Yay you’re married! With all the preparation and partying related to that, you’re probably ready for a good long honeymoon. Really the options and possibilities are endless. Maybe it’s time to hit the road and really spend some quality time with your new husband, or maybe you’re both so worn out you just want to sit on a beach and lie there (not talking to anyone). Maybe you just want to explore a new country. Whatever you choose and whatever your budget, here are a few destinations to consider.
See also: 5 Overlooked Destinations Honeymooners Should Visit Now
This story was first published in CLEO.
Everyone’s go-to honeymoon destinatin is still popular AF for a reason. The beautiful blue waters and elegant resorts are all designed for total relaxation (and solitude!). Pro tip: It’s rainy season in the Maldives starting in May but that doesn’t mean it rains all the time – prices drop significantly even for luxe resorts so look to book then!
Stay at: There are a range of resorts for every price range but a great choice is COMO Maalifushi where you can enjoy daily activities from dolphin cruises to turtle expeditions while staying on a private island without a care in the world.
Maybe you’ve had enough of the humid heat here and want a little fresh mountain air. One of the world’s most popular tourist destinations of the moment, the West Coast of Canada is perfect for outdoor activities as well as a little road-tripping. Driving through Jasper National Park is part of the Canadian Rockies and you’ll be able to see glacier-fed lakes, forests, as well s wildlife like mountain goats and brown bears.
Stay at: If you’re road-tripping, you ight just want to go night-to-night in different motels along the way. But if you’re looking for a base, the Pyramid Lake Resort offers lots of activities (think kayaking, canoeing and paddleboating) as well as cruises. The views of the mountains are breathtaking and you’ll be able to hike the area on the mountain trails.
If crystal blue waters and snorkelling is your thing but you rather not shell out for a Maldives’ resort, try sticking closer to home with Malaysia’s own Perhentian Island. It’s quite a trek to get out there (planes, buses and boats might be involved) but the results are truly untouched nature.
Stay at: The perhentian Island Resort is not fill-out five stars but the amenities and facilities are comfortable and affordable. What’s more, the resort works with wildlife conservation programs particularly for turtles; so you know your visit won’t be affecting any of the natural wildlife which you can also see aplenty.
If you and your bae are more into exploring cities, you might want to consider Amsterdam which is both deeply steeped in culture and is also on the cutting edge of design and cool. Between the various neighbourhoods, indulgent shopping, food and of course, the canals (touristy maybe, but so much fun) you won’t get bored in this city for sure.
Stay at: The Conservatorium is both deliciously trendy and also practical with a location that can get you to places like the Stedelijk Museum and The Van Gogh. The hotel building itself has been around since the 19th century and has been painstakingly preserved.
See also: Scandinavian Romance! 9 Places in Sweden for Fairy Tale Wedding Photos
With Thailand and Indonesia so well-known for their beache, we sometimes forget that Camodia – equally nearby – has lots to offer in terms of culture, food and relaxation (at a better price). Kep is one of those seaside towns, a few hours drive from Phnom Penh that offers up to some great luxury and relaxation and best of all, it’s one if those secret destinations few people know about.
Stay at: Knai Bang Chatt is a stylish retreat by the sea (with rooms starting at just $130!) that really lets you experience the surrounding areas whether you want to be out at sea or lounging on land. Try sailing or jump on a Hobie Cat and learn to fish or windsurf. Alternatively, head to the island of Koh Tonsay where the best beaches are. You can also jump on a 110cc motorbike and explore the area on a set of wheels.
Say you’re looking for adventure but with the wedding and all you just don’t have time to plan something, no worries, tour groups like Antipodean Luxury Travel can put together an itinerary for you that’s tailored to all you want to do – whether that’s hiking or skydiving or white water rafting.
The company offers a 10 Day South Island Outdoors adventure in New Zealand, which includes flights, accomodation as well as activities suggestions. if you’ve saved up the cash, it’s an easy way to see everything but let other people plan it for you.
If you’ve ever watched Game of Thrones or Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and wondered where they shot those dramatic seaside or cliffside scenes, look no further than Ireland. Beautiful in all its wild nature, Ireland is an excellent country to drive around and explore. Start in Dublin and travel East all the while enjoying the outdoors (including great, fresh food).
Stay at: Again this is one country you might want to road trip around, but if you’re starting or ending in Dublin, just an hour’s out is Bellinter House, a mansion turned hotel, which offers activities like clay-pigeon shooting (so Downtown Abbey) as well as hot-air ballooning and horse riding. There’s ots to see when you drive around too such as serveral interesting historical sites along the Boyne Valley, including Mellifont Abbey, the Hill of Slane, the Hill of Tara, and Trim Castle.
See also: Game of Thrones Wedding Shoot? 5 Gorgeous Location to Visit!
If you’ve got the time and the money, make the trek over the Indian Ocean and head for Mozambique where wildlife and unspoiled coral reefs awaits. Benguerra Island is the second largest island in Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast and offers everything from snorkelling and diving to horse riding and fly fishing.
Stay at: The Benguerra Island Lodge is the Ultimate in Luxury seclusion where a deep lagoon allows not just for water activities but also a chance to maybe see the rare dugong. Emjoy catamaran sunset cruises, island expeditions and castaway pinics during your stay.