Best Honeymoon Destinations for the Winter
by David Melse Posted December 19, 2014Think winter and you can already imagine the weather getting colder, the days getting shorter, and most people already dreaming of next summer. Winter’s the perfect time to plan a getaway – especially as a newly-married couple. If you’re getting married this winter, here are a few ideas for your upcoming honeymoon:
Jamaica
Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort vacation or a mix of beach time and culture, Jamaica has what you need. Temperatures are warm all year round, but the best time to visit this Caribbean island is between December and May, when the rains lessen and hurricane season has passed. Visit Blue Mountain for hiking, birding, and a tour of the Mavis Bank coffee factory (tasting sessions are available).
Visit Treasure Beach on the south coast of the island, for a laid-back beach experience with fewer tourists. Visit Monetgo Bay if you’re not sure where to start and want a varied selection of activities, restaurants, and tours.
Turks and Caicos
Made up of two groups of islands in the Antilles island grouping, Turks and Caicos are a British Overseas Territory. About a 90 minute flight from Miami, the weather here is hot, without being excessive, and boasts a much calmer atmosphere than many neighboring islands. The offerings here are in line with similar destinations: diving, windsurfing, boat tours, and other beach or water themed activities. The main draw is the uncrowded, white sand beaches, and the laid back feeling.
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Head to Salt Cay and feel like you’ve gone back in time. A simple island interspersed with dirt roads and farmhouses, there is not a lot in the way of action. However, the abundance of wildlife, nearly untouched beaches, and friendly locals will help you escape into vacation mode. Whichever island you decide to visit, the most stressful part of your trip will be going home.
Orlando, Florida
While it may not come with the tropical temperatures of the Caribbean, Orlando sees average highs in the 70s in mid-winter, and higher during the rest of the year. Although perhaps best known as the home of Walt Disney World and Universal Resort, Orlando has more to offer than just theme parks (but the theme parks are hard to beat, if that’s what you’re looking for!).
Take a day trip to Clearwater beach to enjoy the white sand and warm water, or even book a package that includes a speedboat ride along the coast. For a quieter look at Florida’s natural world, check out the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, where you can see hawks, owls, and eagles up close, as they are rehabilitated after injuries.
Chamonix, France
With a commercial history that dates back to the 1700s, and includes hosting the first winter Olympic Games, the region of Chamonix combines the romantic feel of France with a bustling ski resort vibe. With multiple mountains and a large offering of lessons, you’ll feel like a champion skier or boarder in no time!
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Even if you have no interest in outdoor sports, you can’t help but be impressed by the towering peaks surrounding you, including the impressive Mont Blanc. To see it up close and personal, take the Mont-Blanc tramway, which takes you on a scenic route to Bellevue, at 1800m, where you can eat at the restaurant and enjoy the view. In town, there are many mountaineering museums, shops, spas, and restaurants. Or curl up next to the fireplace in the chalet and enjoy a cup of steaming cocoa!
Whistler, Canada
Located just 2 hours outside of Vancouver, Whistler is an ideal getaway. Whistler and Blackcomb mountains are connected by the Peak 2 Peak gondola, and between them have over 200 trails served by 37 lifts. From bunny hills to terrain parks, there are opportunities for skiers and snowboarders of any skill level. There are 17 restaurants on the two mountains, and plenty of bars at the base for an après ski drink or two. Access to the mountains sits in Whistler Village, a pedestrian village that is packed with hotels, world-class restaurants, clubs, and shopping. Many hotels offer ski + stay combination packages, and gear rentals are easily available (as are lessons). Start your day early and add the Fresh Tracks option ($14-$20 extra) to your lift ticket for a mountaintop breakfast buffet and first dibs on the trails. End your day with a full hot tub experience at Scandinave Spa.
About the author: Abby Clark was bit by the travel bug as a teenager, and has explored several famous as well as little known cities and towns around the world. Abby writes for Best Quote Travel Insurance which offers Super Visa Insurance for travel.