Your engagement period will probably be the busiest and most decision filled time of your life. Sometimes you'll wish someone would just step in and handle all the details. Well, when it comes to planning your honeymoon, there is an expert who will do just that. And it probably won't cost you a penny!

A good travel agent should be your most valuable ally in travel planning. He or she will do far more than simply make reservations. After asking questions about what you want your honeymoon to be, your agent should be able to suggest destinations that will fulfill your dreams. Then, once you've picked a destination, a good agent will help you sift through the confusing array of hotels, airfares, packages, and other options to help you find the best accommodations and deals. Your agent also should be able to answer questions on packing, climate, local transportation, attractions, and more.

Through their computer reservation services, travel agents have up-to-the minute information on fares and availability for most airlines and, in some cases, for hotels, cruises, and tours. Many also have extensive libraries of videos and guidebooks as well as brochures that you can browse through. And best of all, in most cases, travel agents will charge you nothing or a small fee for their services.

How do they make money? In general, travel agents are paid commissions by the airlines, hotels, and tour operators. This implies, for the most part correctly, that travel agents are most familiar with services that pay commission. In fact, one of the exceptions to the "no charge" rule would apply if you decided to stay in a small guest house or hotel that did not pay a commission. Then you might be asked to pay for phone calls and or fax charges to make the reservations. Some agents also charge a processing fee for low-fare air tickets, especially if they are not making other arrangements for you.

Can you get better rates on your own? The answer is rarely for airfares or packages-if you have a knowledgeable travel agent. And because rates change so often, your best bet is to have a travel agent who will keep on top of things. Some even have computer programs to scan for sales on tickets they've already booked. Most travelers find that a good travel agent is invaluable for guiding them to the right place for the best price. (However, if you're looking for information on home stay programs, small bed-and-breakfast inns, or camping, guidebooks will usually be a better source of information.)

How to Find a Good Agent

Think of a travel agent as a professional, such as a doctor or a financial consultant. If you haven't used one before, here are some sources of referrals: Word of mouth. Your best bet is to ask friends and family for recommendations. Try to ask people with interests that are similar to your own, and be sure to get the name of the agent as well as the agency.

Call the tourist office. Many governments, regions, and states maintain travel information offices. Some offices can give you a list of agents in your area who specialize in their country or region.

Look for specialists. Agents with CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) after their names have completed a 200-hour program of travel industry studies, whereas those with DS (Destination Specialist) credentials have completed training in a particular region. You can contact the Institute of Certified Travel Agents for CTC and DS Agents in your area.

Respond to ads. You'll find travel agency ads in the travel pages of your local newspaper and Yellow Pages. Agencies that are members of ASTA, the American Society of Travel Agents, agree to adhere to a code of ethics and often post the ASTA logo in their ads and on their windows.

Evaluating Your Agent

You should feel completely comfortable with your travel agent's expertise and understanding of your needs and wishes. A good agent will take the time to know exactly what you are looking for. It's especially important to tell an agent about your budget as well as any activities you'd like to have available.

As in any profession, some agents are more competent than others; some have good overall knowledge, whereas others have an area of specialty. Some can be fairly characterized as inept. If you feel your travel agent is not knowledgeable, isn't taking the time to ask questions about what you want, or doesn't pay attention to what you are saying, then it's time to change agents.

More Free Information

Other excellent sources of free information are the official tourist offices or chambers of commerce of the countries and regions you plan to visit. Most tourist offices will provide you with free brochures on activities, accommodations, and restaurants and will answer any specific questions you may have. And because their offices are often staffed with people from the country they represent, they can be a wonderful source of ideas for romantic things to do.

Get more information from our Honeymoon Planning Kit which includes 12 Honeymoon Planning Checklists and our 31 Chapter Honeymoon Planning Guide. Click here to visit our download page.