Top 10 honeymoon destinations 2014

Imagine that you have just spent months planning your wedding, you’ve dealt with your crazy bridesmaids, the parents, both the “in laws” & “outlaws”, you slaved over the table seating, worried about timelines and obsessed that every detail went perfect. Now imagine where you want to kick back, relax, play and create a wonderful honeymoon memory with your new husband. Whether your honeymoon is five days, a week or more, this time together will be much needed. Honeymooners have lots of places to choose from, so whether you’re planning on going to an exotic & adventurous location, a relaxing beach vacation, a nonstop safari, a romantic ski trip or even a cruise to various islands, your trip should be based on your joint personality.

At Honeymoons.com we have searched the globe to find the most popular and loved honeymoon locations for 2012! These are some of the most popular honeymoon hot spots around the globe.

·         10. Mexico.

“There’s nothing better and more inviting & tantalizing than a private Jacuzzi with an ocean view accompanied by a massage with oils and flowers followed by a dinner and wine on a terrace under a moonlit night.” So, if this catches your attention, then take it from us and head to Mexico. In Mexico you’ll find this and much more, thanks to the beautiful natural settings, top-notch tourist services and exquisite cuisine. We love the romance and culture of this exotic location so much we know you will not want to leave. For honeymooners who are looking for a warm tropical getaway, consider these three unique destinations: Nueva Vallarta, Huatulco and theMayan Riviera. These places boast beautiful beaches surrounded by lush vegetation, great outdoor activities and a tourism infrastructure capable of pleasing the most demanding newlyweds. With various entertainment options, as well as golf courses, spas, beautiful swimming locations, archaeological zones, museums, nature parks, bars and nightclubs you will be sure not to be bored. If you’re looking for a more romantic spot with tradition, legends and intimacy, Taxco and Guanajuato are straight out of a fairy tale. These colonial cities, which were developed during the boom, have lovely cobblestone as they stroll along taking in this amazing architecture leaving leave you speechless. We are certain you will enjoy the vast culinary offering at various restaurants Mexico has to offer, as well as the unique settings you might find them in. From restaurants built in the side of cliffs like El Palomar de los Gonzalez in Nueva Vallarta, or dine on the beach at the La Palapa, they allows you to remember a truly pleasurable experience. Be sure to also inquire about Vallarta Adventures if you’re looking for an outdoor activity you won’t forget, they offer everything from zip lines, dolphin encounters and even nature hikes that will leave you capturing more of Mexico then you ever dreamed. If you want a hotel that brings you back to love in the outdoor you may want to consider the Villa Amor located in Sayulata Mexico. This retreat is set inside a cove where roofless rooms overlook the ocean offering guest the outdoor experience in a Godlike setting.

Must Do:
Dine at the Kookabura, overlooking Acapulco Bay at night. Have, or at least see, a traditional Mayan wedding. Enjoy Deep see fishing at its finest/have at least one tequila shot at one of Mexico’s rocking discos. Hire a mariachi band for your destination wedding or for a special dinner on your honeymoon.

Must See:
The La Perla Divers in Acapulco. The whales frolicking in the waters off Los Cabos.

Must Know:
Bring your passport, check the expiration date of your passport, gather information about ground transportation upon your arrival, as it can be very confusing to figure out which taxi or transportation company to use: also know in advance what the rates are.

·         9. Italy.

When you are looking for a honeymoon full of old world charm and romance, a trip to Italy guarantees you will get lost on cobblestone streets, in old classic churches and bistros out of paintings and fall in love all over again. No matter the part of Italy you chose to explore you will no doubt find yourself taking moonlight walks, enjoying scrumptious meals, experiencing wonderful museums & art, great wine, fabulous culture and feel as if your feeling as passionate about each other as you are about life. Choosing a specific region of Italy is too hard for us, as we love it all, from the drama and character of Rome, the romance and one-of a kind atmosphere of Venice, the rolling hills of sunflowers in Tuscany, the endless Florentine culture & shopping in Florence, to the amazing and gorgeous views from the lake and mountains in Lake Como, there is something for everyone. There is too much about Italy to be specific to one region, but a trip to any of them is sure to leave you wanting more. We urge honeymooners considering Italy to study the areas that fit their personality more, for some who find wine fun and important, a tour of the wine country is perfect, for some who love fashion and nightlife will Milan is the place to go, for those who love the water you will want to consider Capri, Lake Como or Venice. There is also the numerous historic & religious parts of Italy that will strike our honeymooners as a “must see” from the Vatican, to the Coliseum, Pompeii and even the spiritual bliss of Assisi. However long your honeymoon will be or wherever in Italy you land, I am sure you will wonder why Columbus ever left and find this magical and historic place the trip of a lifetime.

What’s Hot:
Back roads bicycle tours. Wine tours. Segway tours of Rome.

Must See:
The Vatican. Sienna. The view from the Amalfi Coast. The beach at Ostia. The Porta Portese flea market on an early Sunday morning. Capri. The statue of David.

Must Do:
A wine tasting in Tuscany in the country. Shopping on the Ponte Vecchio. Dinner and a stroll through Rome’s Trastevere. A cappuccino in Venice’s Piazza San Marco.

Must Know:
Passports & personal belongings are sought after in Rome and often stolen. Be sure to have photocopies of all you passport and travel documents in two places.

·         8. Fiji.

Imagine stepping into a lush Eden. A mystical place surrounded by iridescent waters. Then enter a lavish honeymoon bungalow complete with its own private beach and stunning views of the exotic terrain. This is what is possible in Fiji. Indeed, on your arrival to Fiji’s 322 islands, you, too, will be convinced that you have landed in Paradise.

Covering over 7,000 sq. miles (1800 sq. km) in the South Pacific, Fiji is one of the most romantic places for a honeymoon. Here you can revel in luxurious accommodations such as Namale – The Fiji Islands Resort & Spa, an ideal place for windsurfing, diving and love. Because of the coral and the excellent visibility in the waters around Fiji, you can also look forward to spectacular snorkeling. An excursion to Beqa Lagoon – the crater of an extinct volcano – won’t disappoint. Turtle Island is particularly known for romance. It is home to the Turtle Island resort that can only accommodate 14 couples in a one-of-a-kind setting. Here you can explore the Blue Lagoon by day and rendezvous on the beach for a candle lit dinner in the evening. If shopping is a ‘must’, it’s duty-free here. For jewelry, nothing compares with the purchase of some black pearls found here off Savusavu Bay. For something less expensive, visit the Fijian Cultural Center and Marketplace near the Pacific Harbour International Resort.

To experience Fijian culinary delights, try Riley’s Restaurant on Naigani Island. It’s one of the best restaurants to be found here. Or you can find very affordable fare at Makuluva Delights near the Garden Island Resort where you can savor traditional Fijian cuisine as well as European and Asian food. Yes, come to Fiji for romance, adventure and pure delight.

What’s Hot:
Surfing…the reef ‘brakes’ are outstanding here. The ‘extreme’ sports bar, SkyDive Fiji. Rafting on the Upper Navua River. Traps Bar for the music; Bad Dog Café for the drinks.

Must See:
Fiji’s barrier reef, especially Great Astrolabe Reef. The spectacular 160 ft. waterfall at Bouma Falls National Park. The islands by helicopter. The Kula Eco Park on the Coral Coast.

Must Do:
Bring reef shoes for your snorkeling adventures. Mingle with the locals at Old Mill Cottage in Suva. Attend a traditional Fijian feast or ‘meke’. Zip line through the tropical rain forest. Do absolutely nothing.

Must Know:
Average temperatures range from 83-88 degrees (F). Only T-Mobile and AT&T Wireless cell phone service will work here. Tipping is generally discouraged here. Most credit cards are widely accepted. Travel time to Fiji from Los Angeles is 11 hours.

·         7. Greece.

If you are seeking lots of history, hot sun, warm seas & diverse landscapes then Greece will be your best choice. This country has an enormous amount of fun, culture and great sites to offer honeymooners making the dazzling Greek Islands some of the most desirable destinations for honeymooners worldwide. Among the many islands of Greece there is Mykonos and Santorini that offer and are known for their spectacular views and unique character. This is why they make a great first choice for most of the couples or newcomers traveling to Greece. Since they are so popular, most resorts have “ready made” itinerary options and “packages” offering couples an easy way to see the best of what the islands have to offer. These packages include tours, adventure rides and even your meals. And although these packages are preset, the variety and number of packages available truly offer something for each couple! Places will even offer packages that can be tailor made to suit your wants and likes, making it a great bonding experience for couples. Not only will couples have a wide choice of the style trip they want to take they will offer have the opportunity to just relax and enjoy and number of the many of the wonderful beaches these islands have to offer. The choice of a Greek honeymoon is every couples chance to discover a new and stunning civilization, soak in the sun and meet friendly, fun-loving people that will leave an a long and lasting impression with wonderful memories. Whether you want to wile away the hours on a cafe terrace, or explore centuries-old ancient ruins, the islands will offer you what you are looking for. We urge couples to research the different islands and find what strikes them together as the place they want to land and experience.

What’s Hot:
Nightlife in the Plaka district of Athens…so exciting!

Must See:
Santorini…don’t miss the famous Red Beach. The Acropolis at night. Sunset at Cape Sounion. The ancient Palace of Knossos in Crete.

Must Do:
Go sailing, or rent a chartered yacht. A day trip out of Athens to the sacred city of Delphi. Greek dancing at Kalokerinos Taverna…Opa!

Must Know:
If island hopping, book your ferry ticket online. Also, hoteliers in Greece cannot demand deposits of more than 25% of the total cost of the accommodations. The nightlife in Greece typically doesn’t start before 10 or 11 PM and can go on until the early morning hours.

·         6. Hawaii.

Say “aloha” to love and romance on this magical island where you will spend your days lounging by the pool or beach or exploring the many natural wonders of this tropical heaven. Then spend your nights dancing in the moonlight enjoying fabulous foods, culture and romance in these islands that many say were created for lovers. Most hotels in the Hawaiian Islands even cater to honeymooners offering a slew of packages, making this destination an easy, “no brainer” place of choice for honeymoon travel. There’s nothing more romantic then long walks on the beach, sunsets and the sounds of guitars softly playing as you relax the night away. These islands don’t only offer beaches and romance they also offer culture, adventure and diversity which is why couples discover that researching each island before you book is the way to go. Once you research the many islands & choices of Hawaii, you will see they offer newlyweds both the post-wedding escape they need combined with the romance and peaceful atmosphere a honeymoon demands. We love six Islands of Aloha that are home to treasures unlike any others on the planet: including the extraordinary cliffs of the Napali Coast on Kauai, to the vibrant & gorgeous shores of Waikiki Beach on Oahu.  Let’s not forget the miles & miles of white sands of the Papohaku Beach on Molokai to the tranquil waters of Hulopoe Bay in Lanai. There is also the summit of Haleakala Crater on Maui and then don’t miss the primal energy of Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island. The Four Seasons Hotel offers The Ultimate Honeymoon Package that offers a rental car for your entire stay, a romantic private dinner on the beach (one night only) and breakfast daily. Honeymooners can indulge their senses and unwind at sunset with a mai tai at one of many places to watch the sun set and enjoy an intimate first-class dinner overlooking the ocean at many of the island’s well-known and wonderful restaurants.

What’s Hot:
The St. Regis Resort in Kauai: the ultimate in luxury and service! In Waikiki, the Starlight Luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, or the 2-hour couples massage at the Hyatt Regency’s Na Hoola Spa.

Must See:
The whales frolicking off the island of Maui. The sunset from the New Otani Hotel in Waikiki (look for the “green flash”). The ocean views while horseback riding at The Parker Ranch on the Big Island of Hawaii. Diamond Head Summit on Oahu. Kauai’s Waimea Canyon. Kayaking on Kauai. The Garden of the Gods on Lanai. Sunset Beach in Oahu.

Must Do:
STAY & Dine at “The Volcano House” on the Big Island of Hawaii. After dinner, literally rendezvous at the rim of the STEAMY volcano. Drive the Munro Trail on Lanai. In Honolulu, shop at Hilo Hattie’s and be sure to visit the Polynesian Cultural Center. Take the journey down the Wailua River to the sacred capital of ancient Kauai.

Must Know:
The weather is wonderful in Hawaii, but you must watch out for excessive exposure to the sun. Also, even though the weather is tropical, it can get cool at night. Be sure to bring a light jacket or sweater & just in case a lightweight raincoat. Due to the undertow and ocean rip currents; swim only where there is a lifeguard on duty.

·         5. Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

Perfect white-sandy beaches surrounded by emerald waters could be easily be described as the center of the romantic universe or to those who love basking in the sun; heaven. To make this “center” true to the description, luxury resorts and spas strategically placed around the island with overwater bungalows, thatched roof villas, and fabled ambiance makes Bora Bora one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

These resorts have been welcoming couples for over 40 years and their unique and special services have been perfected and deemed unforgettable. From dusk to dawn, each resort has created their own blend of romantic experiences & these fabulous encounters that their guests can choose from to create a trip that’s memories last forever. Located on an island in the lagoon of Bora Bora, Bora Bora Lagoon Resort invites newlyweds to reminisce in post-wedding privacy nestled in a bungalow perched on high stilts above the lagoon. The Canoe Breakfast brings the morning nosh to new levels as breakfast and fresh flowers are loaded into a canoe and delivered to your room. While the resort offers many evening entertainment options and group activities, honeymooners can escape the crowds with a private barbecue for two on a secluded island. Guests can snorkel and relax while their personal chef prepares an island feast served on fine china and linens in the great outdoors. This is just one of many ways couples find the resorts on Bora Bora amazing and each one works hard to come up with ways to ensure both a remarkable experience but one you will want to return to again and again.

What’s Hot:
Excitement above the lagoon by outrigger canoe, Boston Whaler, wave runner, jet ski, and dramatic sunset cruises aboard a catamaran sailboat. Exploring the Blue Lagoon by outrigger canoe. Champagne aboard the Boston Whaler. Rent a Wave Runner or Jet ski. Dramatic sunset cruise aboard a catamaran sailboat. The most incredible French Polynesian cuisine at La Villa Mahana. Reserve a table well in advance!

Must See:
Exploration of the panoramic overlooks found by hike or 4×4 accompanied by entertaining local guides. The entire island on a helicopter tour. Matira Beach. The interior of the island in a 4 X 4…a Bora Bora ‘must.’ The Lagoonarium to “swim with the fish

Must Do:
Enchantment from the neon-lit turquoise lagoon waters with unending days of exploration through snorkeling and diving.

Must Know:
Some say it takes too long to get to Tahiti; but the idea is to breakfast in LA, lunch on Air Tahiti, and dine in Papeete before heading on to Bora Bora. (If you stay overnight in Papeete, visit the Tahiti Pearl Market the next morning.)

·         4. Aruba.

With honeymooners all looking for different things while on their vacation of a lifetime, some find they want a vacation filled with action while others just want to soak in the rays of sun and relax. For those who are looking for just sun & fun, Aruba is an ideal destination; with its near-perfect weather and beautiful beaches it is a place to go to find great service, not to mention the 90,000 friends in Aruba you have not met yet. Aruba is only 20 miles long and 6 miles wide at the widest point and packed with enough beaches, restaurants, nightclubs and casinos to delight even the most discriminating newlywed. The intimate nature of the island is why so many find it hard not to fall in love with the islands people. The theme of this island is rest & relaxation by day and party & passion by night! The serenity is found by couples who enjoy the island’s fine beaches, pool complexes and spas, and the adventure at night is found by couples who find the island’s casinos & clubs and take part in this island’s fun as it comes alive. If gambling is your pleasure, then be sure to stop by to Meet Lady Luck at the Copacabana Casino, which re-creates the feeling of Rio at Carnival time. And be sure to enjoy the amazing dining experiences throughout the island that leave couples feeling both enamored with each other but in love with the island’s dining.

What’s Hot:
An assortment of culinary experiences to please every taste – from tapas to sushi, to Mexican food and margaritas. Check out Moomba Beach Bar & Restaurant overlooking the Caribbean, Marandi (a “romantic hidden gem”) Windows on Aruba for flying fish caviar, or the Champagne Brunch at Le Dome.

Must See:
Bubali Bird Sanctuary and the historical Dutch capital city of Oranjestad.

Must Do:
Imbibe at Charlie’s Bar in San Nicolas. Snorkel at De Palm Island. Rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle to explore some of the more inaccessible, but truly spectacular sites on Aruba.

Must Know:
Casino hours vary with the seasons so be sure to call ahead for times. Though Aruba has its own currency, American currency is widely accepted. There are also ATM machines throughout the island.

·         3. Jamaica.

Geographically speaking, Jamaica is an island of intense color and contrast offering miles of tropical beaches and bone-dry plains set amidst the misty Blue Mountains. Socially speaking the island is full of some of the most down to earth and fun people you will ever meet. Honeymooners may enjoy an entire vacation without ever leaving the sanctity & peace of their all-inclusive resort grounds, making this oasis feel like your very own. Jamaica was the first destination, courtesy of Sandals Resorts, to cater to Honeymooners with the All Inclusive concept and it was a forerunner in the creation and popularity of destination weddings.

We know that many newlyweds that have stayed at the Half Moon Resort, which is nestled among 400 acres of tropical landscape on Jamaica’s northern coast, have fallen in love with this country and its amazing landscape. This colonial-style resort has been welcoming distinguished guests for over 50 years and is ranked among the most popular and complete resorts in the Caribbean. With numerous suites and villas, a par 72 Robert Trent Jones Golf Course, multiple outdoor activities, a full service spa, 51 amazing swimming pools, a natural Dolphin Lagoon and much more, this world class resort is all you would need once you arrive on the beautiful island of Jamaica. Although most resorts offer their guests everything they need, for those who want to experience a great new place and cultures, there is an experience unlike any other in the world waiting outside the resort. The island of Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean and is just a little smaller than the state of Connecticut, offering plenty to do for nature lovers and enthusiasts. The beaches on the north coast have been ranked as some of the best in the islands, and if remarkable diving and snorkeling is what you are looking for, then this is your spot. Aside from the amazing opportunities to soak in the sun on traditional beaches with soft sand, you will also invariably drawn to the island beaches that are known as Jamaica’s prime bathing spots. Located in the tropical rock pools, many are at the bases of waterfalls found along the inland rivers and streams. Once honeymooners find these locations they can relax in the cool, clear water while enjoying the scenery and listening to the sounds of the surrounding jungle. The locals share a spirituality that stands out and are known for their unique culture and their intoxicating music, colorful dress and tantalizing cuisine. The streets of the cities are fast passed offering a range of things to see, smells and sounds that you will be sure to enjoy. We want visitors to enjoy the sights but always remain aware of their surroundings, but this is something to remember not just in Jamaica, but also in any foreign city in the world.

What’s Hot:
Many have said to not miss dinner via houseboat while floating through a most romantic atmosphere. Jamaica offers endless activities from golfing, diving, sports and swimming.

Must See:
Don’t miss stopping by the colorful local markets! Be sure to watch to see the local fisherman coming ashore with the catch of the day!

Must Do:
Be sure to visit Dunns River Falls or enjoy an afternoon via horseback as you ride down the beach enjoying both the mountains and gorgeous waters.

Must Know:
Passports are required, so be sure to have yours up to date.

·         2. Bahamas.

We think that the moment your feet feel the soft sand and your eyes take hold of the aqua blue waters, you will have no doubt you’re on one of the amazing islands of the Bahamas. It’s not just the comfortable ease or the immediate sense of relaxation that washes over you; it’s the moment you depart from everyday life and find that extraordinary place within yourself and have a trip of a lifetime. You can enjoy the capital city of Nassau, on New Providence Island, which offers its guests a distinct blend of international glamor and tropical ease, and the freedom to do everything or even nothing at all. Or perhaps you want the memorable mix of historic charm, modern attractions, and ecological of the Grand Bahaman Island. There’s truly something for everyone on any of the Islands of the Bahamas and the warm welcome you’ll receive is just the insurance you need to know you picked the best place to honeymoon. These islands are full of small remote villages and the simple way of life where you’ll find some of the world’s most stunning beaches, dive sites, fishing sites and even golf. The Bahamas offers grand resorts like the popular Atlantis where you will no doubt find yourself feeling like a grand titan or the intimate resorts like the Graycliff, in Nassau where the romance and opulence will carry you away. Many honeymooners are excited to experience the new Sandals in Exhuma, an all inclusive honeymoon resort that gives you everything you need for one stop honeymooning!

What’s Hot:
A romantic dinner at the Graycliff in Nassau, you are sure to get the feeling of being in a place like Ricks Café from the movie Casablanca.

Must See:
You need to stop by the any of the Bahaman outer Islands where the folks are friendly, the fish is fresh and the sunsets are beyond compare.

Must Do:
Stop by the Atlantis to see what the hype is all about!

Must Know:
The Bahamas are easily accessible, but like most warm weather destinations you’ll want to be very careful not to get too much sun.

·         1. Florida.

Florida is a safe place to go when you want a guarantee an affordable adventure with great weather, nice people & a variety of activities to please both the newlyweds. Whether you prefer the sanctuary of the Florida Keys or the fast pace of Orlando, you have the best of both worlds awaiting you. My favorite, there’s no better place for a fairy tale honeymoon for the bride and her Prince Charming than the magic of the Walt Disney World Resorts. Newlyweds can choose from a variety of packages ranging from the honeymoon escape, the deluxe escape and the romantic escape, which combines time at a Disney resort with a cruise to the Bahamas. Packages include accommodations and park passes, as well as a choice of amenities including honeymoon pictures at Disney sites or a couple’s spa treatment. They even offer packages that include all of your meals and wine service. True Disney fans can bring the whole wedding to Disney World with a customized theme wedding at the park. The properties throughout Disney all offer guests top-notch service and a feeling of magic. The resorts offer the very best in dining, pools & spas with endless activities including nightly fireworks displays and parades, leaving you feeling like a child again. If you’re looking for intimacy you will want to consider the Florida Keys, Anna Maria Island, or the gorgeous coastline of the Gulf of Mexico, offering honeymooners the waters of the Caribbean close to home. along with a variety of great places to enjoy by day and wonderful dining at night. Florida offers honeymooners incredible dining, great options for golf, and plenty of nature trails, outdoor adventures and world-class spas to enjoy.

What’s Hot:
An Everglades eco-safari. South Beach in Miami for its sizzling nightlife. The Spa at Amelia Island Plantation to luxuriate in their ‘Chocolate Decadent’ Massage.

Must See:
Historic St. Augustine…charming and romantic. The beach, the shorebirds, and the glorious sunsets at the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Must Do:
A private fireworks cruise! A drive down Highway 1 through the Keys, then a stay at Parrott Cay Hotel and Resort…ah, what luxury! A romantic dinner at Norman’s in Orlando for a taste of ‘Fusion’ cuisine. Upscale shopping on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach.

Must Know:
If honeymooning in Disney World, check out the Disney apps available for your iPhone -particularly the park planner app for sale on iTunes. When returning a rental car in Miami, the drop-off locations are often outside of the airport and difficult to find. Make sure you have your MapQuest in hand or GPS at the ready.