Photo courtesy of Gili Lankanfushi
This is a guest post by Abby Taubman of Colletts Travel.
The Honeymoon
A once in a lifetime holiday or a short break to unwind after the big day. Wherever you choose to go you want it to be romantic, memorable and special. When the world really is your oyster it is hard to pinpoint where you both want to go that will fit with your budget, time frame and that perfect mixture of two people’s ideal holiday.
Photo courtesy of St Regis Mauritius Resort
I have compiled a small, yet perfectly formed list of some my top destinations that may help you narrow down those ever-growing honeymoon destination lists appearing in your google searches. My list will cover long haul to short haul, beaches to cities and everything in between. So sit back, relax and let the honeymoon bucket list dreaming commence…
Photo courtesy of Niyama Private Island, Maldives
India & Maldives
India – a classic honeymoon destination. From the vibrant and buzzing cities of the Golden Triangle in the North to the calm and relaxing countryside of the South where a journey on the backwaters is an absolute must; India is a country that really offers it all and a country I instantly fell in love with the first time I visited.
Northern itineraries include cities such as Delhi, Agra where the famed Taj Mahal is, Jaipur and Udaipur. Before ending in Mumbai. Those itineraries exploring the South include Munnar, Alleppey, Pune Kumarakom and of course Cochin.
Photo courtesy of Vakkaru, Maldives
Because of the wonderful location of India, you can combine your amazing adventure with a beautiful beach where you can sit back, relax and reflect on everything that has just happened. My recommendation would be the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Maldives – a location that is at the heart of the saying ‘sit back, relax and unwind.’ A choice of islands, board options and budget allows all travellers that little slice of heaven.
Photo courtesy of Auberge du Soleil
California & Hawaii
The best way to describe any honeymoon here is romance, sunsets and wine. Your choice of cities and locations allows you to mix and match all three.
Picture this: you and your partner cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway in a convertible car, the wind blowing in your hair with only the Sat Nav directions to argue about. Together you can explore the beautiful scenery down the Highway 1 and stop in places such as San Francisco, The Big Sur, Carmel, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. And for those of you who fancy a little detour why not add in Napa Valley and Yosemite National Park.
Photo courtesy of Montage Laguna Beach
Combine your California road trip with the tropical state of Hawaii. Hawaii is a true bucket list location. Your days could be spent zip lining, snorkelling or hiking in the morning followed by relaxing afternoons on the beach and romantic dinners watching the sunset. A winning honeymoon combination all round.
Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Kyoto
Japan
Japan allows you to tick off your honeymoon bucketlist whilst also visiting THE hot travel destination right now. With the 2020 Olympics coming up this country is full steam ahead in giving tourists an amazing holiday.
There are only a few beaches but that doesn’t mean it can’t make for a perfect honeymoon. Take the speedy bullet train between cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone and Osaka to really explore the whole country. Famous for its cherry blossom, the crazy lights of Tokyo and of course its food, Japan will give you a non-stop action packed honeymoon that will leave you wanting to return!
Photo courtesy of One & Only Hotel
South Africa & Mauritius
A honeymoon to South Africa really does offer it all: catching a glimpse of the Big 5 on safari, exploring the Cape Winelands on the Wine Tram, whale watching in Hermanus as well as the iconic city of Cape Town with panoramic views from the top of Table Mountain.
Photo courtesy of Shamwari Safari
This type of honeymoon offers a slow-paced, colourful adventure. For many honeymooners, there is nothing better than ending an adventure with a few days on a golden sandy beach sipping cocktails and dipping your toes in the sea.
And whilst many spots in South Africa do offer gorgeous beaches, you could switch up location by heading over to Mauritius for a real escape from reality. Water sports and lazy days sipping cocktails on the beach is what Mauritius has to offer honeymooners.
Photo courtesy of Keemala Hotel
Thailand
If you’re looking for a bit of culture, a bit of beach and a bit of adventure Thailand is the honeymoon place for you. I first went to Thailand backpacking in 2009 and now 10 years later I am going again and I cannot wait to see this country I fell in love with all those years ago.
Chiang Mai is an absolute must. The city is surrounded by lush rain forests with gorgeous waterfalls, and within the city you will find temples, art galleries, boutique cafes and traditional restaurants. Not too far away Chiang Rai is a great addition for those of you who love a bit of nature (elephants especially) and want to visit the amazing Wat Rong Khun temple.
Photo courtesy of Trisara
After a few days exploring the North head down to the South for the famous beaches. The West Coast (perfect for November–March) is best for Phuket, Krabi, Yao Noi and Koh Phi Phi. The East Coast (perfect for May–September) has islands such as Koh Samui and Koh Tao. Days on the beach in both areas can be spent relaxing on the golden sand or out in the water on the long tailed boats snorkelling and visiting the many national parks.
Of course any trip to Thailand would not be complete without a trip to Bangkok. The city is extremely diverse and the absolute musts include Wat Arun and Wat Pho and the incredible Royal Palace. The city has wonderful sky bars to enjoy evening cocktail at and the food options are endless.
For me a honeymoon to Thailand really offers it all within one country. It is such a welcoming country and from the beaches to the cities and national parks you can experience so much.
Photo courtesy of Il Salviatino
Italy : Amalfi Coast, Tuscany or combine both
Just because you aren’t starting your honeymoon with a 6+ hour flight doesn’t mean it won’t be epic. Europe and North Africa have a wonderful range of destinations with so much to offer for a perfect honeymoon. (Or a mini moon for those looking for a short break post wedding.)
Don’t be put off by the fact you are not travelling far because to me, Italy is the home of romance. Regardless of where you go in Italy you are bound to experience beauty, unforgettable food, romantic cities and gorgeous hotels.
Photo courtesy of Belmond Caruso
Italy can offer you a great city break – Florence, Rome, Venice or Positano – or it can offer you natural beauty with Tuscan hills, The Lakes and the Amalfi Coast (Positano being my personal favourite. Foodie lovers will be in heaven but then again who doesn’t love a winning combination of burrata, pizza and pasta all washed down with the best gelato and wine!
A roadtrip through Italy in an open top car winding through the valleys, villages and cities is an incredibly way to spend a two week honeymoon and definitely at the top of my bucket list.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Sant Francesc, Palma
Majorca
What is so special about Majorca, you may be thinking to yourself? Why would you suggest that as a honeymoon or minimoon destination? Majorca offers beautiful beaches, historic cities and towns, world class food on an island small enough to drive around. This island has an amazing range of hotels, particularly some beautiful boutique options that allow you to explore and relax.
Photo courtesy of Park Hyatt Majorca
The western side of the Island has the beautiful villages of Deia and Valldemossa which makes for a beautiful day of exploring. The city of Palma combines great food and gothic cathedrals and if the city becomes too much for you, you could always hire a boat and cove hop around some of the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters this island has to offer. Oh and of course, wash it all down with some of the freshest fish and sea food you can get.
Photo courtesy of Dormy House
Cotswolds
For those of you wanting to head off straight away on a minimoon, you don’t have to look far to find luxury, spas and fantastic food. The UK has the most wonderful array of hotels which are perfect for any short break pre or post wedding. Chewton Glen, Cliveden House, Coworth Park and the new Heckfield Place – to name just a few – all offer beautiful retreats where romantic walks, sublime spas and wonderful restaurants. I always find it hard to choose which UK country hotel to visit next because they are all so perfect in their own particular way.
Photo courtesy of Katikies, Santorini
Greece
There is something incredible about the Greek islands. I never seem to get bored of looking at photos of the crisp white buildings against the rich blue sea and sky. It is easy to picture yourself sat by the pool, cocktail in hand and dazing out to the turquoise ocean in front.
Photo courtesy of Canaves Oia, Santorini
There are so many islands and unknown spots to go to in Greece, but for me the most popular for honeymooners and where the luxury hotels offer exceptional service, unrivalled views and incredible spas has to be Mykonos and Santorini. Although some of the lesser talked about islands of Zakinthos, Crete, and Paros, also offer their own beauty and uniqueness.
Photo courtesy of Six Senses
East Africa & Seychelles
A unique combination that offers something different from the South African idea mentioned earlier. Tanzania offers you the Serengeti, Ngorogoro Crater and Lake Manyara. Picture the Lion King – wildebeest migration – endless animals – incredible hotels – hot air balloons and swimming pools overlooking the watering holes. This is a real adventure for those who want the ultimate safari experience. Kenya also offers amazing safaris and the famous Giraffe Manor Hotel (as long as you book far in advance).
Photo courtesy of Banyan Tree
After all that safari you are bound to want to relax on the beach so for those who want to head over to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar there are a number of private island hotels and all inclusive resorts. For those of you looking to go a little further afield you can head over to the Seychelles.
Photo courtesy of Hacienda Alta Gracia Casita
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is another country featuring on my current bucket list. This country has so much to offer to those of you who love adrenaline. Rainforests cover a huge amount of this country and hidden on the other side are the most pristine and elegant beaches, incredible volcanoes and amazing wildlife. Activities include zip lining, white water rafting and canyoning. Choose between the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea in this exotic natural playground.
So that ends my condensed honeymoon list. Of course, there are many more countries and destinations to choose from.
Photo courtesy of Myconian Collection
For those of you who still don’t know where to choose, start by deciding what you want your honeymoon to offer and be remembered for. Do you want adventure, culture, activities or a paradise beach? Anything is possible and I am here to make it happen. Each itinerary I send to you is carefully put together and fully explained and can be amended by you up until the time you book.
Photo courtesy of Mahali Mzuri Camp
And when booked, members of Smashing The Glass’s Brides Club will receive a travel guide gifted by me to help you start planning the finer details – the restaurants, the activities, which spa treatments to have – the fun stuff!
The one thing you will all have in common is that your honeymoon is made just right for you – down to the last little detail so leave the hard work to me so all you need to do is sit back, relax, enjoy your wedding and pack your suitcase!
Photo courtesy of Palazzo Avino
About Abby Taubman
As a travel consultant with Colletts Travel, I am extremely passionate about travel and holidays and believe that personal touches and attention to detail are crucial when planning such an important trip. My expert knowledge of worldwide travel, together with strong relationships with an extensive range of top hotels, airlines and tour operators on the ground ensures that you stay in the best and see the best each country has to offer. I offer one-to-one consultations to help you select a destination and will then build the perfect honeymoon for you. Honeymoons that I plan are personalised and luxurious with every small detail taken care of…all you need to do is pack, sit back and relax!
Find Abby and Colletts Travel on: Instagram | Website
You can get in touch with Colletts Travel at 07808 148451, or with Abby Taubman directly at 0208 2388 495 or abby@collettstravel.co.uk
Abby also offers members of our Brides Club a complimentary travel guide to their chosen destination – and she gave a fantastic masterclass all about honeymoon planning, just for members.
