Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Planners: Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

honeymoon destinations

Is It Important to Have a Honeymoon? Studies Say YES!

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Is It Important to Have a Honeymoon? Studies Say YES!

Is it essential to take a honeymoon? Recent studies indicate that couples who
plan and take a honeymoon after their big day tend to have happier,
longer-lasting marriages than couples who forgo a honeymoon. I will break
down the latest research here in this blog post!

A Time To Re-Focus & Connect!

A honeymoon can be an excellent bridge between the whirlwind of wedding planning, logistics, constant choices, and problem-solving into the euphoria of being newlyweds, away from the familiar surroundings of everyday life! Your honeymoon allows you to
unplug and focus on each other! This sets the tone instantly for making each other a priority instead of life pushing you in every different direction.  Whether it’s lounging on a beach, exploring a vibrant city, or immersing yourselves in nature, the honeymoon is your well-deserved escape.

Creating Cherished Memories:

Honeymoons are not just about the destination but about shared experiences. Whether exploring exotic locales, trying new cuisines, or simply enjoying each other’s company under a starlit sky, your honeymoon is a canvas for creating cherished memories.  These shared moments can be vitally important to your relationship, especially when you may be stuck in a rut or feeling the pressure of everyday life.

Building Stronger Bonds: YES! Honeymoon Suites are Still a Thing Too!

The honeymoon is a time for undivided attention. Away from the daily grind, couples can genuinely connect, communicate, and deepen their understanding of each other. A honeymoon also allows you to strengthen your intimacy with each other both physically and emotionally. All these new experiences, quality time, and, if you can afford it, being in a romantic, pampering honeymoon suite will also help bring you closer together! And YES! Honeymoon suites are still a thing! I encourage you to use a travel agent to book your honeymoon, as they can take what you envision and give you
precisely what you are looking for in your honeymoon.

Setting the Tone for Future Marriage Success:

Having a honeymoon can also set the tone for future marriage success and happiness, especially if you continue to travel together. According to PR Newswire & Honeyfund, a wedding gift registry, “upwards of 90% of couples who have taken at least 3 or more romantic trips since their honeymoon rate their marriage as good to excellent. Out of people who rate their marriage as not good, 78% do not travel regularly. [PR Newswire article] Taking a honeymoon can be a catalyst to having a unique and intimate connection that can be one of the super glues that hold your marriage together through thick and thin, easy times, and stressful times.

Prioritize Your Relationship to Keep The Honeymoon Effect Going

Prioritizing your relationship is one of the hidden keys to a successful and happy relationship! Your honeymoon is the perfect way to start your marriage by prioritizing a much-needed break from all the stress of wedding planning and the pressures of
everyday life! In some ways, you are recharging your relationship batteries and re-discovering why you fell in love in the first place! This should be just the beginning of intentionally planning regular dates, weekend getaways, and future romantic trips to keep your relationship fresh and re-charged regularly.

What if You Can’t Afford a Honeymoon?

I realize everyone is in a different situation, both logistically and financially. If you just can’t swing a honeymoon after your wedding, I encourage you to plan a short getaway, maybe to a nearby significant city at a luxury hotel or a secluded bed & breakfast for at
least 3 nights! You both still need the opportunity to unplug, romance, and reconnect with each other after all the wedding stuff and have some much-needed time together. Then, within the next year or two, do your best to plan a proper honeymoon for at least
7 nights, where you can go somewhere special like Puerto Vallarta, Jamaica, Costa
Rica or Antigua. Again, I highly encourage you to use a Puerto Vallarta, Costa Rica, Jamaica, or Antigua travel agent who specializes in these destinations to get everything you are looking for on your honeymoon.

Sign Up For a Honeymoon Registry:

You can also sign up for a honeymoon registry, such as Honeyfund, Zola, or Joy! This
can be a great way to fund your honeymoon. Plus, let’s face it: in today’s world, many
couples already have enough household items to get by, so why not fund your
honeymoon?


*https://www.honeyfund.com/
https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry
https://withjoy.com/honeymoon-registry/

Your honeymoon begins your lifelong journey together and sets the tone for marital happiness for years. A honeymoon is a cherished period where you can escape the stress and busyness of planning a wedding and focus on each other, not just another vacation. It shapes the early narrative of marriage, creating a positive trajectory that contributes significantly to the overall happiness and success of the union. If you are in deep with your honeymoon planning but may need some help or guidance, please schedule a complimentary 30-minute FREE honeymoon strategy session*.🌴💑 Just click the button below to schedule a consultation now!  Together, we’ll bring your dream honeymoon to life in the most spectacular way possible.

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How and When to Plan an Amazing Honeymoon With These 5 Insider Tips.

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How and When to Plan an Amazing Honeymoon With These 5 Insider Tips

Your upcoming marriage will be a grand adventure, and what better way to kick off
your journey into wedded bliss than with the perfect honeymoon? But first, there are
two key questions every couple needs to answer first!

1. When should I start
planning my honeymoon? 2. How do I plan the perfect honeymoon?”

Join me as we
explore why this moment, right after your engagement, is the ideal starting point for planning a honeymoon as well as a few insider tips that will whisk you away into a
world of romance and relaxation.

If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in a stunning destination wedding, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been helping couples like you plan their dream weddings in paradise for over a decade, and I’m here to share some advice on how far in advance to book and plan your destination wedding. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this exciting journey together!

1. Prioritize: Why Having a Honeymoon is Important!

With all of the details and planning logistics that it takes to plan your wedding, it’s easy to put your honeymoon planning on the back burner, but this is a Big Mistake many couples make. Your honeymoon isn’t just another trip, it’s actually a very important milestone in a healthy marriage, that creates instant memories you will cherish forever!

2. Start Now to Take Advantage of Great Rates & Value

Timing is everything, and that applies to honeymoon planning too! By starting to plan your honeymoon early, you increase your chances of snagging the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities. Many resorts and airlines offer early bird discounts, so why not take advantage and stretch your honeymoon budget a little further?

3. Securing the Perfect Honeymoon Location & Resort

Pre-pandemic, the old school of thought was to plan your honeymoon six to nine months before your wedding, but that isn’t the best advice anymore! Post-pandemic, the best and most sought-after destinations & resorts, especially for honeymooners* are booking up faster than ever. Starting your planning now ensures you’ll have plenty of choices when choosing your dream spot. Whether it’s the enchanting beaches of Cancun, the romantic allure of St. Lucia, or the vibrant culture of Jamaica, you can secure the perfect haven for your honeymoon bliss.

4. Start Planning Your Honeymoon Early To Have It ALL!

Every couple is unique, and so is their dream honeymoon. Starting early allows you to tailor your experience to match your preferences. Starting to plan your honeymoon early allows you to share what you BOTH hope to get out of your honeymoon. Do you dream of a secluded beachside villa, adventurous excursions, or a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration? Planning early ensures you can create an itinerary that will give you as close to EVERYTHING you desire in your honeymoon!

5. Reducing Stress, Increasing Excitement

Wedding planning can be a whirlwind of details, and having your honeymoon plans settled early means one less thing on your plate as the big day approaches. You’ll also have more time to gather finances together, make payments, and have more of an opportunity to reduce your financial stress during a very expensive time in your life. You’ll also reduce stress, and increase the excitement by knowing that your dream honeymoon is all set, waiting to whisk you away to a world of romance, pampering, and relaxation.

As we conclude this exploration of why and how to plan your honeymoon, remember that your love story deserves a getaway as unique as your bond. You may want to consider working with a honeymoon travel agent to help you take ALL of the stress of
planning your honeymoon off of your shoulders. If you’re looking for an easy button to all of this, I’d love to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you! Feel free to use the link below to set up a 30-minute Free Strategy Session * with me
today, because your love story deserves a honeymoon as extraordinary as your wedding day—let’s make it happen! 🌴💑 

Click below To Schedule Your Free 30-minute consultation now! 

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Honeymoon Planning Tips

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Honeymoon Planning tips

Congratulations! You’re engaged and about to embark on a world wind adventure of wedding planning.  You could also have been planning a while and had that complete oops moment of I forgot to plan my honeymoon and are now seeking honeymoon planning tips.     

It doesn’t matter what stage you are I because there is help.  This honeymoon planning guide will be filled with honeymoon planning tips to get you on your way. 

Planning a honeymoon can be stressful and overwhelming.  There are so many things to think about when planning.  Where do the two of you want to go?  How long should the honeymoon be?  Why are there so many honeymoon packages? 

The most important thing is that your honeymoon is a chance to relax and rejuvenate after months of wedding planning.  It is also a time to celebrate your new journey as a couple.

honeymoon planning

When Should You Start Planning Your Honeymoon?

You should start planning your honeymoon around 8 to 9 months in advance.  Why?  This is when all the flight prices will be available to your destination.  This is also when the best deals and perks may be offered by resorts and hotels.

Also, if you are working with a travel professional you can make a deposit and make payments on your honeymoon, but more on that later.

Plan Your Honeymoon Together

In the days of old (not really that long ago; maybe twenty years) it was the groom’s job to plan the honeymoon and surprise his bride to be with a fabulous trip.  That is no longer the case for so many reasons.  Now most couples are involved in planning their honeymoon together.  They narrow down the locations as well as discuss a comfortable budget.  This ensures that the honeymoon fits you both as a couple and not one person more than the other.

How Much Does a Honeymoon Cost?

Talk about loaded questions!  There are several factors to consider when calculating the cost of a honeymoon.  The first is will you be flying to your honeymoon destination from a major international airport. 

If you will be leaving from a smaller regional airport you will end up paying more for your flight since you will need to be routed to an international airport. 

Second, how long will you be staying?  Most hotels and resorts offer promotions to couples who stay at least a week (7 days).  Shorter stays can cost slightly less money.

Third, what destination are you traveling to?  There is a huge financial difference between a honeymoon in Cancun, Mexico and a honeymoon in the Maldives. 

Also, you must consider if the destination has all-inclusive resorts.  If you go this route it is more possible to get more bang for your buck.  Yet, be aware that all-inclusive resorts are only available in Mexico and the Caribbean.  You can eliminate all US based islands and territories such as Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and Hawaii since they do not have all-inclusive resorts.

Bottom line is this the average weeklong stay in Mexico and the Caribbean can average $3000-5000 per couple.  Whereas more exotic locations such as the Maldives, Fiji and Bali can average $7000-10,000 per couple.

honeymoon planning

Don’t rely just on Google

When beginning your honeymoon planning Google is a great place to start.  Yet, it is not the best tactic to use Google as your only resource.  Many times, travel review sites and even hotel/resort sites will be misleading to visitors.  The best way to gain true information about a destination you are considering for your honeymoon is to ask a family member or friend who has been there.  Another great tactic is to contact a honeymoon planner who specializes in your destination.   

If you are looking for a great travel resource then check out my friends over at Lonely Planet.  They have some amazing destination guides. 

Seriously Consider a travel agent

If you feel overwhelmed or stressed out from the honeymoon planning, then contacting a travel professional may be a smart choice.  Travel professionals have insider information about the various hotels, resorts in a specific destination.  They also have personal relationships with staff at these hotels and resorts.  This is a great way to handle those special requests. 

The best part is a travel professional can save you a lot of time chained to your computer or phone doing research.  They also can help save you money by being aware the best travel time, deals and perks.  If you want extra guidance planning your honeymoon, travel agents can come in handy. A great travel professional will help you choose the perfect location, book your travel plans and make sure you have the best possible experience while on their honeymoon. 

Be aware of hidden costs

Most people when planning their wedding and honeymoon are working from a budget.  The last thing any couple wants during this money conscious time is surprise expenses.  Things that many couples don’t think about can add up fast and even break the budget.  Things such as visa fees, airport transfers and daily resort fees can add anywhere from $200-500 onto your honeymoon budget. 

In this case it pays to read the fine print.  Most online booking engines do not include visa fees, tourism fees, resort fees and transfers to the cost of your trip.  Make sure you investigate or add these extras to your trip costs.  There is nothing worse than getting to your honeymoon destination and having to shell out money just to get to your hotel. 

Honeymoon planning should not be stressful and overwhelming.  Hopefully, you can follow these amazing tips and plan the honeymoon of your dreams.

If you need help planning your honeymoon please checkout my Honeymoon Planning Checklist. 

Top European Honeymoon Destinations

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Top European Honeymoon Destinations

Honeymoons are once in a lifetime experiences that you get to share with your significant other. Because planning for a wedding comes with a lot of stress, spending a week or two in a beautiful honeymoon location to de-stress and relax is the best way to spend some alone time as newlyweds. However, even choosing your destination can become a tedious process because you only want the best and collect moments you will treasure forever.

Europe tops the list of the best honeymoon destinations. It has incredibly romantic destinations at almost all of its corners, so you will not run out of places to visit every single day of your trip. If you are looking for that perfect post-wedding getaway, worry no more because we handpicked the best European honeymoon destinations just for you.

By Kavonda L. Rogers

France

With its beautiful beaches, chic cities, unique mountain retreats, and delicious food, there is no stopping for France to be on this list. A trip to this famous destination will undoubtedly be as exciting for newlyweds with all of the activities that are only waiting to be explored. You can either laze on luxury yachts in French Riviera or enjoy a post-wedding celebration at the rolling hills of Champagne.

Paris is also one location we must not forget. You can arrange a private tour only just for you and your significant other and discover the famous Louvre Museum. If you love fairy tales, you can also visit the vineyards, forest, and green hills at the heart of the Beaujolais countryside and explore Château de Bagnols.

Related: Click Here for the Video Version

Greece

European Honeymoon Destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

If you are looking forward to traditionally spending your honeymoon, nothing gets much better than Greece. Visit the Cyclades, especially if you are spending your honeymoon in summer. It is a spectacular sun-soaked country just near Athens. For a highly romantic trip, we highly recommend the beautiful island of Santorini.

Boat trips, volcanic sand beaches, and towering cliffs cut by secret staircases are only some of the island’s features that make it honeymoon heaven. If you want a more private place to stay, Naxos and Paros are our top suggestions as these are lesser-known to the public but are equally as beautiful as the rest of the choices.

Related: Honeymoon Destinations in Africa


Italy

It would be a crime not to include the world’s most romantic destination in our top picks of European honeymoon destinations. Italy is the home for cinematic landscapes and one of the best places where you can indulge in the best food. It also has promising beaches honeymooners would never want to miss.

Feast your eyes with Italy’s picturesque hilltop towns and awe-striking sea views. You can also explore the entirety of Rome or even wander along the streets and eat tons of slices of pizza. After all, an extra piece would not hurt when on a honeymoon getaway.

Planning for a honeymoon can become overwhelming as you would want it to be a perfect trip for you and your significant other. With European destinations on your list, you are indeed one step closer to the most memorable trip of your lives. Let Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda be with you in achieving the honeymoon getaway of your dreams.


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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in US

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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in the US

After having the perfect wedding to start a beautiful, loving marriage you and your partner are looking forward to, you deserve the best romantic honeymoon. The location you choose should fit the type of people you and your partner are. To help you with your search, we listed below 10 of the best honeymoon destinations in the U.S.

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Upstate New York

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If you are having a fall wedding then Upstate New York is the best location for you.  During the fall there is nothing better than driving the scenic highways and watching the beautiful changing of the leaves.  New York is also a great option if you love wine. Upstate New York is known for its wineries, and you must try the Apple wine.  

Must see locations: McGregor Vineyard, Yaddo Gardens Artists’ Community and Letchworth State Park

Maui, Hawaii

Honeymoon Destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

It is no wonder lists like this include Maui. The sun, beaches, and lively adventure-filled activities. If you’re an outdoorsy couple, you can ride a helicopter to see an aerial view of the island or go hiking through the trails of Haleakala National Park. You can watch the moving performance of a traditional luau while eating fresh pineapples and other Hawaiian cuisines.

Sanibel Island, Florida

Relax on the west coast of Florida while enjoying the fantastic coastal views. They also have cozy inns and romantic cottages that are a bit secluded from the crowd. You will also enjoy combing for seashells along Bowman Beach.

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai is another paradise destination for adventurous couples. You can go swimming or boogie boarding at Kalapaki Beach. If the weather is good, you may also go kayaking on the river of Garden Island. Kauai doesn’t have a lot of large chain hotels so you can really experience all the island has to offer without the crowds.  

Charleston, South Carolina

Honeymoon Destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Laden with the charming old Southern-style architecture, this quaint little place is perfect for honeymoon goers. Enjoy a ride on a horse-drawn carriage to see the beauty of the city.

Must See Locations: Colonial Houses and Harbour Ferry

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Stay in one of their romantic lodges, which have soaking tubs and fireplaces where you can snuggle with your partner. You can also enjoy a walk in the Ecola State Park and visit the Hug Point State Recreation Site for its caves and waterfalls.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Enjoy a relaxing time at the Granite Hot Springs after a whole day of skiing or hiking. This destination is perfect for couples who prefer the woodlands over beachside locations. If you have time, take a ride on one of their hot air balloons.

Savannah, Georgia

Honeymoon Destinations by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

If I had to chose a US honeymoon location Savannah would be at the top of my list.  Savannah is one of my favorite cities and the best part is that it is a walking city.  You can easily navigate the downtown area by walking. Savannah is full of culture since it is America’s first city.  Don’t miss a boat ride at the riverfront.  You will also may want to cross the bridge and visit Hilton Head or go to the beach at Tybee Island.   

Related: Jamaica Honeymoon

These are just a few of the best honeymoon destinations in the US. If you’re ready to book your honeymoon getaway, let us help you! Contact us for more information and other inquiries.


I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico and the Caribbean.

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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations

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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations

About to embark on a honeymoon journey? Need some help finding the best honeymoon destination?  Sure, you do?  Planning a wedding is stressful enough and then adding a honeymoon to it takes the stress factor over the moon.  No worries I will share with you some budget friendly destination as well as luxury bucket list destinations.  I’m sure there will be something on the list that fits your needs.  Let’s get started!

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By Kavonda L. Rogers

Jamaica

Jamaica is the home of reggae music and a honeymoon in this wonderful island will not disappoint.  Jamaica is known for its beautiful beaches, amazing local cuisine (jerk chicken!) and waterfalls.  While you are in Jamaica make sure you climb the Dunn River Falls, bobsled in Ochos Rios, and cliff dive at Rick’s Café.  It you aren’t feeling adventurous you can relax on Seven Mile Beach in Negril or listen to a reggae band in Montego Bay.

Cancun/Riviera Maya, Mexico

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This is my favorite part of Mexico because the resorts in this area are just amazing.  Cancun and Riviera Maya are on the northern side of the Yucatan Peninsula.  This area is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world.  While you are in this area make sure you take a chance to snorkel or scuba dive in the wonderfully calm waters, visit the Mayan Ruins, swim in a cenote and gorge on some of the best guacamole I have ever had! 

   

Fiji

Fiji is a bucket list destination and it is also a luxury one.  Fiji is comprised of 300 islands which accounts for it’s amazing shorelines.  While you are in Fiji consider going diving and seeing the unique sea life native to the area.  Also, learn about pearl harvesting and harvest a pearl for yourself.  If you are into surfing Fiji has great waves you can ride so don’t forget your wet suit.

Related: 5 Best Resorts in Mexico

Florida Keys

If you are seeking a honeymoon option that doesn’t require a passport; then the Florida Keys is an amazing option.  The southern tip of Florida is full of activities and options for honeymooners.  While in the Florida Keys take a ride in a glass bottom boat and taste authentic key lime pie.  If you are feeling really willing to take a chance, then go see the crocodiles in the Everglades (but make sure you have a guide). 

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has over 500,000 hotel rooms and it is why it is considered one of the hottest vacation spots in the world.  If you are an adventure traveler this is the perfect destination with its many adventure activities.  Make sure you do a water horseback ride and zipline through the tropical forests.  If you decide to visit during the months of Carnivale you will get two vacations in one with the amazing sights and sounds of this celebration festival. 

St. Lucia

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St. Lucia is a gorgeous island that is nestled around the Pitons Mountains.  It is a luxury honeymoon destination but well worth the cost.  While in St. Lucia visit the Castries Market (make sure you are hungry when you go) and taste all the foods and look at all the handmade goods.  If you want a holistic experience, then take a mud bath at Sulfur Springs and before you leave take a helicopter ride over the Pitons Mountains. 

Maldives

The Maldives is the perfect example of a tropical destination.  The Maldives is another bucket list destination.  The Maldives consists of 1000 islands.  This area is known for its awe-inspiring beaches which pictures don’t do justice.  Over-water bungalows began in the Maldives and are one of the most desired locations in the islands.  While there don’t forget to explore the coral reefs whether via boat or diving. 

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is the second most visited island in Hawaii.  It is, in my opinion, the most romantic of the islands.  You can relax on the beach and have some lazy days while in Maui but that is not the only thing to do in Maui.  You can drive the Road to Hana which is a 65-mile road with some of the world’s most amazing scenery.  If you are into beer, then visit the Maui Brewing Company and take a tasting tour.  Also, do not forget to visit the Honolua Bay and snorkel with the wildlife. 

Related: Maui Official Travel Site

Puerto Rico

This is the only other destination on the list that US citizens can visit without a passport.  If you do not have a passport this is the best honeymoon destination for you.  Puerto Rico is an amazing island in the Caribbean.  If you are a history buff, make sure to visit Old San Juan which is full of history and culture.  The walking tour of Old San Juan is completely worth it.  Take a kayak ride through Mosquito Bay and as the name implies bring some bug repellent.  Also, make sure to taste some of the delicious street food peppered all over the island. 

Bali, Indonesia

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You may already know that Bali is a bucket list destination.  Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia and considered by many to be the best honeymoon destination ever.  While in Bali make sure you visit the many active volcanoes and the beautiful coral reefs.  You may also want to make your own jewelry at the many of the jewelry compounds or visit the rice fields.  Bali is a perfect location for Vegans and Vegetarians since most of the diet of Indonesians is plant based.

Related: 10 Things to Do in Bali

Hopefully, now you have a list of the best honeymoon destinations for you and your future spouse. If you have chosen a destination on this list, please let me know in the comments below. Also, if you want more tips and info about all things travel sign up for my newsletter below.


I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean.

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