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0 Congratulations, you’re married! Now comes the fun part – jetting off on your honeymoon to celebrate the beginning of your happily ever after. But with so many incredible destinations around the world, how do you choose? To help spark your wanderlust, we’ve rounded up 10 of the most romantic, adventurous, and downright dreamy honeymoon spots. Get ready to pack your bags and embark on the trip of a lifetime with your new spouse.
1. The Maldives
Imagine waking up in an overwater bungalow, the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean stretching out as far as the eye can see. Welcome to the Maldives, an archipelago of over 1,000 islands that is the definition of tropical paradise. Spend your days snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, indulging in couple’s spa treatments, and toasting spectacular sunsets with champagne. It’s the ultimate setting to unwind after the whirlwind of your wedding.
Where to Stay:
For the height of romance and luxury, book a villa at the Soneva Jani Resort. Each overwater villa features its own private pool and some even have slides straight into the lagoon. Don’t miss stargazing at their overwater observatory.
2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The South Pacific is calling! Bora Bora has long been a favorite of honeymooners thanks to its jaw-dropping beauty. Picture lush jungle-covered mountains rising out of the clearest blue lagoon you’ve ever seen, dotted with thatched-roof overwater bungalows. Spend a morning exploring the lagoon by outrigger canoe, then head to Matira Beach, consistently ranked one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Pure bliss!
Where to Stay:
You can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. Splurge on one of their overwater bungalow suites, complete with a private plunge pool, for the full Bora Bora experience. Their Polynesian spa overlooking the lagoon is heavenly.
3. Safari in Kenya
Looking for more adventure on your honeymoon? Consider a safari in Kenya’s legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve. Spend your days spotting the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos – as well as a dazzling array of other wildlife like cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and hippos. In the evenings, toast the sunset with a sundowner cocktail and fall asleep to the sounds of the African bush. It’s the stuff honeymoon dreams are made of!
Where to Stay:
Splurge on a few unforgettable nights at Angama Mara, a luxury lodge perched high above the Great Rift Valley. The tented suites have floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the epic views and you can even do a hot air balloon safari right from the property.
4. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is one of those places that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. Colorful villages cling to cliff sides that plunge down to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Spend your days exploring charming towns like Positano and Ravello, taking a sunset boat cruise, and indulging in plenty of pasta and limoncello. La dolce vita indeed!
Where to Stay:
Perched 1000 feet above the Mediterranean in Ravello, the Belmond Hotel Caruso is the stuff of honeymoon dreams. The former 11th century palace boasts gorgeous frescoed ceilings, an infinity pool with jaw-dropping views, and beautiful terraced gardens. You may never want to leave!
5. Bali, Indonesia
Bali has it all – gorgeous beaches, lush jungles, spiritual temples, exciting nightlife, and mouthwatering cuisine. Rent a private villa and spend your days exploring this exotic island. Take a sunrise hike up Mount Batur volcano, learn to surf in Canggu, indulge in traditional Balinese massages, and watch the famous Kecak fire dance at sunset. There’s no shortage of honeymoon-worthy experiences here!
Where to Stay:
For a honeymoon splurge, it doesn’t get much better than the Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud. The villas are set amidst lush rice paddies and each comes with its own private pool and butler. The spa combines Balinese wellness with modern luxury – pure heaven!
6. Santorini, Greece
There’s nowhere in the world quite like Santorini. Whitewashed buildings with blue domes cascading down the cliffside, black sand beaches, and the most epic sunsets you’ll ever see. Spend your days exploring the picturesque villages of Oia and Imerovigli, sailing around the caldera, and indulging in plenty of fresh seafood and crisp Greek wine. Yamas!
Where to Stay:
For the ultimate Santorini honeymoon, book a suite at Katikies Hotel in Oia. You’ll have your own private plunge pool overlooking the Aegean and easy access to Oia’s famous pedestrian path for exploring and sunset views. Their champagne bar carved into the cliffs is the perfect spot for toasting your marriage!
7. Queenstown, New Zealand
Adventure awaits on New Zealand’s South Island! Queenstown, nicknamed the “Adventure Capital of the World”, is an outdoor lover’s dream. Choose your own honeymoon adventure – bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, white water rafting, horseback riding through Middle Earth (much of Lord of the Rings was filmed here). Balance out the adrenaline highs with a romantic cruise through the incredibly scenic Milford Sound and wine tasting in the nearby Central Otago region.
Where to Stay:
Matakauri Lodge, perched on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, is the perfect romantic retreat after a day of adventures. Unwind in your suite’s deep soaking tub with a glass of local Pinot Noir while taking in the stunning mountain and lake views.
8. Maui, Hawaii
You can’t go wrong with a classic Hawaiian honeymoon! Maui has some of the best beaches in the world (don’t miss Wailea Beach), opportunities for snorkeling with sea turtles, and the scenic Road to Hana drive. Take a sunrise trip to Haleakala Crater, learn to surf, go whale watching (in season), and sip mai tais at sunset. Aloha!
Where to Stay:
Honeymooners love the adults-only Hotel Wailea. The suites are spacious and luxurious, the restaurants incredible, and the service top notch. Don’t miss the outrigger canoe experience that departs right from the beach!
9. Antarctica Cruise
For the truly adventurous, set sail for the ultimate bucket list honeymoon – Antarctica! Expedition cruises depart from the southern tip of Argentina for the otherworldly landscapes of the White Continent. Get up close to incredible icebergs, spot penguins and whales, kayak past leopard seals, and even take a (very quick) polar plunge. It’s a honeymoon you’ll never forget as you explore the most remote place on Earth together!
Where to Stay:
You can’t go wrong with Quark Expeditions, the leader in polar adventures. Their new ship Ultramarine is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters and 20 quick-launching Zodiacs to take your exploration to the next level. The suites are luxurious and comfortable after a day in the elements.
10. Paris, France
Finally, you can never go wrong with a classic Parisian honeymoon. Is there anything more romantic than strolling hand-in-hand along the Seine, picnicking in front of the Eiffel Tower, exploring the charming streets of Montmartre? Visit world-class museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, indulge in decadent pastries, and toast your marriage with plenty of French champagne. Cap it all off with a day trip to the Palace of Versailles. It’s a timeless honeymoon for good reason!
Where to Stay:
Splurge on a honeymoon suite at the iconic Ritz Paris. You’ll be steps from the Louvre, Place Vendôme, and the Tuileries Gardens. Don’t miss drinks at the famous Hemingway Bar and book their signature honeymoon package complete with champagne, roses, and breakfast in bed.
No matter which destination you choose, the most important thing is that you’re together, celebrating your love and the exciting journey ahead. Here’s to an unforgettable honeymoon and an even more incredible marriage! Bon voyage!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best time to go on a honeymoon?
The best time for your honeymoon depends on the destination you choose and your personal preferences. Many couples go right after their wedding, but you might want to delay your trip a few months to hit the best season for your desired spot. Consider factors like weather, crowds, and pricing when deciding on your timing.
2. How far in advance should we book our honeymoon?
It’s best to start planning your honeymoon 6-8 months before your travel dates, especially if you’re eyeing a popular destination or specific resort. This gives you time to research, compare prices, and make sure you snag your top choices before things book up. Last minute deals pop up occasionally, but it’s risky for a trip as important as your honeymoon!
3. What should we pack for our honeymoon?
Your packing list will depend a lot on where you’re headed and what activities you’re planning. As a general rule, pack comfortable clothes and shoes, any gear you need for specific excursions (hiking boots, snorkel equipment, etc.), a nice outfit or two for dinners out, and of course, plenty of sunscreen! Don’t forget your passport if leaving the country and it never hurts to pack some extra romance items (wink wink).
