Preparing for your Hawaiian Honeymoon

For many, the wedding becomes such a pricey production that the honeymoon is just an afterthought. If you are from Hawaii and can't afford a big honeymoon because your wedding has you strapped for cash, consider a neighbor island trip or think about heading out to Ihilani or Turtle Bay. The honeymoon is more about the quality time you spend as husband and wife than any destination you're going to.

If you're from the mainland or another country and have flown to Hawaii to get married, this likely is your honeymoon. Either way, here is some advice to consider when planning your honeymoon. This advice is also useful if you're assisting with out-of-town guest accommodations.

Set a money budget for the trip. Plan everything from airfare, ground transportation, meals, spending money, entertainment and shopping. List it down and stick to it!

Ask your travel agent about the recommended time of day and week to travel for the best value.

Whether you're flying to a neighbor island or Paris, talk with a good travel agent, ask a million questions. Get on the web or look through a few bookstores and research your destination, places of interests, language barriers, culture, money exchange rates, travel insurance, etc.

Schedule your flight at a reasonable time. If you can, don't travel the same day as your ceremony and don't depart too early the following morning, especially if you have an evening reception. You will need time to relax after the wedding and sleep in the next day.

Tell the resort, hotel or bed and breakfast that this is your honeymoon. They may surprise you with special accommodations - a room upgrade, wine on the house or something special to help you celebrate.

Be certain all your travel documents are current. Security is extra tight these days and you need to make sure you have a current driver's license or photo ID. If you're traveling overseas, make sure your passport is current.

You will want to purchase your airline ticket with your maiden name because your photo ID should match the name on the ticket.