People are taking fewer vacations than ever before, but when it comes to planning a honeymoon they spare no expense. The expectations for a honeymoon are so great that more luxurious accommodations and exotic locations have become the norm. These days, when people go on a honeymoon they expect all-inclusive pleasure, convenience and hedonism.

It was not always like this. A honeymoon was once a more modest affair. However, if you are taking a vacation once every couple of years, it only stands to reason that you would attempt to fit all of life’s pleasures into a 3-week package. In 2012, honeymoon trends will continue to include luxurious beachside bungalows and safari excursions, as well as some new variations on some old themes.

Beach resorts and cruises have replaced historical and cultural honeymoons. Paris, Rome and London will always remain popular destinations, but more people are flocking to beach resorts in the Caribbean than walking through the Latin Quarter or exploring the National Museum. Luxury and pleasure is more commonly associated with tropical days on the beach, water activities and sunset cruises, than sightseeing in a major city. People want to live the good life. While cultural enrichment in a foreign city is educational, it is not necessarily deemed pleasurable or luxurious. Part of the reason that Europe is not as popular as it once was is the result of the exchange rate. The U.S. dollar does not go very far. In the Caribbean you can get more amenities for your dollar.

However, although honeymoon trends continue to favour beach resorts in the Caribbean, the islands that are being visited have changed. Aruba and the Turks and Caicos have replaced Jamaica and the Dominican Republic as the preferred tropical islands. Furthermore, less travelled islands are forecast to be attractive as well, particularly St. Lucia.

The popularity of cruise ship honeymoons continues to grow. A cruise is not only inexpensive, but also convenient and organized. All the creature comforts are available. You are continually being catered to. The cruise ship also affords you the opportunity to see more on your trip. Not only that, there are cruises available in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Alaska and Hawaii. Wherever you want to go there is a cruise ship waiting you.

Luxury honeymoons are in vogue. Despite the wavering economy and the fact that people are not vacationing as much, luxury honeymoons continue to thrive.
If you’re getting married in the near future, start thinking about all the things you want to achieve in your honeymoon and start researching places to go so that you can plan the holiday of a lifetime!