Once upon a time, planning a honeymoon was simple: pack away the white dress, make an airport dash and sip on cocktails by the beach. But, somewhere between the rise of dating apps and the decline of marriage rates (5.5 marriages per 1,000 people in 2023 for a a 20 year low), couples are skipping the wedding – but not the getaway. Instead, the “happily ever after” trip got a glow-up – one that doesn’t require a ring, a white dress, or a teary-eyed speech from your uncle after too many Champagnes. Enter the Un-Honeymoon – a bold, cheeky new way to celebrate love. Commitment optional
“I Do” at the Check In Desk … Not the Altar
In recent years, the traditional honeymoon has begun its quiet exit stage-left. With more couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon in favour of something that feels a little more real – and a lot more them. As marriage rates continue to drop in Australia, today’s travellers are swapping grand gestures for grounded ones: trips built on connection, curiosity and the joy of shared experience, rather than ceremony or obligation.
Unlike its traditional namesake, the un-honeymoon doesn’t demand a milestone. It’s for long-term lovers, fresh new flames, post-divorce romantics, or anyone who just wants to celebrate love on their own terms. There’s no rulebook, no expectations, and definitely no matching luggage required.
It’s part of a bigger cultural shift in the way we travel for love. Couples are craving intimacy without itinerary pressure. They’re choosing meaningful moments – a sunrise swim, a spontaneous road trip, a long lunch that turns into sunset drinks – over the picture-perfect honeymoon cliche. The un-honeymoon celebrates imperfection, playfulness and the idea that romance doesn’t need to follow tradition to feel special.
Who Needs a Ring When You’ve Got Room Service?
If you think about it, the un-honeymoon couldn’t have arrived at a better time. We’re in an era where “modern love” looks a lot of different ways. Relationships aren’t one-size-fits-all, and neither are the ways we choose to honour them. Maybe it’s marking an anniversary, a fresh start, or simply the fact that you survived another chaotic year together.
The un-honeymoon taps into something deeper than luxury – it’s about creating space to reconnect. Free from social media expectations or the performative gloss of a honeymoon, it’s a reminder that love doesn’t need a hashtag to feel worth celebrating.
Love Without Labels … But With Champagne
Recognising this shift, Crystalbrook Collection – known for their playful, modern approach to luxury – has turned the un-honeymoon from a trend into a tangible experience. Their new No Rings Attached package, available across seven of their hotels and resorts from Byron Bay to Cairns, is Australia’s first official un-honeymoon.
Instead of traditional honeymoon frills, guests are treated to something cheekier and more self-aware: champagne and charcuterie on arrival, bespoke cocktails for toasting yourselves, and even an after-dark dessert flight delivered to your door. Each suite includes a set of “Un-Honeymoon favours” curated by relationship expert Susie Kim – think sensory cards, playlists and aromatherapy touches designed to spark connection.
For those who like to lean into the indulgence, there’s even an Un-Registry – a playful spin on the wedding gift list that lets friends or family chip in to make your trip extra special. Rather than crockery and cutlery, you could find yourself unwrapping Champagne and caviar pairings, spa treatments or sunset dinners.
Love. Actually. No Strings Attached
The beauty of the un-honeymoon is that it celebrates the spectrum of love – not just the legally bound kind. It’s a nod to every couple who’s ever thought, “We don’t need a wedding to deserve a getaway.” Whether you’re raising a toast to a milestone, a new beginning, or simply each other, this trend gives you permission to celebrate exactly as you are.
So yes, the un-honeymoon might sound like a bit of fun (and it is), but it’s also quietly revolutionary – a reminder that connection doesn’t have to fit into tradition to be worthy of celebration.
Because love, in all its messy, marvellous forms, deserves a getaway too. Rings optional.