Perhaps one of the best parts of planning your wedding is deciding what type of honeymoon you would like! Planning a wedding can be an extremely stressful – not to mention costly – experience, and it is not in anyone’s interests (least of all yours) for you to turn into a ‘Bridezilla’ or ‘Groomzilla’ before the big day! You should make the most of all the available resources to you. There are some fantastic online guides and wedding site directories which are designed to aid with all things wedding, and are a great place start.
It is wonderful to think that the honeymoon will provide a safe haven for the two of you to escape to once all the hustle and bustle of the big day itself is over.
You may already have a fixed idea of what type of honeymoon you would like – but if you are still a little in the dark, or you simply haven’t started considering it yet – here are some tips to get you started. Before you know it you will be jetting off to the holiday of a lifetime, and the first holiday together of your married life.
Who doesn’t like holidays with a little luxury now and then? Eh… nobody, right?! So, we’ve got the best ideas for swim-up bars. These are more like little slices of luxury (mostly in the Caribbean) where you don’t even need to get out of the pool to enjoy a cocktail or a beer. Could you imagine anything more luxurious? Us neither, that’s why we’ve found the 10 best swim-up bars anywhere. Ever! Enjoy.
1. Catalonia Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Looking for paradise on earth? We might just have found it. Tucked away between the islands of Malta and Gozo, the natural beauty of Comino is the ideal place for anyone who wants to get-away-from-it-all or a delicious retreat for snorkellers, divers, windsurfers and hikers.
Practically uninhabited, there’s only one hotel on the island, you’ll barely hear a hint of a car and maybe go days without seeing anyone. An ideal secluded getaway if you’re looking for a cheap honeymoon. The highlight without a doubt is the stunning Blue Lagoon shore, which in summer offers breathtaking shimmering aquamarine water and perfect white sand. Indulge in some peace and quiet on the beautiful island of Comino.
If you’re looking to let it all hang out, feel the passion and generally get up to as much mischief as possible, check out our sexiest holidays. As always, whatever we’ve missed leave it in the comments.
Hedonism Resorts,Jamaica this place really lives up to its name. Au naturel accommodation (including mirrored ceilings), singles opting to share rooms, and nightly parties, this is where grownups go to lose every inhibition.
Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas Sin City was bound to appear on this list. The Moorea Beach Club is an over-21s ‘European Bathing Experience’ offering poolside massages, a waterside casino, and some of the best and most attentive staff in the city. Just remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
Thermal Baths, Budapest Hungarians are known for a bit of a lack of inhibitions so why not join the party and strip off like the locals in one of the gorgeous thermal baths. Filled with saunas, whirlpools, plunge pools and men and women in various states of undress. Getting all hot and naked is as good a way as any to get a party started.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands Eh, there’s the Red Light District, that famous relaxed atmosphere and reputation for free-spiritedness all combining to make Amsterdam an excellent getaway particularly if you’ve only a few days to do it. Head for a burlesque club, or the famous sex museum to really spice things up.
Mardi Gras, New Orleans The infamous carnival is easily one of the biggest street parties in the world, there’s nothing quite like the seductive rhythm of Mardi Gras to spice up your holidays. There’s the odd flash of flesh in exchange for beads, but be warned, it’s not exactly legal, hundreds are arrested each year for public nudity.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil It’s got everything you need for a sexy holiday. It’s exotic, has the ultimate party reputation, the hottest guys and girls vying for space on the unbelievable beaches and a thumping club scene. Head for the Copacabana to soak up the atmosphere.
Paphos, Cyprus has good credentials when it comes to loving. It was the home of an actual love goddess in the form of Aprhodite, who tempted the mighty Adonis with lust. It may not have all worked out, but you can still recreate that summer romance on the perfect party island.
Temptation Resorts, Mexico A themed hotel designed with an adults-only atmosphere, Temptations has its focus on relaxation, with a casual attitude to all aspects of your holiday. Go topless, enjoy a themed night, party for 24 hours, or simply chill out in this all inclusive resort.
A wise man once said “when we are unable to find tranquility within ourselves, it is useless to seek it elsewhere.” Well, he probably never had a good rub down or a facial, since none our handpicked, amazing hotels existed at the time. Sneak a peek and feel that quiet and relaxing holiday that awaits for you just a short flight from the UK in our post about the best spa destinations 2014. #1 The Vine Hotel, 5* Funchal, Madeira Described by its owners as “a hotel with soul, just like good wine,” it does not come as a surprise that this stylish, sophisticated hotel relies heavily on the affluent heritage of the local wine industry. Specialising in Vinotherapy – a rejuvenating massage using grape oils and only natural ingredients – it helps carry your skin to spirits high. Not forgetting that wine is also meant to be enjoyed the old-fashioned way, one can enjoy a glass (or two) of local Chardonnay atop the beautiful Panoramic Bar overlooking the city.
#2 Corallium Spa Costa Meloneras, 4* Gran Canaria, Spain Inspired by the natural volcanic conditions of the island, the Corallium Spa blends old and new by utilising the latest technologies in hydrotherapy, music therapy and aromatherapy among other techniques. Set on a modern spacious site of over 3500m, it offers tailored treatments from all over the world including Shiatsu, or Indian Head Massage, body treatments from the Dead Sea and of course its infamous “Womb Room”, a unique, copper-red area that is said to simulate the absolute peace an unborn baby feels in its mother’s belly. #3 Eden Andalou Aquapark & Spa, 5* Marrakech, Morocco Deep in the heart of Morocco, Marrakech is a city lost in time with its mosques, markets and palaces. To really feel that off-the-beaten track atmosphere, we suggest heading for one of Eden’s two traditional hammams before taking a relaxing swim at its sensory heated pool boasting a unique zen-like feeling.. The hotel also offers a vast Balneotherapy (massage through moving water) area where a team of professionals will ensure that though your body will eventually leave these mysterious lands, your mind will linger around just a little bit longer. #4 One & Only, 5* Reethi Rah, The Maldives Overlooking the Indian Ocean, this majestic getaway is a secluded heaven surrounded by coral atolls, white sands and lagoons. The Maldives, an enchanting string of 1,200 islands, is the epitome of an exotic, relaxed destination. With swirling vitality pools, crystal steam rooms, saunas and ice fountains, the very aptly named One & Only Reethi Rah is the very definition of a tropical paradise. #5 Anassa Hotel, 5* Latchi, Cyprus Anassa literally translates to “queen” from ancient Greek, but in modern Greek it stands for “breath,” which is also highly appropriate given that this wonderful, luxurious hotel, with its classical minimal architecture in earthy blue and white tones, will take your breath away. A luxurious choice for honeymoon or couples getaway, it is a roman-style spa that will take you back to the ancient times and its eclectic selection of Mediterranean delicacies will make you feel like an emperor. #6 Taj Exotica, 5* Goa, India Far from the maddening crowds of the popular resorts in the northern strip, the Taj Exotica lies on the southwest coast of Goa overlooking the Arabian Sea. Built amongst lush beautiful gardens, the hotel complex offers a unique collection of villas, Mediterranean-style facilities and family friendly activities. Its gorgeous spa facilities, designed around the traditional Indian temple styles, offer a vast range of therapies and treatments to take your body and soul to a magical, faraway place. #7 Abama Golf & Spa Resort, 5* Tenerife, Spain An imposing presence on a 160 hectare private estate,, the Abama Resort prides itself as being built on a privileged location that enjoys more hours of sunshine than any other place in Spain. Featuring volcanic landscapes, a wide range of rare plant life and breathtaking views, this is the perfect destination for those who like to walk (or golf, if its name was not subtle enough) among a beautiful natural scenery. Its world reknowned facilities offer tailor-made treatments and packages to suit your individual needs, whether it is to relax, feel pretty or get rid of those excess pounds. #8 Porto Zante Villas & Spa, 5* Zante, Greece Zante is mostly known as a party destination for youngsters, but far away from the bustling boozefest of Laganas lies the award winning Porto Zante. It’s a true haven for those who’d rather combine the crystal clear waters with the privacy and space of a truly mesmerising hotel. Mixing exotic spices and local herbs, the spa offers an extensive variety of innovative treatments and special massage techniques. Afterhours visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunset at the relaxed beachfront restaurant facing the never ending Ionian sea. #9 Vogue Hotel Avant Garde, 5* Antalya, Turkey Situated in the busy seaside resort of Kemer on the Gulf of Antalya, the Vogue is a modern, luxury hotel with 347 rooms, suites, villas and penthouses. Its spa has, rather fittingly, an Ottoman themed aura and includes a large variety of turkish baths, steamrooms, jacuzzis, aromatic showers and massage rooms. The Turks did it first, so who are we to argue? To complete the eastern experience, one can sample varieties of local drinks and herbal teas at the dedicated spa Vito-Bar. #10 Premier Le Reve Hotel & Spa, 5* Hurghada, Egypt Close to the shores of the Red Sea, an area blessed with eternal summer, one can find the highly acclaimed Premier Le Reve. With extensive landscaped grounds that offer a beautiful vista and exceptional service, this hotel is among the most popular luxury destinations in Egypt. It offers an astonishing sky pool with a spectacular glass dome (that keeps the water warm using natural sunlight) and vast hammam and relaxation areas that would make even Tutankhamun jealous.
Call the experts now on 0207 993 9228 to find out more about spa holidays this year.
Rumours have been flying about the Royal Honeymoon for months now and no one seems to have a definite answer on where the happy couple plans to go. Since it seems impossible that they have left it to the last moment to decide, we thought we would go through some of the rumours and rate them on their likelihood. We’re also asking you, our readers and customers to come up with places you think the Royal Couple should go and why. If you were the Royal Travel Advisor, where would you send the newlyweds on honeymoon? The top answers will be posted on a blog to come – and if you happen to be right, you could be looking at a fabulous mystery prize for your answer!
1. Corfu, Greece: Likelihood 7/10
Corfu is a gorgeous island with lush vegetation, warm climate, and stunning beaches and coves. Finding hotels that cater to ultimate luxury in Corfu is not very difficult either, as its adjoining island, Paxos, is home to some of the most expensive celebrity summer retreats in Europe. However, the weather in Corfu at the start of May could be unpredictable and, without the cooperation of the weather, the Royal Couple’s honeymoon bliss could freeze.
2. Jordan: Likelihood 5/10
There is certainly plenty to see and do in a country full of ancient historical sites, metropolitan luxuries, and pleasantly warm climate. However, the hostile political situation currently taking over the Middle East’s Arabic nations is a little bit unsettling. Although Jordan is perfectly safe for a colloquial visit, the Royal Couple need tread with greater caution.
3. Romania: Likelihood 6/10
Romania is a beautiful country that has seen little disruption from mass tourism. Large cities turn into lush countryside that is not too different from that found in England. However, our travel advisors here seem to be stuck to the impression that Romania is just not romantic enough for a honeymoon. I guess we will see…
4. Balmoral Estate, Scotland: Likelihood 9.5/10
Scotland is certainly a place of beauty and culture. However, this is not why the Royal Couple would choose this magnificent land. The truth is, they need privacy. The Queen’s Balmoral Estate stretches to a whopping 50,000 acres and is the perfect place away from prying eyes. They may even do as Princess Diana and Prince Charles and combine their stay at Balmoral with another, sunnier, location.
5. Cairns, Australia: Likelihood 7/10
Prince William is noted to have said on their recent trip to Australia that he and Kate would like to go back for their honeymoon to dive the Great Barrier Reef. Australia’s climate this time of year is very favourable, as is the comfort of being in a somewhat-familiar English-speaking environment with all the amenities of England. However, it seems Price William has only 2 weeks off from his Royal Air Force commitments – so a lengthy flight may be unfavourable at this time.
6. Mustique, Seychelles, British Virgin Islands: Likelihood 9/10
Now that seems more like it! Any secluded resort in the Caribbean or Indian Ocean definitely just screams honeymoon! Although they wouldn’t be the first honeymooners to make this revelation, being unique is not the ultimate goal. Any of these hot, exciting, tropical locales are able to provide a level of privacy, coupled with the sea and sun that is much needed when going on holiday. After all, there is little more important than being able to relax all day wearing nothing but a swimsuit.
For a topic with this much publicity, the location of the Royal Couple’s honeymoon can potentially have rippling effects for the tourism industry in their chosen destination. For countries struggling to compete, it can potentially be a very important decision!
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