Hot Honeymoon Destinations

For many brides, that first married-couple vacation can almost feel like an afterthought. And who can blame them? Since the day they said “yes,” they’ve been busy meeting with caterers, pouring over menu and wine selections and picking their wedding day buds-and unless their future “Mr’s” are helpful wedding or vacation planners, most of the burden may have fallen to the bride.

But don’t let it get you down and don’t forget to give your honeymoon the proper planning it deserves.

This Big Trip is the only honeymoon you and your sweetie will ever take, so even if you can’t afford that month-long African Safari you’ve always dreamed of, make your honeymoon trip a good one.

Need some inspiration? Here are five sizzling honeymoon destinations that are guaranteed to get your marriage off on the right foot.


1. Most Popular Overall

Hawaii
For years, these Pacific islands have taken first place in the honeymoon destination department for love and romance. And why shouldn’t they? With over 4,000 square miles of beaches, mountains, volcanoes and waterfalls, the Big Island in Hawaii is one of the few places on earth that offers something for everyone.

2. Most Popular Domestic

Las Vegas
If what happens in Vegas really does stay in Vegas, then why not join the hordes of other newlyweds who chose Sin City for their Honeymoon and make some sultry secrets of your own? Think about it-big city, bright lights, gambling, live shows and buffets … and really, nothing says "I love you" like the glitz and glimmer of the Las Vegas Strip.

3. Most Popular Caribbean

Puerto Rico
Looking for something a bit more exotic than Vegas, but closer to home than Hawaii? Then you, like thousands of other couples, should head down south to the white sandy shores of Puerto Rico.

Popular for honeymooners because of the dramatic cliffs and swooping coastlines, Puerto Rico's casinos, mild climate, natural attractions and vicinity to the US make it an affordable tropical honeymoon destination.


4. Most Popular European

Italy
No place on earth rivals the bel paese when it comes to love, history, art and romance and with 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to its name-more than any other country in the world!-an Italian honeymoon guarantees to keep you busy.

The Big Three-Rome, Florence, Venice-continue to be popular with honeymooners, as does the Amalfi Coast, Siena and southern Italy.

5. Something Different

Alaskan Cruise
So what do you do if you and sweetie are none too thrilled with the idea of 10 days of beaches, sand and sunburns? Then cruise up north for a once-in-a-lifetime tour of the Alaskan wilderness. Cruise from one wild Alaskan point to another while watching the whales, ayak, hike or dog sled on your shore excursions or hop on a copter for an aerial view of the largest US state.

Chattanooga, Tennessee, Dry Tortugas, Florida, San Antonio, Texas, Montrose, Colorado and Intercourse, Pennsylvania are other interesting domestic destinations.

For a unique international honeymoon destination, consider Argentina, Belize, Turkey, Thailand, India or Morocco.

Have you selected your honeymoon destination yet? Where are you going?

Photos courtesy of Jeff Kubina and Paolo Margari