🌍 HoneyTrek’s 2023 Travel Year in Review: A Global Voyage of Adventure, Sustainability & Connection
As 2023 drew to a close, HoneyTrek—adventurers, storytellers, and champions of sustainability—looked back on what might have been their most monumental year since embarking on their around-the-world honeymoon over 4,300 days ago. From journeying through 26 U.S. states and 7 Canadian provinces to discovering 10 countries across Europe, Africa, and North America, HoneyTrek’s year was a bustling mosaic of adventure, cultural engagement, and significant contributions.
Here’s a glimpse into the highlights of their 2023 travel year, emphasizing not only the destinations they explored but also the principles they upheld throughout.
🚐 North American Road Trips: 20,209 Miles of Exploration
The year commenced with an ambitious road trip along the southern U.S. border, winding through Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Memorable moments included birdwatching in Arizona, kayaking in Big Bend National Park, and crossing into Boquillas, Mexico, to experience local culture.
Later on, they ventured along the iconic “Loneliest Road in America” (Nevada’s Highway 50), immersed themselves in the lively culture of Madison, Wisconsin, and marveled at the natural splendor of Glacier Country, Montana. Their reliable RV, “Buddy,” even faced his toughest breakdown in West Virginia—an escapade that fostered unexpected friendships and Appalachian hospitality.
🇨🇦 Cross-Canada Sojourn
During a two-month expedition through seven Canadian provinces, HoneyTrek delved into the distinct culture of Newfoundland and Labrador, the French heritage of Quebec, and the often-overlooked beauty of Saskatchewan. From kayaking alongside icebergs to unearthing dinosaur fossils in the Grasslands, their Canadian escapade showcased the country’s rich diversity.
🌍 European Escapades: From Castles to Conferences
Europe provided a delightful blend of city escapes and rural allure. In Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Austria, HoneyTrek explored historical cities such as Berlin, Prague, Bratislava, and Vienna. Bulgaria offered opportunities for skiing in UNESCO mountains and wandering ancient towns like Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo.
Their adventure through Romania included a charming road trip across Transylvania, highlighted by a stay in Bucharest and a visit to Dracula’s Castle. In Greece’s Dodecanese Islands, they embraced the future of sustainable tourism, partaking in eco-initiatives and contributing to discussions at the TBEX Europe travel conference.
🌊 Baja Mexico by Boat
Sailing with UnCruise Adventures through the Sea of Cortez, HoneyTrek discovered the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of the Islas del Golfo de California. Days were filled with kayaking, snorkeling, whale-watching, and hiking—an immersive experience in one of Mexico’s most biodiverse regions.
🦍 Africa: Rwanda & Uganda
HoneyTrek’s journey through Africa was both profound and enlightening. In Rwanda, they attended the Kwita Izina Baby Gorilla Naming Ceremony and visited the country’s four national parks. Rwanda’s emergence as a leader in conservation and sustainable tourism secured its place on HoneyTrek’s list of “The World’s Most Romantic & Sustainable Destinations.”
In Uganda, despite concerns regarding LGBTQ+ rights, they collaborated with community-based tourism leaders to ensure their visit was supportive of ethical and inclusive travel. Their experiences encompassed wildlife safaris, cultural exchanges, and volunteering with local initiatives.
🏕️ Glamping & Giving Back
As authors of Comfortably Wild and glamping consultants, HoneyTrek expanded their business, assisting both new and established camps in enhancing guest experiences and sustainability efforts. They also participated in the Glamping Show USA, sharing their insights and networking with industry leaders.
In 2023, HoneyTrek contributed $4,250 to local nonprofits and volunteered in numerous communities they visited. Their “HoneyTrek Cares” initiative supported organizations dedicated to environmental conservation, education, and cultural preservation.
🎉 Family, Festivals & Fun
From family gatherings in Tennessee and Idaho to exhilarating events like the GoPro Mountain Games in Colorado, HoneyTrek blended personal milestones with professional explorations. They also marked the holidays with a large Howard family reunion—welcoming two new members!
🌿 The World’s Most Romantic & Sustainable Destinations
HoneyTrek’s continuous mission to uncover and advocate for destinations that balance romance and responsible tourism led them to enhance their curated list. In 2023, they included Rwanda and Greece in a roster that already featured Bhutan, Costa Rica, and Slovenia.
🗓️ What’s Ahead in 2024?
Commencing the new year in Arizona, HoneyTrek is gearing up for an exciting array of adventures:
– Participating in the International Media Marketplace in NYC
– Filming a mini-series in San Antonio for Travel Texas & Outside TV
– Visiting Zion Open Sky in Utah for a creative partnership
– Exploring Sweden, Germany, or Switzerland for their romantic destinations collection