I just love the unveiling of a new series – and what better to be focusing on than stunning locations and secret getaways for your honeymoon! Sure, we’re moving out of the summer months in Australia, but there is a huge world out there with so much to offer, so we thought we’d get the expert’s opinions on the very best of honeymoon destinations!
Each week we will bring you tips and advice from travel experts who will share their picks for the hottest destinations around the globe. Itchy feet yet anyone?
We kick off this adventure with Tamara Lohan, the co-founder and CTO of the fabulous boutique hotel expert site Mr & Mr Smith. This is one travel-savvy lady!
What is your favourite region?
I grew up spending half my time in Ibiza so I have a soft spot for this gorgeous island; I come back every year for a holiday with my family. The clubs and nightlife of Ibiza are what make it famous, but I love it for its laid-back vibe, amazing crystal-clear waters, quiet beaches, pine forests and great seafood.
Top Resort Recommendation?
Alila Villas Soori on the south-west coast of Bali. This stunning all-villa resort is set between rice paddies and shimmery black-sand beaches, and every villa has a private pool and courtyard overlooking the Indian Ocean.
With its slick spa, a range of decadent dining options and service from personal hosts, you’re in pamper paradise.
Any suggestions for great honeymoon activities?
I know some people want to do nothing on holiday and go for the classic Carribbean or Indian Ocean turquoise water/white sand beaches but I can’t sit still for that long and need a bit of activity. The ideal honeymoon for me has a combination of action and relaxation. Anything indulgent you can do as a couple – spa treatments, massages teamed with some outdoor adventures is great. My husband James and I went on safari in South Africa. We stayed at Royal Malewane a beautiful boutique safari lodge in Kruger National Park.
The ideal location for a proposal?
In my view it’s best if the location means something to you as a couple. Layer into that a location that is memorable and the proposal has the perfect backdrop. I’m a sucker for amazing views so anywhere on Kangaroo Island or in Big Sur on the west coast of the USA where the cliffs and ocean views are so dramatic
Best kept secret honeymoon location?
Luang Prabang, Laos.
This sleepy town in northern Laos lies between mist-shrouded mountains on the palm-lined banks of the Mekong. The entire old town is Unesco protected and you’ll find serene temples, grand colonial villas and traditional wooden houses not to mention some of the most romantic boutique hotels in South East Asia. The pleasures to be enjoyed here are simple and lingering: Lao coffee sipped in a street café; the hypnotic drum beat of the monks’ call to prayer; or a walk beneath fragrant boughs of frangipanis.
Well, I’m not sure about you, but I have a serious desire to jump on a plane right about now! The scenery and style of the locations Tamara has given us a glimpse of are just breathtaking. Our huge thanks to Tamara for inspiring the travel bug in all of us, and if you want more details or great destination tips, head to the Mr & Mrs Smith website.
All images courtesy of Mr & Mrs Smith
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