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5 tips before finalising the exclusive honeymoon trip

The wedding is the biggest event in everyone’s life and as soon as the wedding dates are decided we start working on our never-ending to-do list. We start planning for every single event to make it exclusive especially honeymoon trip. It is right to be thoughtful and plan these holidays well with your fiancé as it is surely going to be once in a lifetime trip.

Honeymoon Trip
Source -www.naturehillstation.in

I still remember when we had to plan ours; my husband asked me to do some research. Then he asked me few questions and my choices, to make it easier for choosing the final place among the shortlisted destinations. All this helped us in short listing and planning our holidays.

Now, these tips along with research can help newly hitched or to be hitched couples in narrowing and deciding  on their honeymoon trip.

  1. Determine how far and how much time you both can spare for your holidays

Discuss with your spouse openly how far you both can travel? How much time you both can spare for honeymoon trip? How many leaves you both have or can avail? Is travelling extensively comfortable with you and your fiancé? A destination like Europe and America require lot many hours of travelling and sometimes connecting flights. Throw in the fact of time zone too, to get mentally prepared to get acclimatised. Some of the places may be your dream destinations. But don’t panic or push on each other for that destination! You can plan a trip to your dream destination some other time.

Apa Villa Thalpe, Sri Lanka- Honeymoon Trip

  1. Choose a theme

Choose with your fiancé what type of trip you both want to take – relaxing, adventurous, romantic, peaceful, road trip, cultural or nature. A romantic relaxing honeymoon trip on the beach resort, getting suntanned and sipping wine can be on many couples list. So, one can consider Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bali, Bora-Bora etc from the long list. Streets of Paris and Gondola ride of Venice; dressed up like a princess are on the list of others. So, one can opt for them too, if looking for romantic, cultural spots.

Phi Phi Island, Thailand, Honeymoon Trip

  1. Fix up your budget

After short listing destinations according to the theme, next is to set up the budget for the decided number of days. This is where you and your partner need to sit and discuss frankly how much you should spend. There is no limit to spending but budgets always help. The other option can be to collect funding through honeymoon wedding registry . Some of the links for honeymoon holidays registry are: (https://www.honeyfund.com/; http://www.zankyou.com/us/honeymoon-wedding-registry )

Ranikhet Uttrakhand, India - Honeymoon Trip

  1. Decide on when to leave for honeymoon trip

Sometimes, leaving immediately for honeymoon trip after wedding doesn’t go well with your schedules or with the weather conditions of that place. So, do a quick research to know the weather conditions of the chosen destinations at the time of your travel. Also check for the local festivals, crowds at the time of your travel. For e.g. – If you are travelling to Europe in August, many of the towns are closed for vacations that time and in January, February it will be very cold. So, this all can change your decision. You can also consider travelling during off season to cut off the costs and experience more.

Honeymoon Trip
Source – www.destinationweddingmag.com
  1. Get Bookings done early 

Honeymoon holidays are not the time to experiment. Everything needs to be perfect. Don’t wait till last moment. At last moment, flights, hotels, everything will cost you much more than the actual amount. Look for the honeymoon packages, deals and check the hotel’s reviews and recommendations before booking. Read some travel blogs to get more insights.

Inform hotel about your honeymoon. They may charge you more but you will also get the room with better view and sometimes a complimentary dinner too.

So, planning honeymoon trip in not a big task. Talking everything candidly and planning together will act as a catalyst to your new married life. And I say travel solves every couple’s problem and it can save your marriage.

What all I learnt traveling around the world

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page” 

– Saint Augustine

Wow! What a quote on travel. Saint Augustine said everything in a phrase for which I need paragraphs to explain. Travel is my life and it is beyond everything. I had been traveling around the world not for a break to relax my mind but to explore and learn what I couldn’t learn through my books or under the guidance and to spend the qualitative time with my husband.

Traveling Around the world

Travel has polished and enriched me in every sense from being kind, patient and philosophical. I see the whole world with a different perspective and vision. So, now my life philosophy has changed and I repeatedly say “Invest in a book called – Travel. Get as many stamps in your passport as you can. Build up your own catalog of pictures and memories. Tomorrow there should be no regret of missing on anything”.

There is no end to what traveling around the world gave and taught me. I still want to quit rest and learn more. So, I have listed few lessons which travel around the world had already taught me so far.

  1. You explore new things what you haven’t done till today

Travel compels you to come out of your comfort zone and experience what is real life. It makes you realize that grass is not always green on the other side and sometimes it is the most challenging role to perform. The conversations with locals tell you how different lives can be with the common shared commonalities. Travel also makes you learn how you have to manage each penny when you have budgeted amounts.

Traveling Around the World

  1. Learn about new culture

While traveling around the world, you explore small towns, villages and of course big cities.  You meet different people; see different things, foods, different cultures, and traditions from yours. All this can’t be explored on the internet or taught by anyone but  all this can only be experienced. Might be some of the cuisines or cultures becomes your favorite and you imbibe that in yourself.

Thailand - Traveling Around the world

  1. The whole World is not that advance and every Human just wants to be happy

Traveling around the world will make you realize that the whole world is not that advanced as you think.  Every child is not spending time playing Xbox or teenager is not going to club. Still, children play in the puddles and enjoy making toys with the waste. But they are happy. They have cultivated their happiness in their surroundings. So, happiness is immaterial and comes from inside and thoughts. One can be happy in mountains, beaches, mansions, villas or just in a small house. But the prime goal for all human in all countries everywhere in the globe is just Happiness.

Happy Humans- Traveling Around the world

  1. Travel gives a new perspective to life

I stated in the second point that you learn about new cultures, new people, new cuisines etc. But in depth, all of these are some or more related. All the humans have same needs and same desires. It is just in the name of religion and politics people and countries are pulled apart. Still, there is a feeling of brotherhood and kindness for tourists and travelers.

Your family, your friends, and your job everything is important but there is much more in life. You learn to prioritize what is important and what is not. Travel around the world really helps you to broaden your horizons and think out of the box.

Jaipur - Traveling around the world

  1. Talking to strangers is not always bad

During travel, conversation with a stranger especially locals help you in learning more about that place. They guide you on what needs to be explored and what cannot be missed on. Locals actually help you to experience and live in that culture. And your fellow travelers on the move can help you with their travel guides and tips. Simultaneously you will have a new bunch of friends to go on the adventures together.

  1. You don’t need to plan everything in your life

Sometimes unplanned things and destinations lead you to beautiful experiences. I agree that planning is good but sometimes it can make you miss the awesome things you could have experienced otherwise. So, let the things go with their own flow especially with travel. You might fall in love with the place and want to embrace their culture and traditions. It is cool to get lost in unknown places to experience the most random and amazing things.

Sr Lanka - Traveling Around the world

  1. Certain things cannot be changed

There is no point of taking stress about the certain small things like missed bus or hotel booking or flight. Breathe with the situation and accept it. Instead, stress will dampen your morale and ruin your day. Traveling is all about fun, learning, exploring and seeing new good things. Learn from every mistake and situation so you organize the things better next time.

Overall traveling around the world had made me much more patient, knowledgeable and kind. And these are just a few lessons which I have learned till today. There is so much more to learn and explore. Life is short so enjoy and live every moment, whatever makes you happy.

Read the related post – 7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me

7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me

For the first time in my life, I tried doing something which I thought was not achievable by me. Yes! I did a 2-day trek each 6-7 hrs without the porter and with my soul mate to reach the hot water spring of Kheerganga . It was a simple adventure when I started walking through zigzag roads seeing waterfalls and clouds kissing mountains. Just 6 km ahead and it was no more adventure for me- the slopes turned to climbing mountains and crossing landslides. This Himalayan trek changed my vision towards life. It brought the best and worst out of me. It taught me how you need to push yourself when the destination is away and when your inner self- keeps on telling you that the Himalayas are calling you.

7 life lessons which Himalayan Trek taught me

Here are the 7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me.

  1. Keep moving till you reach your destination

No matter how slow or fast you are from your fellow members; you all have the same destination. Remember it is not a sprint or race. Slow and steady always win. So, just keep moving. If you feel exhausted take rest and enjoy the vistas you have just seen in others pictures.

Keep moving till you reach your destination - Himalayan trek

If the thought of going back comes in your mind, remember all the ups and downs you crossed to reach this point. Going back is as demanding as going up. So, be slow and calm and head patiently towards your destination. There is no looking back in life, similarly, there is no looking back while trekking.

  1. Believe in power of self-motivation and optimism

Optimism is a key to success. There is nothing impossible. The strong determination and desire help you achieve your goals. Himalayan Trek, an adventure chosen by you needs a lot of self-motivation. So, keep tricking your brain that something great, unexplored and untouched is waiting for you at the top. You will definitely get a push to step ahead and explore the unexplored Himalayan sagas.

  1. A single tough day doesn’t mean the end of world

    Single tough day doesn't mean end of the world - Himalayan Trek

While trekking the Himalayas, you cross rough surfaces, boulders, stones, waterfalls, gravel, and grass. You need to concentrate at every point. The moment you think something else, you might slip, fall and get hurt. In those tough times, you need to get up, balance and make your own way to reach the final destination. So, a single bad moment or tough day in your life shouldn’t stop you from attaining your goals.

  1. There is a bigger world outside where you can connect with yourself

7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me

In our fast-paced urban lives, we hardly have any time for ourselves. We have forgotten that there are outdoor games which are better than games on tablets and laptops. Going for a Himalayan trek gives you fresh air, natural earthy smell, sunlight. No mobile networks give you more time to connect with yourself and your hiking mates.

Also Read: 24 treks for 12 months of the year

  1. Single turn can change your life

 Sometimes while hiking the Himalayas, curiosity in you may push to chose less trodden path instead of properly marked trail even before knowing what you may be venturing too. Choosing unexplored path may land you to slippery road, lying among grazing mountain goats or somewhere near Buddhist monasteries. The lesson is – take risks and turns only when you are prepared for both expected and unexpected situations.

  1. Love and Humanity still exists

    7 life lesson which Himalayan trek taught me

While Himalayan trek you will find people who hold your hand and make you cross bridges, steps, and landslides; without knowing your name and caste. When the most experienced and prepared trekkers get lost during harsh weather conditions, it’s the kindness and gratitude of locals which offer them the roof and the warm meal to comfort.

  1. Success doesn’t come overnight

Snowy peaks, clear skies can’t be seen by walking just a few miles. You need to walk for a day/ days to get those fascinating views. Similarly, in life, you need to get your hands dirty every day. You may have to climb multiple stairs each moment to reach mountain top and accomplish your goals.

7 life lessons which Himalayan trek taught me

Himalayan trek was a life changing the experience for me. You realize how beautiful life is. Problems are artificial and they are just for a matter of time. How humanity and kindness makes someone smile. Most importantly accomplishing steep slopes and mountains is like rewarding yourself and learning lessons.

5 places not to miss for Monsoon Road trip

If you are a rain lover and a tough soul, who enjoys water puddles, umbrellas, damp roads and aroma of wet soil, then monsoons is the best time for you to invade the offbeat areas of India by road trip. These places will gives you the real feel of Incredible India with cool winds, floating clouds and raindrops.

Here is the list of five places shortlisted by us for a monsoon road trip. For detailed information of the route before or during your road trip, you can check with one of the leading travel and highway enthusiast forum – HV Kumar.

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  1. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

Distance from Mumbai – 933 Kms

Route Mumbai – Surat – Vadodra   – Ahmedabad –Bhuj – Kutch

Kutch during monsoon road trip
Kutch during Monsoon (Source: goindia.about.com)

In & Around- Enormous stretch of white salt marshes, appearing as white desert whereas in monsoons becomes a shallow fishing ground for fishermen. Not to missMoon light camel safari, the highest point Kala Dunger , Dattatreya Temple and hours glazing at stars in the clear sky both at night if you are lucky.

  1. Kausani , Uttrakhand

Distance from Delhi – 427 kms Route – Delhi – Noida –Rampur- Nainital-Almora- Kausani

Himalayas view from Kausani on road trip
Himalayas view from Kausani, Uttrakhand (Source- www.trodly.com)

In & Around- Baijnath group of temples, Bageshwar, Anashakti Ashram, Lakshmi Ashram and Pant Museum Not to missBreathtaking beauty, Panaromic View of Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, Tea gardens and factory, Rudradhari Caves and Waterfalls %CODE1%

  1. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pardesh

Distance from Bhopal – 191kms Route – Bhopal-Hoshangabad-Sohagpur-Pipriya-Pachmarhi

Pachmarhi road during monsoon road trip
Pachmarhi road during monsoon (Source –betterphotography.in)

In & Around- Caves, Rock paintings, Waterfalls, Lake, Valleys, Narrow gorges, Mountain peaks and ancient temples  Not to miss Apsara Vihar, Bee Falls, Pandav caves, Duchess Falls, Jata Shankar, Handhi Khoh, Bison lodge, Reech garh, Dhoopgarh, Irene Pool and Rajat Pratap.

  1. Munnar, Kerala

Distance from Bangalore– 476 kms Route –Bangalore- Hosur- Dharmapuri-Salem-Erode-Trippur-Munnar

Munnar views during monsoon road trip
Munnar during Monsoon (Source: www.munnar.com)

In & Around- Lush green foliage, Matupetty Dam, Sita Devi Lake, Kolukkumalai tea estate, The Dolmens of Marayoor Not to missTea estates, Attukad falls, Athirapally falls, trek to Anamudi highest peak in South India and Bird watching

  1. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Distance from Delhi– 767 kms Route – Delhi – Neemrana- Jaipur-Ajmer- Beawar- Pali- Sirohi- MountAbu

Road to Mount Abu during monsoon roadtrip
Road to Mount Abu, Rajasthan (Source – www.gluebomb.com)

In & Around- Dilwara Jain Temple, Nakki Lake, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Trek to Guru Shikhar, Trevors Tank, Achalgarh, Sunset point Not to missScenic strolls, Mouth watering Rabri and local market at Abu road Caution: Though road trips are thrilling which rush your adrenaline, but you need to be cautious too at the same time. You never know when rain drops turns into cloud burst. So be careful and take some precautions while driving.

  • Before leaving, ensure your vehicle is in a healthy condition. Check your lights, tyres, brake and windshield
  • Preferably use wet weather tyres during monsoon road trip to avoid slippage
  • Roads especially fly-over’s can be slippery during rain, so be careful
  • Be considerate to two wheeler’s and pedestrians. During rainy season pedestrians are hard to spot whereas two wheeler’s don’t have enough control over their brakes
  • Avoid driving when there is heavy rain and zero visibility
  • Don’t leave your vehicles on the road. Park them in a clean safe parking lot away from rodents
  • Make sure you have spare Tyre, tool kit, jack etc in good condition
  • Carry first aid kit, umbrella and keep a torch handy

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