Are you ready to start planning your honeymoon? It’s possibly one of the most fun parts of wedding planning.
Whether you are dreaming of golden beaches or an adventurous city break, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you are having trouble picking that perfect place, here are our expert tips and recommendations on top honeymoon destinations. And as a bonus, we’ve got some useful tips on honeymoon planning.
The Maldives
The Maldives conjures up images of white sand beaches, overwater bungalows and crystal-clear ocean. The idyllic Asian archipelago is easily one of the best honeymoon destinations if you are seeking luxury and exclusivity.
Sip on tropical cocktails, experience fine dining right on the beach sand, embark on a relaxing sunset cruise, plan a couples’ spa day or plunge into the sea to spot turtles and marine life.
Choose from an array of blissful islands where you can swim, snorkel and sunbathe all day long. Afterwards, unwind in the privacy of your own beachfront villa or plush hotel. Some are only accessible by seaplane, making your journey just as spectacular as your destination.
Wondering what’s the best time to visit the Maldives? The islands’ tropical climate means they’re an all-year-round vacation destination. Nevertheless, December to April is typically the most popular time for a trip. There’s less rainfall and average temperatures range between 73ºF – 88ºF.
Good To Know
To split up your journey to the Maldives, enjoy a layover in Dubai. The glitzy Emirate city has so much to offer, from vibrant markets and modern shopping malls to desert safaris and trips up the towering Burj Khalifa.
Kenya
A safari vacation in the African savannah has to be on most people’s travel bucket lists, which makes Kenya an exciting honeymoon destination.
This diversion nation in east Africa is among the best places in the region to spot the Big Five in their natural habitat. Game drives are an intrinsic part of Kenya vacations, but you could also add atmospheric bush walks or even a night safari to your itinerary.
Discover the beauty of Masai Mara and witness the spectacular wildebeest migration. Book your romantic getaway between July and September and prepare to witness millions of zebra, gazelle and wildebeest make the treacherous journey across the crocodile-infested Mara River.
Honeymooners are sure to enjoy Kenya’s luxury tented safari campsites. This includes Governors Camp, an enchanting accommodation option near the Mara River that was once only accessible to the erstwhile governors of Kenya.
Kenya is also well-known for its distinct culture and traditions. You could book our Cultural Encounters and Wildlife Safari tour and learn more about the Maasai people. Find out how beautiful beaded jewelry and richly woven fabrics are made by skilled craftspeople.
Good To Know
Combine animal encounters with R&R by adding a few days in Mombasa to your agenda. The city on the picture-perfect Kenyan Coast is blessed with several stunning beaches where you can snooze on the sand or enjoy exhilarating water sports like surfing and deep-sea diving.
Hawaii
Hawaii draws you in with its natural allures and excellent hospitality, making it a top luxury vacation spot.
Couples hoping to switch off after months of stressful, yet rewarding, wedding planning will feel right at home in Hawaii. The beaches are perfect for soaking up some sunshine and indulging in water sports. Snorkel amid vibrant coral gardens and spot humpback whales out at sea. Hawaii is full of possibilities.
Spend a few weeks island-hopping and enjoy memorable excursions. Go caving through lava tubes on Big Island, stretch out on pristine coves in Maui or attend a luau – a traditional Hawaiian celebration featuring delicious cuisine and lively entertainment.
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation in Hawaii, with five-star beach resorts dotting its pristine shores. Enjoy a more intimate experience at Kauai’s boutique Koa Kea Hotel & Resort or indulge in spa treatments and a round of golf at the Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu.
Good To Know
Embark on a guided hike to one of Hawaii’s spectacular volcano craters at dusk. As well as seeing the sunset as you stroll, you’ll be able to watch the volcano’s eruptions light up the night sky.
South Africa
For a honeymoon destination that effortlessly delivers beautiful beaches, dramatic mountain ranges, culture-packed cities and stunning safari parks, look no further than South Africa.
The country offers something for every type of traveler. Kruger National Park is perfect if you are seeking wildlife experiences while a trip to Cape Town against the background of the iconic Table Mountains, gives you access to splendid beaches.
Raise a glass to your future together at the Stellenbosch wine region, and enjoy sumptuous food. South Africa’s Garden Route, spanning more than 200 kilometers of pristine coastline. The stretch is ideal for a romantic South African road trip. Soak up magnificent mountainscapes, cruise through dramatic gorges and feel the sand between your toes at the many beaches.
Secluded lodges with full-scale spas and easy access to major safari parks are some of our top picks. Spend your evenings gazing at starry skies at the luxurious Simbavati River Lodge in Southern Kruger or tuck yourself away in a private villa at the Elephant House in the heart of the Eastern Cape Game Parks.
South Africa’s climate varies from region to region. The best time to visit for a safari trip tends to be between March and November during the dry season. Hoping to explore the Cape? Make the most of summer between October and March.
Good To Know
Wine lovers will want to put Cape Route 62 on their itinerary. It’s one of the longest wine trails on the planet and can be combined with various other once-in-a-lifetime activities, from whale watching to cage-diving with great white sharks.
Japan
Japan never fails to impress with its verdant landscapes, fascinating traditions and delectable cuisine.
Touchdown in Tokyo and prepare to have all your senses heightened by the city’s bright lights, modern skyscrapers and fantastic restaurants. Japan’s capital is also a hotspot for shopping, so pick up souvenirs at shops around busy Shibuya station or come back with a brand-new, post-wedding wardrobe courtesy of the department stores in Shinjuku.
Prefer to visit somewhere that’s a little more serene? Spend an unforgettable night staying in a hut on the slopes of Mt Fuji. There’s also the option of waking up to views of the glistening Lake Ashino-Ko in nearby Hakone. Stay at the Gora Kadan, a blissful Japanese inn featuring natural hot springs and a zen garden perfect for a leisurely stroll.
For those who have always wanted to experience the enchanting cherry blossom festival, the best time to visit Japan is between March and May. Venture to Kyoto or Osaka to see the streets blanketed in snowy white or powder pink blooms. What could be more romantic?
Good To Know
Discover more about Japanese culture by heading to Shitaya Jinja. The shrine in Tokyo, which is dedicated to the goddess of fertility and fortune, hosts spiritual rituals that are great for marking your new life together.
Tips to help you plan the perfect honeymoon
Now that you know what the top honeymoon destinations are, the next step is to zero in on which one appeals to you the most, and start planning. We have put together some helpful tips and expert advice on planning that dream vacation with your loved one.
- Take the stress out of planning the perfect honeymoon by getting an expert to do it for you! Our trip coordinators have years of experience in planning tailored, once-in-a-lifetime getaways for guests all around the globe.
- Don’t leave booking your romantic escape to the very last minute. We recommend planning your trip eight to ten months in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on your chosen honeymoon destination or resort.
- Research your chosen destination before you go to make sure it’s somewhere that both of you will enjoy. Our team will be able to help you book personalized activities and ensure you’re aware of any issues that might affect your trip, from seasonal weather warnings to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
- Pack cleverly by using compression packing cubes in your luggage. You’ll then have plenty of space for any souvenirs when you travel back home.
- Is your flight arriving before your scheduled hotel check-in time? Pack a change of clothes and a swimsuit in your carry-on bag so you can take a dip in the sea or pool as soon as you arrive.
Ready to start planning the most romantic vacation of your life? Get in touch with our travel experts today and embark on a memorable vacation together.
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