Honeymoon Destinations – Top 5
Typically it is the groom who does the research and makes takes care of the primary planning for the Honeymoon. He may even choose to make the destination a total surprise for the Bride. The honeymoon destination is a very important decision, as it must take in to consideration the needs, wants, likes of both members of the new couple. It should incorporate things that both personalities will enjoy as it is the first major outing as a new married couple. Do both parties like adventurous activities? Or do they prefer lounging on the beach? This is why choosing the right place is key in the overall feeling and presence of love during this very important time and sets the stage for long-lasting partnership. Our top 5 recommended honeymoon destinations to set this stage are:
1) Hawaii
This is by far one of the greatest places to be after the wedding. 
The accommodations as well as the views are spectacular. This state of the U.S. has 6 major islands to travel to for the honeymoon and all of them are gorgeous. Not only is the water an amazing temperature and color, the lush gardens surrounding the beaches, countryside, and mountain ranges make it the most colorful place on earth. The estimated cost for a honeymoon in Hawaii is anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000. The price is reasonable because the stay is still within the U.S., it takes less than a day to travel to from any state within the U.S., and you do not need to stay there for 2 weeks to have a good time; one week is recommended. One of the most well known and recommended places to stay is The Turtle Bay Resort. And, the best restaurants are: Hy’s Steak House, Rum Fire, The Loft, Duc’s Bistro, Matsugen, and Michel’s.
2) Paris
Paris, the romance capitol of the world is the perfect place for a honeymoon. Although pricey, Paris is a place that a couple will never forget. The food, culture, art, lights and overall ambiance is like no other place in the world. If you are going to visit Paris for a honeymoon it is recommended that you stay at least a week, if not two. Therefore, the approximate cost of such a honeymoon will run about $5,000 to $7,000 depending on the airline, where you stay, and what you plan to do when you are there. The best hotel to stay at in Paris is Le Meridien Montparnasse which is very luxurious and centrally located. From the United States, it takes anywhere from 6 to 10 hours to get there depending on where you are flying out of. Although there are literally hundreds of great restaurants throughout the quarters- otherwise known as arrondissements, some of the best places to eat in Paris are:Taillevent, Le Grand Vefour, Le Meurice, L’Ambroisie, Pavillion LeDoyen, Guy Savoy, Pierre Gagnaire, Gerard Mulot, and L’Astrance.
3) Rome
The cradle of civilization, which is Rome, is one of 
the most ancient cities in the world. The old crumbling buildings and exquisite culture and food make Rome one of the best places on earth to honeymoon. It is recommended that one stay in Rome for two weeks because of all the places there are to visit while there. A trip to Rome can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000. The lodging there is minimal compared to other locations in Europe so the biggest expense would be airfare and recreation. The best place to stay in Rome is Hotel Amalia for its exquisite taste and spaciousness. A flight to Rome will take anywhere from 6 to 11 hours depending on where you leave from and more particularly because many times there are no direct flights from any cities west of New York. Some of the greatest restaurants to eat at while in Rome are: Cul de Sac, Navona Notte, Osteria del Gallo, Di Fronte A, and Da Tonino.
4) Jamaica
This is one of the most romantic places because of the fun in the sun and the gorgeous tropical climate. Jamaica is famous for its hospitality and many things to do from golf and river sports to countryside horseback rides up to the Blue Mountains where the worlds most luxurious coffee is grown. The classic Jamaican Reggae music fills the streets and festivals putting a smile on everyone’s faces. Although there is much to see, the recommended stay time is one week and for this the price for a honeymoon is only $1,500 to $2,500. Travel time to this wonderful destination is anywhere from 3 to 5 hours depending on where in the states you are flying from. The recommended resort to stay while you are in Jamaica is hands down the Sandals Resort in Ocho Rios. And, some of the greatest places to dine in Jamaica are: Pilgreens on Lake Dow, The Seasons Bistro, Kuyaba Restaurant, and The Houseboat Grill Restaurant.
5) Tahiti
This island paradise is a 
very popular honeymoon destination for obvious reasons. These magical tropics are part of the French Polynesian Islands and are the most comfortable and relaxing places to rest and relax with your sweetheart. There are many activities to indulge in as well – from the central museum which houses exhibits dedicated to Gauguin, to the open-air marketplaces where fresh produce, seafood and local crafts can be found in abundance. The place to stay here is Bora Bora and it will take about 12 to 15 hours. And, although you only need a week in Tahiti, the trip will cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. Therefore, if money is an issue then Tahiti probably isn’t the place you want to go. The best place to stay is Le Meridien Bora Bora where you get your own private bungalow. The best places to eat are: Bloody Mary’s, The Bamboo House, and, La Villa Mahana.
Jump starting the Honeymoon
One option is to start your honeymoon immediately after the ceremony. You can do this by having your wedding at your honeymoon destination. This allows your wedding to be in the same beautiful location and give you that much more time to spend with your newlywed with an added bonus of having your friends and family be a part of the whole experience. We have some additional information about destination weddings on our ulc wedding wines page: Creative Wedding Locations.
