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Honeymoons with a twist
Skip the tried and tested destinations and explore other serene spots for the perfect romantic getaway, suggests Carol Sottili
- By Carol Sottili, The Washington Post
- Published: 23:08 May 19, 2009
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Skip the tried and tested destinations and explore other serene spots for the perfect romantic getaway, suggests Carol Sottili.
Think honeymoon and certain destinations come immediately to mind Hawaii, Italy, Tahiti, St Lucia, Mexico, France and Bermuda, to name a few. For some, being at Sandals in Jamaica with lots of other honeymooners is ideal. But others may want all the perks of a traditional honeymoon, but minus the crowd. Here are some alternatives we think you should bear in mind while planning a honeymoon.
Instead of Tuscany, try Sicily
The island boasts good restaurants, some nice hotels, incredible history and pleasant beaches. Land in either Palermo or Catania, rent a car and hit the hot spots, which include Agrigento, Syracusa, Taormina and Cefalu. Many of the island's luxury hotels are located in Taormina. Take a look at San Domenico Palace and Grand Hotel Timeo. If you're more outdoorsy, yet love good food and nice accommodations, take a look at the Italian Dolomites. The Val Gardena region, including the towns of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva Gardena, offer lovely scenery, fine restaurants and great hiking. Lodging choices include Hotel Aaritz in Selva Gardena and Hotel Posta Cavallino Bianco in Ortisei.
Instead of Costa del Sol, consider Costa Blanca
Fly into Alicante, rent a car and head north. The coast is dotted with small fishing or tourist villages that offer nice lodging and lovely promenades with bars and restaurants. I'm partial to the town of Moraira take a look at the Hotel La Sort there.
Austria
Austria has regions where you'll spend days without hearing any English, much less an American accent. In Upper Austria, several incredibly scenic lakes Traunsee, Attersee and Mondsee are ringed with villages that offer lodging, restaurants, etc. The town of Gmunden on Lake Traunsee is one of my favourites. If you like spa towns, consider Bad Schallerbach, which offers outdoor music festivals and a fine spa.
Dominica, anyone?
If you like the idea of the Caribbean, but you don't want to spend your days lying back and relaxing on the beach, try an island that offers alternatives. For nature lovers, consider Dominica it's not the best for beaches, but it offers really great hiking, birdwatching and snorkeling. Plus the price is right rates are cheaper than those found on other, more tourist packed islands. Lodging options include Beau Rive, Zandoli Inn, and the Calibishie Lodges.
Rainforests in Costa Rica
If you're set on Costa Rica, it's fine to do the beach thing, but also consider spending a few days in the country's rainforest. Take a look at Selva Verde Lodge in Sarapiqui, which offers isolated individual cabins set in the forest, plus whitewater rafting, hiking and other outdoorsy pursuits.
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