When planning your honeymoon, some couples may want to go on a big vacation, while others may only be able to afford a weekend getaway. Both of these can both be very enjoyable and romantic types of honeymoon trips. What’s important is to plan ahead, because there is so much more to experience during your honeymoon than just enjoying that time alone with your partner.
Following are 7 things couples tend to forget when planning their perfect honeymoon:
International traveling can sometimes result in a long waiting period if your passport or other travel documents are not updated. You and your groom should review your passport and other necessary travel documents at least six months before leaving. If the period for any needed renewals is approaching, schedule an appointment with the passport office.
2. Research the Weather
The weather in some tropical destinations can be pretty unpredictable. If your honeymoon destination is anywhere near the ocean, there is a good chance you will experience at least some rainy days during your trip. For that reason, it is imperative to research the weather at the time of the year you plan to visit. If you are heading somewhere when it’s raining or hurricane season is in progress, then either pick another honeymoon destination or plan for a different time of year to go.
3. Set a Budget
Since most people are on some budget today, you mustn’t go over your budget when planning your honeymoon. Know what you can afford and what will work best for your newlywed life. You might want to make a list with different options and talk about it with your partner so that you can get their input on which is best for your future. It is also okay if you change your mind and decide to adjust the budget if you are careful and set some ground rules from the beginning, such as taking out the cash only when necessary.
4. Pack Essentials
Luggage can be a chance of lost items. A scarf and a hat can help protect your honeymooners’ heads when they are out sightseeing. There are also other essentials taken in your luggage that can save the trip and keep everyone happy:
Pay-as-you-go travel insurance offers coverage for medical and travel expenses; 1 month’s supply of sunscreen, bug repellent, and lip balm. First Aid kit (complete with bandages, anti-bacterial wipes, over-the-counter medication, tweezers, scissors).
5. Health Requirements
Before you leave, it is essential to review your medical requirements, especially if you plan to participate in any activities or travel with others. Consult with your doctor about any medications you might need when traveling and be sure to bring a copy of the medication lists with you. Also, consider packing a first aid kit along with other necessary items.
If your health has deteriorated since the last time a physician evaluated you, ask for the examination results so that you can also take along a doctor’s recommendation that will be helpful to plan for follow-up treatment.
6. Leaving little time for intimacy
Many couples usually end up not having the best honeymoon experience because they leave for their honeymoon as if it is something they must finish before starting their married life rather than a celebration of it. They forget the most important thing about the honeymoon: to relax, be with your loved one, and enjoy every moment of it without any distractions or stressors.
Leave some time for intimacy with your new husband. It can be easy to pack your schedule with tons of activities, but then you will leave little time for intimacy with your new husband.
Leave some time for intimacy with your new husband. It can be easy to pack your schedule with tons of activities, but then you will leave little time for intimacy with your new husband, and you will both start the marriage off on the wrong foot by not allowing yourselves time to get to know each other better. And do not forget about wanting intimacy with each other daily – this is what marriage is all about!
7. Your Newlywed Status
Do not forget to tell everyone you meet on your honeymoon that your newlyweds! If you are not comfortable telling people the whole truth, try telling them you just got married and are celebrating by taking a honeymoon.
Let everybody know that your marriage is starting on the right foot. One of my favorite things about our honeymoon was when we were on our way home; one of my bridesmaids called me while I was driving and told me that she saw a picture of us on Facebook — with our marriage license! It was such a great reminder of how special that first day was and how much more fun this time has been.
Final thoughts
The honeymoon is a vital part of every couple’s history. It is the place where you can be together without any distractions and enjoy your life as husband and wife. One important thing that you should remember before leaving for your honeymoon is to stay away from conflicts as much as possible and think about the things that you love about each other. It will make your marriage stronger and more positive.
Also, try to make a checklist of all you and your partner need. Also, write down a list of things you want to do on your honeymoon, even if it is just lying in bed together and talking about your future. Remember that this is your time! Your honeymoon should be what you want it to be, do not let anyone tell you how it should go down. All that matters is that you both have a great time.
In addition, remember that nobody else is going to “do” anything for you! Your prior wedding involved many people along the way, but this one only involves two people: you and your future spouse.
You should spend some time thinking about which direction you would like to go and what you want in your future – then decide if the changes proposed by the budget are better for your future than what was available before. You will still have choices about how you do this; it is not a black and white situation. Remember that there will be an opportunity for you to invest your money wisely and for your spouse to do the same.
If they are, then make some changes! If they are not, the sense of “giving up” something new and different should not intimidate you. Better decisions, coupled with a lot more prayer, might eventually result in even better options.