A honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your new spouse. It’s also an important chance to strengthen your relationship and lay the foundation for a lifelong journey together. Whether you’re relaxing at a tropical paradise, getting pampered at a luxury spa or enjoying adventure together in a secluded wilderness setting, there are plenty of ways to turn your dream honeymoon into reality.
The term “honeymoon” dates back centuries. One theory is that it comes from the old English word “hony moone,” which means honey month—a reference to the sweet, love-filled period of marriage. In Europe, it was common for newlyweds to share a bottle of mead (a mixture of water and fermented honey) during their first month of marriage to celebrate the start of a harmonious union.
Today, many couples plan romantic getaways to exotic destinations after their wedding day. In the 19th century, affordable railway travel allowed working-class newlyweds to escape for a honeymoon by the sea or in a city. The affluent could plan a grand European tour or a secluded stay in the Lake District, where Victorian critics referred to it as “a month of enforced seclusion.”
For most couples, the key to a successful marriage is communication and trust, so a honeymoon provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen those bonds. It’s also a chance for newlyweds to explore new horizons together and experience the excitement of discovery. Whether you’re hiking through breathtaking landscapes or trying out adrenaline-pumping activities, your honeymoon can be an opportunity to check off items on your bucket list and build memories that will last a lifetime.
When planning your trip, consider the best times of year to visit your desired honeymoon destination. A tropical beach vacation isn’t ideal during hurricane season or the dead of winter, and many adventure-seeking couples won’t enjoy the icy cold of a snowy wilderness getaway in December or January. However, there are still plenty of idyllic honeymoon options available year-round.
Once you arrive at your honeymoon destination, it’s important to set aside time for relaxation. During your first few days, you’ll be adjusting to jet lag and recovering from wedding exhaustion, so it’s crucial to schedule low-key activities. This gives you the chance to relax and rejuvenate, and can also help ensure that your honeymoon is as stress-free as possible.
After a few days of rest, you’ll be ready to dive into your itinerary with full energy. Make sure to budget for your activities and to leave plenty of room for flexibility in case of weather conditions or other unexpected surprises. Throughout your trip, try to avoid scheduling big activities on back-to-back days. Instead, balance high-energy activities with a few relaxing days in between so you’re not going from rock climbing to a Broadway show to a spa treatment in one day.