“Honeymoons last not nowadays above a fortnight,” Samuel Richardson observed in his 18th-century novel, Clarissa. He had a point: while love certainly may last beyond two weeks, precious vacation time may not, which makes choosing the right honeymoon destination even more crucial.
Start a marriage off on the right foot by first figuring out what type of travel fits your newlywed fantasy. Whether you crave the beach, some outdoor adventure, a little culture, or an extended party, there’s somewhere in the world for both of you to make your first memories together. Here are our top picks for 2016, each complete with timely appeal.
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FOR BEACH LOVERS: Nevis
You may not have heard of this Caribbean island, but you most certainly have heard of its most famous native, Alexander Hamilton (yes, he of the Founding Fathers, and Broadway’s current smash musical). This year, the island even became more accessible, with new direct flights from United Airlines via Newark. Its beaches have a reputation for being among the Caribbean’s most secluded and unspoiled, while its interior boasts verdant rainforests and volcanoes. Ample marine life encourages snorkeling between suntanning sessions.
Where to Stay: Newly opened Paradise Beach is the island’s only beachfront villa resort, with seven thatch-roof villas, each with their own lap and plunge pool. Here, couples can canoodle over a private dinner on the beach, enjoy guided waterfall hikes, and sip Champagne aboard a catamaran during a moonlight sail.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s St. Kitts and Nevis Travel Guide
FOR NATURE LOVERS: Yellowstone
This summer, the National Park Service commemorates its centennial, which means parks across America will be celebrating with special events. Mark the occasion by visitingYellowstone, America’s first park and the home of Old Faithful, hundreds of grizzlies, and the country’s most spectacular wilderness. Visitors can get close with nature in every way imaginable, via cycling, river rafting, hiking, wildlife safaris, fishing, boating, bird watching, horseback riding and swimming.
Where to Stay:Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole, WY, is celebrating the occasion with multi-day wolf and bear safaris through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The ranch also includes rooms with sweeping mountain views and fireplaces, plus an award-winning restaurant and spa.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Yellowstone National Park Travel Guide
FOR CRUISERS: Iceland
In 2016 Windstar Cruises, the world’s smallest luxury cruise line, launches a brand-new itinerary: “Around Iceland” takes guests on a seven-day sail from Reykjavik, stopping at five of the country’s outlying islands. Highlights include a soak in the famous Blue Lagoon; the renowned Hengifoss and Godafoss waterfalls; and Vigur Island, populated with puffins and black guillemots. The all-suite Star Legend yacht accommodates only 200 people, perfect for honeymooners who enjoy an intimate sail with personalized service.
Where to Stay: All suites have been recently refurbished; but it’s your honeymoon, so why not spring for one of the four Classic Suites, with private verandas?
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Iceland Travel Guide
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