These honeymoon destinations are hot, hot, hot

For many newlyweds, the honeymoon is the best part of the wedding. After all, the hard work of planning for that special day and after posing for countless pictures, it’s almost a necessity for a couple to hit the beach or

mountains for a relaxing, yet romantic, escape.

Whether you want a fun, adventurous honeymoon or a peaceful, relaxing one, a few places automatically come to mind.

But there are plenty of other hot honeymoon sites you may want to consider.

When talking about honeymoons, it seems Hawaii is always near the top of everyone’s list.

With a landscape of shimmering blue ocean and exotic tropical flowers, it is easy to see why.

From its beaches and luaus to its fresh exotic food and resort-style accommodations, Hawaii has a great deal to offer newly married couples looking for a romantic getaway.

If you think Hawaii is too popular a destination for a secluded honeymoon, just look beyond the crowded tourist attractions such as Waikiki, and you’ll find the serenity and privacy you’re seeking.

Hawaii has six main islands that stretch for miles, each with its own unique personality.

You and your spouse may be interested in trying to surf for the first time or visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see an active volcano.

Either way, Hawaii always makes a perfect honeymoon destination.

No one says you have to travel far for a great honeymoon. Mexico is one of the more economical places for newlyweds to consider. From outdoor adventure to a vibrant nightlife, Mexico has much to offer the couple who want to make the most of their honeymoon. And the authentic Mexican cuisine is delicious.

Some of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations are Tijuana, Los Cabos, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco. These are the primary sites of the beaches and clubs. Then there are other cities, including Zacatecas and Monterrey, that are known for their historical architecture and museums.

But above all, the hotspot of Mexico is Cancun. This beautiful city on the Yucatan Peninsula has the works: Romantic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, diving and snorkeling. You can never go wrong with Cancun.

Though only a small country in Central America, Costa Rica has the three things every honeymooner wants: Captivating beaches and scenery, all the privacy you desire and great food. Oh, and there is no winter or summer here. Depending on what part of the country you are in, the temperature stays between 72-89 degrees.

With rain forests, volcanoes and rivers that flow through mountains, Costa Rica offers a wide of selection of attractions for the adventurous couple. Also enjoy diving, go sailing around the coast or visit the nearby natural reserves. And don’t forget to visit Coco Island, which is in the running for becoming one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

What if you could wake up each morning to a Polynesian breakfast in your private overwater bungalow? Yes, the islands of Tahiti have it all, and are proud of their crystal-blue waters, large white sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets. Sounds perfect for a honeymoon, doesn’t it?

Known as one of the leading spa destinations, Tahiti also offers open-air spas in garden areas facing the blue lagoons. You can also hike through tropical forests, swim with manta rays or enjoy a Polynesian dance event.

Although it is the second-most popular tourist city in France (second only to Paris), this hot honeymoon location is probably the most unfamiliar site on this list. Located 427 miles southeast of Paris, the city of Nice (pronounced “niece”) is known for its warm, dry weather and many attractions, museums and monuments.

Nice is a beautiful city on the French Riviera known for its long vineyards, white beaches and a long shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. If Paris is on your list of possible honeymoon destinations, you may also want to consider adding Nice.

The islands of the Caribbean are obvious favorites for honeymooners. Here are some points to remember in making your honeymoon decision:

Nassau/Paradise Island and Freeport may be the most popular destinations in the Bahamas, but if you want to go somewhere less crowded and a little milder, you may want to investigate the Out Islands.

If you choose Jamaica for your honeymoon, bring your appetite. From ackee and saltfish (the national breakfast) to coconut jelly to rich Blue Mountain coffee, the food is definitely worth the trip.

Also, the Bahamas have the clearest waters in the world, with visibility more than 200 feet. Beach lovers and those fascinated with marine life would love the Bahamas.

Many people choose to go on a cruise for their honeymoon, even if it’s to the places mentioned above. Tracey Smith, of Travel Unlimited in Florence, offered some advice on cruises.

“Summer months are, of course, the most popular months (peak season), so plan accordingly. Remember, when it is cold here, it is peak season in the Caribbean, for example.”

This alternative to flying is popular because of its convenience. Lounging on the deck of a large cruise ship is much more relaxing than flying and renting a car. Also, with gourmet cuisine, live music, pools and spas, the time spent on the cruise itself is just as much part of the honeymoon as the destination.