honeymoons in...
Green Getaways
By Judith Fertig
It used to be all about "something borrowed, something blue." Today, "going green" has become another piece of popular wedding wisdom—and one that's stretching into how honeymooners want to kick off married life.
If you're part of an eco-concious couple that will encourage your guests to throw birdseed instead of rice and post wedding photos in online scrapbooks, then take a look at this roundup of eco-resorts for more organic (but still luxurious!) honeymoon options.
Each destination does "eco" in its won unique way, but every spot provides the kind of romantic getaway you've always dreamed your honeymoon could be. Be as laid back, or as active, as you choose. Simply enjoy two-of-you time or opt to explore each destination's surroundings: a primeval forest in British Columbia, a breezy island in the Pacific or a quaint New England seaside town.
And offset the carbon footprint you'll leave be flying to your destination, register at Carbon Footprint (carbonfootprint.com/shopweddinglist). Instead of gifting you yet another toaster or fondue set, your wedding guests can plant a tree in your honor.
Kw'o:kw'e:hala Eco Vacation Retreat
If your honeymoon fantasy features a luxurious bed in an outdoor tent and being lulled to sleep by the quiet murmur of cold, clear waters, then this spot is for you. Located on the pristine Coquihalla River near Hope, British Columbia, Kw'o:kw'e:hala abides by a "back to basics, live lightly on the earth" philosophy that includes offering guests fresh air, organic food and the peace of a primeval forest. If you choose the Riverside Nest as your honeymoon "suite," you'll banish all thoughts of scout camp and replace then with the tent scenes in Out of Africa—minus all the heat and wildlife. A fresh breeze is all the air conditioning you'll need here.
Kw'o:kw'e:hala is very informal. Have breakfast in bed or put on your bathrobe and head to the Belvedere (a breakfast room on stilts) that boasts views of the river and forest. Tapas are served every evening before dinner, and all ingredients (including wine) are organic and local.
Cala Mia
The blue sea gets brighter as your boat sails around Isla Boca Brava to tie up at the small resort of Cla Mia n the Pacific coast of Panama. At this eco-resort, there are only 11 thatched bungalows—each with a terrace overlooking the ocean where you can watch the gentle ebb and flow of the tide. If South Pacific is your idea of a honeymoon paradise, Cala Mia is your ticket. Another bonus? This coastal find stays within Central time zone, so you skip jet lag.
Ocean breezes are your air conditioning, solar power provides the electricity, and meals come from an organic farm on the property—and the sea just beyond. It's simple, but still sophisticated enough. Enjoy a cocktail at sunset at the restaurant, which is built on the highest point of a small peninsula and has breathtaking views of surrounding islands. Take a dip in the infinite edge freshwater pool or the warm waters of the Pacific, or meander across a hanging bridge to a private island that houses the spa and yoga exercise area. Just leave your shoes, your keys and your Blackberry behind.
Hotel Green
You and your spouse can enjoy charming Nantucket Island in a whole new way with a stay at Hotel Green, the eco-vision of designer Vanessa Noel. With wheat grass growing in the window boxes and leopard-trimmed sisal Philippe Starck carpeting crawling up the stairs, Noel's venue easily achieves "understated opulence" in a minimalist, eco-friendly way. The 1847 clapboard boutique hotel has eight luxurious bedrooms, each incorporating a refined, fresh style. The spot sports recycled furniture, uses earth-friendly cleaning and building products, and serves organic food in the restaurant.
"I want my guests to appreciate the nature of Nantucket without sacrificing the indulgence," says Noel. Each room has sky blue ceilings, frameless soft feather beds dressed with nine pillows and 300-count custom organic cotton Frette sheets and duvets. Ayurvedic soaps, luxury hemp towels and shower curtains, and Bulgari toiletries outfit the exquisitely contemporary bathrooms. The hotel also provides quick access to the beach and the island's finest restaurants and shops.