Are you looking to venture off the beaten path with your Raja to a honeymoon destination that's not like any other? While there are safe bets and several fabulous favorites among newlyweds, we're shining our spotlight on eight incredible choices that you may not have thought of, and that are up and coming spots among avante garde honeymooners worldwide. Whether you're looking to make a splash on a tropical island getaway, or seeking a seriously rich urban adventure, we've got you covered. Check out our top picks!

Bodrum, Turkey

Photo courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group (Mandarin Oriental Bodrum)

If you've been dreaming of soaking up the sun on a romantic honeymoon at a trendy and luxurious locale like St. Tropez, but you're looking for something a little "road less traveled", you'll definitely want to consider Bodrum, Turkey. This charming Aegean town is a coastal dream — complete with its very own adventurous jet-setters and celebrities (if that's what you're into). Hop on a yacht for a sunset cruise with your Raja, take a day trip to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and soak up the sun in style!

Ecuadorian Andes


Photo courtesy of Black Sheep Inn

If you're more into backpacking, wide open skies and lush green mountains, than the Ecuadorian Andes is a research-worthy option for you. Our pick in the region is the Black Sheep Inn in Chugchilan. It was voted one of the world's best hotels by National Geographic in 2011, and offers an ECO-friendly option for ECO-conscious honeymooners. Hike the Quilotoa Loop and come home with tales of your romantic adventure in the great outdoors that will inspire and impress almost anyone. This is definitely the kind of trip that requires great thought and planning as it's a remote location with little options for transportation and lodging, but will be well worth the time and effort.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Photo courtesy of Elewana Collection (Kilindi Zanzibar)

Lying adjacent to the tantalizing turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean is the coast of Zanzibar. This East African heaven on earth is a great alternative to the more popular Seychelles and offers a lot of the same activities you may be in search of if you were thinking along those lines. Surrender to the white sand beaches, tons of beautiful culture and enjoy activities like snorkeling, diving and wildlife adventures. 

Prague, Czech Republic

Photo courtesy of Layover Guide

If your Maharani style is Boho-chic, and you and your Raja are looking to get lost in your own Bohemian Rhapsody, then Prague is the answer to your Honeymoon dreams. While Paris is always a good idea (always), Prague offers all the romance and charm without all the hype. Explore the city's rich culture, where Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance structures stand side-by-side, and some of the world's most well-preserved old towns reside. There are no shortage of museums and activities, and you can take day trips to nearby places like Mělník (known for its wine) and Karlštejn. 

The Great Barrier Reef

Image courtesy of Getty Images

So, you and the Raja of your dreams are real marine adventurers, are you? Where better to celebrate a life-long journey of water adventures together than at the Great Barrier Reef? The world's largest coral reef system is the perfect place to dive to your hearts content. Take a seaplane over Heart Reef, skydive Whitsunday Islands (I've done this and it's not to be missed) or treat yourself to a luxury overnight stay on a catamaran. There's no shortage of outdoor activities and you'll get to cross off plenty of unforgettable bucket list items!

Granada, Nicaragua

Photo courtesy of Travel Pulse

Granada offers Latin flare for newlyweds looking to spice up their honeymoon, and while it's not completely less-traveled, it's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination — and it totally shouldn't be. Situated on Lake Granada, this colonial city is a vibrant and bustling beauty littered with outdoor cafes, bright and bold facades and welcoming locals. The iconic, saffron-colored cathedral and picturesque views are all Insta-worthy and unforgettable, and so are the cuisine and people.

Havelock Island, India

You may have never heard of Havelock Island, but we're sure you've seen images featuring its Elephant Beach at some point in your life. India is rich in traditions and culture, and yes, they have their own islands too! Most think of Mumbai or Goa when they think of traveling to this incredible country, but if you're planning a honeymoon off the beaten track there, you definitely want to carve some time out to experience Havelock Island. Take in the stunning stretch of sand at Radhanagar Beach and the breathtaking lagoon at Neils Cove, dive and kayak to your hearts delight and then post all those pics on Facebook that will make your friends wish they were there!

Madrid, Spain

Photo courtesy of Work Break Travel

The capital city of Spain may not seem like a destination that's off the beaten path, but when you're a newlywed looking to immerse yourself in some of the world's most amazing culture and food, it may be a city you overlook with options like Barcelona on that table. We vote you head to Madrid if you have love for abundant amounts of European culture, amazing food and historic architecture. The city buzzes with richness and romance and is an ideal option for urban-lovin' Maharanis and Rajas.

Check those passport expiration dates and get to planning, Maharanis!