I’m going to start this article with a disclaimer: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, fitness fanatic or just seeking a bit of a thrill, this is not your article! If you want to make ‘chill-laxing’ into an artform, continue reading. For me, getting married was wonderful, but all the planning and organisation was super stressful. So before getting hitched, my fiancé and I agreed that we’d go somewhere beautiful and just relax. If this sounds like your ideal honeymoon, read on for my top three honeymoon destinations. May I also suggest you consult an expert and let them do all the bookings, just in keeping with the whole theme of ultimate relaxation! Go for someone who knows what they’re talking about, such as Travel Associates.
Margaret River, Western Australia
My husband and I are foodies and we love our wine, so for us, the Margaret River was the obvious place to go. The Margaret River is arguably one of Australia’s most critically acclaimed wine growing regions by wine buffs here and abroad. My husband and I took several bus tours that visited about 8 wineries per day, with all meals and wine tastings included in the price. Aside from the most amazing food and wine, this area is truly beautiful with stunning beaches, caves and old growth forests to explore. There are also artisan jewellers, soap makers and art galleries to meander through. It truly is a special place for so many reasons and I would happily go back there tomorrow. For us, it was a magical honeymoon in a very special part of our country.
Aitutaki, Cook Islands
If you’re looking to get away, why not head for what has been called “the most beautiful lagoon” in the south Pacific by more than one travel writer. I am of course talking about the island of Aitutaki in the Cook Islands, about an 8 hour flight north-east of Auckland.
The lagoon of Aitutaki is a massive natural pool surrounded by coral reef, so it’s completely protected from the open ocean. It’s crystal clear, calm, shallow waters are free from nasty things with big, sharp teeth or stinging tentacles. The sand is pure white and the temperature is absolutely perfect. Follow up your swim with a Pina Colada in a hammock and I think this might actually be heaven on Earth!
The Maldives
If you want the ultimate beach honeymoon experience, then how could you possibly go past the Maldives? Undoubtedly the most expensive out of my honeymoon destinations, this place is for those who are looking for a truly unforgettable experience. Imagine waking up and being able to jump off your own private boardwalk directly into pristine, glass-like water? Various resorts offer overwater bungalows situated in the calm, shallow and memorising ocean. Like the Aitutaki lagoon, the sand is white, fine and soft and the water is the perfect temperature, calm and safe for swimming and floating for hours on end. Expect to be treated like royalty during your stay. I might just have to suggest to my hubby that we renew our wedding vows, followed up by a second honeymoon to this stunning location.
If you fancy spoiling yourself rotten on your honeymoon and simply giving yourself and your beloved the opportunity to completely relax and unwind, then you can’t go wrong with any of these three honeymoon destinations.