TRAVEL CENTRAL Knows
HONEYMOON TRAVEL

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.