Winter weddings grow in popularity and style with every passing turn of the calendar. With so many couples getting married during the frostier months of November through February, new husbands and brides are looking for the ultimate in winter honeymoon destinations. The choices are as varied - and intriguing - as the couple's personal tastes.



As you plan your winter wedding getaway, remember to make all necessary arrangements very early in advance. Especially during the months of November and December, when major airlines, rental car agencies and hotels become inundated with business. Without careful advance booking, your choices may be narrowed quite a bit. Use travel agencies and online booking discounters as much as possible in order to save money, and be prepared when you do travel for possible delays and layovers.

Having said that, the wintertime is a fantastic time to explore resorts and destinations free of the summertime tourism rush. The following is just a quick sampling of everything that's available.

Alaska: If you like cold weather, why not head for the Last Frontier? Alaska offers some of the most breathtaking vistas on Earth, courtesy of its mountain lakes and sprawling snow-capped ranges. Many cruise lines offer vacation voyages around the state, with helicopter excursions to exciting points of interest. If you're the outdoors type, you can sample everything from fly-fishing to rugged hiking in the endless pine forests.

Santa Fe, New Mexico: The city of Santa Fe has bloomed from its frontier and artisan roots into a charming locale that mixes modern artistic style with the beauty of Pueblo and Spanish architecture. Take in skiing in nearby Taos, go hiking in the surrounding desert, or just browse the endless art galleries along Canyon Road. The city also offers many secluded and discreet spas and bed & breakfasts, for those lovers who appreciate extra privacy.

The Florida Keys: Get away from the cold weather altogether with a jaunt to the exotic Florida Keys. Destinations such as Marathon, Tavernier, and of course historic Key West blend American and Caribbean cultures into a unique concoction of honeymoon romance and fun. Stroll down a snow-white beach, go snorkeling in crystal blue waters, or drink frozen margaritas as you watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic - at the same time!

Venice, Italy: Could anything be more romantic than a honeymoon in Venice? The months of November through February find the city at its quietest (not including the Christmas season), making it just perfect for lovers looking to find some Old World romance all to themselves. Take a cruise down the canals of the city’s ever-present lagoon or simply enjoy the breathtaking view from the top of St. Mark's Campanile. The snowfall in Venice (usually only two to three days a year) offers a breathtaking vision of the city frosted over.

New York, New York: The City That Never Sleeps buzzes with activity in the wintertime, as snow polishes the city's world-famous towers to a glittering shine and crystal clear skies hang overhead. Take in a play along Broadway, go ice-skating at Rockefeller Center, or tour the city's landmarks while eating at some of the best restaurants in the world. Especially during December, when the whole city seems adorned with holiday decorations, New York offers a uniquely romantic ambience.