When the excitement of planning your wedding comes to an end, the focus shifts from cake-tasting and place cards to unique honeymoon locales that will bring you even closer to your new bride or groom. If you’re in the process of deciding exactly what that first special getaway as a married couple looks like, you aren’t alone. Finding a great honeymoon destination can be a big decision — not only is it a celebration of one of the biggest milestones of your life, but it’s also a perfectly acceptable time to use those vacation days and truly be OOO, which means you (and your significant other) definitely want to make the most of it.
Luckily, there’s no shortage of breathtaking locations — and Michael and Alexandra Gallagher are proof of that. In 2015, the couple quit their jobs and embarked on an adventurous journey that eventually led to the start of Couples Coordinates, an informative destination for all things relating to couples travel. Their Instagram bio even reads, “on a never-ending honeymoon”, so who better to tap for expert advice on the subject? Below are some of the Gallagher's favorite honeymoon destinations that’ll have you booking your flight and relaxing with a cocktail in hand in no time!
Croatia
“The country is beautiful from top to bottom,” the Gallagher's gush in a recent blog post. When it comes to quintessential Mediterranean romance, Dubrovnik in particular is an ideal location. It’s rich in history and even richer in picturesque coastline views, not to mention it’s actually where the majority of Game of Thrones is filmed. If you’re a fan of the wildly popular series (who isn’t?!) you’ll likely recognize the familiarity of the castle walls, marble-paved streets, and rooftops made of vivid terracotta tiles.
Another bonus to Croatia? It’s actually affordable. “The island of Lokrum is the small island that you’ll spot just off the coast of Dubrovnik," writes the couple. "For just over $20, you can catch a boat to the island and spend all day exploring. You’ll find awesome nature preserves in the center, rocky cliffs on the back side, and rocky beaches and docks on the front side of the island!”
Malta
Both charming and unexpected, Malta is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples who want to experience a true cultural mix. “Upon arrival to Malta, our initial thoughts were, 'Wow, this place is as if southern Italy, Britain, and northern Africa had a baby,'" the Gallaghers note in their blog. "Malta is one of the more unique destinations we have ever visited."
Whether you’re into snorkeling, sunbathing, exploring, or just marveling at the beauty of all of the incredible local architecture, Malta truly has something for everyone. Plus, if you and your partner are total foodies, Malta’s restaurant scene is not to be missed. The Gallaghers site Broadside Terrace, an al fresco oasis in the grounds of Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay, as one of the stand-out meals of their trip.
Bora Bora
If crystal clear waters, perpetually warm weather, and luxurious tropical vibes sound like your idea of a good time, look no further than this unforgettable French-Polynesian destination. Take a cue from the Gallaghers and wake up and dive off your balcony into the ocean — the best bathtub in the world! Or lay on the beach and enjoy a cocktail, a delicious cold coconut, and/or a tasty lunch with local fish, rice, and veggies.
While, in their blog, the couple credits the Four Seasons Bora Bora as being one of the most beautiful resorts in the world, they also advise their readers to budget for this type of vacation in advance. Take it from this traveling duo when they say you’ll want to get creative and leverage things like credit card points and airline miles when you can. That way, you’ll be able to use your money toward memorable meals, soothing spa treatments, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences (like a shark safari, swimming with sting rays, and snorkeling over the coral reef).
Positano
“Positano is the epitome of the Couples Coordinates Trifecta: good people, good food, and good views,” the Gallaghers note in their blog. As if that weren’t enough to entice you to book your honeymoon here, it’s also one of the most romantic places on earth, with endless old-world charm and Insta-worthy neighborhoods you’ll be dreaming about long after your trip comes to an end.
If you’re feeling inspired to live as the Italians do, you can hire a boat, rent kayaks and row around the town, take a ferry to Capri, or enjoy a nice aperitivo at a private beach where you can rent a chair or umbrella. Once you’ve tired yourselves out with sightseeing, take the train to Naples and fuel up with Italy’s most iconic food — pizza. “Spend a few hours there and have the best pizza you’ll find anywhere in the world,” the Gallaghers write.
Indonesia
According to the Gallaghers, Indonesia has gorgeous beaches, mind-blowing volcanos, beautiful waterfalls, and the nicest people you’ll ever meet, making it the perfect place to spend your honeymoon. Expect beautiful weather year-round in Bali, where you can surf, soak up the sun, practice outdoor yoga, and immerse yourself in the culture and community.
“Walk through the terraces and feel like a Balinese farmer for a day," says the couple in a blog post. "Also be sure to check out the Ubud Temple.” Or, if an exotic ocean atmosphere sounds more appealing, don’t miss the Uluwatu area. Dance on the beach at sunset, enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine, or check out the Art Market for local finds and beautifully crafted handmade items.
