Between the gorgeous beaches, romantic sunsets and stunning views, it almost seems like the Caribbean was made for honeymooners! We love to host newlyweds at our Island Luxury properties, and we’ve been fortunate to help many couples create their perfect honeymoon in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Over the years, we’ve seen firsthand what works - and what doesn’t. Here are our top four mistakes to avoid when planning your Caribbean honeymoon.
1. Thinking Big
When you first got engaged, a see-it-all week of island hopping might have sounded like the ultimate Caribbean honeymoon. After a few months of wedding planning, however, a packed schedule probably seems much less appealing. Weddings are exciting but exhausting, and a honeymoon should be your time to recharge. Once you arrive at your destination island, keep travel to a minimum. A light itinerary gives you plenty of time to rest and enjoy all those unplanned romantic moments: candlelight dinners, quiet walks on the beach and starlit nights.
This same “think small” mindset can be helpful when you’re choosing a place to stay. Big hotels and all-inclusive resorts offer lots of options, but they can also be crowded, noisy and a bit overwhelming. Consider a quiet, private love nest where you can enjoy each others’ company and celebrate your new life together.
A view for two at our Sapphire Dreams condo
2. Going it Alone
You wouldn’t plan your wedding without help, right? Chances are you have a best man, maid of honor, parent, or even a wedding planner to help you tackle all the details that go into your big day. The same goes for your Caribbean honeymoon. Take some of the stress off you and your future spouse by recruiting a honeymoon helper. If you have a friend who is a travel pro, you can ask them to help arrange airport-to-lodging transportation, book excursions or make restaurant reservations on your behalf as their wedding gift to you. Knowing that all the little things that can make or break a vacation are taken care of allows you to focus on what matters most: walking down the aisle.
Don’t have a friend or family member who can help? Don’t worry! If you’re an Island Luxury guest, our complimentary concierge service is on hand to arrange transportation, excursions, provisioning and more.
3. Falling Into a Travel Routine
Many couples find themselves falling into a pleasant but predictable routine when they travel. You go to the spa and your spouse spends the day on the golf course. Or maybe, you’re both beach bums who love to relax in the sun. This trip, shake it up and strengthen your relationship by planning an activity that’s new to both of you. Studies show that trying new things together is a powerful way to improve your connection with your spouse. It can be big (SCUBA diving lessons or zip lining) or small (trying a local delicacy like conch fritters). Either way, the bonding effect is the same. As we mentioned above, if you need help finding the perfect excursion or restaurant, just let us know!
4. Forgetting a Surprise
Show your brand-new spouse how much you love them by sneaking a surprise into your Caribbean honeymoon. It doesn’t matter if it’s a grand gesture or something small, as long as it’s tailored to their interests. You could even plan surprises for each other in lieu of the customary bride/groom gift exchange. Here are a few experiences we’ve helped facilitate recently:
Arrange for a provisioning service to pre-stock your condo or villa with your spouse’s favorite treats
Book a private chef to cook your spouse’s favorite meal
Reserve a couples’ massage or an in-villa spa service
Schedule a private yoga class on the beach or arrange for a personal training session
Charter a boat to whisk the two of you away to an isolated beach
Explore the aptly named Honeymoon Beach on St. John
Your Caribbean Honeymoon: The Start of Your Adventure Together
Out of all the trips you’ll take in your life, you’ll always remember your honeymoon. With a little preparation and planning, it can be a magical start to married life. We’re here to help you find the perfect villa or condo or and arrange provisioning, excursions, transportations and more. Contact us to start planning your getaway today.
Sea Haven, a romantic retreat just minutes from Magens Bay.