🌍 HoneyTrek’s 2023 Year in Review: A Tale of Exploration, Sustainability, and Community
In 2023, HoneyTrek, the adventurous couple behind the longest honeymoon in history, experienced one of their most daring and significant travel years. From road trips throughout North America to gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Mike and Anne Howard traveled over 20,000 miles visiting 26 U.S. states, 7 Canadian provinces, and 10 countries. Their journey was not just focused on travel but also emphasized meaningful experiences, giving back, and advocating for sustainability.
Here’s a detailed overview of HoneyTrek’s 2023 escapades and a glimpse into what awaits in 2024.
🚐 Incredible Road Trips in North America
– US Southern Border Road Trip: Journeying through Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, the Howards discovered hidden treasures like Chiricahua National Monument and Big Bend National Park, even crossing over to Boquillas, Mexico, for a cultural dialogue.
– Cross-Canada Expedition: A 7,831-mile adventure through seven provinces, featuring highlights such as iceberg kayaking in Newfoundland and revealing the often-overlooked splendor of Saskatchewan.
– The Most Isolated Road in America: Traveling along Nevada’s historic Route 50, they explored ghost towns, sacred Native American locations, and natural hot springs.
– Tennessee Family-to-Family Journey: A touching trip that forged family connections across the state while delving into Tennessee’s vibrant musical and cultural heritage.
– Glacier Country, Montana: Returning to this pristine area, they showcased local enterprises and indigenous guides, deepening their admiration for Montana’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
🌍 Global Adventures with Intent
– Europe: From short stays in Berlin, Prague, Bratislava, and Vienna to skiing in Bulgaria and a road trip through Romania and Transylvania, HoneyTrek immersed themselves in the historical allure and contemporary energy of Eastern Europe.
– Greece’s Eco Islands: While exploring the Dodecanese Islands, they underscored Greece’s commitment to sustainability, such as electric vehicle initiatives and renewable energy projects.
– Rwanda: Joining the Kwita Izina baby gorilla naming ceremony and visiting national parks, HoneyTrek rejoiced in Rwanda’s transformation and leadership in conservation.
– Uganda: Overcoming initial reservations due to political issues, they supported community-based tourism efforts and uncovered Uganda’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
🌿 Commitment to Sustainability & Social Good
HoneyTrek’s dedication to responsible travel was clear throughout 2023:
– Volunteering & Charitable Contributions: They contributed $4,250 to local nonprofits and volunteered in several destinations, aiding initiatives from environmental protection to cultural preservation.
– HoneyTrek Cares: Their commitment to tourism for good involved providing free marketing for nonprofits, engaging in hands-on volunteering, and advocating for sustainable travel.
– Romantic & Sustainable Destinations: They continued to curate their exclusive list of The World’s Most Romantic & Sustainable Destinations, highlighting places such as Rwanda, Greece, and Slovenia.
🏕️ Glamping & Industry Influence
As trailblazers in the glamping sector and authors of Comfortably Wild, HoneyTrek broadened their consulting services in 2023:
– Glamping Show USA: They showcased their insights and signed books for hundreds of industry professionals at the leading glamping trade show.
– Consulting Services: By conducting 10 courses, they aided new and established glamping businesses in enhancing their guest experiences and marketing tactics.
🎉 Unforgettable Moments & Achievements
– GoPro Mountain Games: Participating in this exhilarating festival in Colorado, they dispensed sustainable travel tips and embraced the mountain culture.
– Oceanside & Ventura, California: Rediscovering Anne’s origins, they explored these revitalized SoCal beach towns, focusing on their cultural and environmental projects.
– Madison, Wisconsin: Relishing an extended stay, they delved into the city’s vibrant arts, culinary, and outdoor scenes.
– Family Reunions: From Idaho to the Poconos, HoneyTrek prioritized family time, celebrating milestones and welcoming new members.
🔮 Looking Forward to 2024
HoneyTrek is preparing for another thrilling year filled with a blend of confirmed projects and aspirational destinations:
– International Media Marketplace (NYC): Kicking off the year by engaging with tourism boards and other travel media.
– Outside TV Series in San Antonio: Shooting a mini-series for Travel Texas, highlighting the city’s culinary and cultural treasures.
– Zion Open Sky, Utah: Partnering with a luxury glamping resort to enhance their experiential offerings.
– Malaysia: A surprise opportunity will take them to this Southeast Asian jewel, with aspirations to explore Borneo and Tioman Island.
– Southeast Asia Wild Card: With two months to roam, they’re contemplating lesser-known spots like East Timor or Brunei.
– Tunisia: A North African road trip with fellow bloggers is in the planning stages, promising visits to Roman ruins, Berber culture, and Mediterranean beaches.
– Glamping Industry Retreat: Organizing a retreat