Why Taking a Honeymoon is Important

The "honey" part of the term may very well refer to an alcoholic drink made of honey mead that many European couples enjoyed for at least a month after the wedding. Still others, mainly etymologists, believe that the modern "honeymoon" it is merely a corruption of the ancient word "hymeneal," which was a wedding song or poem.

We may never know which theory is correct, but we do know that the word first appeared in the 16th century, though it was not used in the modern sense. Since couples were expected to remain pure or chaste, the honeymoon was a time for a husband and wife to get to know each other more intimately. The term was not used to describe a vacation after the wedding until the 19th century. Furthermore, the actual practice of taking a honeymoon did not become popular with the public until the 1930s.

Are honeymoons important today?
While it is true that the ancient justifications for a honeymoon no longer apply, there are still practical reasons to go on a honeymoon. For one thing, the modern wedding takes much more time and energy to plan than the ceremonies of old. Many contemporary couples start planning their big day a full year ahead of schedule. As you might imagine, by the time the last handful of rice has been tossed, the happy adult couple is often running on empty. A little rest and relaxation is exactly what the doctor ordered. Perhaps that is why the number one destination for American newlyweds is a chaise lounge on a white sand beach in the Caribbean.

It is also important to consider the changing role of women in our society. In 1965, the number of dual-income families where both the husband and the wife worked was only 27%. More often than not, the woman would stay home with the children, occasionally working part time on the side.

But today, the number of dual-income families is well over 60%. And that's just for families with children! When a contemporary couple ties the knot, nine times out of ten, both partners are employed. This often means the honeymoon is the first long vacation they will have taken together.

Last but not least, couples go on a honeymoon to celebrate. We don't have many arranged marriages in modern-day America, so when a contemporary couple chooses to get married, they do so because they are in love. In short, the honeymoon is nothing more than an excuse for two people to enjoy a week together without the complications and distractions of the real world creeping in. According to a recent survey, 99 percent of newlyweds take a honeymoon after their nuptials. Discount travel sites such as Liberty Travel and all inclusive packages that cater to honeymooners have made a once costly vacation affordable for most new families. Discover the romantic getaway that is perfect for you and your special someone now!