Wedding Packages vs. Pay-As-You-Go

No matter how you look at it, honeymoons have to be planned some time in advance. Depending on what your dream honeymoon is and how much time and energy you can spare to plan it, you can choose between all-inclusive packages and pay-as-you-go vacations that you design.

All-inclusive packages are one price, including all of the accommodations and events. You just need to decide what amount you are willing to pay.

Pay-as-you-go vacations need more detailed planning and a specific budget.


Packages

Most all-inclusive honeymoons are on cruises or at resorts. Resorts and cruises aren't cheap, but at least you know exactly how much you are going to spend.

Couples-only resorts offer wedding services that can be included in the overall cost. In addition to the "Love Boat" type of cruise, you can also find adventure cruises that generally have fewer people onboard -- often as few as nine to 20 passengers. These yachts are about the same price as luxury cruises but need to be booked six months to a year in advance.

What are your requirements for style and flexibility? Will you mind being confined to a ship with your itinerary set in stone? If not, a package deal might be for you.


Pay as you go

Planning your own honeymoon allows you more flexibility and can be cheaper than an all-inclusive package, but all of the responsibility rests on your shoulders. You need to consider where you want to go, what hotel and transportation reservations need to be made, how long you will stay in each place and what you are going to do while you are there.

You also need to decide how much you can spend on each of these variables, as well as how much money goes toward shopping and food expenses.

To start setting up your trip, call the tourist board in the countries you want to visit and request pamphlets on things to do and see there. Don't forget to request detailed maps, currency exchange rates, customs guidelines, and railway or bus schedules and rates.

Make hotel reservations well in advance and double-check them about a week before you leave. Find out what sort of transportation you will be using and where your country's embassy is in each destination, in case of emergency.

Whichever route you wish to take, careful planning and the right choices about what you want will help you have the time of your life!