Travel Ideas
27th February 2018
10 of the best resorts for a 2018 honeymoon
Planning a honeymoon in 2018 but not really sure where to go? Here are our top picks of the best destinations this year, complete with heavenly-looking resorts that are perfect for one-on-one time!
1. Mykonos
Apart from the scenery, cuisine and weather, Mykonos is a popular holiday spot for international celebs like Usain Bolt, so if it’s good enough for him, it’s certainly good enough for us! This year, a visit will be extra special thanks to the burgeoning craft beer scene (Mykonos Brewing Company began brewing in March 2017), and really, who doesn’t love an ice-cold beer in the sun?
Where to stay: Luxury resort Santa Marina threw open its doors last August after a major revamp, and it’s got its own private beach!
2. Vietnam
Having welcomed an impressive 13 million international tourists last year, Vietnam is certainly become a standout holiday hotspot, and with a spate of luxurious accommodation options popping up, it’s easy to imagine honeymooning here.
Where to stay: The stylish JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, located on the country’s largest island, was launched in March last year, and it looks nothing short of amazing.
3. Belize
If you’re looking for a jungle adventure but are keen to spend some time on the beach and exploring fantastic reefs, Belize should definitely be on your radar. Go tubing, hiking, caving, zip-lining and river canoeing in the rainforest before heading back to your suite for some couple time.
Where to stay: Opened in January 2017, Naïa Resort and Spa sits within a private 200-acre reserve on the Placencia Peninsula, and offers private-island spa suites for honeymooners.
4. Costa Rica
More rainforest fun is waiting to be had in Costa Rica, which is at the cutting edge of so many current trends including surfing, farm-to-table restaurants and sustainable tourism. Its home to half a million species, and with protected while lands and pioneering green energy sources, Costa Rica is a true spectacle for nature lovers.
Where to stay: In keeping with the nature theme, the 1,400-acre Peninsula Papagayo is currently undergoing a $100-million transformation to include a new macaw sanctuary and eight miles of nature trails.
5. Ibiza
Ibiza is fast becoming a must-visit foodie destination, thanks to its growing farm-to-table movement and impressive spate of new restaurant openings. Among these are El Portalon in Old Town, which features sustainably grown and sourced food; the seasonal fare at Aiyanna, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea (though nothing new there, am I right?); and you’ll love this one – Enrique Iglesias’ trendy new place, Tatel.
Where to stay: Live the full foodie experience and stay at Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay which opened in June 2017 – another celeb venture between Robert de Niro and acclaimed chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
6. Cambodia
Another one for nature and culture lovers, Cambodia offers a veritable wealth of sites to explore, including the famous Angkor Wat archaeological park, as well as 16th/17th century forest temple Sambor Prei Kuk, which was given UNESCO World Heritage status last July.
Where to stay: Once you’ve had your fill of cultural sites, relax at the Six Senses Koh Krabey, opening this year – a private-island resort with 40 pool villas – heaven!
7. Thailand
Voted number one in the Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index 2017, Thailand is sure to be at the top of your places to visit this year, with a crop of new luxury resorts making it even more difficult to resist for a honeymoon to remember!
Where to stay: Opening its doors in April 2017, Ananda Hua Hin Resort & Spa in Hua Hin offers a tempting honeymoon package which includes a romantic dinner, bubble bath and honeymoon cake.
8. Indonesia
While the eastern side of Bali may be off limits this year due to a potential volcanic eruption (yikes!), it doesn’t take away from the beauty of the rest of the island. Thanks to its varied landscapes, picturesque backdrops and unique culture, as well as myriad historical and archaeological attractions, Indonesia truly offers something for everyone.
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay has just undergone a massive overhaul, and since re-opening in June 2017, offers stunning beachfront villas and an oceanfront spa pavilion.
9. Nassau Paradise Island, Bahamas
If you fancy trying something new on your honeymoon, the Bahamas is the place to do it – from experiences like swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Cay to sampling cutting-edge cuisine at newly opened Sip Sip and Fish by José Andrés.
Where to stay: Nassau Paradise Island welcomed three new luxury hotels in the last months, including Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, SLS Baha Mar and Rosewood Baha Mar, which all make for a fantastic Bahamas base.
10. New Orleans
With New Orleans celebrating its tricentennial in 2018, there’s never been a better time to visit the city, with promises of special events and extensive infrastructure projects, including a $6-million repair of Bourbon Street. You can even treat it as a starting point for a cruise into the sunset in style – this year, Norwegian Breakaway will be largest cruise vessel ever to sail out of Port NOLA.
Where to stay: NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans welcomes its first guests last July, and we hear the rooftop pool makes for a great backdrop for a spot of champagne!