3 Alternatives to the Traditional Honeymoon
Are you looking for some ideas for your honeymoon? Sure, the notion of sandy white beaches and palm trees is something that almost everyone desires, there are other, more local options that are a fraction of the cost and would definitely make for some wonderful storytelling with the grandkids … eventually.
Go camping … or “glamping”.
Camping is a great way to come together as a couple. What could be better than being out in the wilderness, just the two of you. Camping doesn’t have to mean “roughing it”. Find a spot that you like, that is away from the crowds or a spot that means something special for the two of you. If possible, send someone to your destination ahead of time and have him or her set up a romantic atmosphere for you, complete with fairy lights, candles and maybe a little citronella. How romantic to sit by a fire at night, snuggling under the stars. Not only would it be a time to remember but also the quiet solitude will help you relax after the chaos of the wedding planning.
Rent a cottage by a lake.
Renting a cottage is another great way to spend time together in nature. Renting a cottage near a lake affords you all types of different activities such as canoeing, kayaking and swimming. The fires at night are still an option, the only difference is that you will have all the comforts of home, like a kitchen and, say, a roof. Often cottages are close to small villages, which can be fun to explore together to make plenty of romantic and lasting memories. Last but not least, you don’t have to mess with flights and the possibility of lost luggage or kids kicking the back of your seat for six hours straight. That’s a definite positive.
Take a road trip … or go storm chasing.
Taking a road trip is an excellent way to spend some quality time together if you don’t have a destination in mind. Crank up the tunes, talk, enjoy the wind through your hair. Stay at cheesy motels, chase clouds … but steer clear of tornado warnings. The romantic possibilities are endless as are the potential for funny and interesting stories. I would probably recommend CAA, or rent a cool car that you have always wanted to own but currently can’t afford. Take lots of pictures and dream big dreams and talk a lot. Be goofy and sing some cheesy songs that you don’t remember the words to. Go left when you think you should go right and just get lost. Someone will always be there to give you directions, but someone might not always be there to pump the gas. So do a LITTLE planning.
As you can see, these three honeymoons are different and unique. You may not get the white sand you were dreaming about, but there is no shortage of great memories to be had. All three of these offer great quality time matched with teamwork. They are wonderful places to be silly together, to grab a guitar and strum a few songs out, roast marshmallows or sing to your hearts content. And now that you are married, the new stories begin. Sometimes the best ones come out of spontaneity and simplicity.
Safe driving!
Brought to you by ~
Mandi
photos by Maddy Joy