You'll need a honeymoon! One thing no one tells you is how tired you can get with all the planning, organizing and emotional tension that builds up to the day of the wedding. With all the friends and relatives around, the two of you probably will have little time to be alone. Whether it be for only a few days or a few weeks, take some time to unwind and enjoy each other. Go somewhere new and exciting! The groom may want to surprise the bride, but more often couples plan together.

If you don't have a good travel agent, find one. A good travel agent can provide first-hand knowledge that can make final decision-making a lot easier. He/she can recommend the best places to stay. Travel agents are up on the latest and cheapest air fares, and give you tips on things to do, and what to take with you. All you have to decide is where you want to go -- they will do the rest.

They can even be helpful with money matters. Discuss with them the amount of money you would like to spend, the length of time you have, and what both of you like and want to do. Perhaps a relaxing week on a secluded beach in Hawaii, or an active week of skiing in the Swiss Alps. You may start by looking through the beautiful color brochures that every travel agency has. Wherever you go, you'll have a great time just being together.

If you're both involved in the honeymoon planning, start talking as soon as possible. Like everything else, some places are reserved months in advance. By planning and reserving early, you will have a better chance of getting just the accommodations or airline flight you want -- and probably at a better price.

Many couples decide to spend their first night together in a hideaway honeymoon suite near their reception location, especially when it's an evening wedding. Reserve something special, the bridal suite or a romantic cottage with a fireplace. Tell the manager the occasion, and you may find a bottle of champagne, or breakfast in bed. This gives you time to catch your breath or get together with friends who have come from out of town.

Honeymoon Checklist

Traditionally, after a decision has been made regarding your honeymoon, the groom coordinates and completes the arrangements. Be sure to budget out the cost of your honeymoon. Some of the following items may be included in a honeymoon package price.
· Airfare
· Ground Transportation
· Hotel or Lodge
· Food & Beverage
· Tips & Gratuities
· Sight-seeing
· Shopping
Travel Agent/Agency:______________________________________________
Phone:__________________________
· Destination_______________________________________
· Departure________________________________________
· Airline___________________________________________
· Flight No_________________________________________
· Cruise Line, Ship___________________________________
· Cabin No.________________________________________
· Resort/Hotel_______________________________________
· Phone____________________________________________
Pack these essentials:
· Airline Tickets
· Passports/Visas
· Camera, Film
· Medicines, Prescriptions
· Extra Contact Lenses or Glasses
· Sewing Kit
· Blow Dryer
· Traveler's Checks
· Credit Cards
· Clock Radio, travel size
· Personal Toilet Items
· Electrical Plug Adapters