The best and worst of honeymoon vacation packages

Honeymoon vacation packages are offered online and also in some physical travel agencies. What are the best and worst features?

As with any travel package, you can get a cheap price if you buy an all-inclusive travel and accommodation package. But the resort can reserve its best rooms for guests who book direct.

A package described as “honeymoon” may include romantic extras: a jacuzzi; rose petals; remember; or some other fancy features to make you feel special. But if you ask about a value package, without that magic word, “honeymoon,” you might find you’re paying more for the upgrade than it’s worth. Consider purchasing your champagne separately.

The agency that put together the deal has investigated, either an online agency or a person you visit. All features have been reviewed: the airline; the resort and the rooms; night clubs; cruise ships; and meals in all-inclusive plans. This saves you a lot of time and effort. However, you should consider whether you are getting inferior products or services simply because the supplier pays a higher commission to the travel agency. It may still be wise to spend some time learning what hotels or airlines offer directly, so you have an idea of ​​the quality and price you can get for yourselves (you, since you’re both on your honeymoon).

Here are some ideas of places that are well known for their romantic honeymoon vacation packages.

Cruise ships have long been the well-kept anniversary celebration reserve. However, an increasing number of honeymoons are sailing towards marriage. The Caribbean is popular as it is so close, but somewhat exotic. You should be able to find cruises that last from four to fourteen days. The Caribbean has good weather all year round; cruise ships will set their course to avoid hurricanes from the moment they begin to develop.

Cruise the western Caribbean to see Mexico’s Yucatan coast or Jamaica’s Dunn’s River Falls.

Short Eastern Caribbean cruises depart from Florida port cities. (Starting in New York or other cities on the East Coast will add time and expense, but if that’s where you’re starting and you have the budget, go for it.) You will likely visit locations in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Puerto Rico, and other northeastern islands.

Puerto Rico is a common departure point for Southern Caribbean cruises. Smaller cruise ships tend to stay in this area. Ports of call include Aruba, Antigua, and Barbados. Unless your ship leaves from a Florida port, you should expect to fly to Puerto Rico and “lose” a day there, to ensure a smooth and stress-free embarkation. Some all-inclusive honeymoon vacation packages include this time; others may trust their airlines to get you to port on time.

Staying at an all-inclusive resort is an alternative to cruises. For example, the Sandals Inn, in Montego Bay, Jamaica, offers its “Ultra All-Inclusive Experience” for couples only. This particular resort is relatively cheap because you don’t have exclusive use of a large beach. They include meals, drinks and access to other nearby Sandals resorts.

If you’re looking for luxury places in Jamaica, Round Hill Hotel touts “classic luxury.” They offer quiet beaches, gardens and a spa; you can upgrade to a “Platinum All-Inclusive” plan to make this a perfect example of the many romantic honeymoon vacation packages available.