Photo: Pexels
When we talk about the perfect, most romantic holiday destinations, Paris and Rome come to mind. While these gorgeous cities are much sought-after destinations for couples, we must address the elephant in the room — the price. If you desire some much-needed alone time with your other half in an idyllic paradise, you may feel discouraged by the burgeoning costs of plane tickets and accommodations.
But hear ‘ye, we bring you great news: Being on a budget doesn’t mean you have to give up on your plans on having a drop dead romantic holiday. In fact, there are many breathtakingly beautiful destinations in Southeast Asia that will make for a memorable honeymoon-style vacations without breaking the bank. Here are the 5 most romantic holidays (that are affordable too!) to book right now.
https://www.herworld.com/life/travel/affordable-honeymoon-vacation-holiday-romantic-getaway-couples/
affordable honeymoon vacation
Lombok, Indonesia
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Lombok, in proximity to Bali (one of the most popular holiday destinations for couples), is known for its breathtaking beaches and surfing spots. Unlike Bali, Lombok is comparably more serene and untouched, with extraordinary sights such as waterfalls and scenic views on mountain tops.
Ideal for couples who love nature and adventure, Lombok boasts of plenty of recreational activities you can partake in with your partner; head for a romantic hike in the mountains or take in the views of lush forests and the finest beaches.
Estimated costs:
Round trip ticket cost per person: $250
Accommodation per night: $45
Photo: Indonesia Holidays
Sihanoukville, Cambodia
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A seaside town located in Cambodia, Sihanoukville is known for its beautiful golden sand beaches. With numerous beaches, tropical islands and mangrove jungles, this coastal city has a relaxed vibe for you and your man to really kick back and relax. The premier beach town also has plenty of seafood restaurants, given how fresh seafood, especially crab, prawns and ocean fish, are the town’s biggest draws.
For a romantic night out, there’s also a wide variety of bars that stay open till late at night, especially on Weather Station Hill, in the downtown area, and the beach bars on Ochheuteal, ‘Serendipity’ and Victory Beaches.
Estimated costs:
Round trip ticket cost per person: $400
Accommodation per night: $60
Photo: Cambodia Travels
Sapa, Vietnam
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Sapa is a vibrant and colourful market town in the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains of northwestern Vietnam. Charming and ideal for couples who love to keep active, Sapa has a popular trekking base that overlooks the terraced rice fields of the Muong Hoa Valley. Located near the 3,143m-tall Phang Xi Pang peak, which is climbable via a steep guided walk, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice when it comes to finding something to do with your other half here.
It has quaint houses painted in an array of bright, joyful colours, bringing you a unique experience you will never forget. In order to get there, you’d have to first take a flight to Hanoi. From Hanoi, you can either take the Sapa Express Bus or the train to Sapa.
Estimated costs:
Round trip ticket cost per person: $200
Accommodation per night: $30
Photo: Two Scots Abroad
Maafushi, Maldives
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Maldives, as we know it, is a luxurious vacation destination that is known to be pretty pricey. But ever since the government amended the laws and opened up the local islands for tourism in 2008, that concept has almost faltered. Maafushi is one of those said islands with affordable accommodations and cost of travelling.
Located at the South Male Atoll, Maafushi is just a 45-minute speedboat ride (that costs US$20) away from Male Airport. Its local name means “Big Island”, which may be considered ironic as the island is pretty small. Enjoy frolicking around the Bikini Beach with your beau or partake in water sports if you’re feeling more adventurous.
Estimated costs:
Round trip ticket cost per person: $400
Accommodation per night: $100
Photo: Budget Maldives
Siquijor, Philippines
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Fancy some isolated alone time with your man? The tiny and remote island of Siquijor fits the bill exactly. Apart from uncrowded beautiful beaches with pristine waters and even an impressive three-tiered waterfall, Siquijor also has old churches, convents and bell towers that are still beautifully preserved if you enjoy sightseeing.
Serene and peaceful, you can swim, sun bath and relax all day without worrying that it will become noisy or crowded. Some of the beach resorts like Salagdoong Beach also feature live bands at times to give the ambience a jubilant lift. Get there by taking a flight to Dumaguete before getting onto one of the many passenger boats departing daily to Siquijor.
Estimated costs:
Round trip ticket cost per person: $210
Accommodation per night: $30
Photo: Choose Philippines
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