Unique Honeymoon Hotspots

Typical honeymoons are wondrous in their own right, but in a time of celebrating change, many of us are searching for something a bit more unique than those traditional getaways. This post–nuptial launch into newly–wedded bliss has transformed over the years; it’s no longer meant to be a post–wedding right–of–passage and introduction into intimacy—that probably happened a long time ago. Couples today are likely already living together, trudging through the challenges of life and the exhaustive tasks of preparing a wedding. Modern honeymoons are more about an intimate celebration, a stress–free time when you and your new spouse can finally exhale and forge a new life together.

Today’s newlyweds are looking for more from their honeymoon, or at least something a little more unique. Just as destination weddings combine nuptials with vacation, so can a honeymoon combine a gateway of connection while also adding unexpected growth and adventure in fun and rewarding ways, like volunteering, spirituality, outdoor adventures, and exploring new cultures.

Kaya Honeymoon Volunteers

Do you like the idea of bonding together while making a difference in the world? How about getting to know cultures outside the overstated touristy neighborhoods? Are you also hoping to break away on a budget following your expensive wedding?  Kaya Honeymoon Volunteers, which is based out of the UK, is an example of an organization that can help you do all three. They have programs set up in 27 countries, some of which are already specifically designed for honeymooners. While their most popular options for new couples are working with lions in Zimbabwe and marine conservation on an island in Belize, their many options include conservation initiatives, safaris through wildlife research, community initiatives and more.

For about $3,000, you and your new spouse can spend two weeks creating an incredible platform for your blossoming marriage as you learn about yourselves and each other. As Helwig Jones, Director of Kaya Responsible Travel points out, "It’s a honeymoon with a lot of heart!" Adventure and almsgiving await!

If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience through which you can bond with your new man or lady on a different level, a great option lies in a spiritual retreat. This gives the two of you the chance to step out of the chaos of American life in order to begin this fresh phase of your lives with a sense of peace and tranquility, setting the stage for your wedded future.

Parmarth

​India may be known for its chaotic streets, but it also has some of the most peaceful ashrams and yoga retreats in the world. If you like the idea of being in the Himalayas but don’t want to feel too remote, Parmarth Niketan has over 1,000 rooms spread across eight acres, making it the largest ashram in Rishikesh. They take their practice very seriously and are not open for sightseeing, but they’re happy to accommodate honeymooning pairs who are serious about practicing for a suggested room donation of $25–$50 per night. You’ll leave feeling well–rested and in tune with yourself and your spouse.

Tuscookany

Maybe you two are looking to indulge in European culture. Staying at an enchanted Italian winery may not seem like the most unique honeymoon destination, but how about being an active participant in a cooking school while vacationing in a villa onsite? Since you’re going to be cooking with and for this person for the rest of your life, this is the perfect opportunity to shape those skills!

Tuscookany in Tuscany is an all–inclusive experience, with organic ingredients and resources that either come straight from their own land or are trucked in from local producers and farmers. In fact, they even produce their own energy, heat, and water. Tuscookany offers Italian cooking programs for the week–long and three-day programs (Monday to Thursday or Thursday to Monday) and a Mediterranean cooking program for the week–long program only. Whether making this the sole destination or one stop of many while exploring the country’s museums and other amazing options, this is one romantic resting stop that you’ll always remember.

Paws Up

Are you more of an outdoor adventure enthusiast? There are plenty of daring retreats out there to spice up your honeymoon, from herding cattle on horseback to cuddling up in an igloo. Paws Up is a working cattle ranch in Montana that proves that although outdoor adventure may be rustic, it can still be incredibly luxurious. You and your honey can cozy up in one of their ritzy tents, giving a whole new level to the term "glamping," or shack up in a grand cabin–themed home, complete with fireplaces, grand bathroom suites, and your very own outdoor hot tub.

Paws Up provide traditional entertainment options like horseback riding, fly fishing, and campfires, but you can also choose more romantic services like spa treatments (try the couples’ massage!), "fire by fondue" or "cooking with chocolate" classes, complete with wine pairing, live entertainment and even hot air ballooning. Paws Up also provides a calendar of unique events, like how to incorporate yoga into horsemanship and writing and painting in nature. Packages start at $761 per night per person and include all meals and special treats that come with your preferred package.

Kakslauttanen

Imagine yourself lying in a heated glass igloo as you look up into the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland. Never heard of it? Neither had Jussi Eiramo, who stumbled upon the remote and beautiful piece of nature just 250 kilometers from the Arctic Circle. Since then, he has built a special place for honeymooners, transforming a humble tent into a grand resort, Kakslauttanen. Accommodation at Kakslauttanen not only includes these posh igloos but also cozy upscale cabins. An international staff, glass igloo bar, smoke saunas, and ice swimming are just some of the boons that showcase, once again, how opulence and intimacy can combine. Prices start at $422 per person for the wedding chamber.

When it comes to your honeymoon, there are hundreds of unique destinations and explorations you and your new spouse can embark on together, all depending on your preferences as a couple. Just as every snowflake falling on the glass ceiling of the Kakslauttanen igloos is unique, so are you, your partner, and your relationship. As you embark on this journey and create a new life together, so should you create your own celebration of its beginning.