Tips for planning a safe and healthy honeymoon

(BPT) - Anyone who has taken the walk down the aisle and said "I do" knows that your wedding day is one of the happiest days of your life. So why not accompany it with the best vacation of your life? Your honeymoon is not only a great chance to take the trip of a lifetime; it's also the perfect opportunity to connect to your new spouse through a shared and unforgettable experience.

Every couple's honeymoon plans are as unique as they are - those looking for romance might choose a secluded beachfront resort, while adventurers might look for a trip that takes them off the beaten path. Let your travel experience be your guide. If you're taking your first trip together, it might be a good to opt for a low-stress, easy-to-plan vacation to an all-inclusive resort. If you've got a passport full of stamps, you might want to choose that longed-for, far away destination that gets both you and your spouse excited to hit the trail.

No matter where you go and what you choose to do, there are some essential planning tips that apply to any honeymoon. Keep these tips in mind to ensure that your trip of a lifetime is safe, memorable and worry-free.

* Be smart about booking. Reserving airline tickets and hotel rooms for your honeymoon presents a unique situation. If you're leaving right after the wedding, it's better to make reservations in the bride's maiden name, as it can take a number of weeks to process a name change on a passport and your driver's license.

* Plan for all circumstances. Even though it's supposed to be the perfect trip, there is always the potential for mishaps in travel. To give yourself peace of mind - as well as very real protection - consider medical evacuation and travel assistance memberships. Purchased before you depart, affordable memberships like those offered by On Call International can help you with minor and major issues, whether it's a lost passport, delayed baggage or an injury. No matter where you are in the world, they can provide assistance, advice and, in the worst case scenario, get you to a safe location and then back home.

* Know before you go. It's important to have some background about the place you'll be visiting. Knowing things like whether the water is safe to drink, how to greet people and say "thank you" in the local language and what the most famous local dish is can make your trip more enjoyable. You should also be sure to check requirements for visas, as they vary by country.

* Check in with your doctor. Depending on where you're going, you might need to take certain medications and get a vaccine or two. Most health care providers offer the services of an international travel clinic, which typically include a consultation about just what kind of treatments you might need. You can also check the Center for Disease Control's Travelers' Health website for background information to discuss with your doctor or nurse.

Your honeymoon is guaranteed to be one of the most important trips of your life. With a little advance planning and preparation, you can rest assured that it'll be memorable for all of the right reasons.