Weddings are exciting to plan, fun to take part in and exhausting to recover from, which is why luxury honeymoons have become de rigueur for newly-weds who throw caution and budget to the wind for one last element of their nuptials.
When it comes to choosing a destination for an all-out incredible honeymoon, personal tastes will naturally play a part in the process. However, we’ve homed in on a few options that will cater to every whim, every couple and – most importantly – guarantee romance. A few days spent in any of the following all inclusive destinations would be money very well spent.
Bali
Can we even talk about dream luxury honeymoons without mentioning Bali? An Indonesian island that has become synonymous with indulgence and paradise-like beauty, people say that Bali is more than just a holiday destination; it’s a state of mind, and for a honeymoon, we can’t think of anything better.
Incredible beaches, flanked by rocky cliffs and sprawling palms, beckon honeymooners to waste a day or five on their soft, pristine sands, stopping only to cool off with a dip in the ocean or take advantage of the many upmarket spas on the island. Couples massages, on the beach at sunset, are hard to top in terms of luxury and romance but the spirituality of the entire island competes admirably, adding a holistic and heartfelt ethos to everything on offer.
Venice
Not every luxury honeymoon has to be a beach-based event in the heart of a tropical paradise, as Venice deftly proves. Giving newly-weds access to some of the world’s most romantic scenery, incredible hotels and food, it is a firm favourite with culture vultures who have decided to tie the knot, as well as Europhiles who prefer to stay a little closer to home, post-wedding.
Gondola rides, enticing art galleries and hotels that ooze sophistication and opulence are all at the epicentre of a Venetian honeymoon and being one of Europe’s oldest cities, there is a lot of heritage to take in, if you can find the time. For a unique and distinctly indulgent experience, we highly recommend a private tour, with a personal sommelier who can give you a taste of the real Venice.
Las Vegas
Bright neon lights and the decadence of one of the world’s gambling capitals might not instantly make you think of luxury honeymoons, but dig a little deeper and you’ll soon discover that Las Vegas has everything for post-nuptial pampering. After all, not everybody wants to offset a bustling wedding with tropical peace and quiet, some couples prefer to leap out of the frying pan and straight into the fire.
What makes Las Vegas so luxurious? The sheer decadence and scale of everything on offer. Want some Champagne? Have a magnum. Have two – the room service is 24/7 in every five-star hotel. What’s more, you can choose from countless live performances to see, private dining opportunities and so much more. The city that can get you everything and on a bigger scale than you ever thought possible, Las Vegas has the ability to make even the biggest weddings look like small affairs in comparison to the honeymoon!
Tanzania
For adventurous couples, a luxury honeymoon will probably take on a different vibe, and few things stand out more than a private honeymoon safari. Don’t confuse a luxury Tanzanian experience with run-of-the-mill safaris, as you won’t find yourself stranded in mud here.
Romantic hot-air balloon rides to gaze out over the landscape as herds migrate, superb bell tents and wildly beautiful stretches of beach are what luxury safaris are all about and everything can be tailored for the two of you. Nothing is more luxurious than that, so make sure you get your documents in order – including your Tanzania eVisa – well in advance so you don’t miss out!
Cyprus
Not everybody pictures Cyprus when considering luxury honeymoon destinations, but this is such an oversight. An island of many facets, the north-west coast is exceptionally picturesque, quieter than the more popular tourist spots and provides easy access to some phenomenal sights.
Understated but no less luxurious than other destinations, the Akamas region is characterised by an unspoilt stretch of coastline, a stunning nature reserve and calm waters perfect for diving in. It’s the sheer stillness of the region that makes it feel so utterly exclusive and romantic and with spas on hand to help you unwind after your wedding, it gives you the right amount of breathing space to just enjoy being a newly married couple. To make the most of the area, we recommend looking into private villas with their own pools.
Whether it’s a beach holiday or an all-singing and dancing city break that takes your fancy, a luxury honeymoon can be as unique and individual as you are as a couple. After all, things have moved on a lot since the days of rose petals on the bed being the height of honeymoon chic and romance.
