Did you know the word Vanuatu means ‘The Land Eternal’? How perfect is that for this gorgeous island which is becoming a fast favourite for honeymooners! When researching honeymoon resorts in Vanuatu, I stumbled across Tamanu on the Beach, which is only a 15-minute drive from Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila.
This place has ‘amazing, romantic honeymoon’ written all over it and if you’re considering making Vanuatu your honeymoon destination of choice, you might want to consider staying here.
Australian owners Diane and Yianni Demetre discovered Tamanu seven years ago on their first wedding anniversary and instantly fell in love with it.In fact, on their first morning there, they swung open the doors to their cottage, took one look at the view and exclaimed in unison, “Wouldn’t you like to own this!” It wasn’t until last year that their dream came true and they purchased what they call “their little slice of heaven on earth”.
What sets Tamanu apart from other resorts in Vanuatu is Diane and Yianni’s commitment to ‘keeping it real’. You’ll find no retaining walls holding back nature, no level and perfectly manicured lawns and no perfectly symmetrical gardens. They believe this is part of the resort’s ‘wow’ factor, as well as the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and the pristine, private beach. “This is part of the resort’s magic,” they say, “ Authentic, raw, unaffected, natural beauty with a rare location and serenity.”
Tamanu is also the only resort in Vanuatu where the staff lives on site, creating a welcoming atmosphere and sense of harmony, as well as providing opportunities for the locals (as Vanuatu is a developing country). And of course, the accommodation is spectacular.There are only six cottages on site and the resort has a strict no children under 13 years policy. The French provincial style coral cottages are just metres from the beach. Pure peace and quiet awaits! Inside, the cottages have been freshly refurbished, so think light and airy with a tropical feel, bright beach themed furniture, sparkling fittings, crisp linen and fluffy towels. All the cottages boast a king size bed too.
To put the cherry on top, the food is said to be unreal and the resort’s restaurant is considered to be the best in Vanuatu. Their main signature dish is Lobster Mornay – the lobster is caught fresh from the reef that day and prepared by a local chef. If your mouth’s not watering yet, we also hear that they whip up some scrumptious soufflés for dessert.
Diane and Yianni say, “In so many ways, Tamanu on the Beach is the place to be romantic, be inspired, be authentic and to discover yourself with your new life partner.” Doesn’t that sound divine and oh-so relaxing?
PS – Tamanu also hosts weddings if you’re looking to say ‘I Do’ on an island. You can check out their wedding packages here.
Photos are courtesy of Tamanu on the Beach
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