My husband and I will be celebrating our 10th anniversary next year (2012) and are trying to plan a vacation AWAY FROM IT ALL. We live in the southern U.S. and haven't ventured out of the country together. Actually, I've never really been out of the country (except for a brief visit to Mexico) and he's been to Europe back when he was 13 or so, with his family. What we want out of the trip: To relax, to see some other culture, (possibly a beach) but don't want to get too touristy. Here's what's swimming around in our heads so far: Thailand, Europe, maybe Sweden? See? All-over-the-place! I've just never been anywhere, so I want to go somewhere GREAT! We also have friends living in Egypt, so a quick jaunt over there to visit would be nice. Any suggestions internet?

Also, we aren't limited to a time-frame, but would probably like to go in May (Anniversary May 3).

My idea would be to fly to Honolulu (Oahu) and stay a day or two on the north shore. From there, you could extend the trip to Thailand.
For our anniversaries, my DW and I have been visiting US National Parks, Glacier, Yosemite, Arches and Canyonlands.

You can't go wrong with going to Europe for a first trip! You'd just need to narrow down what cities or countries interest you.

The Mayan Coast (caribbean side) of Mexico is very beautiful. there's lots to see and do there, plenty away from the touristy area (Cancun). Maybe Akumal?

Thailand seems kind of a big trip to me for someone who's never traveled internationally. Same for Egypt, but since you have friends there might be OK.

@tomfuller - we thought about Hawaii - but I REALLY want a trip out of the country! We've been several places within the U.S. and want to save those for when our daughter is a little older (she'll be 2 in December). This is an indulgence for us!

@suze - thanks for the suggestion - I'll do some research on Akumal.

Have either of you ever been to Greece? I'd love to be able to get to Egypt (especially with a FREE place to stay for a bit) but don't want to spend the ENTIRE trip with friends.

Greece and/or Egypt trips are really REALLY dependent on the time of year. When do you want to travel? The Greek Isles are a bit of a problem in Winter. Some of the ferries shut down and many hotels close for the season. Isn't really beach weather.

Whereas Egypt is hotter than HELL in Summer.

Sweden is fabulous in the summer -- but an expensive destination if budget is an issue.

I'd maybe focus a bit on what you think you'd enjoy and then re-post over on the Europe and Africa/Middle East forums.

I agree, once you get a couple final ideas, do post on the destination forums... Europe, Mexico, etc. There's not too many people who read this "travel tops" section.

Nope I've never been to Greece or Egypt myself. They don't really catch my interest.

I've been to Amsterdam, Paris, Venice, and Switzerland around the Geneva area (many times). I've been to Jamaica, USVI, Dominican Republic, Mexico (many times) and Hawaii for tropical vacations.

I usually recommend Amsterdam for first time (US) travellers. No language barrier. Park yourself in a hotel in the middle of the city and you can get everywhere you need with a brief tram/bike/cab/walk. Lots of euro-flavor, easy to get to (Amsterdam is a huge international hub), very civilized and safe (the Dutch enjoy a very high standard of living). You can see the whole place and have time to relax in a week (if time is pressing). You'll certainly feel like you travelled, but it won't be so alien that you experience discomfort or inconvenience.

I think you should visit Singapore... Its a very beautiful place.... I never visited there but heard about it from one of my friend...

First off, congratulations on the 10 years. How about an Alaskan cruise? Renew your vows in the ship's chapel with the ship's captain presiding. Order a honeymoon package for your cabin and be surprised! Ah ... the original love boat ....

I wouldn't go on May 3 though as it is a bit early, but end of May early June would be great!

Early May in Europe is a good time to go. It's not too hot yet and the tourist crowds haven't gathered in numbers. In Southern Europe--South of France, Italy, Spain--the weather should be very pleasant and warm during the day. Evenings might need a jumper.

You need to decide if you want to travel around a bit or base in one place, but how about Sorrento? You can use it as a base to see Pompeii, Herculaneum, the Amalfi coast, Capri, Ischia and Naples.

When would you be going? Egypt is very hot much of the year, even in the lovely city of Alexandria.

Visited 28 countries. Lives 6 years in Alaska and ten in the Virgin Islands. The 6 years my wife and I lived in Thailand were the very best. I would move to Bali but they do not allow dogs. Nepal is a great adventure.

You bumped a 3 year old thread.

Wow! What a question! Seeing as the world is your oyster, this must be a very exciting trip to plan. I have a couple of suggestions. Firstly, Thailand – you mention it, and this destination is truly unforgettable. The beaches in the south of Thailand are stunning and you can find a place that is not too touristy (although many places do have plenty of visitors). You can also find some excellent spa and boutique resorts for a special getaway. May, however, is coming out of high season so you may not get the best weather.

Another suggestion – Belize. Not a touristy destination but it is a beautiful country, you can stay on some almost-deserted desert islands, and also take part in a variety of adventure sports. May is a good time to visit although it can get hot.

And you replied to a 3 year old thread.