Thursday, May 20, 2010

Planning an Affordable Honeymoon

The honeymoon is one of the most expensive aspects
to planning a wedding. Let's look at ways to SAVE
money while not sacrificing a good time.

First of all, you should start planning the honeymoon early.
I suggest working with a travel agent who can help you figure out the
best trip for you. In the
meantime, let's take a look at seven steps cost saving steps to honeymoon
planning.

1) BOOK THE TRIP ONLINE

It doesn't matter if you're booking a trip several
months ahead of time or last minute in a lot of cases if you
book your trip online. You can find some really great deals
this way. There are several websites that you can find that
offer these deals.

2) SHOP FOR THE HONEYMOON, BEFORE IT

You may hear people talking about waiting to buy once you get to
your honeymoon destination. I can tell you that prices are
always inflated for tourists. You don't want to wait to
shop. Start looking around for bargains before the big day.
You'll be glad you did. You can usually find good deals
on film, batteries, toiletries, etc. ahead of time.

3) SHOP FOR THE HONEYMOON, DURING IT

I just told you how to save money before the honeymoon. Now,
let's talk a little bit about how you can save money
during the honeymoon. I suggest that you visit many stores
during your day out on the town. Simply shop around before
settling on any one item.

You'll find prices vary from store to store. In a lot of
cases, the stores carry the same merchandise because there are
certain items that are unique to that part of the world. Shop
around during your honeymoon for the best prices and don't
be afraid to try to barter the sales people down.

4) PLAN AN OFF SEASON HONEYMOON

Who wants to go to Jamaica in the height of summer? Who wants to
go to Europe in the fall? Who in the world would ever dream of
going to Australia in the winter? You do, that's who
especially if it means saving hundreds of dollars! Here's
something important to note. Off-season doesn't
necessarily mean bad weather. A lot of people assume it does.

Off-season simply means that fewer people are traveling to these
destinations for a variety of reasons. It could have something
to do with the end of summer break and the beginning of the
school season. It's really hard to tell in some cases.
However, the important thing to note for you is that there are
advantages to planning an off-season honeymoon.

One of the biggest advantages is you'll get cheaper prices
on hotel and airfare. That's because there are fewer
people traveling during off-season. You'll also get
better service from cab drivers, tour guides, hotel and
restaurant employees, etc. They'll just be glad to see
you around because the crowds won't be around.

5) CHEAPER DESTINATIONS

Going to a cheaper destination does not mean that you won't
have a good time. Places like Mexico and Canada are more
affordable based on their low currency rates. Other places like
the Bahamas and Jamaica are so frequently traveled that it has
helped to bring down the rates. Choosing a cheaper destination
could be an economically healthy alternative for you.

6) CLOSE TO HOME

There are several advantages to staying close to home for your
honeymoon. You save time, money and a lot of hassle that comes
from traveling if you drive. I know a lot of couples that were
able to upgrade to better accommodations because they decided
to drive to a local resort.

7) EAT SMART

Here's a tip that very few penny pinchers ever think
about. At least, they're always in shock when I bring it
up! There's always that "must eat
at" restaurant in every travel destination. It's
usually a five star restaurant with great food, service and
high prices. Well, try eating at this place for lunch instead
of dinner.

Lunch prices are usually more affordable. Plus, if you
don't like the food, then you won't be stuck with
a high tab. If you like the food, then say what the heck!
Splurge! Go back for dinner, but let it be your choice to spend
the big bucks, not theirs. Also, don't forget to ask
about Happy Hours. It's another great way to have fun and
save money.

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