective on popular destinations.
Professional Help: If the planning gets too much, consider hiring a travel agent or a virtual assistant with a background in travel. They can take care of details while giving guidance based on their expertise, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your wedding.
Bonus Tip:
Tell EVERYONE you are on your honeymoon - the airline (including gate agents and flight attendants), your hotel, your tour guides, your waiter - I mean EVERYONE. You never know when you will receive a free upgrade, a special gift, or some other perk. Make sure you tell people when you book so they can note your reservations, but nice reminders while you're traveling never hurt. But don't expect anything. Don't go in with the attitude of "We just got married, what are you going to give us" and definitely don't say that out loud. Just put your newlywed energy out there and let the travel universe shower you with love.
Your honeymoon is not just another trip; it's the inaugural adventure of your married life. It's the setting for the first of many memories you'll create after your wedding. While the journey may have its ups and downs, remember that it's all part of the beautiful tapestry you're weaving together. With thoughtful planning, a willingness to adapt, open communication, and an abundance of love, your honeymoon can indeed become the trip of a lifetime.
So, as you count down the days to your wedding and the exciting honeymoon that follows, take these tips to heart. They're not just guidelines; they're stepping stones to creating an experience that you'll cherish for years to come.
Ready to start planning the honeymoon of your dreams? We'd love to hear your thoughts and questions! Drop a comment below or reach out to us directly. And if you found these tips helpful, don't forget to share this guide with other soon-to-be-weds in your circle. Happy planning!
Hey there, fabulous readers!
Before we wrap up today's enlightening guide on honeymoon planning, let's chat briefly about affiliate links you might encounter in this post. If you decide to click through and make a purchase, I could earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help keep this blog running and enable me to deliver invaluable tips and insider secrets for your big day.
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A huge thank you for your support and for being an amazing part of this community. Now, let's turn those wedding and honeymoon dreams into reality!
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