Fresh lobster, oysters and mussels are only the beginning. These two islands located in Canada’s Atlantic provinces—English-speaking Prince Edward Island and French-accented Les Iles de la Madeleine—are a five-hour ferry ride apart and make a great destination for foodies craving small-batch, locally grown and produced edibles.

The bounty here ranges from lobster rolls, seafood chowder and potatoes to goat cheese, beer, cider and and even moonshine. Here are 15 fine-dining restaurants, casual lunch places, tasting rooms, breweries and distilleries on both islands—plus a few cool places to stay.

Foodie Favorites on Prince Edward Island

Fresh and artisanal is the order of the day every day from May to October on Canada’s smallest province, located off the coast of New Brunswick in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Late June to mid-September is prime time for enjoying local seafood, produce and other taste treats.

Terre Rouge: Located on Queen Street in PEI’s capital, Charlottetown, Terre Rouge is known for inventive menus created with locally sourced ingredients that burst with flavor. The seared scallops over crispy kale and the halibut with artichoke hummus, couscous and feta are both divine, while meat-lovers can opt for a burger made with ground beef infused with pork belly and vegetarians the super-tasty mushroom toast or the aromatic dill-fennel flavored Fazzoletti. Reservations recommended for dinner.

On the Dock Eatery: Sometimes a place that wasn’t on your radar turns out to be a gem. Arriving at the better-known Blue Mussel Cafe in North Rustico just as the lunch menu—and lobster roll availability—was ending forced a change of plans. Luckily, On the Dock Eatery, a casual kid-friendly restaurant next door, prepares excellent lobster rolls all day long. Served with crispy fries or an incredible kale salad, the rolls hold generous portions of lobster that aren’t heavily smothered in mayo.

Cows Creamery: This PEI institution is perfect for a mid-afternoon snack, serving inventive ice cream flavors such as Moo York Cheesecake and Cookie Moonster. And if you never imagined that chocolate and potatoes—this island grows 100 varieties on almost 85,000 acres—would be yummy, try the Cow Chips in either milk or dark chocolate.

Landmark Oyster House: There are oysters on the menu in many PEI restaurants, but to enjoy them in a picturesque setting head to Landmark Oyster House in Victoria by the Sea on the south coast. Owned by husband-and-wife Greg and Marly Anderson, the restaurant serves 3-5 varieties of fresh local oysters daily at lunch and dinner, as well as an oyster Po Boy.

The MacMillan Dining Room: From a beautifully plated beet and feta salad to perfectly seared scallops served atop fresh asparagus and island potatoes, the cuisine at Dalvay-by-the-Sea’s MacMillan Dining Room celebrates the island’s bounty in a historic and charming setting. If you stay at the inn, breakfast is delicious and generously portioned, too.

The FireWorks Feast: Not only is Michael Smith PEI’s most famous chef, but his farm-to-fork extravaganza held nightly from mid-May to mid-October at the Inn at Bay Fortune near St. Peters is an ode to artisanal ingredients and live fire cooking. The “FireWorks Feast” starts at 5pm with a Farm Tour, continues at 6pm with Oyster Hour and really gets cooking at 7pm with a multi-course menu featuring fresh island vegetables, herbs, seafood and meats prepared in a 25-foot wood-burning fireplace.

Myriad View Artisan Distillery: Even if you don’t have the stomach to toss back the Shine (Canada’s first legal Moonshine), there are plenty of other potent spirits to sample at Myriad View Artisan Distillery near Souris—from botanical Gin and Pastis to Canadian-oak-aged Brandy, Rum and Whiskey.

Must-Tries on Les Iles de la Madeleine

The French rarely disappoint when it comes to food and this string of interconnected islands in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence is no exception. There’s even a Food Trail spotlighting the expected Madelinot products (cheese, of course) and the not-so-expected (smoked herring).

Domaine du Vieux Couvent: Set inside a 100-year-old convent and decorated with striking painted portraits of nuns, Domaine du Vieux Couvent serves gourmet bistro fare that’s some of the islands’ best. Seasonal menus change monthly, but include a delicious hot smoked salmon filet, steamed mussels, and a hearty seafood chowder.

Fromagerie les Biquettes a l’Air: The only goat cheese producer in the islands is located on Havre-Aubert island and is open from June to September. Les Biquettes a l’Air features a range of fresh goat cheeses, including those flavored by herbs, honey and local fruits, made from the milk of its 33 dairy goats—which are awfully cute, too.

Le Verger Pomeloi: From the islands’ sole apple orchards, planted in 1990, Eloi Vigneau is making some refreshingly intoxicating ciders. Located on Havre-Aubert island and open June through September, the tasting room at Le Verger Pomeloi offers sips of a variety of ciders—including the Pomeloi, with an apple trapped in the bottle (ask how they do it).

Miel en Mer: In the hills on the island of Havre-aux-Maisons, 150 bee colonies are kept by Jules Arseneau, who founded Miel en Mer in 1995 and sells honey and related products onsite and to other artisanal producers around the island. Call or email ahead to check hours.

Fromagerie du Pied-de-Vent: It’s pretty much impossible to visit here without sampling a taste of cheese from this dairy by the sea—many restaurants use it in their dishes—established here almost 20 years ago with cows brought over from mainland Canada. Located in Pointe Basse on Havre-aux-Maisons island, Fromagerie du Pied-de-Vent offers tastings, from the classic Pied-de-Vent to the creamy Jeune Coeur.

A l’Abri de la Tempete: Any island worth its salt has to have a microbrewery, right? And in Les Iles, it’s A l’Abri de la Tempete, a microbrasserie located near windswept Dune de l’Ouest beach on L’Etang du Nord island. Favorites include the the floral blonde Belle Saison, the Trans IPA and the citrusy Calle Sèche.

Le Fumoir d’Antan: The only smokehouse in Les Iles is detectable the moment you arrive at its production facility/tasting room in Basse-Terre on Havre-au-Maisons island. At Le Fumoir d’Antan the Arseneau brothers produce a variety of smoked seafood, including herring, salmon, scallops and mackerel.

Halabolina: After a drive to the far end of Grande-Entrée island, reward yourself with a lobster roll at Halabolina, a casual restaurant pub overlooking the sea. It’s often quite busy and service is notoriously slow, but it’s worth the wait to refuel with a perfectly grilled roll filled with fresh island lobster and served with a bounty of crispy fries.

Where to Stay

On Prince Edward Island, a top choice in Charlottetown is the Great George Hotel, set in a cluster of historic buildings and offering easy access to the restaurants of Queen Street and Victoria Row. On the north shore, Dalvay by the Sea offers a lovely beachside inn setting within Prince Edward Island National Park, along with three-bedroom cottages that are great for families. On the east coast, the Inn at Bay Fortune is Chef Michael’s Smith’s boutique property.

On Les Iles de la Madeleine, it’s hard to beat the location and ambience of Domaine du Vieux Couvent, where each of the 11 rooms and suites offers views of the sea.

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Labor Day is over and autumn is on the horizon. So once there’s a chill in the air — and rather than drinking rum punch under a palm tree, you’re in the mood to sip warm cider beneath a majestic golden maple — where should you go to enjoy autumn in all its glory? Here are eight islands known for their fall colors.

Mount Desert Island, Maine

Home to Acadia National Park, Maine’s Mount Desert Island becomes a spectacular patchwork of autumn colors in early- to mid-October. Temperatures might be a bit brisk (in the 40s and 50s), but the fresh air is perfect for a hike to the summit of 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain. Prefer to sightsee by car? Drive the 27-mile Park Loop Road to check out the beauty of Sand Beach, the views from Otter Cliff and the crystalline waters of Jordan Pond, where your can enjoy lobster rolls and chowder in the Jordan Pond House restaurant.

Honshu Island, Japan

Japanese red maples — need we say more? The temples of the ancient city of Kyoto on Japan’s main island of Honshu are even more stunning when surrounded by the intense crimson hues of its native fall foliage. Colors tend to peak in early to mid-November and there’s an array of top leaf-viewing spots from which to choose: Honen-in Temple, Ginkaku-ji Temple and Nanzen-ji Temple as well as Sento-Gosho Garden and the mountain village of Takao. Crowds swell on weekends (the Japanese love leaf-peeping, too), so plan to visit midweek.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Travel back more than a century in time as you celebrate fall on this car-free Michigan island that’s located where Lake Michigan meets Lake Huron and is home to the legendary Grand Hotel, built in 1887, and hundreds of horse-drawn carriages. Peak foliage occurs from late September to late October (ferries run until Oct. 31) and it’s the perfect time to rent a bike and ride the 8-mile trail that circles the island to experience its many charms: Victorian mansions along East Bluff; late-blooming dahlias in the Grand Hotel’s flower beds; the rocky, postcard-perfect shorelines; and the golden maples and red oaks around Fort Mackinac.

The British Isles

Take your pick of England, Ireland, Scotland or Wales — but we especially love the fall colors in England’s Lake District. Rolling hills, tidy villages and meandering back roads set the scene as native trees and plants that include oak, beech, birch and heather color the landscape with painterly shades of red, yellow, orange and purple. From Derwent Water to Windermere, there are fireplaces galore to get cozy in front of and ample pints of local craft beer to down. Foliage tends to peak in early October, but if you can’t make it then, November 5 is Bonfire Night (aka Guy Fawkes Night — a four-century-old tradition), when fireworks and bonfires provide a color show of another sort.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Anne of Green Gables may be the fictional redheaded heroine of this island in Canada’s Eastern provinces, but from mid-September to late October, fiery red maples and brilliant yellow birches are the stars. In autumn, Prince Edward Island is a haven of relaxation, offering walking, hiking and biking trails as well as a rich harvest of local fruits, vegetables and seafood. If oysters, mussels, lobster and other tasty ocean treats are your favorites, time your visit to coincide with the annual PEI International Shellfish Festival in mid-September as the leaves are just beginning to change.

San Juan Islands, Washington

Catch a ferry from Anacortes across Puget Sound to one of these rugged Washington State islands — San Juan, Orcas and Lopez being the main three — and you’ll feel instantly relaxed. And with summer crowds a distant memory, the pace is laid-back and temperatures range from the mid-60s in September to around 50 in November. Discover the region’s flavors during farm tours, beer tastings and harvest dinners with special “Savor the San Juans” events throughout fall. As for the foliage, Garry oaks and big leaf maples add splashes of color to the velvety forests of firs, hemlocks and cedars.

New York, New York

Yes, the island of Manhattan is mostly asphalt and concrete, and yet the nature-blessed oases it does have — Central Park, Riverside Park, the Cloisters — put on a pretty amazing autumnal show from mid-October to mid-November. You can jog through a “shower” of gently falling leaves on the Mall in Central Park or pose for a selfie by the Bow Bridge with its backdrop of golden branches. Riverside Park’s walking trails are enveloped in a canopy of color and the medieval sculptures and gardens of Upper Manhattan’s Cloisters become even more inviting. Frank Sinatra chose to record Autumn in New York for a reason.

Assateague Island, Maryland and Virginia

Why settle for fall colors when you can see magnificent wild horses, too? Assateague Island, located on the Eastern Shore and divided equally between Maryland and Virginia, is home to both. Its coastal groundcover turns vivid yellow and deep red by late October and early November (but be careful to avoid the poison ivy!) and the 300 horses, also referred to as ponies, freely roam the island’s state and national parks in small groups. You can get within a safe viewing distance (40 feet or more) several ways: wildlife cruises, kayak tours, bike rides or leisurely drives around the island. Just remember, these horses are feral and should not be approached or petted.

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Yes, vineyards may be more commonly associated with valleys than islands, but plenty of great destinations that are lapped by bays and oceans also have noteworthy wine regions producing everything from refreshing Rosés to robust Cabernets. So if you love islands and wine tasting — and don’t want to choose between the two on your next vacation — check out these 10 options, some located close to home and others halfway around the globe.

Vancouver Island — Canada

While British Columbia’s grape-growing is centered in the Okanagan Valley, the 37 wineries on Vancouver Island mean there’s plenty of sips to be savored. The first winery opened here in 1992 — and only a few varietals, namely Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Merlot and Gewürztraminer, thrive in this seaside setting — but tastings are complemented by the island’s top culinary offerings. Many vineyards are in the Cowichan Valley between Victoria and Salt Spring Island, so it’s possible to whale watch in the morning and then enjoy a gourmet lunch and wine tasting in the afternoon.

Elba — Italy

This arid Italian island located off the coast of Tuscany — and best known as the place where Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled in 1814 — has been making wine since ancient times. Modern viticulture now centers on Sangiovese, Trebbiano, Vermentino and Moscato, but you can also try varietals you might not be able to taste at home, such Elba Ansonica (a golden-hued white that can range from dry to sweet) and Elba Aleatico (a deep-red fruity dessert wine).

Tasmania — Australia

Famous for the endangered Tasmanian Devil as well as kangaroos and wombats, this heart-shaped island off the southern coast of Australia has also spent the past two decades developing four distinct wine trails that showcase cool climate varietals such as Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Choose from the Tamar Valley Wine Route (near Launceston and known for its gourmet dining), the Southern Wine Trail (near Hobart and offering access to artisanal cheeses, smoked salmon and fresh apples), the East Coast Wine Trail (great to combine with the scenic Great Eastern Drive) and the North West Wine Trail (near Devonport and the wildlife of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park).

Hvar — Croatia

Croatia has a wine culture that dates back more than 2,300 years and the sunny island of Hvar has a climate regulated by the Adriatic Sea that makes it ideal for growing grapes. Hvar wines are produced mostly from indigenous varietals — such as Plavac mali and Marastina — and the island now has a wine road and plenty of wine tours to make tastings at the terraced vineyards near Svirče, Vrisnik, Vrbanj, Pitve and Dol that much easier and enjoyable.

New Zealand

You’ll never run out of tasting opportunities in New Zealand — and you’ll have two islands to sip on. On the North Island near Napier, you’ll find the Hawke’s Bay region, the country’s oldest and second largest with 72 wineries producing mostly Merlot, Cabernet and Syrah. Near Wellington, the Wairarapa region has 42 wineries namely offering Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. On the South Island, a must-visit is Marlborough, which savvy winemakers put on the map in the 1980s with their aromatic Sauvignon Blanc.

Mallorca — Spain

To taste a half dozen varietals you’ve probably never heard of — such as Manto Negro, Giró Blanc, Callet and Fogonu — head to this Spanish island in the Mediterranean that has long been known for its beaches, but is also home to dozens of wine estates. Two of this mountainous island’s wine regions, Pla i Llevent and Binissalem, have been awarded the Spanish D.O. (Denominación de Origen) and visitors can opt for a variety of wine tours with transport options that include a van, train, bike or boat

Madeira — Portugal

This Portuguese island, located in the Atlantic off the coast of North Africa, has a legendary wine named after it: Madeira was used to toast the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The island has produced its namesake — a fortified wine that’s heated during the fermentation process, aged between five and 20 years and available as Dry, Medium Dry, Medium Sweet or Sweet — since 1753. Tastings in the main city, Funchal, reveal distinct differences between the categories and among the wine houses producing them.

Long Island, New York

Beyond the suburban neighborhoods and strip malls of its western counties, Long Island boasts a bucolic wine region worth visiting. Along the rural roads of its North Fork, located about 90 minutes by car from New York City, vineyards and tasting rooms in Jamesport, Cutchogue, Mattituck and Southold draw weekenders and day trippers eager to try the Merlots, Cabernets, Chardonnays and blends that its winemakers have been producing for four decades. You can also shop farm stands for local produce and dine at restaurants offering farm-to-table menus and fresh seafood.

Santorini — Greece

The Greeks have been making wine for several millennia and they’ve even managed to coax some terrific whites, reds and rosés from the volcanic landscape of this sunny but windswept island. Here, grapevines sprawl outward on the ground rather than climb upward (to absorb all the moisture they possibly can) and the result is a pleasant surprise. Tours that visit two or three wineries are popular — or you can simply sit on a terrace in the photogenic village of Oia at sunset and try a few glasses of local Assirtyko (an aromatic white) or Mavrotragano (a rich, dry red).

Sardinia — Italy

Italian, si, but Sardinian first and foremost. This postcard-perfect Mediterranean island that’s an autonomous region of Italy but has its own flag as well as cultural and culinary idiosyncrasies, also stands apart when it comes to wine. The favored white is light and refreshing Vermentino (grown mainly in the Gallura region) while among reds Sardinians adore deep-red, full-bodied Cannanou (aka Grenache), gown in Alghero, Sassari and Sorso.

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Vancouver Island – Canada

There’s so much natural beauty — soaring pine forests, rocky coastlines, picturesque bays — on this rugged island located to the west of Vancouver, British Columbia, that it’s season-less. While summer draws active travelers looking to hike, surf, fly fish and whale watch, winter also lures romantics seeking to snuggle, sip wine by a roaring fireplace and gaze out at dramatic waves rolling in from the Pacific (some 15-20 feet in height). Yes, storm watching is a thing, and it peaks from December to February. And it’s hard to beat the view from the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino. Vancouver Island is also home to the charming capital city of Victoria, and a world-class dining scene (fresh oysters, local salmon and BC wine) that makes it perfect for a Canadian version of hygge, the popular Danish notion of cozy camaraderie.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Looking to step back in time on a pre-Christmas getaway that’s fun, festive and full of charm? This Massachusetts island may be more famous for its sand dunes and July 4th clambakes, but come December the streets of its historic downtown are lined with hundreds of decorated fir trees, setting the scene for the Nantucket Christmas Stroll, a four-decade-long tradition that resembles a jolly block party of holiday cheer. Shop, sip hot chocolate and mulled cider, join local carolers and welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus who arrive via Coast Guard cutter. Even after the Stroll weekend is over, you can peruse local shops and galleries (most stay open through Christmas), take a beach walk and visit Cisco Brewers to sip a Winter Shredder. Two top properties remain open for most of the winter: The Nantucket Hotel and The Jared Coffin House.

Bermuda

This 21-square-mile island is located 570 miles off the coast of North Carolina in the Atlantic, so it’s high season is generally during the summer months. But if golf’s your game, six world-famous courses and mild winter temperatures (60 to 70 degrees) make Bermuda perfect for an off-season getaway. Even non-golfers can enjoy the island’s scenic beauty — pink-sand beaches, picturesque coves and charming cottage-style architecture — and relax during a spa treatment, traditional afternoon tea or a tasting of Gosling’s famous dark rum. History buffs can explore the island’s maritime legends, shoppers can buy Bermuda-style decor or beachwear and foodies can enjoy the island’s seafood specialties (it’s spiny lobster season from September to March). Plus, there’s a resort to suit any style — including the Hamilton Princess for traditionalists, Rosewood Tucker’s Point for luxury-seekers and The Reefs for cliffside romance — all are open year-round.

Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island

Never heard of it? This 44-square-mile island in Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay is home to the state’s most famous city: Newport. And the off-season here has plenty to offer, beginning with the annual Christmas at the Newport Mansions extravaganza. From Nov. 18, 2017, to Jan. 1, 2018, three of the destination’s most famous historic mansions — The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House — will be decorated to the hilt with Christmas gilt. Newport also has a Holiday Stroll (the first two weekends of December) featuring shopping, live entertainment, hot cider and warm-you-up New England clam chowder. Newport puts on the glitz into the New Year with the annual Winter Festival (Feb. 16-25, 2018) featuring daily events that include ice sculpting, warm drink contests and the Illuminated Garden in Ballard Park. The perfect spot to warm up: a lavish suite at The Chanler at Cliff Walk, where the cozy bar beckons you to sip a hot toddy beside the antique fireplace.

Long Island, New York

Planning a winter escape to New York City? Add to your enjoyment by pairing one of the world’s most famous islands, Manhattan, with the charming, farmhouse-lined landscapes of the North Fork on this fish-shaped island to the east. While Long Island’s South Fork is synonymous with summer (it’s home to the Hamptons), its North Fork has a wine trail featuring more than 35 vineyards, many with tasting rooms that are open year-round. Check out Raphael in Peconic, Lieb Cellars in Cutchogue and Sherwood House Vineyards in Jamesport. Check in at the Jedediah Hawkins Inn in Jamesport, offering easy access to several tasting rooms.

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Try out Thailand, one of the most popular destinations in the world and especially among Southeast Asia. Can’t make the trip to Paris? Montreal in Canada has a similar French vibe with its own unique culture, too, with local festivals surrounding art and comedy. Portugal also offers some of the most affordable vacations while still having similar aesthetics to more expensive destinations like Spain and Greece.

Wherever you’re looking to celebrate the happiest, most important time of your lives, you’re sure to find a destination fit for you and your partner with our list of best affordable honeymoon destinations.

Jamaica

The Spanish colonized Jamaica shortly after Christopher Columbus discovered the exotic, tropical isle in 1494. The British later snatched it away, laying the groundwork for the cultural melting pot that eventually gave the world Rasta, reggae and Red Stripe. But the Spanish are invading again, this time with huge, all-inclusive resorts that lure couples craving bargains.

You don’t even have to stay at one of the new Riu, Iberostar or Gran Bahia Principe resorts strung along the north shore between Negril and Ocho Rios — their mere appearance has brought down hotel rates across the island. Sandals resorts were founded in Jamaica, and their seven on-island oases are offering all sorts of incentives, including spa credits, free nights and rates up to 65% less than before the Spanish invasion.

And with budget airlines like JetBlue, AirTran and Air Transat now flying between North American cities and Montego Bay, as well as expanded service by other air carriers, Jamaica is now among the cheapest places to reach in the Caribbean.

Thailand

Southeast Asia’s favorite destination is the kind of place where it almost doesn’t matter how much money you spend, making it one of the best budget honeymoon destinations. Even slumming it can seem like luxury in tropical paradises like Phuket and Ko Samui.

Thailand’s biggest bargain is accommodations, especially at the more popular destinations where the choice in hotels can sometimes overwhelm. Fierce competition has brought room prices down to levels that seem too good to be true. Flying around Thailand is fairly inexpensive, too, and never takes very long. Flights between Bangkok and the northern city of Chiang Mai take about an hour and can cost less one way than most comparable flights in the U.S.

Ireland

With the average price of a hotel night falling over the past two years, Dublin has gone from being one of the most expensive capitals in Western Europe to one of the best values. Even so, the Irish metropolis remains relatively expensive compared to the rest of the Emerald Isle, especially the breathtaking west coast with its quaint villages, wind-swept scenery and green that seems to stretch forever.

Our advice: Skip Dublin, and fly straight into Shannon Airport, and you’ll save both money and time (it’s an hour closer to the United States than Dublin) without sacrificing the attractions for which Ireland is known: welcoming locals, thriving musical culture and rugged natural beauty.

Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula encompasses a huge area: Cancun and Cozumel islands, the mainland Riviera Maya (Playa del Carmen and Tulum) and inland spots like Chichen Itza and Merida, which means there are plenty of choices for staying, eating and playing. Each destination has its own distinct vibe.

Cancun is all about beaching, bargain shopping and crazy nightlife. Fronting the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, Cozumel is a holy grail for the diving crowd. Playa del Carmen is smooth and sophisticated while Tulum and Isla Mujeres offer two takes on beach-bum paradise: the former, eco-minded; the latter, isolated (in a good way). The average price of a hotel room has plunged across the Yucatan during spring and summer.

Five-star hotels generally offer the deepest discounts. Or you can make like Indiana Jones in a thatch-roof jungle bungalow at the Mayaland Hotel, near Chichen Itza. Down in laid-back Tulum, there are good beachfront rooms for less, and even the high-end places, like the rustically romantic Posada Luna del Sur, can fit you in for an affordable price, depending on the season.

Montreal, Canada

If you crave a honeymoon with a French “joie de vivre,” but Paris seems too pricey, then why not consider Montreal? A compact city with top-grade public transit, Montreal makes it easy for guests to explore the city without renting a car. Base yourselves in Vieux Montreal (Old Montreal), and you can walk to Notre-Dame Basilica, the St. Lawrence riverfront and the renovated Marche Bonsecours market, with its bars, restaurants and boutiques.

Or purchase a three-day occasional card for unlimited travel on the city’s extensive metro and bus networks. Many of the coolest attractions and events in the city are actually free. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Redpath Museum won’t cost you a dime — neither will many of the events staged during the city’s famous comedy festival. Likewise, the annual Montreal International Jazz Festival includes more than 350 free concerts.

Honolulu, Oahu

Given its high-priced island economy and its distance from the mainland, the 50th state has always been one of the pricier domestic destinations. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find good value. Couples dreaming about a Hawaiian honeymoon should consider Honolulu and the island of Oahu, home to icons like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head and the Banzai Pipeline surf break.

Honolulu’s hefty hotel stock means rates are available that fit every budget. Dining can be affordable, too, especially when you join the locals at the low-priced lunch joints and bakeries of Honolulu’s Kapahulu neighborhood and the city’s Saturday farmers’ market. The city and its lush, tropical surroundings also boast many free festivals and special events that highlight the island’s multicultural heritage.

Portugal

Portugal tops nearly everyone’s list of the most affordable holiday destinations inside the Euro zone, beating out neighboring Spain and equally sun-splashed Greece. But it’s not just the value that’s been giving this coastal country such attention: One of the last Western European nations to modernize, Portugal retains much of its bygone charm.

This land of ancient castles and endless olive groves, chromatic fishing villages and funky urban neighborhoods is just now being complemented by chic beach retreats and some of the best golf courses in the world. The European Consumers’ Organisation recently selected Lisbon as Europe’s best vacation destination, just ahead of Barcelona, Spain.

One of the reasons is that a full week at a five-star hotel in Lisbon can run about the same price as just one or two nights at a luxury hotel in other European capitals. In addition to reasonable hotel rates, Portugal is known for relatively low rental-car rates, restaurant prices and greens fees.

Brazil

Brazil has finally embraced the all-inclusive with the same passion it puts toward soccer. Brazilian backers have hooked up with SuperClubs to launch Breezes properties at prime honeymoon locations, including the musical city of Bahia on the north coast and the super-chic Buzios beach-resort area near Rio de Janeiro.

Despite its reputation as a high-priced city, Rio can actually be very reasonable. After all, the most popular activities are absolutely free: people-watching and parading up and down Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. And you don’t have to stay right on the beach: Hotels a block or two behind the strand are often hundreds of dollars per night cheaper than the Sandside ones while offering the same level of room and service.

Australia

The Aussies have long believed everyone deserves a great holiday, and they accommodate with dining, sleeping and travel options for every budget. Hitting up the Land Down Under has everything you’re looking for.

Want to explore nature and see the wildlife Australia has to offer? Check. Interested in marine life and one of the world’s greatest natural wonders? The Great Barrier Reef is there. Hungry? You can’t go wrong with the wide variety of foods, from pan-Asian food to local cuisines. Be sure to check out the wine Australia has to offer at Barossa Valley and Hunter Valley, too.

Balkans

Europe’s long-lost corner may not seem like the most obvious spot for a honeymoon, but the Balkans have really come into their own in recent years as a low-cost alternative to pricier Mediterranean destinations. In particular, Bulgaria and Croatia have emerged as standout locales where money goes further than elsewhere on the continent — and they have as much culture to offer as their better-known neighbors in Western Europe.

Bulgaria blends Roman ruins, ancient Orthodox churches, Greek-like cuisine and Black Sea beaches with incredibly low prices on just about everything. Croatia is just as eclectic, with a gorgeous mix of Adriatic islands and beaches, fortified Renaissance towns and inland national parks with white-water rafting, hiking and boating on jade-colored lakes.

Puerto Rico

This island remains one of the Caribbean’s best value getaways, not the least because U.S. citizens don’t have to invest in a passport to get there. Flights from the States haven’t dropped that much in price over the past few years, but accommodations in Puerto Rico definitely have. You’ll also save bucks on many of Puerto Rico’s popular outdoor activities.

Surf schools at world-renowned Playa Rincon range are considerably less than other surf spots like Hawaii. Top-ranked scuba outfitters offer one- and two-tank dives for extremely competitive prices out of San Juan. Rental cars are another great value. Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, not only are roads and driving conditions very similar to back home, so are rentals.

Sri Lanka

This teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean is on the opposite side of the globe from North America, so airfare isn’t cheap. But once you reach the ancient land of Serendib, the island is very affordable. Imagine all of the exotic delights India has to offer: palaces and ancient temples, palm-shaded beaches, game reserves with wild elephants, leopards, incredible cuisine and exotic shopping.

In a smaller, more manageable space, Sri Lanka makes for one of the best affordable honeymoon destinations.

Turkey

With more than 3,400 miles of shoreline, Turkey has a lot of coast to choose from. And it’s on three different seas: the Mediterranean, Black and Aegean. Much like neighboring Greece, the coast is sprinkled with ancient ruins and picturesque villages, chic waterfront resorts and white-sand strands framed by pine forests and turquoise bays. The main difference is price.

Plan accordingly, and you could end up paying half as much for a Turkish honeymoon as an equivalent Greek getaway. Turkey’s seaside resorts are an especially good bargain. The Greek isle of Santorini may be breathtaking, but, over on the Turkish shore, you can snag a great room in places like Antalya, Bodrum or the new hipster hangout of Cesme for significantly less.

A beach honeymoon in Turkey easily combines with a stopover in one of Europe’s iconic capital cities (London, Paris, Rome). Or you can fly straight to Istanbul and, spend a couple of days beside the Bosporus in a city that has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years.

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ABC’s The Bachelor and The Bachelorette may not have always led to lasting relationships, but they have done wonders for the dreamy honeymoon destinations featured on the shows. Here are eight featured resorts where you can indulge in some TV-style romance.

Anantura Si Kao Resort – Krabi, Thailand

The Bachelor, Season 17

Bachelor Sean Lowe took his ladies to the Andaman coast, next to the Hat Chao Mai National Park an hour from Krabi. On one date to Koh Mook Island, the couple enjoyed a swim and picnic on the beach; on another, a private candlelit dinner in the garden. The Bachelor package includes both dates, a three-night stay, breakfast, transfers and daily bottles of wine.

The Buccaneer – St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

The Bachelor, Season 17

Sean took six gals to this pink-hued hideaway, a circa 17th century landmark and one of the Caribbean’s longest-running resorts. The Bachelor package perks include a private island tour, a full-day Jeep rental, a picnic for two on Whistle Beach, a half-day trip to the Buck Island reefs and your own bag of swag.

CuisinArt Golf Resort – Anguilla

The Bachelor, Season 15

Brad Womack whisked his ladies to this celeb-favorite spot for private garden dinners and beach strolls. Bonus: One-bedroom suites come with outdoor showers. The popular seven-day Sea of Love package includes a chef’s table, wine tasting, spa services, a one-day car rental and more.

Sandton Kura Hulanda Hotel – Willemstad, Curacao

The Bachelorette Season 8

Emily Maynard gave her final rose at this 18th- and 19th century colonial-style spot on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao. The 80-room hotel‘s proposal package offers an island tour (like Emily took), dinner in the Sculpture Garden (scene of a rose ceremony), a visit to an herbalist for a “love potion,” and more. Sister property Kura Hulanda Lodge & Beach Club‘s Bachelorette Experience includes private snorkel trips and beachfront dinners.

Radisson Blu Resort Sun Gardens – Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Bachelorette Season 8

Set on the Adriatic Sea, picturesque Dubrovnik has long attraced tourists — and more recentlym crews for TV shows like Game of Thrones and The Bachelorette. On the latter, Emily and six suitors strolled around the historic center, played medieval-style games and relaxed on scenic boat trips. The gang also enjoyed perks like spa treatments, a sports center and an array of restaurants at this village-style resort with views of the sea and Elafiti Islands.

Rosewood Tucker’s Point – Bermuda

The Bachelorette Season 8

Thirteen eligible guys joined bachelorette Emily at this deluxe 88-room resort, set ina secluded part of the island and featuring a top-notch spa, gourmet restaurant and extensive private beach. Guests today can easily re-create the dates, which include a trip around historic St. George, sailing lessons, a private dinner in Bermuda’s oldest cave, cliff diving and plenty of beachside snuggling.

W Scottsdale – Scottsdale, Arizona

The Bachelorette Season 7

Ashley Hebert married J.P. Rosebaum in an event that was (of course!) televised. Included were scenes from the couples’ joint bachelor and bachelorette parties at the stylish W Scottsdale. There, the ladies indulged in poolside mani-pedis, the boys bonded over whiskey tastings, and the happy couple met up on the hotel’s rooftop hybrid ice-skating rink — which morphs back into the pool in the summer.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – Banff National Park, Canada

The Bachelor, Season 17

Sean wooed with a trip to the Canadian Rockies and a stay at this legendary 550-room resort. Thrilling activities around the UNESCO-protected Banff National Park include canoeing and mountain climning; romantic dinners took place inside a tepee and in an “ice castle,” near the ice rink. Book a trip in the winter months and enjoy this cool hideaway for yourself.

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OCEAN VIEW: Andaz Maui at Wailea

This 15-acre, 297-guestroom resort has you at hello. The elevated, plank-like entryway puts guests a few stories above the coastline and provides direct eye contact with the horizon. The oceanfront Oggaw Lawn is one of the resort’s most popular spaces; the event studio with an open kitchen offers a fun, interactive vibe for rehearsal dinners.

OCEAN VIEW: The Breakers, Palm Beach.

This ornate resort is a well-preserved piece of Florida’s Gilded Age; parasols, high neck dresses and monocles would not feel out of place here. Thanks to the narrow beach, the hotel appears to sit right on top of the breaking waves (thus the resort’s name). Most of the 12 indoor and outdoor event spaces take advantage of the view.

OCEAN VIEW: Sheraton Kauai.

Engaged couples and filmmakers alike swoon for Kauai’s scenery — Jurassic Park and Avatar utilized the island’s epic jungle-porn landscape to conjure both a prehistoric era and another planet. An outdoor ceremony at the Sheraton Kauai, facing the Pacific and the beach’s lava rock outcroppings, puts you in a great spot to take it all in.

BEACH VIEW: Belmond Maroma Resort and Spa, Riviera Maya, Mexico.

Only 20 minutes from Cancun International Airport, this 25-acre resort offers a generous stretch of white and pink coral sand on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Get married on the sand, then move to the Libras Garden, hidden amidst the jungle thicket, for an intimate, lantern-lit reception.

BEACH VIEW: Watercolor Inn, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Just beyond the town limits of Seaside sits this 60-guestroom resort. County ordinances prevent motorized watercraft within 500 yards of the shore, so rest assured it will be a peaceful ceremony. Aim for a photo op with one of Seaside’s pavilions, architectural exclamation points that welcome the public to the Gulf beaches.

VINEYARD VIEW: Bernardus Lodge & Spa, Carmel, California.

The cool, dry weather of Carmel Valley makes its ideal for growing the Bordeaux-style varietals that go into the resort‘s namesake wine. It also makes it a great spot for nuptials. A ceremony in the wedding pavilion puts you center stage among the estate vineyards, rose gardens and Santa Lucia Mountains.

DESERT VIEW: Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Sante Fe.

The 14-syllable name is the most complicated part of this low-rise luxury pueblo, which rests in the peaceful Sangre de Cristo foothills, the Jemez Mountains looming in the distance. Thanks to its remote location and 57-acre plot, there are no city lights to interrupt the creamsicle sunsets or starry nights.

DESERT VIEW: Gateway Canyons, Colorado.

Considering its natural yet photogenic locale – a patch of Moab desert in the shadow of the towering Palisade rock formation – it’s no surprise that Gateway Canyons is the pet project of Discovery Channel founder John Hendricks. If you’re looking for a group activity, the resort can coordinate a private air tour of the area via Eurocopter or Cessna Caravan.

CITY VIEW: The London West Hollywood.

Movie premiere after-parties are the most common event held at The London‘s 10th floor rooftop, so there’s plenty of room for a wedding in this 3,800-square-foot deck outfitted with white marble fire pits. It provides sweeping views of Los Angeles; at night, the city lights resemble Fiji’s bioluminescent waters.

CITY VIEW: Mandarin Oriental, Miami.

A short bridge is all that separates the bustle of downtown Miami from Brickell Key, a tiny atoll that’s home to the Mandarin Oriental. Stand on one side of the property and Biscayne Bay stretches out to the horizon. The other provides a front-row seat to Miami’s ever-burgeoning, cloud-scratching skyline.

CITY VIEW: The Peninsula New York.

Located at 55th Street and Fifth Avenue, just a few blocks from Central Park South, The Peninsula boasts two of the city’s rooftop venues (a rarity in Manhattan). Offering close-up views of Midtown’s mirrored and smoked glass high-rises, the 23rd floor has two al fresco options: the Sun Terrace (capacity: 75), or the 3,500-square-foot Salon de Ding bar (200).

MOUNTAIN VIEW: Tempter House at Telluride Ski Resort

Perched at 12,200 feet, the views from Telluride’s Tempter House are just about as jaw-dropping as it gets. And exclusive? You bet. The ultra-private home sits at the top of the aptly-named See Forever run of the Telluride Ski Resort, and guests can take a snowcat to get there at night. Alpino Vino, North America’s highest elevation wine bar, is just steps away slopeside so the catering is covered. Bonus: Tempter House is also available for overnight accommodations — wake up to eye-level views of the San Juan peaks the day after you say I do.

MOUNTAIN VIEW: The Little Nell, Aspen.

Wherever you look, there are the Rockies, a panoramic stretch of crags and peaks resembling a seismograph reading. Take the Silver Queen Gondola to the summit of Aspen Mountain for I-do’s on the Sundeck or the Wedding Deck, which provide views of the Rockies and the Continental Divide at an elevation of 11,000-plus feet.

MOUNTAIN VIEW: Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta, Canada.

Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the landmark 768-guestroom resort has been welcoming visitors for 125 years. It’s set on a sloping perch in Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Outdoor Terrace, facing the mountains and Bow Valley, accommodates seating for 180.

MOUNTAIN VIEW: Four Seasons Jackson Hole.

The Grand Tetons look good dressed in white, but don’t count out spring, summer and fall, when the hills burst with color. The Cottonwood Lawn accommodates 200 guests, who will likely proceed immediately to Instagram to post selfies with Sleeping Indian Mountain.

MOUNTAIN VIEW: Beaver Creek Lodge.

Lesser known than its A-list sibling, Beaver Creek has all the perks of Vail: great slopes, boutique shopping, a variety of dining options, and of course the backdrop. This lodge offers a “Honeymoon on Us” package: couples who book their wedding reception by December 31, 2014, get a free honeymoon at any of parent company Kessler’s 10 properties nationwide.

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Read more in our Ultimate Best Islands to Live On Guide.

Tonga

Vancouver Island

Tuvalu, Fiji

Lombok

Hvar, Croatia

Roatan, Honduras

Palau

Dominica

New Zealand

Florianopolis, Brazil

The post 10 Best Islands to Live On for Starting Over appeared first on Islands.

DO Check out hellobc.com. You’ll find maps, things to do and accommodations on Haida Gwaii.

DON’T Delay booking accommodations. They fill up really quickly in the summer. If you’re looking for an intimate feel, try Eagles Feast House in Masset (run by Haida artist April White and her chef/pianist husband, Farhad). Englehard’s Oceanview Lodge in Masset is clean and comfortable, and caters to groups, while Dorothy & Mike’s Guest House in Skidegate is a nice place to meet other travelers.

DO Book a comfortable bunk with Maple leaf Adventures. Short of hiring a seaplane, its nine-day journeys aboard a classic schooner are the only way to reach the haunting shores of SGang Gwaay. En route you’ll be treated to delicious meals and plenty of opportunities to hike and kayak. Quarters are private, curtained bunks, with two shared bathrooms. Most of the trip is motoring, but you’ll also get a chance to be under sail.

DON’T Forget to spend some time at the $26 million Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate. It has a beautiful collection of canoes and totem poles.

DO Get a small group together. Call chef Roberta Olsen at Keenawii’s Kitchen. She’ll serve you delicious traditional Haida food in her home; feel free to bring a bottle of wine. 250-559-8347

DON’T Take the slow, rocking ferry to the islands. Air Canada and Pacific Coastal Airlines are quicker and easier alternatives.

DO Be careful if you rent a car. There is logging on Haida Gwaii, and the trucks are fast and often overloaded. Stay out of their way.

DON’T let the tongue-twisting names of the Gwaii Haanas national Park reserve, national Marine Conservation Area and Haida Heritage Site throw you off. Gwaii Haanas (as locals call it) is a spectacular wilderness from mountaintop to seafloor.

DO Book a custom day trip with Haida Gwaii Discovery Tours. Run by the mayor of Masset, these land-based excursions take you to wild beaches and forests up north and to the last Haida villages. 1-866-626-3949; northwestrecreation.com

DON’T Skip Sarah’s Haida Arts and Jewelry in Old Massett. Or All About U Art gallery near Skidegate for original argillite, jewelry and wood carvings.

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