As the Northeast becomes one of America’s centers of gay marriage rights, newlywed queer couples need picturesque and idyllic places to celebrate a honeymoon. In northern Vermont, the area surrounding Burlington is perfect, forgetting lush landscapes dotted with lakes and mountains, or the organic cuisine: it is the total incorporation of gay and lesbian folks into everyday life, such that even the older generations don’t bat an eyelid at queer couples walking hand in hand into local shops and restaurants.

Getting There
The Burlington International Airport (BTV) is located only 2 miles away from downtown Burlington and is easily navigated due to its small size. Serviced by Delta, United, Continental, US Airways, and JetBlue, the latter offers one-way service from New York’s JFK for as low as $64.

Getting Around
Although Burlington itself is easily reached by local taxis like Adria (802-339-6713) or the Chittenden County bus system, driving is one of the best ways to relax and get deep in the countryside. The airport auto rental center has major carriers like Enterprise, Budget, Avis, and Hertz.

The Moonlight Lady

Get Hitched
There are numerous locations in Northern Vermont that are eager to host gay couples exercising their new rights to get married. The Essex (70 Essex Way, Burlington; 802-878-1100; $229-$259) is a AAA Four Diamond resort hotel and spa set on 18 acres of lush property. With “country-contemporary” interiors designed by Susan Sargent, the cuisine is prepared by master gastronomes from the New England Culinary Institute.

Another place to consider tying the knot is the Black Bear Inn (4010 Bolton Access Road, Bolton; 802-434-2126; $89-$355), which boasts panoramic views of Vermont’s hilly landscape, their wedding packages offer beautiful woodsy locations for outdoor weddings, and have deluxe rooms that somehow manage to host rustic, country furnishings and private hot tubs. Finally, a cruise on the Moonlight Lady may be the most romantic way to celebrate your vows with close friends and family.