LET'S PLAN The Honeymoon

By Connie McVicker

After all the excitement of the wedding ceremony and reception celebration, some time to relax and recuperate is well deserved for newlyweds. Whether you are looking to get away to an exotic island in the Pacific for two weeks or want to embark on a weekend

adventure hiking in the Smokey Mountains, there are many options to consider. Imagine an intimate trip to wine country in Italy, cruising around the Caribbean, or a week in Croatia exploring the coast. No matter your preference, here are some guidelines to help plan that perfect honeymoon.

CREATE A REALISTIC BUDGET. The honeymoon should be exactly what the happy couple wants, whether luxurious, adventurous or a little bit of both or everything. Your wedding is only one day, but your honeymoon can be 7-14 days, so budget wisely and decide where you want to splurge and pamper yourselves as you start your married life together.

PLAN YOUR HONEYMOON EARLY! Book your honeymoon six to eight months before the wedding. You will get better prices — the longer you wait, the less availability there is for flights, accommodations, upgrades, and more. It also allows you to pay over time in many cases instead of one lump sum, which is great for budgeting and those splurges.

IDENTIFICATION AND PASSPORT EXPIRATION DATES. Check the expiration dates on your driver’s license, passport, TSA PreCheck®, or other forms of identity you need for traveling. Renew them in ample time before you take off for your honeymoon as passports should be

valid for six months beyond the date of travel. Also note, the bride should use her maiden name for the reservation as the names must match any reservations.

CHECK COVID PROTOCOLS AND GUIDELINES. Keep tabs on your upcoming honeymoon destination — and keep up with any changes. There are different rules from mask requirements to mandatory COVID testing to proof of vaccine to whether you have to quarantine upon arrival and/or returning, etc.

PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE. Always expect the unexpected! In today’s travel environment, it is advised everyone opt-in for travel insurance when booking a trip. The cost is minimal and gives peace of mind if something unexpected occurs.

WORK WITH A TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL. Planning to tie the knot is stressful enough. It takes a lot of time and research to plan your perfect honeymoon. Let your travel agent take the weight off your shoulders and deal with the nitty-gritty of the always-changing travel restrictions, closures, and reopenings. Not to mention all the perks that come with using an agent and the fact it is a FREE service!

CONNIE MCVICKER is a Travel Ambassador and owner of The Traveling Coconut. She is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured certified travel specialist. Whether you are getting away for business or pleasure, visit thetravelingcoconut.site to learn more about how she can help plan your honeymoon, business trip, or family vacation. Let The Traveling Coconut take care of all the details — with no added fees.