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Planning the Perfect Honeymoon
Your wedding day is important. But do you know which day is equally as important? The day you leave for your honeymoon!
To get you started on just the right trip, we asked Eric Hrubant, the founder and CEO of CIRE Travel, for what’s hot, what’s trending and what couples should keep in mind:
Looking ahead, what do you think the hot honeymoon spots will be for 24/25 and beyond?
Eric: Japan is HOT this year! New Zealand is also popping. Bali is always a top honeymoon choice and continues to be popular. And African safari destinations are also always in the top 3. The far-flung destinations are good picks for honeymoons since that’s one of the times you can take two full weeks to travel and enjoy.
Are more couples doing a mini moon and then a big honeymoon at a better time?
Eric: Mini-moons were definitely a thing during the pandemic but now couples are mostly just going for one, big trip. One caveat is for couples who get married during a month where their preferred honeymoon destination is in its peak season. That’s where we see couples taking a mini-moon getaway to relax after the busy pace of the wedding, followed by a delayed full honeymoon a few months later. For example, if you get married in the height of summer, you may want to delay your honeymoon trip to Greece or Italy until September or October to avoid peak tourist season.
When should couples start thinking about planning their honeymoon – lead time, seasons, etc.
Eric: We recommend starting to think about your honeymoon 1-2 years in advance, if you can. If you’re planning an exotic trip like a safari or multi-country trip, the more time you have to plan the better.
How should they determine where to go – super relaxing, active, etc.
Eric: Talk with a Travel Advisor! (I have a recommendation…) Having a professional talk to the happy couple is a must. We like to start with how people want to FEEL on their honeymoon, over where specifically they want to go. Some want full relaxation at a fly and flop beach resort, while others want exploration and adventure. And some want both! We love planning “contrasting honeymoons.” The city glitz and glamour of Dubai followed by a luxe, over-water bungalow in the Maldives. Or the excitement and adventure of an African safari, followed by some beachy bliss in Mauritius.
Name three places people should consider but probably haven’t.
Eric: Argentina: Amazing food, wine, culture. You can combine Buenos Aires and Mendoza. And if you wanted to add on a beach, spend some extra days in Uruguay!
Portugal: Not such a surprising recommendation but combine time on the mainland in Lisbon and Porto with time in the Azores, an archipelago of nine dreamy islands.
Maine: What better place to honeymoon than right here in Vacationland?! A meandering road trip through our beautiful state stopping for great meals, views and adventures along the way.
What kind of budget should a couple set aside?
Eric: A travel budget is such a personal and individual decision. It’s like asking how much you should spend on your wedding. It’s really about priorities. Some of our clients want to stay at 5-star hotels. Other clients want to go to Michelin starred restaurants. Some want to fly first class. Talk about what’s important to you and your partner for your honeymoon and start there. Our luxury honeymoon clients tend to have budgets of $1,000 per day, not including airfare. But you can definitely plan an amazing honeymoon for less.
What kind of “extras” are cool to add?
Eric: Definitely add at least one splurge because, if not on your honeymoon, then when?! Do the scenic flight. Arrange the private beachfront dinner. Hire a crewed yacht for a day. Reserve a couples massage. This is the time to celebrate! Some couples are even adding these extras to their wedding registries.