Image by Autumn Studio via Unsplash
As the weather turns and the days get colder in the northern hemisphere, it is time to head south where the weather is getting warmer.
1. Bali, Indonesia
There’s never a bad time to visit Bali. The Australian favourite holiday destination is the backdrop to many family holidays, hens or bucks trips and destination weddings. Why not add honeymoon to the list too?
Where to Stay
Belmond Jimbaran Puri is nestled in a sweeping crescent of pale golden sand called . Here the nightlife is quieter with few local bars and traditional fish restaurants where you dine by lantern light. The service at the luxury hotel is friendly and welcoming; the design a nod to local traditions. Teak loungers at the infinity-edge pool area beckons enticingly and a pool side bar service means you don’t have to move far for a cocktail. The Deluxe Pool Villas are private spaces with a sunken private pool in a walled garden courtyard and oversize day beds are perfect for romantic interludes.
Image via Belmond Jimbaran Puri
What to Do
Admire the magnificent sunset at Tanah Lot, one of Bali’s most important landmarks. An ancient Hindi shrine perched on top of an outcrop amidst constantly crashing waves. Be prepared to be blown away by the lush green acres of Tegallalang Rice Terraces. Located in Ubud, the rice terraces offer scenic outlook that spreads down before you and away to the rice paddies on the slopes across the valley. There are numerous art kiosks and cafes near the ledge for the keen shoppers.
Image via Bali Indo Tour
2. Terengganu, Malaysia
While most people know Kuala Lumpur as the capital of Malaysia with its skyscrapers, Terengganu on the east coast of Malaysia is a tranquil coastal town offering pristine beaches, glittering mosques, breathtaking sunsets and moreish street food. It’s only an hour’s flight away from Kuala Lumpur.
Where to Stay
Peace and solitude nicely sums up Tanjong Jara Resort, located on the unspoilt East Coast of the Malay Peninsula. Fronted by sparkling emerald waters and shaded by soaring palms, this beautiful resort encapsulated everything you anticipate a beautiful Malay resort to be. Bumbung and Serambi Rooms on the ground or first floor are beautifully appointed with cool linens and warm local wood.
Image via Tanjong Jara Resort
What to Do
Marvel at the Crystal Mosque, a stunning architecture made of steel and glass, which gives the mosque its crystal-like appearance. The unique structure adopts a contemporary style injected with Moorish and Gothic elements. The large crystal chandelier, which forms the main prayer hall’s centerpiece is a sight to behold. Try your skill at mussel picking and squid fishing at Mangkuk Village, where the water is warm and shallow.
Image via Flickr
3. Mozambique
June to October is dry season in Mozambique, with often perfect tropical weather and almost no rain. The enigmatic African country is well off most travellers’ maps, but it has so much to offer for those who venture there.
Where to Stay
Azura Benguerra is Mozambique’s first boutique eco retreat and established Mozambique as a serious contender in the market of luxury vacations. Nestled on the idyllic shorefront of little known Benguerra Island, Azura’s 18 stunning villas are reached via an exhilarating 15 minute scenic helicopter flight from Vilanculos. Each villa is a private sanctuary designed with utmost seclusion in mind. The stunning Infinity Beach Villas come with 5 metre swimming pools for ultimate privacy.
Image via Azura Benguerra
What to Do
Step back in time at the tiny Ilha de Mocambique (Mozambique Island), near Nampula in the north. The former Portuguese colony is a fascinating place, dotted with 17th and 18th century buildings and mosque, many of them from the colonial period. If you’re staying at Azura Benguerra, explore the rich marine life including the elusive dugong in the region.
Image via Azura Benguerra
4. Northern Territory, Australia
October is nice time to visit the Red Centre. Although the rainy season starts to build up around this time, it is still generally a pleasant time to visit with few visitors.
Where to Stay
Surrounded by the rugged wilderness, Longitude 131º is the only place in the world where you can admire the inimitable postcard vista of Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) without lifting your head from the pillow. The luxury cabins are draped in flowing white fabric. Each tent is furnished with bespoke furnitures: Organic-linen-draped Bailie bed facing panoramic views of Uluru, floor-to-ceiling windows and each tent showcases indigenous artwork.
Image via Longitude 131º
What to Do
A trip to Northern Territory is not complete without a visit to Uluru, Australia’s most recognisable natural icon and culturally significant for the indigenous Anangu people. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park expands across more than 327,414 acres of Australia’s desert outback and is home to two iconic rock formations, Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Don’t miss the spectacular sunset and sunrise, with the colours at both sites becoming more vibrant and even changing.
Image via Longitude 131º
5. Hong Kong
October to December is the best time to visit Hong Kong for a honeymoon. The autumn season offers comfortable temperatures and reasonable room rates. Also, it is not a peak season. So, you can enjoy your honeymoon without a large crowd surrounding you.
Where to Stay
Boutique hotel, Tuve sits discreetly behind Causeway Bay in Hong Kong, wrapped in galvanised steel and white marble. Each room looks like an edgy warehouse space shrunk to cosy proportions. The Premier rooms are a generous 30 square metres. Set on the higher floors, they’re less likely to be troubled by the crowd and traffic noise below.
Image via Tuve
What to Do
In between taking in the glorious Hong Kong skyline and shopping up a storm, the magnificent Man Mo Temple is worth the hike. One of Hong Kong’s oldest temples and a declared monument, Man Mo Temple is dedicated to the gods of literature and gods of war. The temple is constantly enveloped in atmospheric smoky air Lending the temple its beguiling air are rows of large earth-coloured spirals suspended from the roof, like strange fungi in an upside-down garden. These are incense coils burned as offerings by worshippers.
Image via StrippedPixel
Ms Zigzag says: You won’t be stuck for ideas on where to honeymoon in October. Samantha has given us the low-down on a great range of options. A paradise to suit every couple!
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