Finding out what your future spouse has for honeymoon expectations and matching them with yours is a good place to begin when planning a honeymoon. Do you want to go around the block, or around the world? Do you want the honeymoon to be exciting and adventurous or lazy and relaxing? Do you want to save money, or really splurge on a big ticket vacation? Do you want sunshine or snow? (Hawaii or the Canadian Rockies) Do you want to marry in the same place you plan to honeymoon? Answering these questions can help insure that your honeymoon will fulfill your wildest dreams.

Remember, the best reason for a honeymoon is to rest, relax and regroup after the stresses and rigors of planning and conducting your wedding. The peace of mind which it can bring is worth every penny. Even if you are already living together, you will need to get away and relax after all the work you have done to get to this point. Do not treat your honeymoon like another vacation; it is a very special time! A time to bond, to set new directions, lay out goals as a married couple, and to renew your romance.

According to ancient traditions, the word "honeymoon" is based upon the practice of newlyweds drinking mead, called bride ale, which was produced from fermented honey. This beverage was consumed during the first month (and therefore "moon") of marriage. The fermented drink supposedly increased virility and fertility and, consequently, the first month of marriage was referred to as the honeymoon. It is only within the last 50-60 years, however, that honeymoons have gained wide popularity. With so-called "honeymoon destinations" emerging--Cancun, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Tahiti, Italy, Las Vegas, New Orleans--these post-wedding trips offered ordinary citizens a taste of what it was like to be wealthy. Chances are good that honeymoons are here to stay.

Romance is not just roses and candles. If you are adventurous newlyweds there a many ways to enliven your honeymoon. Scuba diving, snowmobiling, parasailing, skydiving, or couples' bungee jumping are a few of the ways to spice up your honeymoon and return home with unforgettable memories of that golden getaway.

An important word of advice: don't be afraid to mention the fact that you will be honeymooning when you're making reservations for a restaurant, hotel, or cruise. Announce it when you arrive. Tell everyone! You're happy and you're in love. Special accommodations and gifts, ranging from upgraded rooms to flowers or free champagne are often given to honeymooners.