_edited.jpg)
Getting married is one of the most stressful things you can ever do. We know it’s totally worth it, but you and your new spouse deserve the perfect honeymoon to recover. Here’s part 2 of our best romantic honeymoon destinations.
Your honeymoon should be one of the most remarkable vacations of your life. It’s the place you visit as a married couple for the first time, so the location is key.
We’ve written 4 posts with our recommendations so you can book the ultimate honeymoon experience. We go over the location, the attractions, the climate, the best places to stay and where you may have seen them before. Basically, this is your bible for honeymoon galore.
And remember, this is part 2 of 4. So, we’re going to be posting part 3 next week and part 4 the week after that. Make sure you’re subscribed to our blog for updates so you’re the first to know when our final parts are published.
With that in mind, let’s get rolling with our top 4 honeymoon destinations this week.
1. St. Lucia
If you’re looking for a luxurious Caribbean setting, you don’t get much more glam than St Lucia.
With white sandy beaches and emerald mountains, calling this teardrop shaped island ‘home’ for the duration of your honeymoon is a privilege most only dream of.
St. Lucia is one of the most stunning Caribbean islands due to its sparkling ocean, outdoor adventures, inclusive culture and oh-so-lively nightlife.
You really do get the best of both worlds when staying on this volcanic island: the ultimate romantic getaway, whether you choose to lounge on the beach or explore the dense rainforest.
Make sure that you explore the capital city of Castries, which truly puts on a show, promoting the fascinating culture blended between British, French and Creole.
If you and your partner are active hikers, you’ll love hiking through the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, walking through the most stunning landscapes you’ve ever seen. It’s literally like walking through a fairytale.
And, if you’re chocoholics and proud, St.Lucia will give you the opportunity of a lifetime. Visit the working cocoa plantations to discover how your favorite naughty-treats are made.
The volcanic sulfur springs, too, offer so much more than a spectacle. Not only will the springs feel unbelievable against your skin, but the water has healing properties, working wonders for eczema and rashes. Plus, they work wonders on sunburn.
(Not to mention they’re the ultimate hangover cure.)
If you and your new spouse are water-babies, you must go to Pigeon Island.
No, it’s not an island smothered in pigeons. At least, we don’t think so.
But it is the ultimate spot for snorkeling and swimming. Plus, it hosts the annual St. Lucia Jazz Festival. Music and a swim - who could say ‘no’?
Where shall I stay in St. Lucia for my honeymoon?
St. Lucia is home to a number of hotels with fantastic honeymoon suites. But, we’ve narrowed it down to our top 2 places to stay during your honeymoon in St. Lucia.
Ti Kaye Village Resort + Spa
This resort is exclusively for adults, meaning you won’t have any little darlings jumping in the pool and soaking you.
(Unless your husband/wife is a prankster.)
Ti Kaye Village Resort and Spa is nestled along the cliff-side, overlooking the glittering ocean and white, baby-powder sand.
It’s no great surprise that the architecture was inspired by the nature of St. Lucia. They’ve been awed by the scenery and backdrops of the island, which is apparent in all their accommodation.
Speaking of which, you’ll be resting your head in your private ocean view cottage. And, if you’ve got the funds, you can even book a cottage with your own private pool.
We love the exclusivity of Ti Kaye Village Resort and Spa. You’ll be free to be with your new spouse alone, against the picture perfect scenery and taking in the sound of waves dancing on the sand.
What better way to start your journey as a married couple?
[Embed this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61UB2SNyunE]
Jade Mountain
If you’re a sucker for breathtaking architecture, look no further. Jade Mountain really is a ‘once in a lifetime’ stay. There’s only one problem: no other vacation will live up to it.
(But, that’s kinda the point of a honeymoon, right?)
Jade Mountain’s website states that they designed the place based on the stunning location of St. Lucia. “Individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching toward the sky” are just a few gems of the Jade Mountain.
Foodies need to look no further for a culinary experience fit for royalty. The award winning chef, Allen Susser, has injected his love for local produce and mouth watering romantic dinners into every item on the menu.
There’s a wide range of spa treatments available at the Jade Mountain so you can truly unwind. Couples massage, anyone?
Fitness fanatics needn't worry about the lack of exercise. Especially after sampling all the tooty-fruity cocktails and award winning meals. There’s a fitness suite on the resort, so you can work it all off if you choose to.
[Embed this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxf1eiopHN0]
We love this honeymoon destination because:
It’s a perfect combination between beautiful beaches and wild jungles.
The cultural cocktail of Caribbean charm and French finesse.
The secluded, romantic coves, perfect for honeymooners.
What activities can you do as newlyweds at this honeymoon destination?
Snorkeling and swimming
Eating
Hiking
Visit cocoa plantations
Take a long, relaxing dip in the volcanic sulfur springs.
Best time to go to St. Lucia?
Book your honeymoon in St. Lucia during the dry season, anytime from December to May. Despite the sun belting down year-round, you’ll want to avoid the wet season if you can. You’ll basque in the 82.4 degree fahrenheit weather, but should you choose to go during the wet season, you’ll likely experience storms and hurricanes.
Perfect for couples who:
Are looking for the trip of a lifetime and are happy to spend a massive chunk of their budget on the honeymoon. Unless they’re a wealthy couple, it’s likely that the wedding will have to cut a few corners to financially afford a luxury honeymoon in St. Lucia.
Where will I have seen St. Lucia before?
St. Lucia played host to the cast and crew when filming Superman 2 in 1980. More recent movies involve Inspector Gadget in 2003.
2. Bora Bora
We’re sticking to another volcanic island which gets your heart racing the moment you step off the plane. Bora Bora is famous for its jaw-dropping scenery, beautiful beaches and luxurious lagoons.
Bora Bora is a small French Polynesian island, which is just about 6 miles long and a little over 2 miles wide.
But, don’t be fooled by its size.
As my mom always says “beautiful things come in small packages!” (And I’m 5ft1.)
Bora Bora is the absolute definition of ‘tropical getaway’. And, the people of the world know this. So, unsurprisingly, the main industry in Bora Bora is tourism. So, the locals pull out all the stops to give their visitors an unforgettable experience.
You’ll pinch yourself every morning you wake up and have to remind yourself that you’re not dreaming. I’m serious. That’s how beautiful Bora Bora is.
You can discover the city of the fishes and go snorkeling as well as go dolphin and whale watching. There’s something stunning about seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Plus, it’s likely to be one of the most romantic experiences you’ll ever have.
(Excluding your wedding, of course.)
Make sure you put some time aside to take a stroll around the main port of Vaitape. Or, if you’re more serious about hiking, take your new spouse on a hike up Mount Otemanu.
The culture in Bora Bora is so chilled. The life philosophy on the volcanic island is “aita pea pea” which means “not to worry”. And you feel that the moment you step foot on the island. It’s not the place for detailed itineraries and lists. It’s simply the place to go with the flow.
If you’re seafood lovers, you don’t get much more delicious than the delicacies of Bora Bora. If seafood isn’t your jam, make sure you sample the local fruit. Especially the pineapples, bananas and coconuts.
Whether you’re having dinner on the beach, snorkeling, going on a sunset cruise or climbing Mount Pahia, you won’t get a honeymoon quite as romantic as Bora Bora.
Where shall I stay in Bora Bora for my honeymoon?
Bora Bora offers the best of both worlds. Like St. Lucia, Bora Bora allows you to stay beachfront in an overwater bungalow or stay amongst nature in the luscious rainforest. Wherever you choose to lay your head, you can guarantee postcard settings and romantic vibes. But, we’ve filtered it down to our favorite 2 places.
The Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa
This resort defines ‘ultra luxury’. And, like us at Engagement Designs, this accommodation is totally eco-friendly.
The Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa offers luxury overwater villas with tropical gardens, creating that escape that you’re craving for.
The resort is so packed with activities that, should you wish not to, you wouldn’t even have to step out of your villa. With a broad selection of water sports, a spectacular sea-water therapy spa and delicious cuisine, you’ve got ‘luxury’ at your fingertips.
[Embed this clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLyPGXXgVdk]
Pearl Beach Resort
Who wouldn’t want their breakfast, (made with local produce), brought to them on a canoe on a daily basis? If anyone doesn’t want this, don’t trust ‘em.
You’ll be staying in overwater bungalows, standing on top of a sparkling lagoon. Or, opt to rest your read in your own garden pool villa on a secluded spot in the rainforest. Yep. We’re serious.
Pearl Beach Resort has everything: a spa, a sushi bar, 2 other award winning restaurants, a coral nursery, a beautiful pool, a tattoo parlor and comfortable hammocks.
[Embed this clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wGGHFYQUVs]
We love this honeymoon destination because:
The tropical beach and bustling jungle makes for perfect backdrops wherever you stand.
You can get your breakfast brought to you via canoe. Enough said.
It's a total getaway luxury.
Wildlife is respected and adored.
What activities can you do as newlyweds at this honeymoon destination?
Beachin’
Relax
Eat
Bird watching
Best time to go to Bora Bora?
Book your Bora Bora honeymoon is between November and April, when the temperatures range between mid 70’s and mid 80’s. May to October is the busiest time for Bora Bora, so if you decide to join the swarm of tourists, remember to book way in advance.
Perfect for couples who:
Want the ultimate relaxing vacation and take loads of photos whilst you’re there. Also, couples who admire and love nature will be in awe at the majestic landscapes and wildlife that Bora Bora has to offer.
Where will I have seen Bora Bora before?
You’ll have seen the stunning surroundings of Bora Bora in ‘Couples Retreat’ (2003).
3. Santorini - Greece
Contrary to popular belief, Mamma Mia was not filmed in Santorini. But, it doesn’t make it any less beautiful. And, couples who find romance tricky will not be able to deny the romantic aura Santorini encompasses.
Some say that Santorini is the original home of the lost city of Atlantis, and we can see why. It captures pure magic, emphasized by the globally-renowned sunsets.
Santorini has 2 inhabited islands and many islets dotted around. You’ll likely spend most of your time on Thera, which is the largest island and is home to Santorini’s famous towns: Fira and Oia.
But, like we said before, don’t judge anything on size.
The ‘sleepy’ Thirassia is also a great day trip and allows you to soak in the Greek culture like nowhere else.
Also, you should try to make time for the smaller, quieter islands, too. Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni are well worth the visit.
The beaches of Santorini are different from the beaches of Bora Bora and St. Lucia. Rather than white, baby powder sand, Santorini’s beaches are a colored spectacle, having black and red sand blanketing their beaches.
If you love history and architecture, you’ll be amazed at the ruins that are still standing. They show a freeze frame of massive empires, like the Romans, and how they survived.
Hiking enthusiasts will love hiking to Ancient Thera, where they can take in the breathtaking views of the Caldera.
The Caldera is one of nature’s finest. It’s a marvelously turquoise pool of water, showing the history of the volcanic island. And it’s one of Santorini’s most magical attractions.
Making the trip to Europe is totally worth it when you’re honeymooning in Santorini.
Where shall I stay in Santorini for my honeymoon?
Santorini is a stunning place to go for your honeymoon. But, with so many hotels in such a small area: where’s the best place to go? We’ve narrowed it down to 2 for you.
Grace Santorini
This hotel is ultra-detail orientated. The staff here are all about personalization, from the scents they spray on your pillow to the food you request - it’s all about you. And, isn’t that what a honeymoon is really about?
(We’re saying ‘you’ in the plural here.)
Grace Santorini is a luxury property which offers an infinity pool overlooking the caldera. Why not watch the sunset in the water?
There’s also an award winning restaurant at the hotel, which showcases the local produce through their fine dining experience.
The Grace Santorini also plays host to their very own champagne lounge, which was recently named the best hotel bar in Europe. Make sure you try their signature cocktail - Grace. It’s delicious.
Breakfast is a 5-course affair, so foodies will adore this hotel. The set menu alters daily and is tailored to your preferences, meaning you won’t have to eat anything you don’t like.
The Grace Santorini sits at the highest elevation on the caldera, promising jaw-dropping views wherever you turn. There’s romance and then there’s The Grace Santorini.
However, there are lots and lots of steps with no elevator. So, if you have mobility issues, I’d advise against staying here.
One more thing to note is that the whole of Santorini only has 25 taxis on the island, meaning you need to plan and book far in advance.
[Embed this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrKbVATNZjE]
Santorini Princess
As the name suggests, this hotel is fit for royalty. Their goal is to provide the ultimate ‘peace and quiet’ vacation, capturing the truly enchanting surroundings of Santorini.
The hotel is a mere 3.5km away from the capital city of Fira, making it easily accessible for a day-trip. That said, if you’re trying to call a cab, remember there are only 25 on the entire island, so book well in advance.
The architecture represents the Cycladic style and is a truly remarkable place to call ‘home’ for the duration of your honeymoon. Plus, the honeymoon suite boasts its own private hot tub. Want it?
Make sure you book well in advance as there are only 2 superior suites.
With a wide range of spa services, a large outdoor pool and the spectacular views of Santorini, honeymooning here is a true delight.
[Embed this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3P-no4RaAU]
We love this honeymoon destination because:
Unmatched breathtaking views of the ocean.
The adventure of tapping into the culture of Santorini.
The beautiful architecture that surrounds the islands.
What activities can you do as newlyweds at this honeymoon destination?
Watch the world-renowned sunsets.
Visit the sleepier, quieter islands for ultimate escapism.
Hike to Ancient Thera to see the ruins of 3 empires.
Eat the local seafood and delight in Greek delicacies.
Best time to go to Santorini?
If you’re going to book a honeymoon in Santorini, you should aim to go between September and October or April to May. You’ll gain all the benefits of the warm weather without swarms of tourists. In September to October, you’ll feel the sun with 73-79 degrees fahrenheit, while in April in May, it ranges between 65 and 73.
Perfect for couples who:
Are pretty active and don’t mind climbing steps. There are more steps in Santorini than there are cookies in my cupboard. (That’s a hell of a lot).
But, climbing those steps is totally and utterly worth it to watch the spectacular sunsets over the ocean. Couples who are looking for a European escape to somewhere magical will adore Santorini.
Where will I have seen Santorini before?
While most people claim that Mamma Mia was filmed in Santorini, you’ve actually seen the beautiful surroundings in Santorini Blue (2013) and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005).
The best honeymoon destination
We’re half way through our ultimate honeymoon destinations posts. While we have 6 more delightful locations to relish your new status of ‘married’, you’ve got 6 locations to now consider. Which one is taking your fancy? Let us know in the comments below.
コメント