1. Discuss the destination. He might want an island with sun, ocean and palm trees with loads of relaxation while she might want Kenya with bush and wildlife and safari. Choose a destination that caters for both. Example, you could choose three nights safari in Kenya and then move to a resort along the coast where you can relax on the white sand, ocean in front of you, sipping cocktails. This way, you both get what you want and you're both happy.
2. Check low season specials for the destination that you decide upon. Example - If you are getting married in May, highly recommended to check that your chosen destination is NOT having its peak period in May because this will mean paying almost double to what you would pay in low season. Check honeymoon specials offered for your destination like discounts for brides, fruit baskets, champagne, room upgrades and sometimes gifts from the resort or a free day tour.
3. Decide on a budget and stick to it. This will ensure that there is no huge debt when you return from your honeymoon. Not a good way to start out together. Try to book a package where everything is included prior to departure. Example - make sure that flights, taxes, transfers, accommodation, all meals, all drinks and even a tour or two are all included. This ensures that you both know exactly how much you're spending and there are no surprises. The ONLY extras will be those that you both decide upon once there. Discuss the spending money and do not exceed it. Or, at least try not to.
4. Decide on a honeymoon specialist to help you with the organising. A company that is experienced in this field will be able to give you all the tips you need to save money and of course, the very best advice on the destination chosen. They will provide you with country information, health requirements, visa and passport requirements and these are all extremely important.
5. Ask the consultant for three options and give her your budget so that she immediately knows which resorts she can put forward. If you have any concerns, discuss them with the consultant. Highlight your requirements - example, you would like fully inclusive options if they are available for your budget, you would like a room closest to the ocean or a safari tent close to bathroom facilities etc. Discuss optional tours available for your chosen destination and ask for excursion lists available for the resorts.
6. If you would like to arrange something really special and romantic as a surprise for your spouse, like a beautiful private sunset dinner on the beach, take your consultants email address and email her about your idea. She can then make the arrangements for you.
7. Once you have your quotes and you've decided on your resort, ensure that you understand every part of the quotation laid out for you. Does it include flights, AIRPORT TAXES, a pick up from the airport when you arrive at your chosen destination, does it include all meals, drinks and tours. Exactly how many nights does the quotation state. Is the room category suitable and does it include a double/queen or king size bed. Check the payment cut off date because if you pay months in advance, you could qualify for a discount.
8. You can request little extras for the night that you arrive. Example, flowers in the room, rose petals strewn all over the room, bubble bath and candles in the bathroom and whatever you would like. A great consultant will take care of your requests.
9. Make sure that any medication required is packed. Sometimes it is difficult to buy medication at certain destinations. Any personal things like contact lense liquid, batteries for digital cameras and the like can be very costly in other countries. MAKE SURE THAT ALL YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION is checked and is in a safe place.
10. Pack a light bag that you can take on board with you which must be filled with anything that the two of you might need for the first night together - Just in case luggage goes astray. Take an empty suit case with you for all those great goodies that you plan on buying......and most of all......RELAX, ENJOY and CREATE WONDERFUL HONEYMOON MEMORIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
