The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Just the two of us
After all those months of planning in the build-up to the big day, the honeymoon is your chance to relax and enjoy some wellearned ‘we time’ as husband and wife
All those wedding arrangements taking their toll? Treat yourselves to some honeymoon plans instead.
Choosing your honeymoon can be one of the most exciting aspects of planning your wedding. And this time there are only two people to please – no parents or in-laws to consider and, as far as we know, no need to consult great-auntie Jane about your travel plans.
Instead it’s time to sit back, think about where in the world you would like to spend your first few weeks as a married couple and relax.
Still not sure where to begin? Here are a few top honeymoon picks from Gregor Miller of Ramsay World Travel to help whet your appetite.
The Caribbean
With a wide range of beautiful destinations with differing characters, the Caribbean has something to offer everyone. Explore quiet, deserted beaches or delve into the rich local culture. Anyone with an interest in history should plump for a location which offers tales of pirates and admiralty galleons, not to mention the rum!
The best time to travel to locations such as Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua and Jamaica is between December and March, avoiding the hurricane season between August and October.
Mexico
With ancient Mayan ruins, tropical beaches and some of the best nightlife in central America, honeymooners certainly won’t be bored in Mexico.
On the Caribbean coast, the resorts at Cancun and Riviera Maya are the gateway to Mayan culture with sandy beaches, reef diving and wonderful eco parks to visit. Throw in a jungle tour for a taste of the local nature or simply chill out by the pool.
Cyprus
A popular destination for weddings and honeymoons and that bit closer to home, Cyprus is a great choice if you don’t have time for a long-haul trip. The beautiful Mediterranean destination is perfect for a relaxing beach holiday in the sun but taking the time to venture away from the shore will reveal memorable archaeological sites and beautiful citrus groves.
While away an afternoon in one of the island’s pretty villages and get away from the crowds to experience some exhilarating scenery.
Dubai
Direct flights from Scotland make this glamourous destination a popular choice for couples in search of sun and some incredible hotels and resorts. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city and its malls and swanky bars, there is the opportunity to relax by the beach or explore the vast desert.
Few visitors to Dubai can resist the pull of a visit to the Burj al Arab, for afternoon tea at least, but it is also worth leaving the city and resorts behind to head into the desert a nd experience the timeless sand dunes and real Arabian culture.
The Far East
Whether you are fascinated by the pull
of Thailand or love the idea of beautiful Bali, these are destinations for couples who love experiencing travel and totally new cultures. Immerse yourselves in the local lifestyle and cuisine and choose whether to indulge in the ultimate in relaxation at a beautiful resort or head to the cities to get stuck into the party scene.
If you feel in need of a break after the hectic build-up to the wedding, these countries offer beautiful spas and massage treatments to make all those stresses melt away.
Las Vegas
Once the top choice (after Gretna) for couples running away to tie the knot, Las Vegas is now a honeymoon destination in itself. One of the best-known cities in the world, Vegas can be loud, brash and bustling but it’s always fun. There is an incredible range of entertainment and dining outlets and the luxury hotels that line the strip mean you should want for nothing on your honeymoon.
Try your luck as a newly married couple in the city’s famous casinos or indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter trip to the nearby Grand Canyon. This is the desert city that never sleeps but while it’s hot by day, temperatures can hit freezing after nightfall.
New York
Another great choice for city lovers, the Big Apple is the perfect destination for newlyweds to explore. From romantic sunset cruises to watch the sun dip below the Manhattan skyline to a stroll in Central Park, some of the world’s most famous museums and shopping locations make this city a fascinating destination. Choose from hotels oozing modern luxury or old world charm to ensure that you have a great base for diving in to all that New York has to offer.
Cuba
A former Spanish colony and the fascinating last bastion of world communism, Cuba is a Caribbean island like no other. Blessed with beautiful white sandy beaches and intriguing cities, now is the time to visit Cuba before things start to change forever. Don’t miss the faded grandeur of Havana with those iconic vintage American cars, the natural beauty of western Cuba or the luxurious all-inclusive resorts.
Italy
The romance of Italy means it is an enduringly popular choice for honeymooners. Just a short hop away, there is no exhausting long-haul journey to contend with. Lose yourselves among the canals of Venice – what could be more romantic than a gondola trip with your new husband or wife? Or head for Rome to immerse yourself in centuries of history and, of course, the opportunity to indulge in some incredible Italian cooking.
Hawaii
Another far flung location, Hawaii is the perfect spot for island hopping couples who have the time to explore all that this stunning US state has to offer. From the picture perfect beaches and swaying palm trees to towering peaks and amazing sunsets, this is definitely a destination for the romantic at heart. Explore the amazing volcanic landscape, get adventurous with some kayaking, hit the surf or simply chill out on the beach in this fantastic destination.