Amanda PhillipsThe pages of honeymoon brochures are usually glittering with white sands, water bungalows, palm trees and idyllic beach sunsets. And while there’s no denying that this the perfect romantic backdrop for many newlyweds, it’s not the right choice for everyone.
Our Honeymoon Specialists here at Barrhead Travel spend their days building the perfect honeymoon package for a wide range of couples, beach lovers or not. If you and your sweetheart don’t like the idea of lying on a beach for your first holiday as a married couple and are looking for something a bit more adventurous, consider one of these ten destinations.
1. Quebec
With European tones and a Francophone drawl, Quebec is an architecturally charming backdrop for a romantic city-break. Walk hand in hand along cobbled streets, while dipping in and out of world-class shopping, delectable French-Canadian cuisine, and centuries-old forts.
2. Kenya
A safari and honeymoon are both regarded as once in a lifetime trips – so why not combine them? The beautiful country of Kenya is home to multiple national parks with stunning animals and beautiful accommodation ranging from high-end lodges to romantic glamping experiences. And if you do fancy working some beach into your honeymoon, Kenya is home to the beautiful Diana Beach that overlooks the warm waves of the Indian Ocean.
3. Walt Disney World®
A theme park might not be the first thing that pops into your head when you think of honeymoons, but if you and your love are fans of faced-paced rollercoasters and pop culture then there’s very few destination that would be more appropriate.
4. Lapland
If you prefer the snow to the sun and are getting married in the crisp winter air, consider starting your life as a married couple in the magical destination of Lapland. Spend your night stargazing from a husky ride before ending it cuddled up in front of a cozy log fire – what could be more romantic?
5. New York City
New York City is already a popular honeymoon destination and is a favourite amongst couples who love fast-paced city-life. Cruise around the edge of Manhattan on a sunset cruise or watch the stars twinkle above the iconic skyline from the Rockefeller Centre.
6. Thailand
This South-East Asian country has many sides to it. There’s the oriental and bustling city of Bangkok, where world-class shopping meets golden temples. Then there’s the luxury resorts of Koh Samui, or the tourist-friendly activities found in Phuket. A honeymoon to Thailand is whatever you want it to be.
7. Galapagos Islands
The ethereal Galapogas Islands in the South Pacific is a destination you can only reach via cruise but is well worth it. It’s a part of the world not many can say they’ve seen and is home to several endemic animals that you won’t spot anywhere else.
8. New Zealand
The two-island nation of New Zealand is bursting with beautiful natural wonders, and it’s difficult to pin-point just one region for an off-beat honeymoon. Walk the edge of the geothermal wonderland that is Rotorua on the North Island or visit the South and admire the 100,000-year-old glaciers in the Fiordland National Park.
9. Marrakesh
This North African country was recently in the spotlight as a romantic getaway when George Clooney and Amal Amaluddin chose it for their own honeymoon. Built at the foot of the dramatic Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is home to an exotic blend of sights, sounds, and flavours that make it a spectacular honeymoon choice.
10. Ras Al Khaimah
Immerse yourself in the authentic and charmingly romantic side of the United Arab Emirates. The northern Emirati gem of Ras Al Khaimah feels like a thousand miles from the skyscrapers and bright lights of Dubai with its beautiful mountainous landscapes, red sandy deserts, traditional souks and 5,000 years of history. We guarantee it will be one of the most romantic sunsets you’ll ever witness.