10 Honeymoon hotspots

These days, most honeymooners want to do more than just bask on a beach somewhere - they're after a truly unique experience.

And in pursuit of the exceptional, honeymooners spend twice as much - over $5,000 on average - and stay twice as long, than the average U.S. vacationer, according to Conde Nast Bridal Group's American Wedding Study.

"Traditionally people go to the beach, now people are trying to do something a bit different," according to Theresa DiMasi, editor in chief of brides.com, "and eco-tourism is becoming more and more popular."

According to travel experts, Costa Rica and Belize are two of the most "up and coming" honeymoon destinations right now.

Costa Rica is a great spot for active couples. It's well known for its zip line tours, which send visitors swinging through the forest's treetop canopy via a cable and a harness - not to mention the great surfing.

In Belize, honeymooners can also tour the jungle, swim under waterfalls and explore ancient Mayan ruins.

For the less adventuresome, the Four Seasons Resort in Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo (pictured top) has plenty of other options, including two beaches, a fully equipped spa, and a championship golf course as well as four restaurants and a lounge all on the premises. (Rates start at $650 a night.)

Renee Duane-Meyer, president & founder of Unforgettable Honeymoons, Inc. recommends the Turtle Inn in Belize (pictured bottom). Owned by Francis Ford Coppola, thatched villas are set on 650 feet of beach near a small fishing village. The honeymoon cottage, with a private garden and Japanese bath, costs a little over $400 a night (including breakfast).

www.fourseasons.com/costarica/
www.turtleinn.com