go where the wild things are
GETTING AWAY doesn't mean you have to go far
Honeymooning doesn’t mean you have to break the bank 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, consider renting a cozy cabin in the woods, having a staycation on the beach, going on a hiking/camping excursion, or hitting up some of your favorite local haunts together.
GET WILDLIFE-FRIENDLY
Chances are if you’re this far into our Wildlife-Friendly Wedding Guide, you’re a fan of wildlife. Consider a trip to a national park to see some native species in their 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 before you go.
GO LIGHT ON TRANSPORTATION
If you’re planning on renting a car, ask about alternative options like hybrid or electric vehicles. Even better, use a local bike share, ride share or public transportation to get around. These options save on emissions, which is good for wildlife, and they save you money, which is good for your wallet.
Biking generates 93% less CO2 per mile than driving a car and can be a great way to get to know the area through a new lens.
stay SMALL
While researching your perfect place to stay, look for small-scale local 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. If a larger hotel is more your style, choose one that has earned a certification in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) by the U.S. Green Building Council or other industry awards in sustainability.
A high-quality small boutique can reduce your carbon footprint by as much as 48%.
ethical ecotourism
If you’re looking into tours, be sure to research ecotourist activities. Ecotourism can be a more responsible way to get closer to wildlife while supporting conservation efforts and the local communities protecting these beautiful places. Being respectful of local culture and economies is top priority when traveling to any new place. If you want to give back to the community you’re visiting, look for volunteer vacations where you can bond over working to protect wildlife and wild spaces.
Ecotourism puts 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 & sea safe
Whether you’re hitting the pool, ocean, lake or river, wear sunscreen. But make sure it’s a “Reef Safe” SPF that doesn’t contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two very common and extremely toxic chemicals 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, many honeymooners spend time hitting the sheets. 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.
Before your clothes hit the floor, think of the California condor!