**HoneyTrek’s 2023 Travel Year in Retrospect: An Expedition Through 26 States, 7 Canadian Provinces, and 10 Countries**
The year 2023 proved to be exceptional for HoneyTrek, the travel blog operated by Mike and Anne Howard, who have been on a global honeymoon since 2012. With over 4,363 days of non-stop travel, 2023 emerged as one of their most thrilling years. From trekking across North America to delving into Europe and Africa, HoneyTrek’s adventures highlight their dedication to sustainable and immersive exploration. Here’s an in-depth look at their 2023 journeys, notable moments, and what lies ahead for 2024.
### North American Road Adventure: 26 States and 7 Canadian Provinces
The Howards commenced 2023 with a remarkable road journey across 26 U.S. states and 7 Canadian provinces, amassing an incredible 20,209 miles. Their expedition showcased varied landscapes, from the deserts of Arizona to the prairies of Saskatchewan, including the southernmost routes in Texas. They explored national parks, interacted with local communities, and volunteered with environmental and social good nonprofits, contributing $4,250 to different initiatives.
#### Highlights:
– **Baja, Mexico by Boat**: Navigating the Sea of Cortez with UnCruise, HoneyTrek ventured through the Islas del Golfo de California, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Their days were filled with kayaking, snorkeling, and whale-watching, all while immersed in the area’s rich biodiversity.
– **US Southern Border Road Journey**: Traveling through Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, the Howards uncovered treasures like the Chiricahua National Monument and Big Bend National Park. They even crossed the Rio Grande into Mexico for a distinctive cross-border experience.
– **Cross-Canada Voyage**: Their two-month expedition through Canada spanned Newfoundland & Labrador, Quebec, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. From chasing icebergs in Newfoundland to hiking the boreal forests of Saskatchewan, this segment was packed with natural wonders and cultural revelations.
### European Expeditions: From Berlin to Bulgaria
HoneyTrek’s European adventures proved to be equally exhilarating. Beginning in Berlin for a travel conference, they extended their travels to visit cities such as Prague, Bratislava, and Vienna. Their exploration of Eastern Europe included skiing in Bulgaria and a road trip through the legendary Transylvania of Romania.
#### Highlights:
– **European City Excursions**: The Howards enjoyed two weeks in Berlin before heading into the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Austria. They visited enchanting cities like Prague and Český Krumlov, even meeting a HoneyTrek enthusiast in Bratislava for a tailored tour.
– **Skiing in Bulgaria**: The Howards found Bulgaria, renowned for its rich history and budget-friendly ski resorts, to be a delightful surprise. They explored ancient Roman ruins, 9th-century monasteries, and natural hot springs while skiing on UNESCO-listed mountains.
– **Housesitting in Bucharest**: HoneyTrek undertook a two-week housesitting assignment in Bucharest, Romania, before embarking on a road trip through Transylvania. They uncovered Saxon villages, Beaux-Arts architecture, and, of course, Dracula’s Castle.
### Africa: Rwanda and Uganda
A highlight of HoneyTrek’s 2023 journey was their exploration of Africa, particularly in Rwanda and Uganda. Renowned for its mountain gorillas and conservation efforts, Rwanda had long been a dream destination for the Howards. Despite some political challenges, Uganda also offered extraordinary experiences.
#### Highlights:
– **Romantic Rwanda**: HoneyTrek participated in the Kwita Izina Baby Gorilla Naming Ceremony and ventured through Rwanda’s national parks, Great Lakes, and lively villages. Their travels in Rwanda secured its position on HoneyTrek’s list of “The World’s Most Romantic & Sustainable Destinations.”
– **Uganda, “The Pearl of Africa”**: Though there were concerns about Uganda’s harsh laws against the LGBTQ+ community, the Howards chose to visit, backing community-based tourism initiatives like Virunga Mountain Adventures. Their Uganda journey included encounters with the Big Five and exploring the country’s vibrant cultural landscape.
### Commitment to Sustainable Travel and Volunteering
Throughout their travels, HoneyTrek remained dedicated to sustainable tourism. They volunteered in numerous locations and supported local nonprofits focused on environmental preservation and social good. Their contributions ranged from advocating for eco-friendly accommodations in Greece’s Dodecanese Islands to volunteering with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Rwanda.
### HoneyTrek’s Expanding List of Romantic & Sustainable Destinations
One ongoing initiative for HoneyTrek is to curate a selection of the world’s most romantic and sustainable destinations. In 2023, they added several new places to this list, including Rwanda, Greece, and Bulgaria.