Guest Author - Kara Williams

When a tight budget or lack of time off from work keeps you from vacationing in that dream locale, you can still have a memorable honeymoon in your own backyard. Here are some tips for planning a honeymoon close to home:

Go big
Perhaps you just started a new job and don't have vacation time built up yet, but you do have some cash to spend. In that instance, check into the most over-the-top, extravagant hotel in your hometown. Perhaps its a five-star resort that typically caters to celebrities. Or an intimate luxury inn that books months in advance. Go big for your nearby honeymoon--especially since you won't be paying for hefty airline fare or several tanks of gas. When else will you have a great excuse to live like the rich and famous? (Don't forget to let hotel staff or B&B owners know its your honeymoon! They'll likely pamper you and treat you like royalty--especially if they know you're locals.)

Pretend you're a tourist
There are plenty of New Yorkers who have never visited the Statue of Liberty. Or Las Vegas folks who haven't ridden the Stratosphere roller coaster. Or Floridians who haven't seen Mickey at Disney World. So what if your local landmarks aren't quite as famous. Spend a day or two checking out your area's tourist attractions. Ride the Ferris wheel at the kitschy amusement park, stroll through the random museum, pose with the park statue just like visitors do!

Don't leave the house
What could be more romantic than holing up at home, and not telling a soul you're around. Prep by stocking up on yummy groceries--prepared meals from a gourmet grocery are ideal. Rent a bunch of movies. Consider investing in some adult games, stock up on suggestive foods (think oysters, strawberries, whipped cream and the like), and pull out the lingerie you received for your bridal shower. Turn off the computer, ban the television set and unplug your phone. Just you and your new spouse... alone... for a few days... no interruptions. Get creative!