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All-Inclusive Package Vs. Planning Your Honeymoon
Written by Kami
Miller
Ah, the honeymoon. That ultra-perfect, dream vacation where you and your new
husband can finally escape from wedding details and simply relax and enjoy each
other’s company. You want it to be a trip to remember, whether it is a weekend
excursion to the beach or a month int trip around the world. Whatever you
decide to do, you must weigh the pros and cons of opting for an all-inclusive
package or planning it on your own.
 The all-inclusive package varies from
location to location. They are best suited for couples who wish to travel a
great distance and/or be away for at least a week. The best place to find out
more about such a deal is to talk with several travel agencies and get a
general idea of what is available. Don’t pick just one agency and go with it;
shop around. Look for “specials”, off-peak season rates that may save you
anywhere from $100.00 to $1000.00 dollars. Some travel agencies have
“certified” representatives that specialize in particular destinations. These
particular agents are quite familiar with the location you are interested in
and are trained to make expert recommendations. They can also assist with
getting you free upgrades at the resort! Keep in mind that some of what you are
spending is actually fees for the travel agent.
What will your package include? It is a general rule that most packages include
hotel accommodations, transportation around the resort, all meals, all drinks
(alcohol and soft drinks) activities within the resort, and gratuities! This is
a big plus, ensuring that you can bring limited amounts of cash with you on
your trip. Most packages DO NOT come with airfare, spending money, taxes, or
certain activities like spa treatments.
All-inclusive packages must be paid for up front, and often it seems like an
incredible amount of money. Depending upon where you go, expect to spend
approximately $3000 per person, per week. Remember to also figure in spending
money and airfare. While this seems like a very high amount, consider
everything that you will be getting, and break it down. You will probably
notice that you are getting very high quality service and food for a reasonable
price. The all-inclusive generally means a worry free and leisurely trip, but
do be prepared for emergencies or unforeseen expenses.
If $3000 (or more!) per person is way out of your budget, then you may be
happier planning your own honeymoon. This is ideal for couples vacationing
closer to home, who don’t wish to be “boxed in” to a resort, or who are looking
for cheaper prices. If price is your biggest issue, ask family and friends to
recommend quality vacations spots that they visited in the past. Is it possible
you have a friend who owns a vacation home and will be willing to let you
“borrow” it for a few days? Also check out travel plans with groups like AAA.
They often have discount prices for travelers.
Think of the type of honeymoon you want: camping in the mountains? A trip to the
shore? Plan accordingly by budgeting what you are able to spend. Factor in
individual meal costs, gasoline (if you are traveling by car) gratuities and
spending money. Remember that you won’t have a travel agent to deal with, so
anything you plan is solely up to you! You also won’t have to consider the fees
associated with a travel agency.
If you are driving yourselves, remember to plot your course. Get reliable
directions, and watch out for potential trouble spots like construction on the
highway.
The beauty of planning your own honeymoon is that anything and everything is up
to you! You can “wing it” and plan your days as they come. Or you can make up
your own itinerary and carefully follow it. It’s your call! Just be sure to be
prepared for emergencies and have enough money available if needed. Travelers’
checks may come in handy so you are not carrying around large amounts of cash.
Whatever choice you make, remember to leave a copy of your flight schedule, and
a contact phone number or address for your family. Most likely you won’t need
to contact them (unless you want to!) but it is a safe idea to leave the
information just in case.
Have a fun and relaxing honeymoon! You’re earned it!
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