Honeymoons - Honeymoon Registry
The idea of a wedding registry is well established. Prospective couples planning a wedding register with stores and then let their friends know where they've registered. Those interested in buying gifts can see a list of items that the couple needs and wants. That way, the buyer knows they're getting something the couple will value. Everybody wins.
The idea has long ago been extended to include honeymoons. Hotel accommodations, side excursions and much more can be included on a honeymoon registry. In the same way as a wedding registry, the couple simply lets their guests know about it. No obligation to buy.
However, unlike typical wedding registries, some honeymoon registries do cost up front. The arrangements differ widely, though. In some cases a flat fee is charged. In others, a percentage to anyone purchasing a listed gift for the honeymoon couple.
According to the companies, this covers their cost of making arrangements with hotel chains, airlines, resorts and tour or entertainment operators for good prices. The Big Day (http://www.thebigday.com/) is one of the larger, more well-established honeymoon registries. Traveler's Joy (http://www.travelersjoy.com) is another.
Gifts run the gamut of everything imaginable. Unlike a wedding gift registry, though, the focus is on things and activities a couple will typically pay for on a honeymoon.
It may be something as common (albeit stunning) as a 4-night stay in a spectacular hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia. Or, it could be an all-day boat ride along the River Neva for the happy couple staying there. Honeymoon registry gifts can pay for one meal or all of them at the hotel. Some even pay for cocktails before dinner.
Some honeymooners love to enjoy all the activities they dreamed of while on their vacation. Hot air balloon rides are a popular choice. It's something couples often talk about, but at $100-$200 per person often put off. It makes for a great gift. In many cases, the money isn't fully paid for up front, though. A deposit might be registered, with the full amount only required if the couple actually uses the gift.
But that introduces a bit of fine print to watch out for. Registry policies, and those covering individual gifts, can vary widely. On some, the gift dollars never expire. If the couple doesn't take advantage of the generous offer in, say, two years, the activity is still there if they should want to do so later.
Many others expire. When they expire, the money may be returned (minus a service fee) or the company may keep it entirely. There's nothing fraudulent about the practice. It's simply up to those registering to read the contract as they would any other and to make a decision accordingly.
Honeymoon registries have their pros and cons. Sometimes prices can actually be lower for those who book through the hotel's online website, for example. But a honeymoon registry can also be a convenient and effective way for friends and loved ones to give the couple a Jeep safari in Africa or a private bungalow in Aruba.
