Three Types of Honeymoons for Every Kind of Couple

by  Mike Barish | May 17, 2012
Couple on vacation
Couple on vacation / grinvalds/iStock

I’m getting married in less than three weeks [hold for applause]. It’s a destination wedding, which probably merits its own blog post at some point. However, since wedding planning has rendered me unable to put together a string of coherent thoughts, it’s best if I focus on the honeymoon in this post since, well, that’s way less stressful.

Selecting a honeymoon destination requires looking at the trip from several different angles. As you begin to discuss where to decompress after months spent selecting tablecloths and entrée choices, you want to make sure you reach the decision that makes both of you happy. Ultimately, there are only three types of honeymoons. Once you pick which is right for you, the decisions get a lot easier.

Traditionalists
There’s a reason why people stick with the whole “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” shtick: traditions make people happy. If you’re looking for a classic honeymoon, there are some great options.

Hawaii has long been the newlyweds’ destination of choice. With plenty of beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and outdoor activities for those who are so inclined, it’s a can’t-miss good time. Plus, it will most likely put you thousands of miles away from your in-laws.

East Coasters will often opt for the shorter jaunt to the Caribbean, where they can enjoy many of the same luxuries offered in Hawaii with less time spent in airplanes.

Similarly, Western Europe is also a long-standing honeymoon tradition, with happy couples jetting off to France, Italy, and Spain. All three offer plenty of ways to both relax and explore, which is what the first few weeks of marriage is all about, right?

Free Thinkers
While there’s nothing wrong with going the traditional route, some people will make the argument that those destinations are cliché. For those independent couples, destinations like Turkey, Croatia, and the Greek Islands beckon.

All three locations offer opportunities to soak up the sun, eat fantastic food, and take in fascinating cultures. The crystal waters of the Dalmatian Coast are just one of the reasons that Croatia is fast becoming a luxury beach destination. Meanwhile, Turkey allows you to say that you honeymooned in both Europe and Asia. The beach town of Izmir is the perfect home base from which you can explore the ruins at Ephesus before heading to Cappadocia for days spent hot air ballooning and hiking the seemingly Martian landscape. The Greek islands allow for days spent at sea and nights eating fresh seafood in Crete and Lesbos.

Adventurers
The last category of honeymooners can’t sit still. Rather then collapse after months of planning, they prefer to blow off steam by seeking out adrenaline rushes.

Safaris are a popular honeymoon activity for couples that want to splurge on a trip that they might never experience again. Seeing huge migrations of wildebeests, prides of lions, and grazing giraffes are the kinds of experiences that you want to share with the most special person in your life. That’s what has so many Americans honeymooning in South Africa and Tanzania.

South America also offers thrill-seeking honeymooners a chance to bond in exotic locales. The Galapagos Islands are home to animals species found nowhere else in the world, as well as fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving sites.

As for my fiancée and me, we’re heading to Botswana on safari. Assuming I make it through the next two-and-a-half weeks.

Where did you go on your honeymoon? What is your dream honeymoon destination? Share your stories in the comments.

Use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find the lowest rate on flights, hotels, packages and more travel deals.

Up next...

$187+: 4-Star Chicago Hotel in Summer, Save 20%

Chicago skyline
Find The Best Cruises
Find a cruise

Find the best deals!

Click on multiple sites to get the lowest prices

Click on multiple sites to get the lowest prices