Whether honeymooning across the globe or staying close to home, loose yourself in the romance of wedded bliss.
Honeymoon - just the mention of the word conjures up images of champagne breakfasts for two, lazy afternoons in the sun, romantic candlelight dinners, and passionate nights. Making arrangements for this intimate escape will be one of the most enjoyable aspects of planning your wedding. Begin discussing honeymoon plans as soon as you've set the wedding date. Not only will this allow you time to explore the many options, it will also afford you the best availability and value. ALL-INCLUSIVE More than mere accommodations, all-inclusive packages generally include: food and lodging; extensive recreational facilities and equipment; ground transportation; plus other amenities and services. Options range from couples-only resorts, which cater specifically to honeymooners, to family resorts. The average price on all-inclusive packages is $400 per day, but rates can vary significantly between companies and time of year, so shop around. Whatever your choice may be the all-inclusive package is perfect for those honeymooners who want to pay one price and forget about everything else but each other. TRAVELING ABROAD You'll need a passport when traveling abroad, except in Mexico and some Caribbean countries, where a driver's license will usually suffice. If you don't have a passport or yours is out of date, apply for a new one at least three months before your wedding, preferably sooner. For travel in some countries you may need certain vaccinations, be sure to ask your travel agent about such matters. Typically the process takes six weeks, but allow for any mishaps or delays. And since the bride's name will likely be changed, account for any discrepancies among different documents by bringing along a copy of the marriage license. This will prevent any snags on entering or returning from a foreign country. If you should lose your passport during your trip, contact the nearest United States embassy or consulate immediately for instructions. Another good idea is to have two sets of photocopies made of your passports, traveler's checks and airline tickets. Keep one set with you, but away from your handbag or pockets, and leave the second set with someone "back home" who could readily fax them to you if need be. By having exact duplicates of these important documents you will make their replacement process easier, faster and less stressful, should they become lost or stolen. CRUISES Similar to an all-inclusive resort, cruise packages offer many services and amenities for one price. They usually include airfare, accommodations, meals, spa and health club facilities, sports, activities, entertainment, not to mention exotic ports of call. Overall, cruise packages provide good value for the money. For this type of honeymoon excursion you'll want to select a travel agent that specializes in cruise packages. They will have the best knowledge of what each cruise line offers, as well as personal experience and suggestions. STAYING LOCAL Not all newlyweds are afforded the luxury of extended honeymoon bliss in a faraway place. If you plan on honeymooning locally consider a quaint bed and breakfast, a posh hotel downtown or a spa resort. Champagne and candlelight can be just as romantic 100 miles from home as they are on the other side of the globe. CONFIRMATIONS No matter the destination, confirm your travel and hotel accommodations well in advance and be sure to double-check them at least a week before your ceremony. In addition, it doesn't hurt to call the hotel on the day of your wedding to confirm your time of arrival. Be sure to mention you were just married, as this often results in a nicer room or suite, depending on availability, or a special gift from the hotel, like a bottle of champagne or a fruit basket waiting for you upon arrival. Whether traveling across the globe or staying close to home, the most important things are to enjoy each other and relax. Let the glow of newly wedded bliss fill your hearts and imagination as you begin this lifelong dance of love and romance.
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