Introduction to Honeymoon
A honeymoon is a special vacation taken by newlyweds after their wedding to celebrate their marriage and newlywed status. It’s a time for couples to relax, enjoy each other’s company, and create lifelong memories. With so many amazing honeymoon destinations around the world, choosing the best one can be overwhelming. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the romantic streets of France, there are countless options to suit every couple’s style and budget. Whether you dream of lounging on a beach, exploring a new culture, or embarking on an adventure, the perfect honeymoon destination awaits. In this section, we’ll explore the world of honeymoons and provide tips and advice for planning the perfect trip.
Have You Ever Wondered How The Tradition of A Honeymoon Began?
The word honeymoon is associated with the ancient tradition of giving the gift of honey wine to newlyweds. A far cry from its modern-day meaning which evokes images of newly married couples sailing off into the sunset to enjoy privacy and love at their honeymoon destination.
The Origins of The Honeymoon Tradition
In Babylon, located in the ancient civilization of Mesopotamia, which dates back to 2300 BC, but could date much further back than this, history recounts a tradition of the father-in-law’s way of welcoming his new son-in-law into the family was to offer him as much beer as he wanted during the first thirty days after the couple were wed. In ancient times, beer was made from a base of honey and a month was one moon cycle – approximately thirty days. This correlation between the moon and the month of honey beer being drunk could have been why the period after the marriage was called the month of honey or honeymoon. A second ancient Babylonian legend tells of how newlyweds would receive gifts of golden honey wine. Another idea was that the honeymoon should be a time right after the wedding when the couple could enjoy privacy and intimacy a stress-free period filled with happiness and spend this short time indulging in the romantic aspect of their union. One of the symbolisms of the gift of honey mead was to solidify the new bond between the honeymooners before they had to affront the reality of the real world. In addition to these traditions, some cultures also celebrated with visits to natural attractions, such as the stunning Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens in St. Lucia, enhancing the romantic allure of the location.
And as if this was not enough, the newlyweds were directed to drink honey wine every night for a full moon cycle to celebrate their vows – hence, the word “honeymoon.” Read all about it in Chapter V “A Beverage of Mythical Proportions” (“Honeymoon in Babylon” section) of our honey wine book and view colorful custom illustrations like the shy newlyweds below clutching their honey wine.
Illustration from “Honeymoon in Babylon” in The Celebrated Story of Honey Wine book
The Word Honeymoon In Literature
The word honeymoon first appeared in written literature in 1552 in old and Middle English and was called Hony Moone in a dictionary written by Richard Huloet. The honey represented the joyous, sweetness, and deep love a newlywed couple feels for each other. The moon represented the first cycle of the moon or a month after the couple was married. It came with a grim warning that the sweetness and joy the couple enjoyed during their first month of marriage would not endure. The term has since evolved, with many destinations now being ranked as the number one choice for honeymooners seeking a blend of romance and adventure.
The Evolution of The Definition of The Word Honeymoon Throughout History
A Short Period of Euphoria Experienced by Newlyweds
A moon cycle lasts for 29.53 days or approximately one month. The reference in the 5th century tells of newlywed couples being given a month’s supply of honey mead. The diminishing supply of mead also signified that the sweetness and novelty of a couple’s newlywed status was no longer as delightful as it was on the day of their marriage, marking a different kind of transition in their relationship.
In 1622 Samuel Johnson defined the honeymoon as “The first month after marriage when there is nothing but tenderness and pleasure; but the moon, which changes, soon shows them change”.
A Trip Taken by The Newlywed Couple After They Are Married
In the 1800s the “bridal tours” began to gain popularity among the upper classes, especially in Britain. The honeymoon might be when the newly married couple would visit other family members who could not attend the wedding ceremony. Alternatively, it could be a romantic honeymoon trip, where wealthy couples might spend time abroad. Due to the easy accessibility of affordable railway travel, even individuals from the working class could escape for a romantic honeymoon to the country or seaside. The Victorians defined honeymoon as a month of “enforced seclusion” where couples were expected to create the next generation. This is a far cry from the vacation spent in sandals at a luxurious resort that is associated with a modern-day honeymoon stay.
Modern Definition
From the start of the 20th century through to modern times, honeymoons are associated with the newly married couple setting off to a romantic honeymoon destination to an often exotic destination somewhere in the world where the newlywed couple can dream of their beautiful future together as they lay in the warm sun on a beach. For instance, visiting Bora Bora between December and March can be a cost-effective option for honeymooners, despite the potential for increased rainfall and humidity. Honeymooners will search out the best honeymoon destinations that are romantic and relaxing love-filled once-a-lifetime trips often enjoying water sports in turquoise waters or lying on the beach in the Caribbean. Other popular romantic honeymoon destinations include France, Jamaica, Greece, and Mexico.
Honey Was Ideal For Newlywed Couples On Their Honeymoon in More Ways Than You Might Imagine
New lovers spend the first month discovering the joy of being with their new spouse. We must remember that in less modern times, the wedding night would be the first time many couples would be alone for the first time and this privacy and intimacy could make them feel awkward. One idea suggests that the consumption of honey mead helped to remove some of the inhibitions of the new couples as they explore their new married life and discover more about each other. Mead was also considered an aphrodisiac and also believed to be associated with fertility. Couples should also consider packing essential items such as sunscreen and appropriate clothing to ensure they are prepared for both relaxation and romantic dinners.
In less modern times, the honeymoon was meant to be a time when the new couple would focus on starting their family, being a bit tipsy might have made this process that much easier. The new couples were expected to end the honeymoon with a child on the way. The future of the home would be secure and they could get back to the mundane tasks of tilling the fields and taking care of the animals.
Planning the Perfect Honeymoon
Planning the perfect honeymoon requires careful consideration of several factors, including budget, destination, and activities. Many couples choose to honeymoon in destinations that offer a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. The Caribbean, with its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a popular choice for honeymooners. Jamaica, St. Lucia, and the Bahamas are just a few of the many islands that offer a romantic and relaxing atmosphere. For couples seeking a more urban experience, cities like Paris, Rome, and New York offer a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. When planning a honeymoon, it’s essential to consider the time of year, with many couples choosing to travel during the spring and summer months. With so many options available, it’s crucial to research and book in advance to ensure the best deals and availability. By carefully planning and considering your preferences, you can create the perfect honeymoon that suits your style and budget.
Honeymoon Destinations
When it comes to choosing the best honeymoon destination, there are countless options to consider. From the beach resorts of Mexico and the Caribbean to the romantic cities of Europe, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience. For couples seeking a relaxing and secluded getaway, destinations like Bora Bora and the Maldives offer stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. For those interested in history and culture, destinations like Greece and Italy offer a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. The world’s best honeymoon destinations are often characterized by their natural beauty, rich culture, and romantic atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, there’s a honeymoon destination out there to suit your style and budget. By exploring different options and considering what you both enjoy, you can find the perfect place to start your married life together.
Honeymoon Activities
Honeymoon activities can range from relaxing and romantic to adventurous and exciting. For couples seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, many resorts offer spa treatments, yoga classes, and other wellness activities. For those interested in water sports, destinations like the Caribbean and Hawaii offer a wealth of opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. Other popular honeymoon activities include hiking, biking, and horseback riding, which offer a great way to explore the local landscape and enjoy the great outdoors. Many couples also choose to take a romantic dinner cruise or sunset sail, which offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With so many activities to choose from, it’s essential to prioritize and plan ahead to ensure a memorable and enjoyable honeymoon. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or romance, there’s a honeymoon activity out there to suit your style and interests. By planning your activities in advance, you can make the most of your honeymoon and create lasting memories.
Bee d’Vine Can Help You Celebrate Ancient Honeymoon Traditions in Modern Times
If you or someone you know are planning a wedding celebration, and are seeking to capture some of the ancient magic associated with ancient honeymoon traditions, you should order or suggest Bee d’Vine (contact us for a bulk discount and also for any advice and useful tips on how to pick the ideal wine for your celebration). Delight your guests by making a toast with perfect glasses of unique honey wines which we are certain they will enjoy. In addition, there is a story to tell as old as marriage itself if they are interested!