If you do plan to travel internationally and don’t have an up-to-date passport we highly recommend doing so as soon as possible. With more countries opening for travel and cruise lines sailing again, the demand for passports will be high and there could be delays.

If the country you really want to visit is not open, consider planning something smaller and keep planning the trip you have always wanted for a later date.

As for countries that you should avoid, we suggest visiting the U.S. Dept. of State’s website (travel.state.gov) for current travel conditions along with updates and travel advisories on the horizon. Hotels and Resorts in tourist areas have really stepped up their cleaning and sanitizing to help assure safety of guests. You’ll see table spacing in restaurants and staff wearing masks throughout resorts.

Discuss your expectations before you book your trip. Of course, you’ll have to compromise but talking about these compromises before the trip will make the honeymoon much sweeter. Historically, the honeymoon immediately followed the wedding but not anymore. Enjoying the afterglow of the wedding, maximizing time away from work or the best weather conditions are all factors that determine when couples are booking their honeymoon. If you’re traveling to a spot that’s popular with college students or families with young kids, it’s best to time your trip when school is in session. Honeymooning during spring break can change the vibe of your entire trip.

When you say “honeymoon,” most people think of a remote, tropical island that looks like something straight from a postcard. You can’t beat a fruity umbrella-clad drink and romantic walks along the beach. Even for the most active of couples, your honeymoon is one time when it’s okay to sit back and let yourselves be taken care of.

If you choose a tropical destination, an all-inclusive resort is a relaxing way to go. The definition varies from one resort to the next. At some places, it includes the cost of your room and two meals each day. At other resorts, it means three meals each day, unlimited drinks, champagne on arrival, and a trip to the spa.

When it’s time to book your trip, always mention that you’ll be on your honeymoon. Most places offer a honeymoon package.

A trip abroad is a thrilling way to start a marriage. It’s an adventure and a chance to get caught up in a rush of new ideas and cultures. However, If you’ve never been out of the country before, make sure this is an experience you’re both fully committed to. Planning an international trip for the first time can be stressful, and it could be overwhelming to be in a foreign place when all you want to do is relax and enjoy each other’s company. But if you’re up for going international, the result can be a true test of teamwork and a most romantic, unforgettable experience.

If you can’t get away for a long trip, consider what’s close to home. There may be a quaint bed & breakfast just a few miles from your home, a majestic state park where you can camp out under the stars or a beautiful tourist spot within a few hours travel. Turn off your cell phones and focus on each other. It will seem as if you’re lightyears away even in your own backyard.

If you can’t decide on a destination, a cruise might be for you. It’s the best of both worlds! If you want to see Europe but you’ve never been and don’t have time to plan a trip, try a Mediterranean cruise. If you know you want to go tropical but can’t decide on a spot, island hop in the Caribbean. And if you can’t decide whether you want to relax or be active, a cruise offers the chance to do both. Plus, meals, drinks, and entertainment are not only included, but they’re also right outside your cabin door! When booking a cruise, just like any other destination, mention that you’re on your honeymoon and see if the cruise line has a special deal or package.

Take time to really plan your honeymoon. Here are some things to think about, especially if you’ve never traveled to your honeymoon spot before.

• Different customs. If you’re traveling abroad, or even to an Americanized resort in the Caribbean, do your research. Find out if there are any words or gestures that are deemed inappropriate, types of dress that are considered unacceptable, and so on.
• Language. Learn some key phrases and pick up a pocket-sized dictionary or phrase book if you’re going to a non-English-speaking country. There are also apps to help with translation.
• Tipping. Tipping customs vary from country to country, so find out what percentage to tip and when to do so.
• Weather. Find out the average high and low temps for the time of year you’re traveling and be prepared for rain or shine.
• Budgeting. It can be tough to budget for a wedding and a honeymoon all at once. Luckily, wedding registry sites now allow couples to register for monetary gifts that go toward your honeymoon.

It’s no secret that a honeymoon is all about those intimate moments and fueling the newlywed romance. So be proactive in making sparks fly! Pack a secret gift for each other or plan a surprise day trip or nighttime excursion. By keeping the romance as personal as possible, the love light will be burning strong no matter where you are.