Today we’re jumping overseas to a location I’d never considered for a romantic getaway but one I wish I’d thought of sooner!

On the island of Pamalican, a one hour plane flight from Manila, the capital of The Philippines, sits Amanpulo (peaceful island) a resort of only 40 casitas, 11 villas and nothing but you and the sandy tropical paradise.

It used to be a family run coconut plantation, now the island houses only the resort, a private getaway that is so far from the rest of civilization, the night sky will often show the constellations clear from the smog and lights of the city.

The resort’s 40 casitas are built in the style of a traditional Phillipine bahay kubo- each features steep timber roofs on timber frames. The beach casitas all have a private path leading through the native bush to the sand, while the hillside retreat casitas look out freely over the ocean. For a little Robinson Crusoe, guests can choose the treetop casitas.

For the no expenses spared newlyweds- the deluxe casitas look out over the sea and neighbouring islands allowing their residents unimpeded sunset and sunrises every single day of the week.

Each casita features a king sized bed, oversized marble bathroom with twin vanities,  flat screen televisions, surround sound system, coffeemakers and ipod docks.

For something a little self contained, There are larger villas available for hire- though only one has a single bedroom. Each includes a cook, maid, buggy, private swimming pool, living & dining pavilions, outdoor lounge and kitchen, private outdoor decks, buggies,

Worried about dining on the island? You needn’t! Amanpulo offers numerous private dining options including private island hopping trips, in your casita or private spots around the island.

For something a little more communal, there are three dining facilities within the resort- The Restaurant features international and Filipino Cuisine, The Beach Club offers Fresh Seafood and Spanish Cuisine while the Lagoon Club offers Vietnamese Cuisine, Guests can also enjoy wood fired pizza at the wind surfing hut, a drink at the clubhouse or snacks in the Lobby terrace.

Of course nothing says honeymoon like a little bit of pampering and the resort’s spa offers a range of massages and treatments in air conditioned casitas or the open garden sala.

If you’re up for a little exercise after all that post wedding relaxation, the island is your walking track- a 5.5km walk will take you from your room and back in less than two hours. The resort is very well prepared for your water based activities too- top of the line windsurfing equipment, catamarans, kayaks and game boats are all available for use by the resort’s guests.

Nature is close by with a turtle hatchery on the island- baby black tip sharks and nesting marine turtles are often in sight too- adding to the sense that you really are close to nature. Surrounding the island is a spectacular coral reef- five dive sites are right by the island offering a plethora of soft corals, tropical corals, fish, rays and turtles all within sight.

The resort also offers a gym, tennis courts, yoga centre, library,  and a 30m swimming pool surrounded by lounges (my kind of place) and even a boutique for a spot of souvenir hunting.

For the destination wedding, Amanpulo offers destination wedding celebrations (including a ceremony on the crystal blue water using the resort’s pontoon). All packages include a Filipino wedding officer, guitar serenade,  bridal bouquet, champagne and of course- wedding cake!

To find out more visit the Amanpulo website.

Photos from Aman Resorts