The best and worst of honeymoon vacation packages

Honeymoon vacation packages are offered online and also at 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 directly.

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

Whether it’s an online agency or a person you visit, the agency that set up the deal has done some research. All features have been revised: the airline; the resort and the rooms; night spots; 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 agent. 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 preserve of the well-preserved anniversary celebration. However, an increasing number of honeymooners are sailing to marriage. The Caribbean is popular as it is very 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.

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

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 start and you have the budget, go for it.) You are likely to visit places in the Turks and Caicos Islands, Puerto Rico, and other northeastern islands.

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

Staying at an all-inclusive resort is an alternative to cruising. 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 an “All Inclusive Platinum” plan to make this a perfect example of the many romantic honeymoon vacation packages available.