Your honeymoon is undoubtedly one of the most important holidays you will ever have! Instead of going on the same tried-and-true beach holiday, we’ve put together an ultimate guide with the hottest new honeymoon trends and luxury honeymoon destinations for 2017, to help you plan an unforgettable trip as happily married newlyweds…
Best Romantic Honeymoon Destination:
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Why Go:
We can whole-heartedly declare a honeymoon to Bora Bora will be the most romantic trip of a lifetime. With an enchanting combination of white sand beaches and coral islets, all wrapped together in a stunning palette of sapphire, indigo and turquoise… you can see why this idyllic corner of French Polynesia is known as the pearl of the Pacific Ocean.
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Resort, Bora Bora
Stay in a blissfully romantic overwater bungalow and wake up to the stunning panoramic view of Bora Bora’s Turquoise Lagoon and iconic Mount Otemanu. Enjoy breakfast in bed like never before with an exotic platter of fresh fruits delivered to you in a ceremonial Polynesian canoe, along with a fragrant bouquet of tropical frangipani and hibiscus blooms… a honeymoon at Four Seasons will take romance to a whole new level.
What to do:
Discover the magic of Bora Bora with snorkelling safaris, island excursions, scuba diving, private beach picnics or sink into heavenly relaxation at the Kahaia Spa Suite…
Best Wild Honeymoon Destination:
Tanzania, Africa
Why Go:
A honeymoon in Tanzania is a trip of a lifetime. With a combination of incredible safaris and beautiful coastlines, Tanzania pairs seamlessly with Zanzibar for the perfect safari-beach experience, making it ideal for honeymooners looking for something with a wild and wonderful twist.
Where to stay: Little Chem Chem
Little Chem Chem, located in Northern Tanzania between the tranquil waters of Lake Manyara and ancient landscapes of Tarangire National Park, simply oozes the spirit of vintage safari. Stay in a stylish tented suite overlooking the spectacular Tarangire River, complete with luxurious indoor and outdoor showers for a truly sensual experience.
What to do:
Embark on a voyage like no other whilst on your honeymoon in Africa and take a sunrise run through the inspiring wilderness with a Maasai warrior! Or for something a little less vigorous visit to the local Maasai village, go running with the Maasi from Chem Chem or take a romantic hot-air balloon ride over the African wilderness.
Best Honeymoon Destination for Foodies:
South Africa
Why Go:
If food is your thing, then a honeymoon in South Africa is for you. A country rich in natural beauty, game-rich savannahs home to the big 5, stunning coastlines and exquisite cuisine to tantalise the taste buds and sun-drenched vineyards, South Africa ticks all the boxes.
Where to stay: Babylonstoren
Stay in the heart of Cape Winelands, at the sophisticated Babylonstoren, a historic Cape Dutch working wine farm. Boasting elegant gables and hearty fireplaces that emulate an authentic farm stay experience, it is full of contemporary character and charm.
What to do:
Based on a philosophy of ‘honest food with little fuss’ you are in for a truly memorable culinary experience at Babel Restaurant. The seasonal menu reflects the organic produce harvested from the gardens, a true a farm-to-fork dining concept that will not disappoint. If that’s not enough to get your mouth-watering, Babylonstoren boasts a state-of-the-art winery. Spend an afternoon tasting one of the eight wines in the Babylonstoren stable.
Best Island Hopping Honeymoon Destination:
Seychelles
Why Go:
Looking for a beach honeymoon but apprehensive about not having enough to do on a remote island? Hop between the pristine white sands of the stunning Seychelles and explore the distinct character of each picture-perfect island!
Where to stay: Denis Private Island
A must stay on your island hopping honeymoon in the Seychelles is a stay on Denis Island located on the outer coralline island… also home to the largest community of giant Seychellois tortoise!
What to do:
Take a look at our Seychellois charm itinerary to set you up for exploring Praslin and Denis Island!
Best Total Chill Out Honeymoon Destination:
The Maldives
Why Go:
For ultimate relaxation and romance, the secluded islands of the Maldives will greet you with power-soft white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Where to stay: PER AQUUM, Huvafen Fushi
For complete escapism on your luxury honeymoon in the Maldives stay at boutique resort PER AQUUM, Huvafen Fushi. Sat in a picture-perfect lagoon of sheer turquoise, fringed by the deep indigo of the ocean beyond, this is pure fantasy desert island bliss.
What to do:
The sublime spa is one of the best in the Indian Ocean, discover the colours of the coral reef and marine life for the comfort of LIME the underwater spa and SpaQuarium. Restore me. Indulge me. Inspire me.
Best Budget Honeymoon Destination:
Thailand
Why Go:
The Land of Smiles’ is the perfect blend of discovery and adventure, twinned with its stunning beaches, rich culture, spectacular scenery, delicious cuisine and the most genuine of welcomes on your Thailand honeymoon!
Where to stay: Anantara Rasananda, Koh Pangnan
Anantara Rasananda is one of our island favourites in Thailand. Situated in a beautifully calm part of Koh Phangan you will have everything at your doorstep. A beautiful quiet beach, local restaurants, stunning spa and activities galore- this is an amazing option for honeymooners seeking sun and sand but want to experience a true Thai island.
What to do:
Head only a few hours out of Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second biggest city, and you can spend time with elephants, trek through lush, green jungle or stay in a rustic hill tribe lodge. Head further South and explore Thailand’s awe-inspiring coastal scenery in and around Krabi and Phang Nga Bay.
Best Sailing Honeymoon Destination:
British Virgin Islands
Why Go:
A honeymoon to The British Virgin Islands is a fantastic choice for newlyweds looking to combine exclusivity with a remote unspoiled location.
Where to stay: Guana Island
Seven pristine beaches and miles of tropical forest make up Guana Island. With acres of seclusion per guest, you’ll barely have to share it with anyone. This is beautiful, low-key luxury, honed through seven decades of careful family stewardship.
What to do:
A wonderful place for sailing, swimming, snorkelling and diving, the British Virgin Islands are perfect for water-loving couples.
Best Honeymoon Destination for Wine Lovers:
New Zealand
Why Go:
New Zealand has it all. For those in love with food and wine as well as their partner, this is the place. The array of award-winning wines delight and whilst we would never suggest you let your honeymoon go by in a wine ingested blur, it’s hard not to indulge!
Where to stay: Eagles Nest, Russell
Nestled on a private peninsula just minutes from Russell in the Bay of Islands, Eagles Nest Russell is a secluded retreat comprised of five truly unique, self-contained villas, each boasting eclectic yet casually elegant interiors. Set in extensive tropical gardens surrounded by native bush, this 75 acre estate enjoys spectacular views overlooking Tapeka Point and the Bay of Islands, offering complete privacy for your honeymoon in New Zealand.
What to do:
If you want to experience the crème de la crème of all wine tours, then you can’t beat helicopter-hopping vineyard tour with Salt Air! Experience a delectable selection of Northland wines at vineyards in locations spanning the Far North of New Zealand combined with amazing coastal and scenic views during your helicopter transfers between the wineries.
BestRoom With a View Honeymoon Destination:
Saint Lucia
Why Go:
One of the most picturesque and dramatic of the Caribbean islands, St Lucia is home to the majestic Piton Mountains as well as tropical rainforest, unspoiled beaches and a pristine marine reserve, it is an island full of natural wonders.
Where to stay: Jade Mountain, Saint Lucia
Could you possibly find a more romantic bedroom view on your Saint Lucia honeymoon? Stay in one of Jade Mountains‘s stunning open aired bedroom suites and wake up this incredible view… No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you, there really is no fourth wall: your room leads straight out onto the dramatic backdrop of majestic Piton Mountains!
What to do:
Dine under the stars with your loved one… Book a private, romantic dinner on the Celestial Terrace and enjoy a dedicated waiter service and a mouth-watering menu in the most stunning surroundings!
Best Castaway Beach Honeymoon Destination:
Mozambique
Why Go:
Ever set foot in a place so ruggedly beautiful and remote that you feel as if you’ve stumbled across a new part of the world? Well, Mozambique is just that… Africa’s undiscovered jewel, a melting pot of cultures and exotic influences, with unspoilt beaches of sugar white sand and translucent waters.
Where to stay: Azura Benguerra
If ever an island hideaway was said to have perfected the art of laid-back luxury castaway living in beach bliss, then Azura Benguerra would have to be it! Nestled on the idyllic shoreline of little known Benguerra Island and only accessible via an exhilarating 15-minute scenic helicopter flight from Vilanculos you will be in pure honeymoon bliss…
What to do:
From July to November, humpback whales visit the coast on their annual migration and between November and Feburary, Loggerhead and Leatherback Turtles head to this stretch of coast to lay their eggs! A honeymoon to Mozambique combines perfectly with a safari in the Sabi Sands or Madikwe Game Reserves.
Best Romantic Road Trip Honeymoon Destination:
California
Why Go:
Beach towns, off-the-grid escapes, wine country — the Golden State has no shortage of honeymoon-worthy destinations. The grande dame of them all, however, is not so much a destination as it is a journey: California’s Pacific Coast Highway offers a taste of all of the above, along with some of the state’s finest panoramas…
Where to stay: Post Ranch Inn
A jewel in the Pacific Coast Highway’s rugged crown is Post Ranch Inn. Perched atop a Californian cliff edge, the 100-acre Post family estate was formerly a working cattle farm. Now home to an exclusive, eco-minded luxury retreat, Post Ranch Inn boasts what can be simply described as one of the best ocean views in the world!
What to do:
The possibilities for your California honeymoon are endless… take a look at our California road trip itineraries for more inspiration.
Best Adventure Packed Honeymoon Destination:
Borneo, Malaysia
Why Go:
For couples looking for a real sense of adventure, a honeymoon to Malaysia ticks all the boxes. This undisturbed island, divided between Malaysia and Indonesia, is home to some of the most impressive rainforest in the world. Abundant with native flora and tropical birds as well as wild orang-utans, clouded leopards, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys and other rare and endangered species, Borneo is an animal lovers haven.
Where to stay: Borneo Rainforest Lodge
For the most authentic Borneo experience, a stay at Borneo Rainforest Lodge in a contemporary chalet with a private hot tube is a must. Set beside the Danum River on the edge of a stunning reserve, this understated eco-lodge is the perfect spot to enjoy the myriad of native wildlife that flourishes here.
What to do:
Wildlife excursions, canopy walks, river tubing and jungle treks are all part of the experience to showcase this exquisitely rare environment at its most glorious. A visit to Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre, where wild orangutans roam freely in the reserve, is a truly magical experience.
Take a look at our honeymoon FAQ and honeymoon advice for some more tips.
Still not sure where you would like to go? We know how overwhelming it can be planning the dream honeymoon, so let us take the stress away and book in for an appointment with one of our specialists today…
BOOK YOUR FREE HONEYMOON CONSULTATION NOW
