The Honeymoon Guru (that's me) gets lots of email from people planning a romantic getaway -- and here are some recent notes. If you don't find answers to your questions, check the tabs above, use the search box at the top right to see if the topic has already been covered, or submit a question.
Getting Started
Q: Can you give me an idea where we can go on our honeymoon?
A: The answer depends on what that two of you like to do, the kind of weather you favor, how much you can afford to spend, and even which part of the U.S. you'll depart from. (For example, in the USA most East Coast couples who like warm weather choose a Caribbean honeymoon to save on airfare; West Coasters typically consider Mexico or Hawaii first.) Go to romantic getaways for couples for in-depth info on places all over the world, which can help you to make that important decision.
An Affordable Caribbean Getaway
Q: I want a great Caribbean honeymoon but have a small budget. Should I seek a travel agent? Are there honeymoon specials? Package deals? Cruise or fly? Hotel or beach hut? I'm confused but have to act fast....help! What steps should I take?
A: These are the steps to take:
1. First, decide on your travel budget. To know in advance what the honeymoon will cost, consider an all-inclusive resort; those you can book directly online.2. Understand that each of the Caribbean islands has its own personality. Puerto Rico, for instance, can be a big, brassy, gamblin'-action kind of place; Barbados and Bermuda are veddy British in tone. The Dominican Republic is known for wide beaches and cheap lodging. Turks & Caicos has beautiful beaches and pricey digs. Nothing much happens on St. Lucia, Antigua, and Bermuda; some honeymooners like it that way. The Caymans are fairly dull on land -- but thrilling underwater for snorkelers and scuba divers.
3. If you're not confident booking yourself, find a reputable travel agent; he or she will know about deals, specials, and cruises (they do love cruises, 'cause they make the highest commission selling them -- so only choose a cruise if you think that's what you really want). Another advantage of going through a travel agent rather than booking online: There will be a human face attached to your trip rather than an email address. If something goes wrong (and things do), you'll know who to call immediately.
4. Narrow down the choices to 3 or 4 places. Talk to your other half -- and invite him or her to make the final decision.
5. Then bite the bullet. Make a commitment (you're already in deep). Pay the money. And let the sweet anticipation begin....
Hurricane Hazard
Q: My fiance and I are planning an August honeymoon but are concerned about the hurricane season. We want to go to a tropical beach/romantic type of place. Do you have any suggestions about places that do not lie in the hurricane path?
A: Have a look at this article: "Outwit the Weather" and explore the Vacation Weather section of this site. Bottom line: There are plenty of Caribbean islands where you're unlikely to get drenched. Safest bets in August: Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.
