This is a guest post.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered wedding plans for many couples around the world. While some have indefinitely postponed their weddings, others opted to move forward with virtual events or an adjusted itinerary. For example, some couples decided to scrap their original honeymoon plans and proceed with a different vacation to celebrate their marriage. Even though you may not be able to have your dream trip for the time being, there are still safe ways to honeymoon. Read below to learn more!
Booking Your Trip
Outside help is always recommended when booking a honeymoon, and this rings especially true today. Online travel agencies are commonly used for honeymoon planning, as they simplify the vacation booking process by automating much of their processes. While this is convenient, it can complicate things when planning a honeymoon during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it can be difficult to speak with a real person due to overwhelming demand and long wait times.
However, professional guidance from reputable travel advisors and suppliers can make your planning process much easier. Not only will this reduce stress on your end, but their knowledge and expertise will lead to a better and more enjoyable experience. You will also want to purchase “cancel for any reason” travel insurance. This coverage provides financial restitution in the event that you have to cancel your vacation. While it may be more expensive than generic travel insurance policies, it is certainly worth it due to the uncertainty of your external environment.
What to Do
Unfortunately, certain activities will not be possible if you plan an upcoming honeymoon trip. Concerts, sporting events, the theater, and other events with large crowds are postponed indefinitely. Other fun indoor establishments such as art museums and shopping complexes may also be closed entirely or at a reduced capacity for the time being. However, there are other options. For example, you may be able to enjoy socially distant or outdoors dinner and drinks or an intimate outdoor live music performance.
Your itinerary is going to be largely dependent on your destination, as restrictions differ from region to region and state to state. Travel suppliers and advisors can help you plan activities based on what is available. You and your partner’s comfort levels are also very important. Be sure to openly communicate any guidelines and ground rules based on health and safety concerns.
Immersing in nature is one popular option for those looking to honeymoon during the pandemic. The fresh air and space can create a safe environment, as it is easy to distance from others in the great outdoors. Additionally, you may not have to drive very far for an outdoor honeymoon experience. This is an excellent option if you and your partner are “outdoorsy,” as you can spend time doing something you both love.
Conversely, it can also be a great opportunity for you and your partner to step out of your comfort zones and try something new. National parks camping, glamping, skiing, and canoeing or rafting are just a few of many excellent outdoor honeymoon activity ideas. For example, you and your partner could head to Rapid City, South Dakota to see Mount Rushmore in person!
If you are uncomfortable with the idea of traveling, there are plenty of ways to plan a romantic staycation. You and your partner can spend your honeymoon at home cooking and enjoying a romantic dinner with candles and a nice bottle of wine, or you could tackle a home improvement project together. This is another safe option, as it significantly reduces or eliminates entirely any exposure and contact with others.
Driving vs. Flying
If you travel for your honeymoon, you must decide if you are going to drive or fly to your destination. Air travel has been significantly impacted by the pandemic, so many are driving and road-tripping to their destinations, regardless of distance.
For example, a cross country road trip is an excellent idea for those looking to honeymoon during the pandemic. Driving allows you to control your environment more so than flying, as you do not have to travel through an airport or come in contact with as many people. However, many airlines are enforcing masks and spacing out passengers to heighten safety. The lack of demand for air travel has also led to significantly reduced airfare pricing.
Ultimately, you and your partner will have to use your discretion and judgment to reach a decision concerning travel. Regardless of which transportation method you choose, be sure to wear masks and regularly wash or sanitize your hands while traveling, especially when around others, whether in an airport or gas station.
Stay Informed and Be Smart
In the time leading up to your trip, be sure to stay informed and aware of your destination’s health and safety guidelines. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, these are subject to change at a moment’s notice and could impact your trip’s itinerary. Prepare accordingly and pack masks, hand sanitizer, gloves, and any other supplies needed to keep you, your partner, and those around you safe.
In the event you or your partner develops symptoms on the trip, be sure to take necessary safety precautions, such as self-isolation, and follow local guidelines regarding the process. Do not travel if you are feeling ill. Know where to go in the event of a medical emergency, whether to a hospital or an urgent care center.
It will require some extensive planning and adjustments, but it is still possible to have a safe and romantic honeymoon during these difficult times. While you can proceed with an adjusted honeymoon by following the tips in this helpful guide, many are postponing their original trips to an indefinite later date. This allows them to honeymoon as they originally planned, but the uncertainty surrounding a return to normal travel and vacation creates a difficult and unclear timeline. Regardless, you and your partner will get to celebrate the beginning of your new journey as a couple together!
This is a sponsored post with ManlyBands.
