Honeymoons are more often than not an afterthought to the planning of the wedding itself, when, as far as memories go, they are just as significant as your day in church. It's an occasion which you'll remember for the rest of your life, so give careful consideration to honeymoon locations and honeymoon ideas.

First decide what your objectives are for the time you'll be away and what you absolutely can't do without. Where do you want to go? Do you want to relax or be active? What is most important to you? Cost, adventure, sightseeing, weather, etc. Discuss honeymoon ideas with your spouse to be, talk about locations, undertake some online research and ask your friends and family for opinions.

Remember to listen carefully to what your partner says and not just assume that they want the same kind of honeymoon that you do. Be prepared to compromise and, if you are really struggling to find common ground, then divide the days up between you. For the most part this isn't an issue, but it definitely something to be aware of, as your joint happiness is the most important thing.

Trips to secluded beach resorts or islands are traditionally popular, and for good reason. Such trips mean that you can spend quality, quiet time together whilst unwinding from the busy schedule of the previous six months and losing yourselves in beautiful surroundings.

Another option is to take a cruise; they give you the same peaceful, relaxing experience whilst also allowing you to take in a range of destinations. Should you prefer a more active honeymoon, you could try a mountain resort or an adventure travel trip (such as backpacking or a safari).

Regarding honeymoon locations, these are some of the most popular: Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Bali, Belize, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Caribbean, Central & South Africa, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Egypt, Fiji, France, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Italy, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Seychelles, Spain, Thailand.

Whichever kind of location and honeymoon you decide on, try to make reservations at least six months beforehand to ensure that you'll get the best choice of rooms, and can begin planning for your time away. Ask your hotel if they offer a 'romance' or 'honeymoon' package available; extras such as the honeymoon suite, champagne and flowers will make your time away more memorable still.

As soon as your hotel is arranged, starting researching and booking tours, tickets, restaurant seats, and various other activities for which advance reservations can be needed, especially should you be going on your honeymoon in the summer months (bear in mind that different locations will have different peak seasons). Try not to over-plan though as plenty of free time should be left available, especially during the first few days, in which simply enjoying the company of one another should be your main aim.

Do what you can to make your honeymoon different to an ordinary vacation. Along with your normal vacation items, try taking some fun extras with you, such as lingerie, bubble bath, candles and romantic music. Also, be sure to take a camera and video camera with you, so you can look back on your special time together forever.