The Unexpected Honeymoon: Amazing U.S. Destinations
Article + Photos Courtesy of Kelley Austin, Couples Travel Concierge Cruise Planner
Here it is 2021 and there are still “unexpected” circumstances surrounding everyday life. Every day or week it seems like there is a new travel-related headline that can cause confusion or anxiety. Fear not, even during these times with unexpected changes, a honeymoon is still very possible.
Every day the question is pondered, “Where can I go for my honeymoon?”
There is no lack of honeymoon options available. Often in times of uncertainty or unexpected changes, it is difficult or overwhelming to plan creatively. Working with an experienced travel advisor will help ease the stress and provide that layer of security when it comes to the “what if” situations.
If you have a passport, there are options. The world is slowly opening, with a variety of protocols set in place. Some destinations are allowing only vaccinated travelers, some are allowing non-vaccinated travelers with testing before travel, and some are allowing travelers without vaccines and no testing requirements. The protocols are varied and changing with regular frequency.
Passport operations are currently very backed up. At the time of writing, per the state department website, routine passport processing is taking up to 18 weeks, expediting can take up to 12 weeks. If you are trying to plan international travel, 2021 is not the year for last-minute travel if you do not already have a passport.
Without a passport, there are still amazing honeymoon opportunities for you. There are unique destinations that many don’t often think about or know of for honeymoons in the USA. Domestic honeymoons can be so much more than going to a beach.
One fun idea is south-central Utah. Capitol Reef National Park just outside of Torrey, Utah makes for a stunning back drop for your “off the beaten path” honeymoon. There are unique accommodations ranging from Teepees to luxury casitas, with many ways to customize a honeymoon to this destination. If activity is important, there is no shortage of activities, jeep tours, star gazing, hiking, trail riding on llamas, fishing, canyoneering, and more. If laid-back quiet and / or disconnected is preferred, there are lodges and resorts perfect for that with stunning scenery and quiet ambiance. It’s also a great area to be based and explore other national parks.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming is another idea for an unexpected honeymoon. Jackson Hole can be a great year-round destination for those that want a quiet rustic getaway, and those that love activities. Some of the winter activities include skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and nothing says winter honeymoon like a sleigh ride. In the summer, some of the activities include ATV, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, and more. Accommodations range from hotels in the historic towns to ranch, lodge, and resort style accommodations.
Georgia is another unexpected honeymoon choice. Savannah is a fun, charming southern town with amazing food, art, trendy boutiques, roof top bars, and ghost stories. Savannah is a great town to explore on foot and known for incredible walking tours. Savannah also has some very fun neighborhoods to explore that are a reflection on historic and local culture. If beach is of interest, Tybee Island is a great beach day.
Another fun idea if time allows is to split a trip between Savannah and Hilton Head Island off the coast of South Carolina. With Hilton head only about an hour or so drive from Savannah, this is great opportunity to enjoy the best of local southern flair, and amazing beach stay.
If beach is the primary interest, there are no lack of great beaches in the United States. Depending on the time of year, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and California all offer typical beach honeymoons. In Florida alone, there are multiple regions from which to choose, the Florida Keys, to the Florida Panhandle and everything in between on both coasts. A hidden gem is Islamorada, and another is St. Petersburg, FL is another great, often not thought of option, combining that Florida city feel with the beach vibe. On the west coast, California has great beaches, something for everyone. A great option in California that is missed by many is the Santa Barbara area. Santa Barbara has a vibrant downtown scene, incredible restaurants, craft breweries, beaches, and the urban wine trail.
This country is blessed with amazing unique destinations that can all offer fun, unique, and special honeymoons. Hopefully some of these ideas provide inspiration for an unexpected honeymoon if needed.
Happy Travels,
Kelley Austin