Interview with Geri Bain, former Travel Editor of
PART 2
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.
Any suggestions for winter honeymoons? It's high season in both snow and sun country.
1. Be specific about what you want to do -- lots of sports, or just lie on a beach -- but be flexible about your destination. That way, your travel agent can seek out the best values. Note: While December prices are highest because of the holidays, there's a bit of a drop in January.
2. Check Sunday newspaper travel sections to get a sense of where the bargains are.
3. Use a travel agent who's familiar with the type of travel or destinations you're looking into.
Departing from the East Coast: Base your decision on airfare when considering the Caribbean. Puerto Rico has some very nice upscale places, and because it's a hub airfares tend to be lower. Jamaica is also filled with hotels and since it's a hub for Air Jamaica, airfare is lower.
Departing from the West Coast: Mexico happens to be really good value these days, thanks to the strength of the dollar versus the peso. Since so many airlines fly there, fares are competitive. Pick one of the less populous resorts, since prices tend to be lower and more negotiable.
What's your best advice for saving money on a honeymoon?
You can save if you're willing to give up certain things -- like room service availability. Condos, a popular option in Hawaii, are a good choice for some couples. You make your own breakfast, and you get more space for the money.
But don't go for just a bargain: It's only a good deal if it's what you want. The trade-off has to be acceptable to you. If you're not looking for location, if you don't mind walking across the street to the beach instead of being right on it, you'll pay less.
What's worth spluring on -- and what isn't?
Accommodations. Book a nice room with a view; you'll spend more time there than you think.
An incredible experience. If you're in Hawaii, take that helicopter ride. Don't let $100 or $200 stop you from doing something you will remember for the rest of your life.
One or two great meals. But you can also save money and have a wonderful time eating a picnic lunch made from local items. In Tahiti, for example, the fruit and the French bread and cheeses are incredible, and you can pull it together for next to nothing.
What's important to pack?
Basics like sunscreen can be expensive at destinations. In your carry-on, pack an extra pair of prescription glasses if your wear them and any medicines you need. And birth control. It also pays to bring along a sense of humor. Things never go 100 percent as you think they will, and flexibility goes a long way.
Does Modern Bride have a Web site?
At www.modernbride.com we've got a chat room and fairly extensive information on bridal fashions, honeymoon destinations, home furnishings, and registry advice.
Is there anything you'd like to add?
Travel agents vary quite a bit in expertise, so it's important to find one you have confidence in. If one pushes something you don't want, go elsewhere. It helps to work with someone who has lots of experience and comes recommended. Failing that, look for credentials like CTC (certified travel consultant) and DS (destination specialist who's been through training in a particular area).
It's also a good idea to plan a honeymoon as a couple. It's fun to do together. And you discover yourselves in the process.
Want to learn more about Modern Bride's Top Ten Honeymoon Spots? Click here.
