Honeymoon/Travel

Phew, it's all over, you're in the car speeding off to an unknown destination, now its your time to relax. It has been a big day for both of you so be sensitive to your partner's needs. There will plenty of time for you to enjoy each others company and to indulge in some creature comforts so take it easy and treasure each blissful moment.

Grooms, if you're planning a surprise honeymoon do your research amongst the brides family and friends to make sure you're planning the type of honeymoon she will enjoy. If you're planning your honeymoon together listen to what each other wants and be prepared to compromise, remember marriage is all about sharing.

Honeymoon Checklist

• Plan Ahead - Ensure you have the most choice when it comes to flights, accommodation, car rental and so on. Get in early to avoid disappointment.
• Budget - Again work this out fully before you make any bookings. Decide how much you want to spend and then set aside a certain amount for each area of expense. Package deals are often a good option as they cover most of the basic expenses leaving you free to have fun with your spending money.
  Insurance - It is really important to cover yourself in the event of an emergency. Your travel consultant should be able to work out a comprehensive, cost effective plan when you make your bookings.
• Passports - Check your passports are up-to-date. Allow a reasonable period of time for your passports to be updated if necessary. If your passport is in your maiden name do not buy your airline tickets with your married name as it may cause confusion when trying to board a plane.
  Visas - Check with your travel agent or the consulate to find out if you need an entry visa to enter a country. A good travel agent may be able to organise your visa arrangements for you but allow plenty of time, at least a month or sometimes even longer.
• Credit card - Take one that is widely accepted anywhere for unexpected expenses and/or emergencies. Using a credit card means you carry less cash with you and you can access funds from your account anywhere in the world.
• Travellers Cheques - This is another safe option as a thorough security check is made of anyone who tries to use them. Keep a note of the serial numbers in a separate place just in case.
• Local Currency - This is handy for those immediate expenses that crop up once you have landed in a foreign country. Keep it in small denominations to avoid awkward situations with taxi drivers and other vendors.
• Drivers Licence - Apply for an International Licence if you want to hire a car while you are away.
• Health Tips - Vaccinations or medication may be needed if travelling to Africa, Asia, the Middle East or South America. Allow at least two weeks for the vaccinations to be in your blood stream before the wedding in case of unpleasant complications. Also in some countries it is advisable to drink only bottled or filtered water, this includes when you brush your teeth.
• Clothing and Footwear - Ensure you pack comfortable clothing taking into account the climate you will be entering. Good shoes for walking are essential. Many lodgings have swimming, spa and gym facilities available so pack for these eventualities. Take at least one formal outfit for those romantic candlelit dinners.
• First Aid Kit - Be prepared! Welts of mosquito bites or sunburn are not going fan the fires of romance. Take along a few basic essentials; sunscreen, paracetamol, band -aids, antiseptic cream, antihistamine cream, mosquito repellent, vitamins, and of course contraception.
• Photographs - Take film from home to ensure fresh film stock. A good idea to bring used films home for developing as you know what sort of service to expect. Pack your films into your luggage, do not carry onto the plane as the metal detector can damage film stock. Make sure you store your films out of direct sunlight. Enlist the help of friendly passers by to get some romantic couple shots for your wedding album.