Couples take a different tack these days when it comes to honeymoons.
Some stay with tradition and depart for their dream break immediately after the wedding celebrations, but others wait a while. This is often because many couples put a significant amount of their own money into their wedding, the delayed honeymoon allowing them to rebuild their finances.
There are also those who meld their honeymoon into an extended holiday overseas or into their ``OE''.
Honeymoons continue to take myriad forms. Some couples want to feel completely indulged at a luxury resort, hotel or lodge, while others would prefer to climb mountains or head to the modest family crib to chill out for a while.
Always on hand are travel brokers and travel agents who have the very best of accommodation to suit every budget.
And while some couples have a clear picture of where they want to go and what they want to do, many turn to their travel agent for suggestions on new destinations and what generally is happening on and off the beaten track. These are professionals who can not only suggest locations but create a smooth path to getting there by booking airlines, rental cars, beach houses and boat trips.
The Pacific Islands remain popular. Samoa (always a happy place) has a fabulous selection of places to stay, as has easy and carefree Rarotonga and the range of Fijian islands.
Seasoned travel industry personnel also have special treats up their sleeves. Dunedin broker Vincent George can, for instance direct couples to the ritz and glitz of Denarau Island for two or three days and then spirit them away to a little offshore island which provides a refreshing and back to basics ``real'' style.
Australia, too, remains a favourite, with as many choosing the warm laid-back atmosphere of Queensland as those who head to the full-on bright lights of downtown Melbourne.
OVERSEAS WEDDINGS
Travel professionals can also arrange weddings at exotic destinations including the Pacific Islands, Australia and Europe. They can attend to every detail as long as they have bookings three to six months in advance.
TIP: The honeymoon destination needs to work for both of you. With this in mind, make a list of ideal dream destinations and activities separately and then see which ideas match!
