Plan a Honeymoon Beyond the Beach with These Golden Rules
2 September 2024
Why Choose Unique Honeymoon Destinations
Choosing the perfect post-wedding getaway can be as challenging as planning the wedding itself. Couples often seek more than just the typical honeymoon of beach relaxation at popular destinations. Instead, they desire unique experiences that blend culture, adventure, and relaxation.
Discovering Jamaica
Our journey began in Jamaica, where we landed in Kingston and were greeted by Christopher, our driver and guide. He took us to the Strawberry Hill Luxury Mountaintop Retreat in Irish Town, an hour’s drive from the airport. Arriving in the night, we could not fully appreciate the breathtaking views until morning. This serene location, once a healing retreat for Bob Marley, was the perfect spot to start our honeymoon.
Immersive Experiences
During our first two days, we immersed ourselves in Jamaica’s rich history and vibrant music scene. A visit to the Bob Marley Museum was a highlight, supplemented by a tour of the Devon House Mansion. Moreover, the tranquility of Strawberry Hill made us wish we had extended our stay to enjoy the hotel’s award-winning spa.
Beachside Bliss at Goldeneye Resort
We then transitioned from the mountains to the coast, heading to Goldeneye Resort in Oracabessa Bay. This resort, known for its legendary connection to James Bond author Ian Fleming, merges luxury with relaxed vibes. We enjoyed five days of beachside activities, including snorkeling and paddleboarding in the saltwater lagoon. The FieldSpa provided treatments from the most intuitive masseuses we’ve ever encountered, all while being nestled in the heart of the resort.
Adventures and Local Cuisine
While we mostly stayed at the resort, our few excursions were filled with adventure. Cliff jumping at the Blue Hole Mineral Spring near Ocho Rios offered thrills, while Miss T’s Kitchen introduced us to local Jamaican cuisine, with oxtail being a standout dish. Additionally, river rafting on the Rio Grande was an unforgettable experience that felt life-altering—one that I highly recommend.
Vibrant Miami
From Jamaica’s natural beauty, we ventured to the bustling city of Miami, dividing our stay between two unique hotels: the chic Mr. C Miami in Coconut Grove and the tranquil The Standard Spa, Miami Beach.
Exceptional Service and Culture in Coconut Grove
The service at Mr. C Miami was outstanding. Its proximity to shops, restaurants, and cultural events like the Coconut Grove Arts Festival was perfect for first-time visitors. We plan to return to this remarkable location on our next visit.
Culinary Exploration
We dived into Miami’s culinary scene, sampling Cuban, Caribbean, and Latino dishes. One unforgettable meal was at Matador Room at The Miami Beach Edition. Our lovely waiter Matthew curated our dishes, and to our surprise, the Brussels sprout dish became the standout of the meal. Chef Lateisha knows her craft well.
Tranquility and Discovery at The Standard Spa
After two nights, we transitioned to The Standard Spa, Miami Beach, an adult-only hotel. It provided a wonderful contrast to the city’s energy, offering relaxation before our upcoming explorations.
Exploring Miami’s Art and Nightlife
Differing from our time in Jamaica, we explored as much of Miami as possible. The city’s museums and galleries in Wynwood offered endless discovery, while Miami’s renowned Art Deco architecture captivated us at every turn. Each day presented new adventures—from hidden nightclubs to renting scooters to uncover private islands.
Conclusion
In hindsight, planning our honeymoon in this particular order was fortuitous. While some might worry about the sequence of a vibrant city followed by a peaceful start, this journey left us inspired and deeply connected. For couples looking to create their unique post-wedding escapes, I recommend selecting destinations that reflect your tastes. For us, food, music, and culture are essential, and this trip fulfilled all our desires and more.
