From Nina Callaway,
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Back to Page 1 - Beach Vacations and Romantic Honeymoon Spots

Honeymoons for Adventurous Types

Costa Rica has been called a playground for adults, and for good reason. Not only will you enjoy beautiful beaches and hot nightlife, but active adventurers can do everything from whitewater rafting and mountain biking to surfing and fishing. And, if you're truly daring, consider swinging through the rainforest on a canopy tour. With the help of an adventure company, you'll use a harness and dangle from a cable from treetop to treetop, all while literally getting a birds eye view. Last, but certainly not least, Costa Rica boasts one of the top dive sites in the world in Isla del Coco where the reefs are teeming with everything from hammerhead sharks to manta rays.

Ever thought of a trip to Alaska? Where else can you see both lush rain forest and amazing glaciers? See humpback whales and moose from the comfort of a cruise ship, then choose helicopter rides, rainforest ziplines, or rock-climbing on port calls. Or spot moose, eagles, salmon, beaver, and bears from the thrill of a whitewater rafting trip. And, if its romantic seclusion with an adventure twist you're looking for, consider a backcountry lodge or fishing lodge.

Winter Wonderlands

If you love to ski, then Colorado is the place for you. Combine some of the best powder in the world with the glamour of historic ski resorts. Hit Aspen for both expert runs and a great beginner mountain, as well as a real town with Victorian architecture. Head to Beckinridge for a more affordable trip with rustic appeal and great slopes, or go to the country's most celebrated ski resort Vail, where 5000 acres of skiable terrain and a free bus system means that you can concentrate on getting down the slopes.

For the jet-set, St. Moritz, Switzerland is the place to ski, where you can choose from bowl skiing, cross-country, the vertical drops of Piz Nair, or the Olympic ski-jumping hill. Brush elbows with European royalty, while you gaze at the bucolic sites of chalets nestled in the hills.

And if you enjoy the snow more than the sports, check out Canada's many destination spots, especially Churchill, Manitoba where from October to early November you can see hundreds of polar bears along with helicopter tours of the tundra, dog sled races, and the northern lights.

Urban Nightlife and Culture

Las Vegas is a newly reinvented honeymoon destination. Once mostly casinos and strip bars, the city now boasts some amazing celebrity-frequented dance clubs, four-star restaurants headed by the country's most well-known chefs, and spectacular shows such as Cirque du Soleil. While the city boasts it's own Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Sphinx and Pyramid, don't come here looking for fine-art museums or high culture. Instead, celebrate the kitsch with a visit to the Liberace museum, a turn at the slots, a cheesy floor show, or the thrill of riding a rollercoaster inside your hotel.

For this girl, New York City will always be the romance capital of the world. From the simple pleasures of a hand-in-hand stroll through Central Park, to the excitement of Times Square just before showtime, you'll feel like you're starring in one of the hundreds of romantic movies that have chosen New York as their soundstage. Hit the nightclubs, fill your belly at one of the hundreds of celebrated restaurants, visit world-renowned museums and adventurous galleries, and don't forget to bring some extra cash and an empty suitcase for the shopping.

While Jamaica is known for its white sand beaches, and breathtaking waterfalls, it's a great spot to party too. Drink the famous rum while listening to reggae and dancing on the beach. Or hit one of the many nightclubs for a mix of reggae, pop, and soca. The truly adventurous can head to Hedonism II, known for its toga parties, nude pool, and scenery of other couples en flagrante delicto, if you know what I mean. You can have the best of both worlds by hitting Montego Bay or Negril for the nightlife, then spending a few days in romantic seclusion near the Blue Lagoon, Black River, or Somerset Falls.

For more about honeymoon planning, including where to go, budget planners, and hot deals, check out About.com's Guide to Honeymoons and Romantic Getaways