When you’ve decided to marry that special someone, it’s not hard to get caught up in making plans for your wedding ceremony. From the venue to attire to the ceremony date and more, there are many details that you and your partner must finalize to realize the wedding of your dreams. Many newlyweds also make plans to go on their honeymoon, often right after the ceremony. Creating an experience that the two of you will remember is important. Here are some things you shouldn’t do when it comes to this most special of vacations, the honeymoon.
1. Plan a Vacation Based on Others’ Preferences
In a world where people share their best moments on social media, it’s easy to be influenced by what others are doing. While there’s nothing wrong with being inspired by others’ ideas, remember that it’s your honeymoon. The best vacation is one that both of you enjoy, doing the things that you love to do. Whether it’s a warm-weather cruise, an escape to the wild outdoors, or a couple of nights on the Las Vegas Strip, you get to honeymoon when you want, where you want, and how you want!
2. Go Into Debt for an Expensive Trip
Starting a life together with a lot of unnecessary debt is not the right move. If this means setting a more moderate budget, then so be it. While most couples want the honeymoon of their dreams, massive debt can be a nightmare, especially when there are other things to fund, such as a wedding or a down payment on a new home. You’ve got time to plan and save your money. Consider postponing the trip to a later date after you’ve been able to build up your vacation fund. You could also look for deals and discounts. In lieu of a gift registry, you could ask guests to donate to your honeymoon fund.
3. Pick the Wrong Time To Go
There’s no rule that says you have to start your honeymoon the day after your wedding. Marriage ceremonies often involve the participation of loved ones, which can put limits on when you can tie the knot. You can decouple the honeymoon from the wedding if there’s a better time of the year for your intended vacation. For example, in many tourist destinations, the off-peak months, such as spring and autumn, can be significantly less expensive and less crowded.
4. Plan Every Minute of Your Trip
The ideal vacation looks like different things to different people. Most probably agree that a good honeymoon includes some much-needed rest and relaxation. Planning each minute of your honeymoon can turn what should be a respite from the hustle and bustle into a stress-inducing affair. Scheduling excursions and activities is great, but remember to stop and live in the moment. You’ve got your lives ahead of you. Savor the time together and resist the urge to overplan.
5. Overlook Identity Details
Be careful about what names you use when making arrangements. Some travel destinations, airlines, and hotels have strict rules about personal identification matching the name you provide. You may be ready to take on your spouse’s last name or use a hyphenated surname — or an entirely new one. It’s not likely that you’ll have documentation with name changes in time for your trip. When making arrangements, be sure to ask questions and take steps to avoid drama related to name changes.
Honeymoons are a great way to usher in this next phase in life. Starting off married life with an amazing vacation is the stuff dreams are made of. With some careful planning and avoiding certain pitfalls, you and your partner can kick off your journey of marriage with a honeymoon you’ll cherish forever.