The best honeymoons are best described as “once-in-a-lifetime.” While it is usually easy for newlyweds to find romance during their first post-wedding vacation – the best trips always incorporate a romantic, idyllic destination to make the honeymoon truly memorable.
Here are a dozen unforgettable trips incorporating the best honeymoon destinations in the world. Did your dream destination make the list?
Top Honeymoon Destinations
Bora Bora
This is a hugely popular upscale destination in French Polynesia. The idyllic setting (sandy, palm-lined beaches, perfect weather, and clear water) makes it seem like a romantic paradise. Bora Bora is, however, quite expensive, even compared to other Pacific destinations like Hawaii.
But if you can afford it, there are plenty of activities to make this trip worthwhile: horseback riding, surfing, snorkeling, and paddling a kayak on the calm waters off of the shore. Over-water bungalows are available at more than one resort, allowing couples a little extra room and privacy. Saint Regis, Sofitel and Intercontinental are major chains that offer over water options.
Barbados
This often-overlooked Caribbean destination is not as touristy as other popular islands. Idyllic interior landscapes with historic landmarks and a quieter beach scene than competing Caribbean destinations make this a good choice for a romantic island getaway for newlyweds. Unlike Bora Bora, visitors can find small, reasonably-priced hotels and rental villas (most are located on the southern end of the island).
Maui
This classic Hawaii destination still has a lot to offer. It is popular, but much less crowded than neighboring Oahu. Well-maintained highways and even a train line make sightseeing and finding secluded stretches of sand easier than one might think. Visitors can choose from high-end resorts (many located around the port town of Lahaina) and secluded cottages in quiet, isolated parts of the island (like the town of Hana).
Venice
Much has been made about the fact that Venice is literally sinking into the sea. However, it still remains one of Europe’s most romantic destinations with aged buildings and canals. Gondola rides are still a popular way to sightsee, but much of Venice is off the tourist trail, making it easy for couples to find the real romance of Italy down the city’s many back alleyways.
Paris
The City of Lights has plenty of landmarks: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triumph, and the Louvre, but its side streets, history and cafés make it appealing to romantics. With 20 districts, called arrondissements, it is not difficult to get off the beaten path. Walking together through the charming neighborhoods of Old Paris is the very definition of romance according to many people who have experienced the city.
New York City
For those who want a little excitement and culture on their honeymoon, the Big Apple has a certain appeal. Of course, after a trip to Broadway or dinner at a hip new restaurant, it is possible to retire to a luxurious hotel like the Four Seasons or Intercontinental. These classic sleeping spots can make newlyweds forget that they are in the big city and give them the privacy they need for some serious romance.
Bali
Bali is a popular place for surfers and young travelers. However, the Indonesian island of three million has been trying to reinvent itself as a mainstream destination. As long as you stay away from the surfing scene on Kuta Beach, things will be quite quiet.
Unlike many “beach destinations” Bali is scenic inland as well as on the coast. Ubud, in the center of the island, is known for its culture, art, and picturesque terraced rice paddies. It is the ideal location for a quiet, extra-exotic tropical vacation.
Kauai
This relatively under-developed Hawaiian island is much more natural that its larger, more popular peers. Its resorts offer a level of seclusion that is just not easy to find on Oahu or Maui.
Martinique
This French overseas territory offers a taste of France in the Caribbean. It is known for its delicious food, good infrastructure and beautiful beaches. It is quite pricy, even by Caribbean standards, but the infrastructure means that you can explore the whole island easily and safely. That is not possible in more popular destinations like Jamaica.
Las Vegas
Sin City has many packages for newlyweds. Sure, you have to hit the casino floor at least once when you are in town, but there are plenty of other options as well. Spas and live shows can bring a sense of romance to any vacation and casino/hotels often offer packages for honeymooners in search of a hotel suite.
Mauritius
This is a popular wedding destination in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa. Port Louis, the capitol city, is a charming destination with a mix of Old World architecture, a slow pace of life and Creole culture.
Singapore
This city is a shoppers paradise. It is not a typical tropical destination, but with plenty of five star hotels, Asia’s best restaurant scene, spas, shopping boutiques and casinos, Singapore is one of the most accessible exotic destinations in the world.
This article was written exclusively for STL Weddings by Sujan Patel. Sujan has been writing about the travel industry for over 4 years and is currently the head blogger for Airline Tickets, an up and coming travel blog.
