Honeymoon retreats, more than just a holiday
Tuesday, 10 April 2012
With a recent survey showing that couples who tie the knot are happier, it's little wonder that the marriage and civil partnership rate is going up again; and as the marriage rates goes up, so does the number of people wanting fairy-tale weddings and honeymoons.
A wedding is a once in a lifetime event, well hopefully, but for those planning the perfect day, the honeymoon is sometimes overlooked. However, the post-wedding holiday can be just as important as the big day itself as it cements the bond between husband and wife and creates memories that will last long after the tan has faded.
Weddings themselves can often be stressful and juggling the needs of demanding families, organising the caterers and doing the social rounds at the reception can take its emotional toll; sometimes all the happy couple want to do is get away and spend some quality time together, just the two of them.
Honeymoons are a big investment, and a bad one can get a marriage off to a rocky start, so it's worth considering carefully what you want from your trip and what your budget is; those looking for luxury holidays may choose to ask for holiday vouchers or money towards their trip as their wedding gift, instead of items for the home. This is an increasingly popular trend amongst '30-something' professional couples who have often already set up home together, and have little need for a new toaster or set of steak knives.
Most newlyweds are looking for the 'three S's'; sun, sea and seclusion, which is why holidays in the Caribbean feature at the top of many couples hit-lists, not just as a honeymoon choice, but often as a wedding venue too.
The Caribbean has plenty to offer, and provides a surprising amount of choice in terms of activities. For those on a budget, the Dominican Republic is often seen as the more affordable Caribbean option. With a plethora of glorious sandy beaches, a selection of all-inclusive hotels in resorts such as Punta Cana and Bavaro, and a host of excursions on offer it's definitely a good all-rounder. There's also plenty to do in terms of water based activities, with snorkelling and diving particularly popular. A trip to the lively capital Santa Domingo is also a popular daytrip.
St Lucia is another good choice, and for those in search of a taste of luxury in a paradise location, the island will not disappoint. Honey coloured beaches, a wide choice of all-inclusive hotels and scenery peppered with magnificent waterfalls and banana plantations, all combine to make this a perfect honeymoon retreat.
For those wanting a Caribbean location with a little extra spice, Cuba could be worth considering. With its historic past and colourful present, Hemingway's haunt offers everything you'd expect from a Caribbean destination, and a little bit more.
Aside from the glorious beaches the capital Havana is a veritable treasure trove of adventure; on every street corner you'll find lively bars, the sounds of salsa rhythms drifting through the air and iconic American cars from the 1950's adorning the streets, it's like steeping back in time to a bygone era and offers a once in a lifetime holiday experience.
But, aside from the Caribbean there are a number of other choices available for aspirational honeymooners, and for those in search of glitz and grandeur Dubai holidays tick all the right boxes.
This dazzling jewel in the United Arab Emirates is stylish, glamorous and offers a delightful mix of urban living and beachside relaxation. The hotels in this sun-blessed metropolis are simply stunning and wherever you stay you'll be able to enjoy the ultimate in elegance and first-class service.
There are also plenty of excursions in Dubai including Wild Water Park, perfect for a fun day out with your other half. For those in search of local colour, a trip to the souks is recommended with the colourful stalls selling everything from spices and souvenirs, to crafts and gold.
Picking a honeymoon is a bit like choosing a partner, it's got to be the right fit, so wherever you choose for your romantic getaway, make sure you shop around and find the one that's right for you and your other half.
Subscribe to read full newspaper »
Send to a friend
Please complete the following form to inform a friend about this page.
