If you’re after a unique under-the-radar destination for your honeymoon trip, luxury tour operator Scott Dunn is here to help. With more than 30 years of experience in tailoring bespoke holidays,
it unveils its predictions for the top 10 hottest destinations for 2018. The increasing demand for authentic experiences is reflected in the list, which shuns well-trodden destinations to uncover hidden gems – from trekking in Nepal to visiting a spirit sanctuary in Bhutan.
For more information please visit www.scottdunn.com or call +65 3158 6530.
Not that you need it, but there are now more reasons to visit this beautiful country next year, thanks to the exciting new openings of Shinta Mani Wild (a new luxury tented camp, complete with a zip line), Six Senses Koh Russey, Alila Villas Koh Russey, The Beige in Siem Reap, Rosewood Phnom Penh and Rosewood Siem Reap.
You can also count on Scott Dunn to escape the crowds, embark on a treasure hunt around Angkor Wat, go on a guided tour, go on board a helicopter or have an intimate dinner for two in the jungle.
See also: 6 BEAUTIFUL SOUTHEAST ASIAN HONEYMOON RESORTS FOR YOUR MINI-MOON GETAWAY
So you’re dreaming of a seaside getaway with your special other. Going through its soft launch at the moment, the unique Bawah Island is located in the Anambas Islands of Indonesia. Accessible from Singapore by ferry and seaplane, Bawah is a group of six tropical islands that feature 35 beautifully designed suites and bungalows.
Surrounded by lagoons and coral reefs, as well as dense jungle canopy and mangroves, this eco-hideaway is an explorers dream. Think Nihiwatu meets Song Saa or Soneva Kiri. This is projected to be one of the hottest holiday destinations for 2018, especially for Singapore-based travellers, as it offers a brand new private island experience for newlyweds looking for something a bit more unique than Thailand or Bali.
Due to open in early 2018, the Six Senses Bhutan circuit is one of Asia’s most anticipated openings. Located in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang – guests will be able to embark on a ‘Six Senses Journey’ between each lodge, exploring Bhutan in style. Bhutan remains one of Asia’s most unspoiled and majestic locations, a hidden kingdom that retains a unique charm. Each of the Six Senses lodge locations will boast incredible views, in particular the lodge in Punakha which overlooks the Mo Chu River, and Gangtey, which has views of the Phobjika Valley. Architecturally, Six Senses have blended local design styles with modern luxuries and all lodges are inspired by the colourful Kingdom’s reputation as the ‘happiest place on earth.’ Guests will have the option to visit all five lodges
or a combination, with itineraries designed around the various experiences unique to each location. There’s also the new Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary near Paro, which will provide respite for the mind and body, connecting its guests with the unique Buddhist spirituality of Bhutan.
See also: 6 GORGEOUS PLACES FOR YOUR OVERSEAS WEDDING SHOOT IN BHUTAN
If you’re up for a spot of skiing on your honeymoon, check out Courchevel, which has long been the ski-resort of choice for the European It-crowd. But with new openings like the Scott Dunn at Six Senses Residences Courchevel, the resort will be firmly planted on the map as the go-to ski destination for Asia-based travellers.
Oman is a country that seemed to escape the notice of all but the most intrepid of travellers until just a few years ago. It now welcomes visitors with renowned Arabian hospitality and is eager to share its lively culture, rolling sand dunes, bustling souks and majestic mountains, making it a captivating destination for couples and families. Couples should also check out the lesser known region of Salalah in the South, where the Anantara Al Baleed Resort sits on a glorious untouched stretch of white coastline. The resort brings a new level of luxury to the Salalah region. In Oman, there are two exceptional glamping options to satisfy guests desire to sleep under the stars in luxury. Canvas Club is the most glamorous camping option in Oman, whilst Hud Hud’s authentic Bedouin style tents continues to be a firm favourite. Oman can also be paired with Nepal or Jordan for the ultimate adventure itinerary.
See also: 7 LUXURIOUS ASIAN GLAMPING RETREATS FOR YOUR HONEYMOON
New Zealand has always been and continues to be a popular destination for honeymooners as well as for pre-wedding portraits. Not only does it offer a complete escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, it also gives guests the chance to experience the great outdoors with exciting and exhilarating activities. It’s also the perfect place for a digital detox, without having to forfeit on luxury, thanks to the country’s fabulous collection of luxury lodges.
See also: 7 FUN ACTIVITIES TO ADD TO YOUR NEW ZEALAND HONEYMOON ITINERARY
Whilst Nepal isn’t at the forefront of new openings for the forthcoming year, this destination is making a comeback, after healing its wounds post the 2015 earthquakes. Whilst people have still visited Nepal over the past couple of years, the numbers have been low, but the luxury tour operator has seen a jump in demand and enquiries. This has been helped by the opening of national park Meghauli Serai in Chitwan last year. Nepal also twins brilliantly with Bhutan, and Scott Dunn has seen a lot of demand for guests wanting to combine both destinations over a longer period of time.
Similar to Nepal, this relatively undiscovered corner of the world is set to be an emerging destination for 2018. Jordan is well-known for its highlights such as the world-famous Nabatean city of Petra, the Roman ruins of Jerash in the north, the epic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea – the lowest point on earth and the best place for a float. Offering a polar opposite experience to that in Asia, guests can also combine a trip to Jordan with Oman to really explore the wonders of Arabia. What’s more, it is an ideal destination for Easter, May and October half term thanks to the weather.
Iceland is a destination which continues to see a huge surge in popularity with more exciting luxury accommodation options opening as a result. The country’s most popular tourist attraction, The Blue Lagoon, is set to open ‘The Retreat at Blue Lagoon’ and become a new guest favourite with 62 rooms offering exclusive access to the man-made geo-thermal pool. Iceland’s phenomenal landscapes tempt visitors out into the wild to experience an array of outdoor activities, from a puffin safari to heli-skiing from summit to ocean on the Troll Peninsula at luxury Nordic retreat Deplar Farm.
Trollaskagi Camp, a new pop-up glamping camp, will open from March to May 2018 overlooking Eyjaörður from Amazing Escapes. Boasting six luxury guests domes with double beds and wood stoves, couples will be able to watch the Northern Lights from the comfort their bed and relax after a day outdoors in a Scandanvian hot-tub or the fully-stocked library dome.
See also: SCANDINAVIAN ROMANCE! 9 PLACES IN SWEDEN FOR FAIRY TALE WEDDING PHOTOS
Scott Dunn launched its brand-new ski portfolio in Japan’s renowned Niseko resort for the 2016/17 ski season. Home to some of the world’s best conditions, Niseko boasts pristine deep dry snow on picturesque volcanic and alpine mountain ranges. New for the for 2017/18 ski season is the Niseko- Hirafu’s high-speed detachable quad chair lift, which will more than double lift capacity saving long waits at peak times. Three new additions to visit:
- Hakuchozan: a luxury fully serviced chalet perfect for large groups and families situated in the heart of Hirafu village of Niseko
- Aspect Niseko: a collection of luxury self-catered apartments located on the slopes, in the heart of the skiing action
- Aya Niseko: a great ski-in ski-out hotel offering luxury apartments, residences and penthouses.