Top 5 Romantic Honeymoon Destinations

The best antidote to the chaos (and excitement) of planning and executing a wedding is jetting off on a romantic honeymoon, just you and your significant other. What better way to wind down, celebrate your partnership, and decompress than by hopping on a plane and jetting off somewhere magical? From the black beaches of Santorini to the rolling vineyards of California’s wine country, here are the top 5 romantic honeymoon destinations to extend your celebration of love.

white concrete house near body of water under white and blue cloudy sky

Santorini, Greece

With picture-perfect views in every direction, Santorini is a Greek honeymoon must, and for good reason. Setting the stage for romance are countless boutique hotels perched on cliffs, whitewashed buildings, and cerulean domed churches – all facing the sea. Splurge for a suite with a plunge pool, overlooking the postcard views and mythical caldera below.

Tip: Stay in Oia, located on the quieter side of the island. While there are still cruise groups and tours passing through, it offers a far more intimate feel than busy Fira.

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Maui, Hawaii

Visitors to the Aloha State are greeted with a warm temperate climate, stunning vistas, and the lingering scent of plumeria in the air. It’s no wonder it’s a favorite among honeymooners, who gravitate to the luxurious Wailea, home to the island’s finest resorts. From The Four Seasons and The Fairmont to The Grand Wailea and newly built Andaz, Wailea, therefore, provides an upscale environment to unwind and is bordered by calm beaches.

Tip: Explore the islands from the air on a jaw-dropping helicopter tour that showcases the dramatic and lush Hawaiian landscape.

top 5 romantic honeymoon destinations

Napa Valley

Thinking of staying a little closer to home? The Napa (and Sonoma) Valley’s are a wine lover’s dream and roughly two and half hours from San Francisco. Stroll the countless vineyards, indulge in gourmet fare at The French Laundry, and take in Napa’s vibrant art scene. The laid-back Sonoma offers visitors a less commercialized alternative. At almost double the size of Napa, there are plenty of wineries to choose from. Sonoma’s Fairmont Mission Inn Resort & Spa makes for a great home base to explore the region.

Tip: The Napa Valley Wine Train is a great way to make stops at the vineyards, without the use of a car. More romantic than a mini-bus.

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The Amalfi Coast

A popular destination for Italians and world travelers alike, Italy’s Amalfi Coast is romance personified. Pastel-colored buildings are perched on steep cliffs over the sparkling Mediterranean ocean. The winding streets and alleys buzz with Vespas zipping past. The smell of coffee and baked goods emanates from cozy, family-run establishments.

There are myriad options for your home base, from the busy but conveniently located Sorrento (perfect for day trips to Naples and Pompeii) to the posh Positano (famous for its dramatic scenery and sandy beach). If you’re looking for the glam of Positano without the crowds, consider laid-back Ravello, a tiny village lacking direct beach access – but making up for it in luxurious accommodation options.

top 5 romantic honeymoon destinations

French Polynesia

Gracing many a traveler’s bucket list is the romantic island of Bora Bora and its surrounding atolls. Known for its towering Mt. Otemanu and luxurious overwater bungalows, Bora Bora is about as romantic as they come.

Travelers seeking that same experience with a slightly lower price tag often opt for the island of Moorea. With a range of resorts offering both hotel rooms and overwater bungalows – all are set against a stunning tropical backdrop.

For couples who are ready to go all out, there’s The Brando. A luxurious resort located on the private Tetiaroa atoll. Listed as the “The Most Luxurious Eco-Resort in the World” by Town & Country Magazine. The brainchild of Marlon Brando, the resort offers guests intimate access to French Polynesia. It also acts as a center for research and education. Sustainability is weaved through everything at The Brando. However, just because this is an eco-resort does not mean that luxury has been abandoned. Guests arrive by private plane. Accommodations are individual villas on their own stretch of white sand beach. Guests also have access to biologists and naturalist guides for one-on-one tours and educational sessions.

If you have questions about these top 5 romantic honeymoon destinations, or if you’d like support planning the honeymoon (or romantic getaway) of your dreams, I’d love to support you! Chat with me here.

Which Area Of Bali Is Right For You?

Bali was initially a surfer’s paradise, and now it is a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia. This ancient island is now a mix of tourist areas and traditional culture. There are many different ways to experience Bali, and it all depends on what you are looking to get out of your trip. Which area of Bali is right for you?

 

The Different Areas Of Bali

The different areas of Bali will appeal to different people depending on the type of trip that they are planning. Southern, Central, Eastern, and Western Bali all have their own personalities and beauties for those who decide to visit there.

which area of Bali is right for you?
Photo by Alexandr Podvalny on Pexels.com

Southern Bali

The southern coast of Bali is the tourist mecca of the island. This area of the island is where you will find the tourist hotels, lively nightlife, and the best bars. Various cities in southern Bali will lend themselves to having great offerings for those looking to have the tourist experience.

  • Canggu- As one of the more laid-back towns of this region. It has the type of “surfer” vibe you would find in places like Venice Beach, California, and Bondi Beach in Sydney. This is where digital nomads and entrepreneurs choose to live so that they can enjoy artisan beers and organic restaurants.
  • Seminyak-A town in southern Bali that is going to have the major resort hotels, high-end villas, and the hippest beach bars. If you are looking for a modern-day vacation in Southeast Asia, this is the area for you.
  • Jimbaran- Dotted with white sand beaches and 5-star resorts, this is a great town for a romantic honeymoon.
  • Uluwatu/Padang Padang-A surfer’s paradise, in the center of Southern Bali. These beaches are situated on the Bukit Peninsula, and experienced surfers should only ride the waves here.
  • Nusa Dua- This area of Bali is located on the southern-most tip of the island, and the beaches here are considered to be the best in Bali. There are two distinct areas in this part of Bali; the resort area and the town of Tanjung Benoa with its’ local shops and restaurants.
which area of bali is right for you?
Photo by Alexandr Podvalny on Pexels.com

Central Bali

The central region of Bali is far more than just the geographical center of the island. The central region is also the cultural, historical, and spiritual center of Bali. Its natural beauty and the ancient traditions that are still carried out to this day, that make this region so special.

  • Ubud- For decades, this town was a sleepy artist village that was transformed into its’ own little metropolis. The rice terraces and mountains of this town form the backdrop and base in which to explore the temples, museums, and heart of Bali.

Eastern Bali

This section of Bali has a down-to-earth atmosphere. It is far more toned down than, say, southern Bali.

  • Tulamben- Known for its’ scuba diving. There isn’t much else to offer in this area. In the sea, just off the coast, is the wreckage of the USS Liberty. This is the perfect jumping-off point for the Gili Islands.
  • Sanur- The beach of this mellow town, surrounded by a picturesque coral reef that keeps the waters calmer and shallower.
which area of bali is right for you?
Photo by Max Ravier on Pexels.com

Western Bali

Western Bali is considered to represent “the real” Bali. Most of it is mountains, volcanoes, rice paddies, and is tourist-free.

  • Balian Beach- Balian Beach is more of a “secret spot” in Eastern Bali, because not many tourists venture there. This black sand beach offers great surfing and beautiful coves to explore.
  • Nyanyi-The rural area of this section of Bali. If you are traveling here, you are going to want to see the UNESCO Heritage Site of Jati Luwih rice terraces, the Tanah Lot Temple, and Mount Batukaru.  You will want to go to surround yourself with nature and the history of Bali here.

Bali has something to offer for everyone. No matter what type of trip you are looking to take and who is going on the trip, Bali has what you want. Which area of Bali is right for you? Let’s chat about the type of experience you want, and what is going to work best for you.

Which area of Bali is right for you?

Let’s work together to create your perfect and unforgettable trip to Bali

Playa del Carmen Resorts

Home to beautiful beaches and many natural wonders to experience awaits you in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. There are several Playa del Carmen resorts that I recommend, but one is at the top of my list.

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Set along a beautiful stretch of beach, where you will learn the secrets of the jungle. Lush tropical grounds. Beautiful mangroves, and a natural cenote that can only be found in the Riviera Maya of Mexico.

There are many reasons why Sandos Caracol is at the top of my list of resorts in Playa del Carmen. The natural setting where you can experience wildlife, explore mangroves and relax on the shores of a beautiful beach. This resort is all-inclusive and offers something for every visitor. Learn the secrets of the Mayan jungle at the weekly Fire show. Take a boat ride for two through the mangroves. Swim in the natural cenote.

Sandos Caracol is for both families & adults. The resort offers an adults-only section with its own pool and an adults-only beach club. There is a wonderful waterpark to keep the kids entertained. Several restaurant options to choose from, and nightly entertainment. The staff is wonderful, and every time I visit, it feels like home to me. The rooms are comfortable, and there are several room categories to choose from.

When we travel and explore new destinations, it should be a relaxing & learning experience where everyone feels welcome. That is what you will experience on your visit to Sandos Caracol. It is also the number one reason why it is one of my favorite Playa del Carmen resorts.

Couples-Only Retreat November, 2021

Furthermore, this resort will be home to a couples-only retreat that I & my colleague will be hosting in November. If you would like to join us and experience this amazing resort, click here for more information.