Congratulations! You did it! After months of planning, finalizing invite lists, choosing dresses and the stress of designing the perfect wedding, you’re married. Simple, right? It’s time to revel in your new status with your partner.
A 2012 survey by TheKnot.com showed that the average wedding budget was nearly $28,500. That figure excluded the cost of a honeymoon, which could be another $5,000 – $10,000, depending on location and luxuries like travel accommodations.
Don’t worry about a honeymoon being the perfect place. Just choose a location that gets both of your hearts racing, and embrace the adventure. Romantic locations like Belize, Bermuda, Tahiti and the Seychelles always seems to top various honeymoon lists, and with good reason. These destinations allow newlyweds to rest in near paradise, and enjoy savor the sights, scents, sounds and flavors of an exotic honeymoon. Belize is on this list below, but there are four other destinations to check out for a honeymoon adventure.
Rome
You’ve just promised forever to each other, so why not honeymoon in the Eternal City to celebrate your devotion? Rome is known for breathtaking works of art, rich culture and history, and some of the best food in the world. There are no nearby beaches, but if art and culture is your thing, then it’s “When in Rome….” activities. Enjoy Italian restaurants and dine on authentic dishes in the Roma tradition. For fresh pastas and sauces, you’re in the right place. After indulging, you can walk the meals off by traversing the city in search of iconic monuments. From the Sistine Chapel to the Coliseum, there is so much art and history to absorb (between meals of course!) Plan to visit in May or September for the best weather, and skip the heat of summer and the throngs of tourists.
image by ryarwood
India
Nothing is quite like the exotic experience of India. Prepare to have your senses dazzled! Ride elephants through the lush green jungle. Voyage into the desert in a camel caravan. Watch the sunset over shimmering sand dunes. Wherever you journey through India, be sure to let your taste buds in on the adventure. Experience a richly spiced and aromatic cuisine, born from a 5,000 year-old history of various cultures interacting on the continent. And don’t miss the most romantic of the 7 Wonders of the World! The Taj Mahal in Agra. The emperor Shah Jahan built the shimmering architectural marvel in loving memory of his wife. It’s best to avoid the monsoon season as well as the heat of summer. While a lot depends on the region you plan to visit, try October-February for a generally enjoyable climate.
image by Friar’s Balsam
Patagonia
Looking for something off the beaten path? Strap on your hiking boots and get ready to explore the far reaches of South America. Patagonia offers stunning lakes, glaciers, volcanoes and the majestic Andes mountains. Work up an appetite with your spouse as you mingle with penguins and bask in the glittering icy landscape of Tierra Del Fuego. The dining is as varied as the exotic terrain. Whether you choose to go rustic or prefer a bit of luxury, it’s all part of the adventure in Patagonia! Remember it’s the southern hemisphere, so plan on November to March for summer-like temperatures.
image by Dave_B_
Belize
The classic honeymoon scenario is a portrait of sunset walks on a secluded beach, gazing over turquoise waters as a warm breeze rustles the palm fronds around you. Where can you find such bliss and still avoid the crowds? Try Belize! Located on the Caribbean coast of Central America, this lesser-known destination offers unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear water. Enjoy a picnic on the beach after a day of kayaking. Snorkel along the Western Hemisphere’s longest living corral reef. Or head inland to tour the ancient Mayan ruins. Maybe explore a network of caves. But hey, if you’d rather just cozy up in a hammock for two and sip piña coladas under the stars, that’s just fine too! Your photos will be postcard perfect in this tropical paradise. Belize is temperate year round, so consider June through October, during their winter months, for more privacy.
image by anoldent
Kenya
It doesn’t get much wilder than an African safari. A honeymoon to Kenya will immerse you in exotic wildlife. Fall asleep to the call of the wild around you. Visit the Masai tribes for a taste of native culture. Depending on your budget and the level of adventure you’re looking for, there are a variety of ways to do it, from small tents to luxury camp suites. Best of all, discover the unique and wondrous flavors of African cuisine, like Ugali – a cornmeal porridge that is considered the national dish. Still want that sunset walk on the beach? Pack up your tent and head to Kenya’s gorgeous coastline for a dip in the Indian Ocean with your love. Your Kenyan honeymoon is sure to be magical. Every season offers something for visitors, but March through May is considered the greenest, punctuated by refreshing bursts of rain.
image by Sam Romilly
There isn’t one amazing location that’s perfect for every couple. You two are unique. Whatever exotic means to you, you can find it. Happy Honeymooning!
