All-inclusive resorts? Really?
(LOL). Everybody thinks an all-inclusive means buffet lines and someone blowing a whistle and shouting, "Everyone into the pool!" Those days are mostly gone, except for the low-end places. All-inclusives come in all styles these days. Some are basically full-service resort spas where everything you do is individualized. It can be just like staying at a deluxe resort-but you don't have to think about tipping. The service is good and the value incredible.
Rooms are also much improved from years ago; now you can get suites, and some rooms even come with a private pool. Many resorts now offer waiter service, a choice of restaurants, dine-around plans so you needn't eat at your resort every night, and tons of sports activities. The kayaks and the wind-surfers are lined up at the beach, and you rarely have to wait to use them.
Returnees from all-inclusive honeymoons say they did more than they would have if they'd made the arrangements themselves. They didn't have to worry about what something would cost; as part of the package, it costs nothing. You put your wallet away unless you leave the resort to go downtown shopping.
It's also very relaxing. And after a wedding, when you've make tons of decisions, it's great not to have to decide a thing. So if you can match your personality with the right all-inclusive, it's wonderful.
Cruising is another trend that fits in with the draw of the all-inclusive. Just remember when you're budgeting that charges ashore, drinks, and tips aren't included.
If money were no object for them, where would you direct honeymooners?
I would want to spend two hours with them to find out what their interests are and what kind of traveling they've done. There is no perfect one-size-fits-all honeymoon. Sometimes people don't know what they're interested in. They may think beach because they're conditioned to do so - but that might not be right for every couple. You need to spend time with each other talking about your interests and what your fantasies are.
Do you recommend a couple use a travel agent or do the honeymoon planning themselves?
I advise couples to find a knowledgeable, responsive travel agent who will take the time to get to know them and to be open about their budget. It's the best way to learn all the options available to you, and it can become a relationship you'll have for life.
For example, one of the things that's kept people from going to Europe is that they think it's too expensive. A travel agent can show how it's possible. If you do it on your own, you look at rack rates -- which are full retail. A travel agent will put together a package so you pay less for airfare, hotels, car rental, etc. He or she will find a package to pull it together. With a good package, you stay where you want to stay and do what you want to do at a better price. So you get better value but you don't lessen your experience.
Even with a travel agent, a trip to Europe may be out of range for some.
If you can't afford to go to Europe but that's the experience you're looking for, perhaps Québec City or Martinique will be a satisfactory alternative. By listening to you, a travel agent will be able to make suggestions that you may not have though of.
If a couple has next to nothing to spend, what should they consider?
Go for a shorter amount of time, take advantage of off-season prices, don't ignore the packages, pick at a place you can drive to. Also, take advantage of the advice of a travel agent who may know about special deals and discounts, and do some research on your own. Some travel agencies have access to special discounts for hotels, cruise lines, and even international airline tickets. You can also call travel suppliers directly and ask if there are any special rates or discounts available that would be applicable to you.
Should you let travel providers know you're on your honeymoon -- or is it better to travel incognito?
While it may not save you money directly, don't be bashful about letting people know that you're honeymooners... especially with hotels, cruise lines, restaurants. Tell them when you make your reservations and you're likely to enjoy special treatment... maybe complimentary champagne in flight, a gift basked in your room, a better room at no additional charge. You may even receive a special gift or certificates to be used for an anniversary trip.
