Away we go
Tips for choosing a honeymoon destination
Once couples have tied the knot, hit the reception dance floor and thanked their friends and family for joining them, it’s time to head out for their honeymoons.
Statistics vary in regard to how much money couples spend on their honeymoons, but those heading overseas can expect to pay thousands of dollars on such getaways. Couples planning their honeymoons want to get the most for their money, while also ensuring that their first trip together as newlyweds is as memorable as possible.
“A local honeymoon in Arkansas is a great option for couples,” said Wilba Thompson, director of the Fairfield Bay Conference Center.“Arkansas has so much to offer — beautiful mountains for relaxing or hiking, wonderful championship golf courses, SUV trails and gorgeous lakes for water sports or fishing. Most resorts in Arkansas have lots of helpful information on their websites, with contacts to help plan lodging and activities.”
The destination a couple chooses can go a long way toward making their trip a reality, and couples can consider various factors as they work together to choose a locale for their honeymoons.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Some couples might want their honeymoons to be filled with activities, while others might prefer more low-key trips spent relaxing at seaside resorts. Couples can discuss which type of trip they prefer and be willing to compromise if their desires differ.
“I feel planning around the couple’s interests is a basic for couples,” Thompson said. “If interests are somewhat different and varied, pick a spot where both can appease each other’s interests. Learning something new can be exciting and
refreshing, too. Participating in new interests and keeping an open mind can bring couples closer together and allow each to explore new things and add an appreciation for an activity one would never think to enjoy.”
TRAVEL
Some couples may prefer to travel throughout their honeymoon, while others may want to stay at the same resort for the duration of their trip. Couples who want to travel may find a backpacking trip to Europe a romantic way to indulge their sense of adventure, while those who prefer something more quiet may find a beach resort more to their liking.
“Planning a honeymoon closer to home not only saves money on travel expenses, but helps couples get to their destination sooner so they can relax and enjoy time together after all the months of planning and preparation for the wedding,” Thompson said.
BUDGET
Budget is a strong consideration for many couples as they plan their honeymoons. Because a honeymoon can be expensive, a couple who don’t want to sacrifice on their first trip together as a married couple can begin planning their trip early, even looking for ways to cut costs on their ceremony and reception if their honeymoon is a bigger priority.
When planning their honeymoon, a couple can also take steps to save money. For example, delaying a trip until a few months after the wedding can help a couple get back on their feet financially and enjoy their dream getaway.
A couple visiting a resort may also want to opt for an all-inclusive package, which can provide great value, particularly on food and beverages.
Arkansas has so much to offer — beautiful mountains for relaxing or hiking, wonderful championship golf courses, SUV trails and gorgeous lakes for water sports or fishing.” — Wilba Thompson, DIRECTOR OF THE FAIRFIELD BAY CONFERENCE CENTER IN FAIRFIELD BAY