I was feeling ambitious when I started planning my future honeymoon, but that quickly changed when I became overwhelmed by all of the options, flights, activities, and accommodations. Because of this, I’ve decided that working with a travel agent is probably our best option. Here are some tips for planning your honeymoon with a travel agent!

Do your homework

Before searching for an agent, decide what type of honeymoon you’re interested in and approximately what you want to spend. A travel agent I worked with on my girl’s trip to Bali found us accommodations that were almost double the price of ones we found on our own – so make sure you compare packages!

Seek out your agent

Good agents are patient, ask lots of questions, maintain rigorous quality standards, are forthright about a destination’s drawbacks, have a diversified list of clients and a genuine interest in their feedback. Good agents will entertain your wishes with an open mind and present a range of options.

Shop around

Don’t know where to start? Look for an agency that’s a member in good standing with reputable travel associations.

Know your budget

Be upfront and honest about your air/hotel budget and stick to it. Don’t crack if the agent tries to steer you toward a more expensive trip or bigger resort (sometimes suggested because it’s easier to book).

Be flexible

You’ll have greater access to discount fares and other promotions if your time frame is flexible, even by just a few days on either end.

Voice any special needs or concerns

Do you and your partner have any medical, diet or exercise needs? Are you or your spouse in need of certain accommodations? Tell your agent.

Ask lots of questions

No question is silly, so don’t be shy. Ask your agent about the nitty-gritty details of your trip, including airport connections, bus and taxi services, tipping, foreign currency conversion, potential language barriers and safety concerns such as government-issued travel advisories and warnings.

Happy planning!