Sun, sand and sea is the combination you’ll crave after the busy time spent planning for the biggest day of your life. After the wedding celebrations draw to a close and the professional photos arrive in your inbox, you’ll need to postpone the ‘wedding blues’ with a trip of a lifetime. It’s time to pack your bags, board the plane and spend time on the beach with your other half. We’ve picked 8 global getaways to help you slip into honeymoon mode!

Fiji

 

 

Looking for a far-flung honeymoon destination that you’ll be dreaming about forever? It’s difficult to picture a more extraordinary place than Fiji, a jaw-dropping archipelago of more than 300 islands in the South Pacific. Its rainbow of coral reefs, crystal white sands and rugged landscapes come together to create one of the most desirable beach getaways in the world. There are plenty of protected ecological zones to visit and for a remote and botanical beach escape, Fiji is unrivalled.

Things to do: Explore the ethnographic exhibits at the Fiji Museum, embrace Fiji’s all-encompassing natural beauty at Bouma National Heritage Park, or participate in a traditional Kava ceremony in a local Fijian village.

 

Where to Stay: Kokomo Private Island Resort

 

There really are some hotels in the world that are too good to be true, and Kokomo Private Island Resort is one of them. Its design puts the concept of sustainability front and centre, with its 5.5-acre farm that provides ingredients for the menus, and the entire complex effortlessly blends with the surrounding Fijian landscape. The 5-star resort offers a variety of accommodation styles, from 21 exclusive villas decked out with swimming pools and direct beach access, to large residences with up to six bedrooms and a private butler to assist you with any hospitality requests. Kokomo is the epitome of luxury in the middle of the Pacific.

 

Barbados

 

Known for its powder-white beaches, bright sunshine and soulful community, Barbados is a destination on everyone’s bucket list. Situated on the eastern part of the Caribbean island chain, this unmissable beach retreat offers the perfect combination of cultural discoveries and coastal relaxation. Bridgetown marks the capital of Barbados, a colonial cruise ship port that acts as the gateway to the rest of the island. And the best time to visit? July or early August presents the annual ‘Crop Over’ Carnival season when a kaleidoscope of traditional costumes and music fills the streets with sound and colour.

Things to do: Stroll through the historic city of Bridgetown, a World Heritage Site since 2012, visit Queen’s Park, where the largest Baobab Tree on the island will be easy to spot, or taste the famous Cockspur rum at the West Indies Rum Distillery.

 

Where to Stay: The Colony Club by Elegant Hotels

 

Set on the beautiful Platinum West Coast, The Colony Club is one of seven seaside properties by Elegant Hotels. Interlaced by lofty palm trees, peaceful pools and 7 acres of pristine gardens, the 96-room hotel has a boutique charm that feels like a home from home. As part of their ‘Something Elegant’ package, newlyweds have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a private tasting at the Colony Club’s Rum Vault, paint a portrait with the guidance of a local artist, take a romantic road trip across the island with the use of a luxury rental car, or sail across the aquamarine waters on a private catamaran. Honeymoon memories are unforgettable with Elegant Hotels.

 

Maldives

 

Powder soft sands meet gentle azure lagoons in The Maldives, a honeymooner’s paradise. Here, visitors can experience the floating villa phenomenon first-hand, surrounded by neverending horizons and picturesque boardwalks that lead to the heart of your chosen island. The Maldives is an archipelago state in the Indian Ocean, where over 1,200 coral islands are speckled across the surface like a string of pearls. The ocean promises aquatic adventures like no other, including unbeatable diving and snorkelling experiences and watersports galore. All-inclusive resorts are also housed on each island, meaning that first-class hospitality is at your fingertips from the moment you step onto the pier.

Things to do: Take a speedboat to the nearest sandbar to share a picnic in seclusion, try stand up paddleboarding and snorkelling in the shallow blue lagoons, or relish in relaxation with an indulgent spa treatment at your resort.

 

Where to Stay: Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi

 

Living up to the premium all-inclusive offering of most Maldivian Resorts, Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi is a true celebration of this unique part of the world. Located in the North Malé Atoll that’s renowned for its favourable waves, this resort is home to one of the top surfing locations in the archipelago. To ensure that keen surfers enjoy all the benefits of the natural breaks, its Lohis villas have been constructed just a 20-second walk from the waves that run down one side of the island. Other activities that are available include a range of watersports, dolphin cruises, fishing trips, tennis courts, a gym, a spa, and multiple restaurants that provide both Maldivian and international cuisine.

 

Thailand

 

Southeast Asia promises a plethora of cultural pursuits and natural wonders. If your heart is set on travelling to this part of the world, Thailand is an unmissable stop-off. Known for its castaway beaches, floating markets, thriving wildlife and opulent temples, there are so many mesmerising attractions to add to your itinerary. The capital city of Bangkok is the hub at the central south of the mainland. A dynamic metropolis where ancient royal palaces rub shoulders with bustling markets. By contrast, the Thai islands offer the ultimate beachside experience with relaxing days in the sunshine and all-night parties in the sand.

Things to Do: Marvel at the 200-year-old Grand Palace in Bangkok, spend a memorable day volunteering at the Elephant Nature Park, or travel by long-tail boat to explore Thailand’s stunning islands and hidden coves.

 

Where to Stay: Banyan Tree Krabi

 

Described as a ‘sanctuary for the senses’, the Banyan Tree Krabi will soothe your mind and body to begin married life in the best way possible. Set between indigo-blue waters and dense jungle, it’s a serene oasis that couples are drawn to return to again and again. From the moment you arrive at the 72-bedroom resort, the gracious staff will provide a warm welcome and guide you to your suite, where a spectacular outdoor pool is nestled within your private patch of rainforest. At The Banyan Tree Krabi, you can kick back and unwind in your seafront villa, get your dose of pampering in the spa and dine under the stars at one of the stylish restaurants.

 

Nevis

 

The easy-going spirit of the Caribbean lifestyle breathes into all four corners of Nevis Island. Based in the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, this vibrant destination is the smaller of the two islands that make up the nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Honeymooners come to Nevis for its breathtaking beaches, aquamarine waters and undulating landscape that is favourable for all kinds of adventure. Activities include fishing, mountain biking, hiking and scuba diving. Booby High Shoals is one of the best sites to spot wild stingrays and turtles. Nevis Peak is also another worthy escapade that rewards you with panoramic views of the volcanic landscape.

Things to Do: Admire the fragrant flora and cascading fountains at the Botanical Gardens of Nevis, explore the island’s capital of Charlestown, or take a romantic stroll on Lovers Beach’s empty stretch of velvety sands.

 

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Resort Nevis

 

The Four Seasons Resort Nevis presents barefoot luxury at its finest. Combining traditional Caribbean elements with all the modern amenities you could wish for, this 350-acre beachfront sanctuary will leave you with blissful memories of your time on Nevis island. The hotel offers a range of dazzling suites and villas, each with direct access to private pools and almost three miles of sugar-white sands. The resort also includes an immaculate 18-hole golf course, a full-service spa, complimentary non-motorised watersports and an irresistible selection of bars and restaurants. It’s a timeless 5-star hotel you’ll want to come back to year after year. 

 

Mexico

 

Mexico is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, delicious gastronomy and flawless beaches, making it an idyllic location for honeymoons. Located in the southern part of North America, it has a rich culture that entices visitors far and wide. If history is your calling, Mexico showcases an array of mystical relics from the Maya civilisation, which was the most advanced of its time. Chichén Itzá is the most popular site, where you can catch a glimpse of the remarkable Kukulkan Pyramid. Another rare attraction only found on the Yucatán peninsula of Mexico are cenotes, which are natural limestone sinkholes. What remains is a crystal clear lagoon of groundwater, that makes the perfect setting for magical snorkelling and diving experiences.

Things to Do: Browse multiple museums in Mexico City, visit the extraordinary petrified waterfall at Hierve el Agua, or join a cooking class in Oaxaca, a region known for some of the best food in Mexico.

 

Where to Stay: UNICO 20°87°

 

This adults-only paradise sets a whole new standard of all-inclusive luxury in Mexico. Situated on the gentle shores of Riviera Maya, UNICO 20°87° brings the best parts of the region into the resort. From exquisite locally sourced food to thirst-quenching cocktails and first-rate hospitality, the team is dedicated to ensuring each and every guest has a pleasurable stay. When you’re not relaxing on the beach or in your room’s private hot tub, there are three expansive pools to wallow in, a holistic spa menu to discover and four fantastic restaurants offering unique culinary experiences.

 

Dominican Republic

 

The Dominican Republic is the second-largest Caribbean island where Christopher Columbus first landed in the Americas. With a vivid culture and innumerable activities to try, it’s an enchanting and diverse destination to visit on your honeymoon. In particular, the island is celebrated for its 1000 miles of spectacular beaches, luxury all-inclusive resorts and designer golf courses surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery. The landscape is lush and varied, covering rainforest, savannah terrain and mountainous regions including Pico Duarte, the tallest peak in the Caribbean. Whether you want to reconnect with nature or soak up the vibe in the bustling streets of Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic has something for everyone.

Things to do: Relax and unwind in Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic’s best resort destination, book a whale watching trip in Samaná Bay, or get a birds-eye view of the northern coast on the Cable Car in Puerto Plata.

 

Where to Stay: Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana

 

The Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana is Mexico’s ultimate all-inclusive, with a signature rock and roll ambience. Featuring chic ocean-view suites, nine global restaurants, the biggest casino in the Caribbean and state-of-the-art facilities, you’ll be endlessly entertained. Whether you want to relax and call for 24/7 room service, work out at the fitness centre, or dance all night to live music, Hard Rock can make all of that happen and more. Of course, no Hark Rock experience would be complete without music, so you can order instruments or a record player to your room to listen to your favourite tracks.

 

The Seychelles

 

The Seychelles is a dream-like destination, it even has the royal seal of approval after William and Kate chose it as the location for their post-nuptial holiday. Picture palm-lined beaches that meet vibrant green rainforests, colourful coral reefs and rare giant Aldabra tortoises, it’s a place where natural beauty comes to the fore. The islands of the Seychelles comprise a variety of charming towns to visit, including the capital of Victoria on Mahé Island. The archipelago is made up of 115 islands, meaning there are endless opportunities for exploration.

Things to Do: Climb the archipelago’s highest peak in Morne Seychellois National Park, Mahe, walk through the Vallée de Mai on Praslin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a boat trip to Curieuse Island, which runs a breeding program for giant tortoises.

 

Where to Stay: Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas

 

For the ultimate Seychelles experience, nothing beats a hotel villa with panoramic sea views, direct beach access and an infinity pool to gaze over the astounding environment. Anantara Maia Seychelles is a 5-star resort nestled in 30 acres of forest, that offers a ‘Beyond All-inclusive’ experience, where you can dine anywhere at any time, tasting the finest Creole, Asian, Indian, Japanese and Mediterranean influences. There is also an on-site sommelier who can lead you through a private tasting session in the wine boutique and a restorative spa where you can experience an alfresco massage immersed in the hypnotic sounds of the rainforest.

Words by Anthony Baines