I understand just how you are feeling at this moment. The wedding planning is ultimately getting down in pace and the excitement is on; it is time to ask the only big question left on your list: Where shall we go on an amazing honeymoon without spending a fortune?
As a travel writer, I have gone through more than 10 years of experience and I have assisted hundreds of couples to organize their dream holidays. I have discovered a secret that travel agents may not want to share with you: you do not need to be a millionaire to have a world-class honeymoon.
This guide will show you my favorite places in my personal choice. These are the locations where every dollar will stretch, the food will be tastier and the pictures will be invaluable. We will plunge into the Best honeymoon destinations on a budget.
Affordable Romance Ideas That Truly Impress
Many people believe that a budget honeymoon is being in a low-end hotel and having fast food. That is simply not true! Low cost honeymoons can even be more romantic, since you are not worrying about being in debt.
I have discovered that low cost honeymoon destinations always take you to places that are unknown. You find yourself in beautiful, genuine locations instead of tourist traps that are too crowded and too expensive.
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My Top Picks: Best Honeymoon Destinations on a Budget in Asia
Asia is my overwhelming choice of low cost honeymoon destinations. It may cost a little more to fly, but as soon as you arrive, all is extremely cheap.
1. Bali, Indonesia: Island of gods
When it comes to the final decision of where to unwind with both luxury and low cost, I will always give you the answer Bali. It is magical. There are also private villas including pools under 100 dollars a night.
- The reason why I love it: The culture is very welcoming.
- Should-have experience: I suggest that one should be at Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud in the early morning. It is free and breathtaking.
- Budget Tip: Eat at "Warungs." These are local family owned cafes where I have feasted on the best Nasi Goreng (fried rice) in my life at less than 3 dollars.
2. Thailand: Beaches and Bustle
It is not that Thailand is a classic in vain. It provides low-cost romantic retreats which are five-star as well. It is up to you whether you want the energy of Bangkok or the cool atmosphere at the islands.
- My favorite spot: Krabi. It is not as crowded as Phuket and is equally beautiful.
- Love scene: Hire a long-tail boat to do a private tour around the islands. It is half the price of a large yacht but much more genuine.
3. Vietnam: Culture and Cuisine
I have just been to Vietnam and was astonished. Your money goes so far here. A nice bowl of Pho costs two dollars and a beer can be sometimes cheaper than water!
- Best to: Food and history-loving couples.
- Hidden gem: Hoi An. Thousands of lanterns are used to light this ancient town during the night. It is also among the most romantic walks I have ever done.
Romantic Getaways in America.
There is no need to sail the sea to locate the most suitable honeymoon destinations at a sustainable cost. Discoveries in toto throughout our hemisphere are amazing.
4. Mexico: Riviera Maya and Beyond
Mexico is the monarch of low price honeymoon packages. I adore the Riviera Maya since you have beautiful beaches, cenotes (natural swimming holes) and ancient ruins at the same location.
- My accommodation: Tulum or Playa del Carmen usually offer better rates than the megalopolis of hotel zone in Cancun.
- My recommendation: Search the term boutique hotel rather than giant resorts. You receive more intimate service and can have a better price.
5. Costa Rica: Adventure on Less
In case you find the idea of spending a week in a beach being dull, visit Costa Rica. It is among the most economical honeymoon resorts in the country among the nature lovers.
- What not to do: It is a must to have a go at Zip-lining in the cloud forest.
- Budget save: Dine out at the local diners known as Sodas. You receive a massive bowl of rice, beans, plantains and meat at an immensely low cost.
6. Puerto Rico: You Have no Passport?
Puerto Rico is a savior to my US readers. You do not require any passport and also you use US money.
- Why it is so good: Old San Juan is colorful and romantic. There are forts, cobblestone streets, you can take hours and walk around them without spending any money.
- Pick of the beaches: Go to the Flamenco Beach by ferry to the Culebra Island. It has been rated among the best beaches in the world and the best thing is it is virtually free to reach.
Top low-end honeymoon destinations in the USA
A road trip makes the best trip sometimes. The US boasts of some unbelievable secret honeymoon destinations.
9. Asheville, North Carolina
This is in the favor of mountain lovers. The Blue Ridge Mountains are unbelievable.
- Vibe: Artsy, cool, and relaxed.
- Activity: Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway is free and gives million-dollar sceneries.
10. The Florida Keys
Do you feel like having a Caribbean feel without going out of the country? Drive down the Keys.
- Tip: Key West is also expensive, and I suggest that you stay in Marathon or Islamorada. You retain the chill atmosphere and turquoise water.
How to Plan the Best Honeymoon Destinations on a Budget?
Finding the place is step one. Planning it smart is step two. This is the way I end up saving money on any trip that I make.
Use the Shoulder Season
This is my number one rule. Shoulder season refers to a period immediately before the peak season and immediately after the tranquil season.
- Examples: Do not go to Europe in July. Go in May or September. Weather is not bad and all the crowds have disappeared and the prices are reduced.
- The reason behind its success: Hotels and airlines are scrambling to sell tickets, and as such, sell low cost honeymoon ideas and promotions.
Be Flexible with Flights
I rely on the price tracking tools such as Google Flights. You can save hundreds of dollars by flying on a Tuesday rather than a Saturday, sometimes.
Expert Quote: Flexibility is the currency of low fares travel. To save money you had no idea to save, you can simply change your disks by two days. This rhetoric is commonly employed by airline analysts to suggest that American Airlines' 2012 financial performance is expected to decline.<|human|>It is a well used rhetoric used by airline analysts to indicate that the financial performance of American Airlines will not improve in 2012.
Book "All-Inclusive" Carefully
At times, all-inclusive honeymoon packages which are affordable are huge. But sometimes, they are not.
- Do the math: Not a drinker, an all-inclusive may be a waste of money.
- Read the fine print: It is always important to be certain that everything that is stated as all-inclusive is really what you desire, such as water sports or romantic dinners.
My Secret Tips for Saving Money While You Are There
When you get to one of the best cheap honeymoon spots, you would want to keep your daily expenses of spending low as well.
Eat Like a Local
I do not eat in places where there are on the main tourist attractions. I walk three blocks away. The food is improved and half the cost. Foods in streets such as Thailand or Mexico are not only cheap, they are also good and safe provided you take them where the queues are.
Use Public Transport
Taxis add up fast. Personally, I use trains and buses in Europe. In Asia, I hire a scooter (when I am not too nervous) or I use such apps as Grab (their uber). It is part of the adventure!
Free Activities are the Best Activities
Walking on the beach? Free. Watching a sunset? Free. Hiking a mountain? Free. I seek free walking tours in cities always. You simply lean the guide at the end and get to know so much about the city.
Making Your Budget Honeymoon Feel Luxurious
Simply because it is saving money does not imply that it cannot be fancy. This is how I can make a high-end touch to low and middle-class honeymoon destinations.
The "Honeymoon" Magic Word
Say to all there that it is your honeymoon! Seriously. It is the hotel, the restaurant, the flight attendant.
What occurs: Free Room upgrade, free champagne or even an upgrade to a better table during dinner have been seen. It does not always help but nothing helps to ask!
Splurge on One Thing
Take one thing that is of true interest. Perhaps it is couples massage, or one particular fancy dinner. It is better to spend less on breakfast and lunch to be able to enjoy that one big thing.
Buy a Local Souvenir
Do not purchase the low-cost magnets in the airport. Purchase a work of art or a piece of an art by a street artist or a hand made craft. It is a romantic destination to be in on a pocket memory that you will cherish forever.
Why Experiences Matter More Than Stars
I would like to tell the truth to you a moment. I have been staying in 5 star hotels which were cold and dismal. And I have remained in bungalows on the beach of 30 dollars that were full of life and happiness.
Best honeymoon destinations on a budget. It is the laugh that you have when you get lost in an unfamiliar city. It is of embracing hands during bus ride across mountains.
In 20 years, you will not recall the number of threads on the sheets in which you slept on during your honeymoon. You will recall that sense of adventure.
FAQs : Best Honeymoon Destinations on a Budget
Q: What is the best time to book my low-end honeymoon?
A: I would suggest 6 to 8 months prior to the trip to get the best prices. But when you are extremely adaptable, then the deals last minute can be fantastic.
Q: Can travel agents be affordable on low end trips?
A: Yes! The travel agents have access to cheap honeymoon packages that are not available online. They are also capable of assisting you in case of a hitch.
Q: How is the cheapest safe honeymoon destination?
A: Portugal and Bali are my best choice of safety and affordability. They are highly hospitable to tourists and they are well-infrastructure.
Q: Can I use my credit card points to go to a honeymoon?
A: Absolutely. I have been utilizing points in nearly every flight. When you will be paying a wedding, take advantage of a travel rewards card to accumulate some points on the honeymoon!