First, plan ahead.   It’s great to decide ahead of time how much money to spend and the general itinerary.   Certainly, both folks will want to see certain sights, and have different interests to pursue.  Avoid fights and stress by ensuring everyone is on the same page before leaving.

If it is possible, leave a few days between the wedding and leaving for the honeymoon.   Now, this isn’t always possible due to work or family constraints.   However, if you can, it is great to take a breather.   The stress of the wedding day can be very tiring, and traveling immediately after can take its toll.   Stress has a significant affect on health and mood, so beginning your honeymoon rested and ready is advisable.  For those leaving right off, perhaps weighting the trip to the relaxation side right off is ideal.  Lounge on the beach, in the room – maybe save the spelunking and hiking for the end of the trip.

Stay healthy!  Drink plenty of water and eat wholesome foods.   Wedding stress takes its toll on the body, so refreshing with healthy options will reduce stress.   Refueling with vitamin-rich foods is important. If you’re drinking lots of alcohol on your honeymoon, accompany your fun drinks with plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Don’t over-plan your honeymoon.   It’s awfully tempting to try and fit absolutely everything in, but this isn’t a great idea unless you’re on an extended honeymoon.  Before you leave, decide on a few “can’t-miss” attractions, and then choose judiciously among the rest.  Whatever you do, don’t underestimate how tired you’ll be post-wedding.  The goal of a honey is always, first and foremost, relaxation together.

Stay flexible.  If you happen to find something fun to do while out and about, be spontaneous and give it a try.   In an unfamiliar locale, you’re bound to find lots of fun surprises; don’t be slavishly devoted to your planned itinerary.

Last of all, remain patient with each other.  Once your wedding is over, a couple can suddenly feel overwhelmed with too much free time.  Patience is a skill you’ll need for the years ahead as a married couple; start by exercising it on your honeymoon.   Resist the temptation to let small annoyances turn into major disagreements.  Remember, you’re on vacation!