Modern Honeymoon Alternatives: Couples Embrace New Travel Trends

Culinary Exploration on Honeymoon

“Every trip we do is educational,” says Nuriel Molcho, a restaurateur and hatmaker who resides in Vienna. When he and his wife, Audrey, planned their honeymoon with the assistance of travel planners at Untold Story Travel, they emphasized a food-centric experience. As the co-founder of Neni, a modern Israeli restaurant chain with locations across Europe, Molcho desired a trip that would immerse them in Japan’s culinary culture, prioritizing hands-on experiences.

Untold Story, co-founded by Chris Brunning, curated a two-week itinerary that included foraging for wild plants along Lake Kussharo in Hokkaido, delving into Nikkei cuisine with a protégé of Nobu Matsuhisa in Niseko, and mastering the preparation of fugu, the notoriously tricky poisonous puffer fish. The couple enjoyed a range of dining experiences, from Michelin-starred destination restaurants to informal yakitori dinners. This indulgent yet fulfilling journey was precisely what they had hoped for. “I would do it exactly the same way again,” Molcho reflects.

Adventurous Journeys for Newlyweds

However, Untold Story is not the only travel firm crafting immersive, comprehensive vacations that challenge traditional honeymoon ideas. “Newlyweds are increasingly moving away from typical beach vacations to seek out experiences that allow them to connect with the local environment, people, and culture,” shares Annie Jones, founder of Telos Travel. This shift in mentality is evident in clients’ evolving requests.

This trend holds particularly true for adventurous journeys, such as the immersive Oman itineraries prepared by experts at Remote Lands. They offer Arabic immersion courses and Omani pottery-making classes, providing a unique way to experience the local culture. iBestTravel Travel Advisory Board member Mark Lakin, founder of Legacy Untold, frequently advises on photography-focused tours in regions like Chilean Patagonia, Kenya, and Tanzania, mixing wildlife observation with educational workshops on photography techniques.

The Allure of Kauai

Moreover, Jones is particularly enthusiastic about Kauai as a honeymoon destination. “With opportunities for snorkeling, exploring the breathtaking Napali Coast, and hiking Waimea Canyon State Park, it presents a thrilling combination of activities,” she advises. Additionally, the new Malama Hawaii Program makes it simple for visitors to find ways to give back to the local community.

For those seeking enriching and educational honeymoon experiences, the options are evolving. Couples can now anticipate memorable adventures that combine culture, nature, and culinary delights, ensuring an unforgettable start to married life.