On your honeymoon, you probably are looking for a lot of privacy. You may not think about packages or tours with other people. There are advantages to a package that you may not be considering.

What Is A Package?

Packages, tours or charters can run the gamut: from airfare and accommodations at a relaxing resort to a whirlwind tour of Europe. Consider how much you will be moving around when you look at the different packages available.

Packages are usually a good deal because they include everything: transportation, accommodations, and can even include meals or a rental car. They can also involve participating in guided sight-seeing tours. Packages are usually less expensive because blocks of hotel rooms and airfares are bought at a lower price, with the savings passed on to you. However, you are also restricted in your choices.

What To Look For In A Package

Since you will have probably just spent the most hectic week of your life (the one before your wedding), you will probably want to relax on your honeymoon. When looking at packages, choose the ones which allow you free time.

Ask which activities are required, and which are optional. Even with a package, you still may be able to spend your days sleeping late, skipping tours, and just relaxing.

Pros and Cons

Airfares

Pro: Tours or charters are generally less expensive.

Con: However, the flights may leave at a less convenient time, or have other restrictions on them.

Hotels

Pro: If you are planning on a tour which will be moving around a lot, such as a sight-seeing tour of Europe, you might be well advised to rely on a reliable tour operator to supply the accommodations.

Con: However, if you will be staying at one location for the entire time, the quality of that hotel will become very important to you. Make sure you will be pleased with what you are getting. Generally, rates for packages assume a standard room. If you want an upgrade, you will probably have to pay more.

Meals

Pro: Meal plans can save you money, but you would also be restricted to eating at the same place. Some tours provide "meal tickets" or "dine-arounds," which allow you to eat at other selected restaurants.

Con: However, check if you are restricted in your meals. You may only be allowed to choose from the less-expensive meals on the menu, unless you wish to pay an additional surcharge.

Honeymoon Packages

Pro: Some places, especially resorts, offer honeymooners their own special packages. These may include upgraded rooms, plus other wedding treats.

Con: Compare the prices on the treats. The hotel is really not giving you a "freebie," the costs are passed on to you. If you will enjoy all the treats, great! But if you are paying for an "extra" such as a moonlight cruise which you may not take, you may be paying more than you have to.

Pre-payment

Most packages require pre-payment, in full. This may be either a relief or a headache. Make sure you know exactly what is included, and are satisfied with all arrangements. It is likely that if you have to cancel you will get a 50% refund at best; no refund, at worst.

Ask if tips and gratuities are included in the price. If not, ask how much you should anticipate.

Questions To Ask

• Exactly what is included in this package? Are taxes and tips?
• Is there a discount for advance pre-payment?
• Do we have a certain time we can cancel by, without penalty?
• What are the penalties for cancellation?
• How strict is the schedule?
• Is there a time when we can sleep in late, or do our own sight-seeing?
• Are there any side-trips or additions available?
• If so, is there an additional cost? How much?
• Is it possible to get an upgrade, such as a larger room, bigger bed, etc.?
• How many meals per day (if any) are included?
• Is room service included?
• Are we allowed to eat meals at different restaurants, or are we restricted to one?
• Do we eat our meals alone, or are we seated at a table with others?
• How many are seated at our table? Will they be the same throughout the tour?
• Are all people on the tour honeymooners?
• Are there any special treats available to honeymooners? What are they?
• Where is the hotel located?
• Is it convenient to shopping, beaches, restaurants?
• What facilities are available (golf, tennis, spas, exercise rooms)?
• Is there a fee for their use?
• Are there any special features available, such as ocean view, jacuzzi?
• Is there an additional cost for these? If so, what is it?
• What guarantees do I have?
• What if the flight is cancelled or delayed?
• Are there any hidden charges?
• Is a rental car part of the package?

© Wedding Planner 2002