Tropical sunsets, barefoot walks on the beach, a bure by the water and all the peace you could wish for...as a honeymoon destination, Fiji is close to perfect. It’s also close to home if you live near our eastern coastline – which means the flight-time is short and sweet. There’s plenty of fun and action on offer too, and when it comes to accommodation, that extra touch of luxury is surprisingly affordable.
Chances are you’ll be looking for some seclusion, so check out the quieter islands – places like the Mamanuca group, the Yasawas, Tavenui, Tokoriki, Matangi in the northern group, tiny Toberua, or beautiful Beqa Lagoon near Pacific Harbour. Book yourself into an over-water bure or bungalow if possible, and maybe check out the options for romantic cruises.
Wherever you choose, you can be sure of a very special time together because, from moonlit beach to sunlit atoll, a honeymoon in Fiji is fabulous.
Honeymooning in the heavenly Maldives? It’s hard to imagine anywhere more beautiful to start your married life than this tiny, tranquil ‘nation of islands’. Laze in the shade of a banyan tree, gaze out over pearly sands and aquamarine waters...you might think you’ve heard it all before, this is one part of the world you need to see to believe.
There’s enough seclusion here to make you feel you’re alone on the planet, but you won’t lack for comfort: the Maldivian resorts are outstanding. Surrounded by the blue, blue Indian Ocean, most of these idyllic, coral island retreats offer over-water accommodation with private verandahs, plus special honeymoon treats such as candle-lit dinners.
Find a hammock slung between coconut palms and you might not want to stir from your small corner of paradise on earth, but if you do there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including sailing, diving or snorkelling in clean, clear waters.
Bali offers yet another angle on the romantic, tropical hideaway: this time with a distinct touch of the exotic. A wealth of beautiful beaches, misty highlands and ancient temples makes this fabled island of the loveliest places around, so it’s little wonder it’s a favourite honeymoon destination.
Romance is a way of life here, and all along the scenic shoreline there are tranquil retreats just made for honeymooners. Many offer luxurious spas, and all provide fine food, a touch of luxury and ample sporting and leisure facilities.
You might like to spend some of your special time together amongst the mountains of Ubud, where the air is cooler and the scenery is spectacular. Here, you’ll find emerald-green, terraced hillsides, views of volcanoes and stunning sunsets.
Don’t leave this romantic island without sampling a little of the local culture: a mesmerizing shadow puppet show, beautiful Balinese dancing or traditional gamelan – and browse through the craft boutiques for a unique souvenir of your blissful Balinese honeymoon.
There’s something very special about Tahiti. People come from far and wide to honeymoon here, enjoying all the romance of the South Pacific combined with irresistible French charm. And, with its exquisite islands, indigo seas and aquamarine lagoons, it is simply gorgeous.
There are plenty of choices for honeymooners: stay on the island of Tahiti itself, cross the water to Moorea’s dream-like peaks, or head to heavenly Huahine – two small islands surrounded by one big, turquoise lagoon. Then there’s Raiatea, whose name means ‘faraway heaven’ or Taha’a, where the air is scented with vanilla. And, of course, there’s Bora Bora, the island which so many travellers have called the most beautiful in the world.
A Tahitian honeymoon is all about relaxation in the sun: check out the over-water bungalows, and bures, the cruises, spas and other luxurious attractions of this fabled and fabulous French paradise.
Looking for total immersion in romance? You’ll find it in this remarkable city on the banks of the Tiber, where millennia of history can be traced in a single afternoon’s stroll, and whose warm-hearted people truly do love lovers.
A honeymoon here is for couples who want access to ancient architecture, art, fine shops, fabulous food and a treasure-trove of timeless sights. Explore the Seven Hills, marvel at the magnificence of the Coliseum and enjoy magical views of St Peter’s from the ‘secret’ keyhole on Aventine Hill – it’s something you’ll never forget.
A coin in the Trevi Fountain is a must; as is a ride in a horse-drawn carriage past those world-famous sights. Enjoy a gelato in the Borghese Gardens, a pizza in a piazza, an outdoor concert; a moonlit cruise on the Tiber – and, on your last evening, the haunting view from Gianicolo, right across the Eternal City.
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