Best laid plans | Create the perfect honeymoon
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The first little holiday my husband and I ever took together we left entirely to chance.
We flipped a coin to decide if we were going north or south, then city or rural, and so on.
However, with the coin narrowing down the options we drew closer to one of the breaks I’d already semi-organised in my head.
And yes, my other half did work out that York had always been one of my destination contenders.
It just so happens the coin landed in my favour, setting in motion a partially-planned itinerary.
You see I’m a born planner who lives for organising the next holiday, so it baffles me when I talk to couples who haven’t given much thought to their honeymoon with just a few months to go to the wedding.
However, if you’re immersed in planning the actual day itself, the post-wedding break may feel like a distant dream and something to be organised only once you’ve fine-tuned the canapés and order of service.
Enter the honeymoon planner, travel agents focused on delivering the after-wedding holiday of your dreams, even when you’re not yet sure yourselves what shape those dreams are taking.
It’s their job to help you decide where you want to go, how action-packed or chilled you want it to be and just how to make it happen.
We’ve teamed up with Thorne Travel’s honeymoon specialist Amanda Mckinlay to put together a handy dos and don’ts guide to honeymoon planning…
Do – set a realistic budget early
Discuss your honeymoon budget as soon as possible to set clear expectations, prioritise must-haves, and avoid any stress later.
Amanda says, “Having a budget in place makes it much easier to decide on destinations, accommodations, and activities.”
Do – consider both preferences
“Honeymoon planning is a shared experience, so it’s essential to listen to each other’s dreams and ideas,” says Amanda.
“Even if one of you envisions a beach escape and the other prefers exploring a city, a thoughtful planner can help blend your visions for a honeymoon that’s uniquely yours.”
Do – work with a honeymoon planner for a memorable experience
Honeymoon specialist Amanda is an invaluable resource.
She will use her experience to help you get the most out of your budget, tailor suggestions to your interests, and combine both of your ideas
into one cohesive, amazing plan.
Planners like Amanda often have access to exclusive packages or upgrades and can ensure your honeymoon goes off without a hitch — leaving you free to simply enjoy.
She says, “This collaborative approach will help you create lasting memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.”
Don’t – leave it all to the last minute
Last-minute bookings can mean higher costs and limited availability.
According to Amanda you should aim to start planning and booking at least six to nine months in advance, especially for peak season.
This also gives you room to make adjustments if needed.
Don’t – overschedule
Try not to pack in too many activities or excursions each day.
“Remember, this is a time to relax and focus on each other,” says Amanda.
“Plan for free time to explore at your own pace and take in the moments together.”
Don’t – do something just because you think you should
If you’re not a beach person, for example, don’t feel pressured to choose a destination like the Maldives just because it’s considered the picture-perfect honeymoon spot.
Amanda says, “The perfect honeymoon is one that reflects your unique relationship and interests, whether it’s a cosy cabin in the mountains, a bustling city, or a cultural immersion in a new country.”
Compromise is key
I’ve interviewed countless couples celebrating golden or diamond wedding anniversaries over the years and invariably their pearls of wisdom and tips for a long and happy marriage include the words “A bit of give and take”.
It may sound like a cliché, but clichés exist for a reason and compromise through all elements of a relationship and marriage goes a long way.
This of course can extend to honeymoon planning too, especially if you have different visions of what your big trip should entail.
Working with a honeymoon planner can help you find the best ways to balance and blend your ideas, and, according to Amanda, “allow you to enjoy a honeymoon that’s relaxing, fulfilling and memorable in every way!”
To make things easier though, she’s provided some pointers for planning together…
Blend travel style
Look for a destination with both relaxation and adventure options.
She says, “Beaches with nearby hiking trails or cities with nature day trips are excellent choices.”
Alternate days for different experiences
Plan some activities on alternating days, so you each get to indulge in experiences that excite you while sharing time together.
Surprise each other with thoughtful touches
Add personal touches for each other, like a surprise spa day, a special dinner, or a hidden adventure.
“These gestures can create unforgettable moments, ensuring you make memories that will last a lifetime,” adds Amanda.
