Globetrotter

Planning the honeymoon will be as exciting as planning the wedding, but at the same time demanding, even if you have the support of a travel agency, because there are many aspects to take into account, from budget and logistics, to the protocols in times of Covid.

The honeymoon will be the most important trip of your lives, so it must be perfect. Do you have doubts, don't know where to start? Here you will find answers to all your questions, as well as suggestions on honeymoon destinations.

1. The origin of the honeymoon

Globetrotter

Although there are different theories about the origin of the honeymoon, all agree that it is a period after marriage. The most accepted of these theories dates back to the sixteenth century, when it was believed, among the Viking peoples, that newly married couples, to procreate a son, should drink mead throughout the lunar month or first lunation following their wedding.

According to them, mead would favorably alter the PH, due to the level of sugar in the blood, increasing fertility and, therefore, the chances of fathering a child. Men were responsible for the defense of the territories in times of war, so they all longed to be blessed with a male baby. At the period when they drank mead, which was aalcoholic beverage with honey, it was known as "first moon".

But there is another explanation that has to do with the Babylonian culture of over 4,000 years ago. According to that theory, it was customary in that empire for the bride's father to provide his son-in-law with honey beer, enough to drink for a full month. And, therefore, since the Babylonian calendar was based on the lunar phases, this period was called the "honeymoon". For theBabylonians, honey also represented an offering to the gods, so it had a very transcendental value.

In Ancient Rome, meanwhile, honey was considered a fertility stimulant. Therefore, in the room where the newlyweds slept, the bride's mother would leave a pot of pure honey for them to consume for a whole month. In addition to contributing to fertility, it was believed that honey recharged their energy after the sexual encounter.

But it was not until the 19th century that the term "honeymoon" began to refer to a trip, as the English bourgeoisie established the custom that the newlyweds, after the wedding, would travel to visit relatives who had not been able to attend the wedding.

2. How to plan your honeymoon?

BluePlanet Travel

The first thing is set a budget to spend on the honeymoon Whether they already have the money, will save it or get it through a bank loan, having a specific amount will allow them to make the next decisions.

The most important one is the destination. Here you will have to decide whether you want to travel around Chile or go abroad; to a single city or perhaps to visit several. Some couples are inclined to return to places where they have already vacationed, while others prefer to visit new destinations. And among the decisions you will have to make, another relevant one is whether you plan to go on honeymoon.Although the tendency is to travel a few days after getting married, some couples decide to wait, either for economic or work reasons or because of the season in which the chosen destination is located.

How many days will you travel? This will mainly depend on your budget or your days off work. In general, honeymoons last between one and two weeks. But you will also have to decide whether you will book the trip through a travel agency or if you will organize it on your own. In the first case, you will be offered packages with transfers and hotels included in differentIn the second one, you will have the freedom to choose all the details of the trip, booking and contracting the services separately.

Points to consider

If you want to save money on your honeymoon, there are several tips that you can put into practice, such as traveling in low season, booking tour packages well in advance, choosing destinations with special offers or, simply, organizing a honeymoon tailored to your budget in a nearby place within the country.

But another very popular method is to register your wedding list in a multistore and exchange the gifts of your guests for the honeymoon, according to the stipulated conditions.

Now, whatever decision you make, there are important aspects to consider, such as making sure you have your personal documents up to date, always carry a mini first aid kit and have a map of the place at hand. And if you are traveling abroad, find out in advance about the currency, the climate, insurance and the most interesting tourist attractions. In addition, if you are going to travel to a foreign country, you should alsowant to avoid constantly pulling out your cell phone, be sure to carry a pocket calculator.

Honeymoon destinations

BluePlanet Travel

Chile

• San Pedro de Atacama: Ideal for adventurous couples! The city is located on a high arid plateau in the Andes Mountains, Antofagasta region and is one of the favorite destinations for honeymooners in Chile. Some of its unmissable panoramas include exploring the Moon Valley, relaxing in the Puritama Hot Springs, visiting the Tatio Geysers, photographing the Tara Salt Flat, swimming in theIn fact, if you are looking for a romantic plan, don't miss the opportunity to camp in the desert and admire the stars. But the town of San Pedro de Atacama enchants by itself with its adobe buildings and dirt streets, where you can also enjoy a rich gastronomy based on local ingredients.

• Rapa Nui Discover the fascinating history of the moais, visit the main archaeological sites, hike the volcanoes, relax on the beautiful beach of Anakena, practice scuba diving and visit the handicraft market of Hanga Roa, are just some of the attractions that Rapa Nui offers. With a captivating culture, deep-rooted traditions and incredible natural landscapes, the island will welcome you.And when it comes to culinary delights, you won't be able to resist the tuna, mahi mahi or sierra, among other local fish.

• Isla Grande de Chiloé In the region of Los Lagos is located this island marked by beautiful landscapes and a magical mythology. It is also famous for its 16 churches, built mainly of wood and in different colors. And as for panoramas, in Castro you can visit its picturesque palafitos; in Dalcahue, delight your palate with typical dishes such as curanto and milcao; and in Quellón, enjoy a visit toMeanwhile, in the Chiloé National Park you can explore its wonderful flora and fauna, as well as enjoy horseback riding and kayaking, among other activities.

America

• Orlando, United States If you already have children, Orlando will be the best destination for a family honeymoon. The city is known worldwide for its theme parks and water parks, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom and Volcano Bay. If you travel with children, they will undoubtedly be fascinated by the attractions, scenery and variety shows. If you want to combine the attractions, the scenery and the variety shows, Orlando will be the best destination.If you want to combine adrenaline with more relaxed plans, in Orlando you will find interesting museums and original restaurants, for example, you can dine in a replica of an 18th century ship that offers a pirate show on the high seas.

• Panama Panama is one of the favorite countries in Central America for honeymooners due to its versatility and multiculturalism. Among other attractions, the paradisiacal beaches of Bocas del Toro and San Blas Islands, the architecture and bohemian life of the old town of Panama City, which contrasts at the same time with modern skyscrapers, the reserves and natural parks of the province of Chiriqui and theForts, convents and other monuments of the city-port Portobelo, and the 77 kilometers long impressive Panama Canal, which is located between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

• Brazil If you want to enjoy a honeymoon on the beach, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia, Porto de Galinhas, Maceio, Búzios and Parati are some of the most popular destinations. This is undoubtedly the favorite country in South America for lovers of sand and sea, as there you will find beaches of all kinds: paradisiacal, tourist, lonely, semi-wild,With natural pools, ideal for swimming and perfect for water sports, among other options, and if you add to that a rich culture, typical gastronomy, samba and caipirinha 24/7, you will surely enjoy an unforgettable honeymoon in Brazil.

Europe

• Santorini, Greece Santorini: Picturesque and majestic, in the middle of the Aegean Sea, this is the island of Santorini, which attracts more and more "lunamieleros" for its innumerable goodness. Of volcanic origin, it is an island surrounded by wild nature and cliffs up to 300 meters high. With white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, this Greek town is characteristic for its white buildings and roofs.Other must-sees are the wine cellars, the Santorini cable car and the open-air cinema, as well as immersing yourself in the lively nightlife.

• Rome, Italy Also called the "eternal city", the Italian capital will delight those who love historical tours, who will be able to visit the Roman Colosseum, Piazza Navona, St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's Square, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon of Agrupa, the Baths of Caracalla, Castel Sant'Angelo and the Catacombs, among other places. But they can also enjoy panoramic tours.Romantic activities include watching the sunset from a belvedere, tossing coins into the famous Trevi Fountain, taking a cruise on the Tibet River or enjoying authentic cuisine and cocktails in the bohemian Trastevere bar.

• Lisbon, Portugal The capital of Portugal is known as the "city of light", which rests on seven hills at the mouth of the Tagus River. It is known for its narrow streets with its colourful buildings, its mosaics and its famous yellow tramway. Among its must-see sights are the legendary Castle of St. George, the Tower of Belém, which is located in the estuary of the Tagus River;the 110 meters high Cristo-Rei de Almada; the Tile Museum, which is a beautiful historical convent; and the Mirador de Sao Pedro Alcântara, which is one of the many viewpoints that offers a privileged view of the whole city. Ideal for a romantic honeymoon!

Asia

• Tokyo, Japan Tokyo: The most populous city in the world offers a host of attractions for a dream honeymoon. It is a bustling metropolis with striking skyscrapers, contrasted with ancient gardens, palaces, shrines and historic temples, such as Senso-ji temple, which is the oldest temple in Tokyo. And among other sights, you can relax on a cruise on the Sumida river, beparticipate in the Chanoyu (tea ceremony), take a bath in the hot springs offered by the Onsen, cross the Rainbow Bridge or enjoy a dinner in a themed restaurant or at a height of many meters.

• Beijing, China Also known as Beijing, in the Chinese capital you won't be bored for a second and you'll have an instagrammable honeymoon. Discovering the Great Wall of China, the Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace, among other emblematic places, should be on your list of activities. But in Beijing you can also explore the hutongs (narrow alleys).You can explore the old town by bicycle, take a romantic boat ride on Houhai Lake, be amazed by a kung-fu show, fill up on souvenirs at the silk market and, of course, try the delicious Peking duck.

Southeast Asia

• Bali, Indonesia Nusa Dua: The so-called "island of the gods" is one of the most sought-after destinations in Indonesia. This small hidden island combines mysterious temples and traditional villages with volcanic mountains, rice fields, lakes, waterfalls and idyllic beaches, such as those found in Nusa Dua. In this area, ideal for honeymooners, you will find the most luxurious resorts and hotel complexes.But Bali also offers a vibrant nightlife, which is contrasted with places of retreat for yoga and meditation. You will have both sides of the coin in one place.

• Bangkok, Thailand Gastronomy is one of the great attractions in this city, where you can try an exquisite pad thai or thai curry, both in street stalls and in luxurious restaurants. In addition, you will love to sail along the canals of Bangkok, make the route of the Buddhist temples, tour the city in a tuk tuk (typical transport), wait for the sunset in the Lumphini Park, immerse yourself between thefloating markets, enjoy a traditional Thai massage or climb some of its skyscrapers, among other panoramas. Without a doubt, a huge city that will delight those adventurous couples and / or sybarites.

Oceania

• Sydney, Australia Sydney is a combination of varied beaches and a magnificent natural harbour full of charms, including the iconic Opera House, the Bay Bridge, Syndey Tower, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Taronga Zoo. You can also soak up Sydney's history in the Rocks Quarter, where you'll find heritage buildings, museums, art galleries, cafes andsouvenir shops along its narrow cobblestone streets. And as for the beaches, there are more than 70 along the coastline with white sands, clear waters and waves for all tastes, especially for surf lovers.

• Auckland, New Zealand Auckaland: It is the largest city in New Zealand and has the most attractions for honeymooners. It is a port city where the imposing Sky Tower is located, with 328 meters high, where hotels, casinos, bars and restaurants are located. You can even jump into the void in skyjump mode. But Auckaland offers a variety of panoramas, such as resting on its black volcanic sand beaches,sailing, visiting the historic Ponsonby district, tasting its exquisite wines and seafood, and exploring one of the national parks or nature reserves in the city.

Africa

• Arusha, Tanzania Arusha: It stands out as the most striking and touristic city in Tanzania, with a charming old town and numerous modern hotel complexes. Arusha is also the starting point for accessing the great national parks of the north, such as Tarangire National Park and Serengeti National Park. But other places not to be missed in Arusha are TheClock Tower, the Museum of the Tanzanian Experience, its craft markets and Arusha National Park itself, where you can see wild buffalo, giraffes, zebras and monkeys, as well as an impressive number of native birds. Ideal for brides and grooms who wish to celebrate their honeymoon in an exotic destination.

• Cape Town, South Africa One of the most vibrant and romantic cities on the African continent, it dazzles with its colourful houses and mosques, as well as its many attractions, including the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the picturesque Malay Bo-Kaap district, the historic Victoria & Alfred Harbour, and a stroll along Long Street, lined with shops, galleries and restaurants.Meanwhile, the famous Table Mountain acts as the backdrop to Cape Town, which you can tour by cable car or hiking trails. Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain, part of the Table Mountain National Park, which offers stunning views of the city. And flying over Cape Town by helicopter is another great way to see the city.of the unmissable panoramas.

4. Different options for honeymooners

Your Matri in the Caribbean

Buddymoon

If you are close friends with your friends, then you won't want to be separated from them even on your honeymoon, and that's exactly what the budyymoon concept proposes: a honeymoon with your best friends.

However, in order for everything to go perfectly, it is advisable to plan ahead and clarify certain points, among them, how the expenses of the trip will be divided. But don't worry, the destination of choice will remain the authority of the bride and groom, although they will always be able to receive opinions.

Earlymoon

For those couples who are more anxious or just need a break from wedding planning, an earlymoon is the perfect fit.

Regardless of the destination or duration, it is a trip to take before the wedding, usually a couple of weeks before; ideal to share some time alone and recharge your batteries for what is to come. Although it will depend on each couple, earlymoons are usually trips that do not require a lot of planning, especially if you are going on a traditional honeymoon after the wedding.

Manynoons

Why one honeymoon when you can have multiple honeymoons? Traveling brides and grooms especially will love this trend, which involves taking several trips during the course of the first year of marriage.

Although they are shorter trips, usually three to five days, this idea will appeal to couples who don't want to spend their entire budget in one place, so they can organize a beach getaway and then move to a neighboring country the next day. One suggestion is to plan your trips with a calendar in hand, so you can take advantage of all the holidays along the way.

Camping

Whether it's in the woods, in the mountains, in a valley or on the beach, if you love camping, then don't rule out a camping honeymoon. In addition to connecting with nature and enjoying some alone time, you'll be able to put together a 100 percent tailor-made trip.

And by the way, if you are looking for cheap honeymoon spots, staying in a camping area, regardless of its location, will cost you less than staying in a hotel. Just make sure you bring everything you need and find out about the location if you are camping in a place you haven't visited. But if you want an eco-friendly honeymoon, you will also find the so-called eco-camping, 100 per cent eco-friendly.hundred percent environmentally friendly.

Glamping

From the fusion between glamour and camping is born this concept, which alludes to the experience of staying outdoors, but with the luxury and comforts of the best hotel, for example, in tents with private bathroom, double beds, kitchen, terrace, hot water jars, and heating or air conditioning, depending on the season.

This proposal is perfect for couples who want to be in contact with nature, but without worrying about anything. And to fulfill these "lunamieleros" desires, in Chile and abroad you will find areas with fully equipped tents and modern domes to enjoy the starry skies.

Family honeymoon

Since many couples arrive at the altar already having children, a latest trend is to incorporate them into the honeymoon trip. And among other honeymoon spots, all-inclusive hotels or resorts are a good idea, in this case, since they will only have to worry about enjoying the swimming pools, food buffets, variety shows and other attractions. Even if it's with the family,the trip will continue to be your post-marriage celebration.

5. Honeymoon in times of pandemics

On Boarding

During 2020 and 2021, the Covid 19 pandemic forced many couples to postpone their honeymoons. Therefore, faced with a scenario of uncertainty in the coming months, as the pandemic is still ongoing, brides and grooms are favoring nearby destinations.

For example, national trips, which not only guarantee short flights or even the possibility of making the trip in your own vehicle, but also the peace of mind of knowing the protocols and health regulations in force. And in case of getting sick, since even with vaccinations there is a probability, it will always be better to be in known territory.

Meanwhile, if it comes to foreign travel, countries within the Americas will be more popular than those of distant continents, while destinations that are too crowded will be relegated by those less touristy places, in order to respect the social distance. Choose, for example, a secluded beach over a massive one, among other places to go on honeymoon. And make aone stop, instead of combining two or three destinations on your honeymoon.

But, whatever your choice, book your flights, accommodation or package tours in advance and check the refund option in case of last minute changes, as many couples have resumed or are planning their honeymoon trips. Also, if you are leaving the country, keep up to date on updates to Chile's Protected Borders plan, making sure to makeThe same applies to the country of destination, i.e. to find out whether or not vaccinations, PCR tests and travel insurance are required for entry.

Finally, while on your honeymoon, consider that many times you will have to wait to enter a restaurant or access a swimming pool, due to the new capacity. And don't forget to bring your disposable masks and a good dose of alcohol gel to protect yourself from the virus on your honeymoon.

What an exciting process! If you've already started planning your honeymoon, you'll enjoy checking out destinations and imagining what your dream trip will be like. The good thing is that nowadays there are more and more possibilities and different styles of trips to choose from.