By Jane Anderson
You’ve committed to tying the knot, you’ve booked the venue and bought the dress, now it’s time to think of the best possible place to enjoy your first adventure together in holy matrimony: the honeymoon! Trends come and go, but old-school romance can’t be underestimated. Jane Anderson, Editor of 101 Honeymoons, recommends her classic choices for this summer and beyond.

Bali

The Indonesian island of Bali has been honeymoon gold for decades, and although it’s now overdeveloped in parts, you can still find your pocket of deep romance here. Forego the coast and head to Ubud, a magnet for creatives and lovers. Book into Alila Ubud, just 5km away in the traditional Balinese hill village of Payangan on the banks of the Ayung River Valley. Lounge by the pool and see the morning mist rising from the river valley, chill in your suite with private pool, and dine among the rainforest in the Plantation Restaurant. Book with Away Holidays.

India, Sri Lanka and Dubai

For an action-packed honeymoon, perfect for couples who like to make the most of their travels, a three-centre honeymoon is made easy when you have Barefoot Traveller to make all the arrangements for you. First stop, India’s Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur followed by a luxurious stay in Sri Lanka at Mount Lavinia, a colonial heritage hotel by the ocean, followed by a two-night city break in Dubai – a brilliant way to make the journey back to reality glamorous and fun. Book with Barefoot Traveller.

Mauritius

The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius is classic honeymoon territory with its combination of white sand beaches, turquoise lagoon, fine food and lush island interior with its domaine treks, temples, markets and rum distilleries. The rich culture of Indian, Chinese, African and European cultures makes Mauritius a fascinating place. Beachcomber Hotels & Resorts are locally owned and run and were some of the first on the island, hence their gorgeous locations. One of the most exclusive is the Royal Palm where honeymooners are greeted with champagne in their room, a complimentary two-course lunch and a special couples experience such as a masterclass with a mixologist or a five-star massage in the luxurious spa. Book with Beachcomber Tours.

Corsica

The Mediterranean island of Corsica with its cool French vibe, iridescent blue waters, rugged interior and slick hospitality is a firm favourite with couples. It’s the kind of place you can return to year after year to relax in one another’s company and soak up the warm spirit. Book into the gorgeous Hotel U Capu Biancu with views out across the Gulf of Santa Manza and organic infinity pool. Rooms are a sublime blend of natural wood and stone with private balconies and terraces. The secluded hotel beach offers kayaks, boats and canoes, water skiing and fishing and there’s also a stable nearby for exploring on horseback. Book with Corsican Places.

Fiji

The South Pacific is the stuff of honeymoon dreams and the archipelago nation of Fiji continues to seduce newlyweds with its intense natural beauty and high standards of hospitality. Likuliku Lagoon Resort resides on Malolo in the Mamanuca Islands and was one of the first Fijian resorts with over-water bures. Adult-only and boutique, this resort offers private dining under the stars on the beachside deck next to the lagoon, and massages at the beachfront Tatadra Spa followed by a hydrating coconut milk bath for two. Or head to neighbouring Mociu Private Island for snorkelling, romantic picnics and sunrise hikes. Book with Inspiring Travel.

Bhutan

When a honeymoon includes a visit to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, you know it’s going to be memorable. Bhutan, otherwise known as the Land of Happiness, is a classic once-in-a-lifetime destination that will live up to the highest honeymoon expectations. Book with experienced tour operator Mahlatini for extra reassurance and a tailored honeymoon itinerary. Book with Mahlatini Luxury Travel.

Corfu

A Greek island honeymoon is a no-brainer for easy romance. Head to the Ionian island of Corfu and the adult-only Nido resort, a new Small Luxury Hotel of the World. Here couples can kick back and relax by their private pool or terrace, take a culinary journey across the island at the restaurant and toast one another with a crafted cocktail to the sounds of live jazz. Book with Mar-Bella Collection.

Chile

If South America is on your bucket list, a honeymoon is the time to go for it – especially when you have an experienced tour operator such as Rainbow Tours to make all the arrangements for you. Highlights of its ‘Chile in Luxury’ honeymoon include the bohemian Lastarria district of Santiago, the drama of Torres del Paine and the surreal landscape of the Atacama Desert, and wines of the Central Valley. So much to reminisce about in years to come. Book with Rainbow Tours.

Rwanda and Zanzibar

A classic two-centre honeymoon combining full-on adventure with complete zone-out relaxation doesn’t get much better than Rwandan gorilla trekking followed by a Zanzibar beach flop. Begin with the ultimate wildlife adventure led by an expert driver and guide, tracking gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, hopefully coming within metres of a giant silverback. Afterwards, wind down in Zanzibar at a five-star resort within easy reach of historic Stonetown. Book with The Luxury Holiday Company.

Maldives

Your main problem in the Maldives is deciding which private island resort to go for. Tropical Sky recommend Sirru Fen Fushi, Private Lagoon Resort with a choice of overwater, beachside or tented jungle villa. Dining here is so special with authentic Maldivian cuisine at Raha Market, or Japanese at Kata, or keep it intimate with a private chef preparing a BBQ at your villa. Other highlights include Jason deCaires Taylor’s Coralarium, the world’s first semi-submerged art space, and the Arufen Spa for indulgent couples’ treatments. Book with Tropical Sky.

St Vincent and the Grenadines

For old-school island-hopping romance, St Vincent and the Grenadines has a combination of Robinson Crusoe charm and A-list glamour. Let Turquoise Holidays lead you to the coral reefs of the Tobago Cays, the wild spirit of St Vincent, the old-world charm of Bequia and celebrity hangout that is Mustique, once beloved of Princess Margaret, staying in the only hotel on island, the Cotton House. Book with Turquoise Holidays.

Atlas Mountains

North Africa is such an evocative choice for a honeymoon especially when you opt for the wild beauty of the Atlas Mountains. Envelop yourself in high levels of hospitality and genuine local understanding of culture at Kasbah Tamadot, part of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition collection. The levels of care taken here to make newlyweds feel thoroughly pampered is extraordinary. Stay in a Berber tent or brand new riad with views of Mount Toubkal, and let the local team pamper you silly. Book with Virgin Limited Edition.