Offbeat Destinations for Every Kind of Honeymoon

So you can start your married life with a unique adventure.
by Alexis Betia | September 17, 2015

Much like your wedding, you only get one chance (give or take) to get your honeymoon right. Why settle for the cookie cutter destinations that don’t reflect your new identity as a married couple? Why go where everyone else has been?

Here are 8 off-the-beaten-path (hehe) alternatives.

For the nightlife: Punta del Este, Uruguay

Experience the new heart of South America, a formerly sleepy fishing village turned A-list celebrity vacation spot. Strike the right balance between the island’s boho beaches during the day and incredible party scene at night until the early mornings. And then check out a world-class music festival if you’re there at the right time!

For a taste of magic: Cappadocia, Turkey

Because why wouldn’t you want to snuggle up next to your brand new Mr./Mrs. in a hotel room built from the ruins of an ancient monastery, with restored underground tunnels and caves? Just imagine repeating your vows to each other as you take a hot air balloon ride into the sunset.

Count on your honeymoon photos being the envy of all your friends and family, Cappadocia’s wind-carved landscapes are sure to take their breath away.

For breathtaking sights: Machu Picchu, Peru

Between the Andes, Citadel, Cloud Forests and Aguas Calientes (hot springs), Machu Picchu is sure to keep you and your partner busy. Stop off at the city of Cusco and be swept away by its distinctly Peruvian charms before relaxing for the night, truly away from the hustle and bustle of any major cities.

Take in a sunrise trek, or, better yet, renew your vows in a ceremony by a local shaman.

For some quality time with nature: Tanzania

“Africa” may not be synonymous with “honeymoon,” but its about time that changed. Take the tour of your lifetime at the Serengeti, Tanzania’s oldest game reserve, or join one of the many different kinds of safaris offered within the area.

Make sure to take the trek to Ngorongoro Crater, the site of a collapsed volcano, as you take in the lush landscape. And make sure your camera has a lot of storage, Tanzania is home to incredibly rare and diverse wildlife.

For a dose of history: Istanbul, Turkey

Walk hand in hand through the streets and fall in love all over again in Istanbul. The city is full of gorgeous architecture, every corner full of history, but it doesn’t mean that there are no adventures in store here.

You and your partner can go white water rafting at the Dalaman River, or if that isn’t your cup of tea, you can always explore the Grand Bazaar.

For a proper getaway: Lhasa, Tibet

Always dreamed of visiting the Himalayas? What better way than to go with your partner? Immerse yourselves in the culture by visiting Lhasa, home of the Potala Palace, which once housed to Dalai Lama.

Take the much needed break after the stress of your wedding by retreating into the quiet of the mountains, all the while enjoying the intimate company.

For romance by the sea: North Island, Seychelles

Known for being a top destination for vacationing Hollywood stars, the hype about Seychelles is well-deserved. The island houses a number of separate villas, each with their own pool, with almost everything inclusive of the resort fee. With overall governance of the island run by an ecological restoration company, you won’t have to worry that your vacation will have any adverse effect on the wildlife, such as the giant tortoises that live on the island.

Enjoy yoga lessons on the beach with your partner, or simply enjoy an especially prepared meal of freshly-caught snapper as you take in the sunset together.

For long nights under the stars: Saariselka, Finland

The Northern Lights are a must-see at least once in your lifetime, and who better to share the moment with than your life partner? Take your newlywed bliss out into Finland and stay in one of the glass igloos at the Hotel Kakslauttanen, where you can keep each other warm by cuddling under the stars.

Take a dip in saunas set in the snow, tour fjords, or go cross-country skiing for an unforgettable trip that’s sure to set the tone for the rest of your lives together.

Where are you dreaming of going for your honeymoon? We hope it’s somewhere strange and unfamiliar. Share your ideas in the comments!