go where the wild things are
exotic doesn't mean you have to go far
Honeymooning doesn’t mean you have to break your wallet to celebrate newlywed life. A honeymoon is all about you and your partner, not the place, so get creative with some local getaways. Depending on where you live you could rent a cozy cabin in the woods, have a staycation on the beach, go on a hiking/camping excursion, or hit up some of your favorite local haunts together.
GET WILDLIFE-FRIENDLY
Chances are if you’re this far in our wildlife-friendly wedding guide, you’re a fan of wildlife. Consider a trip to a national park to see some of our native species in their natural splendor or visit an animal sanctuary or aquarium to learn about and support their conservation work. If you decide to camp or hike in any protected areas, be sure to check their website for guidance about how to respect the wilderness and weather warnings before you go.
TRAVEL LIGHT
Did you know that a ride in a standard passenger vehicle emits more than a pound of CO2 per mile?
If you’re planning on renting a car, see what your alternative options are as far as hybrid or electric vehicles. Even better, use bikes and public transportation to get around and to see more of the area.
stay SMALL
Find small-scale boutique hotels, a cute bed and breakfast, or a cozy home to rent in the community you’re staying in. Their impact is usually less than a large chain hotel, and you’ll have more privacy and quiet time during your stay.
A high-quality small boutique can reduce your travel footprint by as much as 48%.
ethical ecotourism
If you’re looking into tours, be sure to research ecotourist activities. Ecotourism is a more responsible way to explore the place you’re visiting and is directed toward natural, exotic environments (usually endangered wild places) while also supporting conservation efforts in those environments. Ecotourism puts endangered wildlife and wild habitat protection at the forefront of the trip, making your adventure not only memorable but also safe for you, the animals and the natural habitats you’ll see.
be sun safe & sea safe
Whether you’re hitting a pool, beach, lake or river, wear sunscreen. But make sure to check the ingredients on your sunscreen and opt for types with natural ingredients. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are usually found in chemical-based sunscreens and are extremely toxic to marine life, especially coral, because the chemicals cause them to bleach and die. We've already lost half of our coral reefs due to climate change, and the added stress of chemical contamination deepens the crisis. Making this small change can result in healthier oceans and aquatic life.
safe sex saves wildlife
No matter where you go, honeymoons are most famous for sex. Make sure the right contraceptive for you and your partner is at the top of both of your packing lists, so you don’t add to your family before you’re ready. Almost half of all pregnancies in the United States are unplanned, and the demands of our growing human population mean fewer resources and less space for already endangered wildlife. So, before your clothes hit the floor, think of the California condor!