So you’re planning your honeymoon. Out of everything you do to prepare for your upcoming nuptials, this should be the super-fun part. There’s a world to choose from and, unlike all the family pressure and traditions you might feel obligated to maintain for your wedding, this one is all about you and your partner.
That being said, there are some serious considerations to keep in mind. You might not want to go to the Caribbean if you’re getting married during hurricane season, for example. Some destinations on your wish list might still have high COVID infection rates or strict health requirements you’d rather not navigate. Maybe you just want to be different and not go to the same resort as every other couple who tied the knot this year.
Now’s the time to think outside the box and check out some of these unexpected and underrated honeymoon destinations.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is optimal for the pair who mostly wants to rest and keep things low-key. Book a room at one of the many charming inns and spend your days on a charter boat fishing for bass, window shopping, exploring the streets, and dining at swanky restaurants.
There’s some rich history in the region, too, but don’t think it’s going to be dull. Take advantage of photogenic lighthouses dating back 200 years and even the Whaling Museum, which has a rooftop deck with views of Nantucket harbor.
Banff, Canada
When you think of a honeymoon paradise, the beach might be the first thing that pops into your mind. But if you’re looking for a paradise of a different kind, check out Banff, Canada, a nature-lover’s wonderland. Home of Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, this location is perfect for the more daring couple. Depending on the time of year, visitors can hike, raft, rock-climb ski, snowboard, bike, canoe, kayak, horseback ride, and much more, all while taking in the 360-degree beautiful views.
As if that weren’t enough, the Columbia Icefield is nearby. With six major glaciers, it’s the largest icefield in the Northern Hemisphere. You can see it by hiking into the area, renting an all-terrain vehicle, or taking a helicopter tour.
We can’t let you go without mentioning one of the best places to stay in Banff. The Fairmont Banff Springs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nicknamed Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies.” And who wouldn’t want to spend their honeymoon in a castle?
San Jose Pacifico, Mexico
Are you thinking of a log cabin in the woods where you two can warm yourself by the fire? Hiking and maybe trying a Toltec Temazcal (Aztec sauna)? Do you like the idea of a quaint refuge in the cloud forests of southern Mexico where the traditions still stand as strong as the fir trees? Do you own more than three flannel shirts?
If you said yes to more than two of those questions, San Jose del Pacifico might be the honeymoon destination for you. An easy shuttle ride from Puerto Escondido International Airport, San Jose del Pacifico is quaint and unspoiled. There are lots of lovely cabins run by families, but you might also check out La Puesta del Sol with its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and locally grown coffee served in the café.
Hobbitenango, Guatemala
Calling all LOTR couples! You can have your honeymoon in a fairytale Hobbit village ecolodge. Hobbitenango is a dream town, built by two families that seek to create and live in harmony with nature. They even used plastic bottles and other local materials for the buildings.
Located on the top of a mountain just outside of Antigua, Guatemala, it’s well-situated for the best views of the Panchoy Valley and four volcanoes, two of which are active!
If you stay and book a Hobbit House, you’ll find you have the whole place to yourselves after the restaurant closes at 7 p.m. and can sink into the peace of a deep-woods silence filled with the fiddles of insect symphonies.
Sardinia, Italy
Situated in the Mediterranean, the small island is the perfect getaway for the couple that wants to relax and be a little adventurous. You’ll find all the perks of the famous Amalfi coast without the crowds. Book a horse-riding tour, scuba and snorkel along the coast, or relax on the white sand beaches.
When it’s time to eat — you’re in Italy, for the love of the Deity of Deliciousness — seafood is what you want. Do as the Sardinians do and chow down on seafood stew made with locally caught fish. And of course, there’s out-of-this-world pasta, including su filindeu, the recipe for which is reportedly known by only three women on earth.
Iceland
Iceland’s lovely landscapes, playful people, and the ubiquitous appreciation for the arts make travel to Iceland a paradise for anyone. And there’s no better way to explore this magical land than in a camper van. Check out the quirky company Kuku Campers for information about booking such a trip.
You might also strike out for the Diamond Circle, a 155-mile driving route with views that will leave you swooning. While the summer, with its warmer temperatures and up to 21 hours of sunlight per day, is a prime time to visit Iceland, the Diamond Circle offers views of the Northern Lights in the winter and early spring. Proceed with caution, though, if your new spouse doesn’t consider a winter ice storm the ideal honeymoon.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is the ultimate honeymoon destination for the indecisive couple. Want to explore a new bustling city, relax beachside, and adventure in the desert? In Dubai, you don’t have to choose. The city offers endless opportunities of fun: tour the city’s stunning modern architecture, take a camel safari, go four-wheeling in the desert, play some beach volleyball, or take dip in the warm Gulf water. You can even ski — on snow and sand.
Keep your eyes open and up while you’re taking in the sights. The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, is in Dubai, not to mention countless other architectural wonders. You and your new spouse can dream about what it
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Let’s face it. When you hang that honeymoon photo on your wall for the rest of your lives, don’t you want to be on a camel with the sunset-lit sands of the Sahara behind you? Morocco reminds you just how far from home you really are. You’ll walk romantically curvy alleys, hear magnificent mosques’ daily calls to prayer, and see nomads leading livestock through the streets.
You may never learn to spell Chefchaouen, but you will likely learn to love it. This mountain refuge city in northwest Morocco has buildings painted sky blue and winding cobblestone paths that lead to adorable tea shops and picturesque gardens. It’s the perfect place to wander hand in hand with the one you love.
Cambodia
If you want to take in some history, culture, and architecture when you aren’t gazing into each other’s eyes, add Cambodia to your list. It might not be the first destination that comes to mind for honeymoons, but this Asian getaway has a lot to love.
Angkor Wat is perhaps the most famous of Cambodia’s temples and is the largest religious monument in the world. Other temples, Wat Phnom and Preah Vihear Temple, shouldn’t be missed either. The history of many of these sites remains alive today, so even though you’re visiting for a care-free holiday, it’s important to travel respectfully.
When you’re ready to take a break, check out Cambodia’s natural wonders like the Phnom Kulen National Park and endless beaches, savor Khemer food, or catch an Apsara dance performance. You’ll love starting your new life together with new experiences.
Wherever you go, don’t ruin the romance with unwanted surprises. Purchase travel insurance from Seven Corners to protect your trip investment and your health. Find the right travel insurance for you — both of you — today.
