Romance, Re-charge and Relax
You can obviously go anywhere in the world for your honeymoon. If you want to relax and be content with being within the most romantic destinations in the word, here are my recommendations. I love the Indian Ocean for romance which you can tell by my first three recommendations! The list is endless but here are my top picks.
The Maldives
There's a reason The Maldives are considered a classic honeymoon/romantic destination - actually, make that several reasons.
This destination has all the ingredients of a quintessential island-paradise escape: year-round warm weather; silky-soft sands fringed by swaying palm trees; turquoise waters. The best bit is - it can in fact be affordable.
Centara Ras Fushi - I can personally recommend as quite simply affordable paradise. Reethi Rah for wonderful cuisine, Soneva Fushi for a truly laid back and re charge vibe.
Temperatures in the Maldives stay at a wonderfully warm 25-30°C year-round and only drop a few degrees at night. There are distinct wet (south-west monsoon) and dry (north-east monsoon) seasons; peak season for the Maldives is between December and April when the climate is drier, it’s less windy and the weather is hotter. Each island in the archipelago has its own microclimate, but there are general patterns that occur throughout the year.
The Maldives
There's a reason The Maldives are considered a classic honeymoon/romantic destination - actually, make that several reasons.
This destination has all the ingredients of a quintessential island-paradise escape: year-round warm weather; silky-soft sands fringed by swaying palm trees; turquoise waters. The best bit is - it can in fact be affordable.
Centara Ras Fushi - I can personally recommend as quite simply affordable paradise. Reethi Rah for wonderful cuisine, Soneva Fushi for a truly laid back and re charge vibe.
Temperatures in the Maldives stay at a wonderfully warm 25-30°C year-round and only drop a few degrees at night. There are distinct wet (south-west monsoon) and dry (north-east monsoon) seasons; peak season for the Maldives is between December and April when the climate is drier, it’s less windy and the weather is hotter. Each island in the archipelago has its own microclimate, but there are general patterns that occur throughout the year.
The Seychelles
Another honeymoon/couples classic, this island country is rightly famed for its beauty: immaculate beaches with distinctive boulders, framed by lush green hills.
The Seychelles is also the place to go for some amazing wildlife encounters, from the giant tortoises to the rich array of marine life in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. The Four Seasons Resort is to be seen to be believed! The Raffles can only be described as the Garden of Eden...
The Seychelles is located off the eastern mainland of Africa. The best time to visit the Seychelles is between April and May, or October and November, as these are the calmer periods between the two trade winds which hit the island each year.
Mauritius
Relax on stunning beaches, hike through national parks and stand on top of mountains overlooking sparkling lagoons. Meet friendly locals. Taste delicious food. Immerse yourself in the rhythm and history of Mauritian culture.
This Indian Ocean island is located in the tropics in the Southern Hemisphere off the south-eastern coast of Africa. Its seasons are largely the opposite of our own, summer runs from November to April and winter from May to October. The higher temperatures of summer coincide with the region’s rainy season while the cooler months tend to be drier. As Mauritius is a small island in such a far-flung location, it is often hard to forecast the weather, particularly in the long term. The topography also causes a number of microclimates – it could be beautifully sunny where you are but raining up the road.
Saint Lucia
There's something bewitching about Saint Lucia. In fact, you'll be in love with this Caribbean island from the moment you catch sight of its iconic pitons - two volcanic spires rising from turquoise waters.
Jade Mountain, really makes the most of the glorious scenery, and Sugar Beach for once-in-a-lifetime luxury. Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort - dining on the beach, tranquil walks through nearby hiking trails, relaxing spa treatments, and sunset cruises, newlyweds will enjoy a holiday full of bonding experiences.
St Lucia is the ultimate Carribean island. Like most of the Carribean Islands, the best time to visit is in the high season, from Mid-December to Mid-April. During this season, you'll experience the most sunshine.
Hawaii
Hawaii is an excellent destination in September and October, because the end of the summer sees a drop in tourists and prices without a drop in temperatures.
Life is outdoors, so if you’re a looking for an injection of adventure as well as the relaxing/laid back island life, Hawaii is your place. Whether it’s surfing, diving with sea turtles or snorkelling with giant manta rays, there is plenty on offer.
Visit crystal waterfall pools and golden sandy beaches before riding horseback in the shallow waters. Halekulani is one of Hawaii's best kept secrets in an enviable location. The Kahala Hotel and Resort is sheer elegance and decadence.
Venice - Italy
Taste the beauty of this Italian city. There's something magical about the combination of intricate architecture and lagoon landscapes.
The main tourist sights can attract considerable crowds, but it's also possible to find off-the-beaten track pleasures, from serene squares and Gothic churches to cool neighbourhood bars.
The summer months are obviously the hottest but this city is captivating no matter what time of year you visit - I would suggest September to November striking the balance between less crowds and warmth.
The Greek Islands
If privacy is your priority, one of the less-visited Greek Islands could be your perfect destination.
Milos, Ithaca and Amorgos for wild natural beauty. You won't find five-star hotels, sandy beaches or wild nightlife, but you'll enjoy a laidback getaway with excellent food, rugged coastal walks and plenty of just us time.
Santorini is often the honeymoon choice, but for those who find it a little expensive, there are actually many other Greek islands that offer that same fantasy feel, but with a better price point, like Rhodes, Alonissos and Zakynthos.
The Greek Islands are the perfect choice for a summer honeymoon or family holiday. The long season from April to October means you can avoid the busy summer tourist season if you prefer.
Independent Travel Agent for Full Circle Travel. A member of The Co-operative Travel Consortium, The Midcounties Co-operative Limited.
