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As if planning your dream wedding
wasn't daunting enough, there is yet the honeymoon to consider.
Whether you make your travel arrangements by yourself, or work
with a travel agent, the first BIG QUESTION most couples
ask themselves is: “Would I prefer an ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT
or a CRUISE?”
Both options offer a wonderful experience that will
make your trip special, however, there are some important factors
you will and to consider before deciding on an ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT
or a CRUISE.
ALL INCLUSIVES:
You'll find most true all-inclusives in the Caribbean and Mexico,
especially Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua, Aruba, the Dominican Republic
and Barbados, as well as the Bahamas.
All-Inclusives have become extremely popular honeymoon
destinations because everything is paid before departure. There
is plenty of opportunity to try new things because they are all
included in the package. Couples can be as active, or as
relaxed, as they want. There is no waiting in line, no time
schedule. Do what you want, when you want.
The most important point to remember when considering
an all inclusive resort is that you want to be sure you know what
is REALLY included. Ask if the package includes:
• Food - 24 hours a day?
• Drinks – not only bottled water, soda,
and beer, but frozen drinks, top shelf liquor or bottles of champagne.
• Water sports (snorkeling, wind surfing,
etc.)
• Land sports (golf, tennis, include
etc.)
• Spa services
• Taxes and Tips - these can be an
unexpected and costly expense.
• Transfers - Some (but not all) resorts
offer shuttles between the airport and the resort. Keep in mind
it may be a service that stops at several resorts along the way.
CRUISING:
Cruising offers a great opportunity to see a variety of destinations
in one trip, but they should not be confused with the ALL-INCLUSIVE.
FOOD: CRUISES emphasize an abundance
and quality dining experiences which are included in the cruise
package. You'll find lavish buffets as well as elaborate
5-course dinners in the main restaurant, a pool-side grill with
burgers and pizza throughout the day. Many of the new ships
offer specialty restaurants with a surcharge of about $25 per
person.
DRINKS: But remember that drinks,
including soda and bottled water, are additional and cost from
$3 to $9 per drink.
ENTERTAINMENT: By NIGHT, cruises
offer wonderful ENTERTAINMENT including great Broadway style shows/entertainers,
plenty of dancing and music, and often a movie theater - all at
no cost. When sailing in international water, they open
their full-service casinos, complete with gaming tables as well
as slots with plenty of opportunity to donate your money.
By DAY, the ship is docked at a destination or a
private island. You might want to take a day trip or tour,
which includes not only transportation, but a guide who will provide
information about the destination and ensure that you are back
at the ship on time! Tours may cost $30 - $100 per person.
TIPPING is not included.
Tips are automatically added to your shipboard account at the
rate of about $10 per day per person.
PORT CHARGES & TAXES are usually
priced in addition to the cost of the cruise. When you see
a cruise advertised for $599 per person, just be aware that you'll
be paying an additional $100-$200 for port charges & taxes.
While most cruises continue to depart from Florida
for Eastern & Western Caribbean sailings, or from San Juan
for Southern Caribbean sailings, there is an increased number
of ships departing from New York harbor year round – a great option
if you're reluctant to fly or want to save money..
Other popular destinations include Mexico , the
Mediterranean and Hawaii . And, then, of course there is the GREAT
LAND, ALASKA. This is a summer destination. Cruises
are available from May to September. Mid-June to mid-August offers
a peak experience. You should consider a cruisetour, if you want
to experience mainland Alaska including Denali Park .
HURRICANE SEASON: Whether
you choose all inclusive or cruising, and will be traveling July
through October, you may want to consider St. Lucia or Aruba,
the Pacific coast of Mexico , Hawaii or the South Pacific to avoid
hurricanes. The Caribbean and the Gulf Coast of Mexico will
offer substantially lower rates during the fall season, but be
sure to travel with a REPUTABLE TOUR OPERATOR and have an adequate
TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN.
Travel Central loves talking travel. Feel
free to fill out a Travel Plans form on www.TravelCentralStore.com.
And, when you have a few minutes, Cindy & Sue are open to
questions. So do give them a call toll-free: 1-877-389-9501.
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