Honeymoons and romance go together like peanut butter and jelly. But, honeymoons, romance and - Juneau? It might seem strange, but Juneau has some hidden gems in the "Romantic Getaway Destination" category.

For many Americans, the very word "honeymoon" conjures up images of warm tropical beaches and trips to Europe. Unfortunately, the era of heightened airport security - and inconvenience - is upon us all.

For those newlyweds who prefer to avoid being patted down by anyone except their spouses, maybe it is time to think about enjoying Juneau like a tourist. After all, the real key to a perfect honeymoon is spending it with the right person in privacy and comfort, and Juneau couples might be surprised at the opportunities they have for pampered seclusion right here at home.

Home-Grown Romance

One of the most charming possible places in Juneau to spend a post-nuptial interlude is the Guest House at Fireweed House Bed and Breakfast. From the marble and slate floors to the cedar ceilings, the Guest House evokes a homey, relaxed intimacy.

As Jeff Watts, the owner and innkeeper of Fireweed House, said, "It cradles you."

And he would know. He and his wife Danith lived in the Guest House before they opened their B & B. "The builder had his heart in the place . . . And it's got [that feeling] in there."

"The most romantic thing I ever saw was [a husband who] bought nights for his wife to spend here alone," said Watts. The husband explained that his wife's high-pressure job had left her craving some down time. "He wrote a story about how much he loved her and left it for her."

From the view of the moon shining through the high windows on clear nights to the spectacular views of Heintzleman Ridge during the day, a stay at Fireweed is a visual feast. For other appetites, the Guest House has a full-sized kitchen which Jeff can stock with oven-ready meals.

A romantic, Watts enjoys helping guests create the atmosphere they crave, and he knows the main ingredient.

"We specialize in privacy," said Watts, citing the many local guests who enjoy getting away from it all without having to leave town. Of course, the Jacuzzi baths, peaceful ambiance and great food help too.

A Taste of Elegance

If indulgence and coddling sound good, try Pearson's Pond Luxury Inn and Garden Spa. The innkeeper, Diane Pearson, takes great pride and pleasure in meeting guests' needs without being asked. When her guests leave, she said, "They know they've been pampered to the limit."

Diane does not feel that playing hostess to honeymooners is particularly demanding. "They go into their rooms . . . and sometimes they don't come out for a day or two."

For special romantic occasions, Pearson makes an extra effort to help shut out the rest of the world. She particularly enjoys welcoming local visitors, hoping to allow each person to feel as if they have left behind all their cares and taken "a real vacation."

From the soundproof walls to the gourmet chocolates in the Romance Baskets, Pearson spares no effort or expense to make a stay at Pearson's Pond memorable. She even custom-orders mattresses to give her guests the perfect night's sleep.

"I want [Pearson's Pond] to appeal to all five senses," said Pearson.

To that end, the burbling of the waterfall in the cozy living area combines with music tailored to each visitor's preferences, and fresh flowers grace every room. Guests are treated to refreshments, which they can enjoy with the tranquil view of the pond and gardens.

A fire place and a four-poster bed embellish every guest room, as do the practical amenities like refrigerators and Jacuzzis. Naturally, each room has been designed in accordance with the principles of Feng Shui.

But wait, that's not all!

Remember that when it comes to honeymooning, there is no such thing as a wrong place, as long as everyone is happy and comfortable.

With that in mind, here are some other great options for newlyweds:

The Shrine of Saint Therese has several cabins available for rent. The peaceful atmosphere of the Shrine, combined with the gorgeous scenery, would be a wonderful place to spend some quiet time together.

For those who would prefer to stay in a more central location, Grandma's Feather Bed, a Best Western hotel, offers the convenience of an onsite restaurant and the comfort of feather beds in every room. Each room also features a Jacuzzi in a spacious bathtub.

The truly adventurous might want to consider the cabins at Adlersheim Wilderness Lodge at 33-mile. Creative minds could do a lot with the material this location provides: beautiful scenery and distance from the civilized world of telephones and TV's.

So when it comes to planning your honeymoon, think about skipping the long lines and hassle of flying, and take advantage of the romance available right around the corner.