Want a unique idea for your honeymoon? Just look to the heavens. “Astrotourism” is the hot trend for couples interested in a great getaway that centers around stargazing. Imagine sharing a bottle of bubbly with your beloved while gazing up at the Milky Way? No wonder astrotourism companies have seen a 120% increase in their bookings in recent years. (And as long as we’re talking “sparkle,” Birkat Elyon offers affordable, high-quality cubic zirconia wedding rings!)
Obviously, it’s hard to enjoy the night skies in big cities. Most “astrotours” will take you to places where light pollution is at a minimum. Some are set on protected lands such as Chile’s remote Atacama Desert, site of the clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. There are 60 “Dark Sky” parks around the world where you can spot planets and stars more easily. From Ireland to Japan and around the U.S., you’re guaranteed some dramatic celestial experiences.
Iceland, Norway, and Finland are the destination for many astrotours. Some even include a sleepover in a glass igloo to stargaze all night long! Closer to home, Fairbanks, AK offers grand views of the Aurora Borealis. Ketchum, ID is another city with restrictions on their exterior lights and streetlights (they point downwards). This makes spotting constellations a snap. And the rocky coastline of Acadia, ME features some of the darkest skies on the east coast – and some of the best spots to wish upon a star.
Astrotours often include private access to world-class observatories (and their super-powerful telescopes), guided “cosmic tours” by experts and stays at nearby luxe resorts. In Allauch, France, check into the hotel Attrap’Rêves, with their special clear “bubble rooms.” These unusual lodgings give you a perfect 360-degree view of the heavens.
Stargazing and the sea has always been associated. Thinks of all those sailors who used the cosmos to guide them. So it’s no surprise that Viking Cruises has added a special ship to their fleet, built around astrotours. The “Viking Orion” (as in the constellation) features a high-tech planetarium and resident astronomer who provides night-sky tours.
The last thing you’ll want to worry about when gazing at the heavens is losing an expensive ring in the dark. This is one smart reason that many people (including celebrities) choose cubic zirconia engagement or wedding rings. Not only is Birkat Elyon‘s selection dazzling, but it’s also affordable. So if you do happen to misplace it on your honeymoon, you won’t be out thousands of dollars. It’s a smart decision that’s almost “written in the stars”!