25 top Honeymoon Destinations for 2018 by Awesome Places for Travel

hneymo
hneymo
Avatar of Juergen T Steinmetz
If you thought we’d restrict our honeymoon destinations only to fancy beaches and hackneyed experiences think again. Yes, there are lots of beaches and islands but there are plenty of other experiences such as taking a spa treatment together or dining at a kosher eatery or enjoying in an uncrowded water park.

Your honeymoon is all about savoring a unique and personalized ‘togetherness’ experience that spells YOU- in an exotic land. Spend hours together undisturbed, while sampling locals flavors and experiences in a languid pace. Here are our carefully picked top 25 honeymoon destinations for 2018.

If you are a Survivor series fan like us, Fiji is no stranger. Couple can enjoy endless intimacy and privacy in one of the island’s much hailed overwater bungalows (romance smack in the middle of the ocean) or head to the recently opened and utterly swish Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay. Malolo has several upscale romantic retreats include one from the Six Senses stable to be launched this year (you’ve got to live in one of their pool villas to believe the luxury).

You can’t blame the movers and shakers of Hollywood for swearing by this insanely romantic Mexican destination. The seductively gorgeous island is brimming with new resorts and hotels. Check out the newly unveiled Grand Solmar at Rancho San Lucas Resort Golf & Spa, where guests are offered a special honeymoon package.

You may also want to head to Omnia Dayclub (to be launched this year) for its boisterous pool party that transforms into a cabaret club post sundown. Don’t leave without enjoying a love-dovey meal at Carbon Carbon, an upscale dining venue opened in 2017.

Mykonos is not just exceptionally pretty, it has also emerged as one of the year’s most sought after craft beer places with the launch of Mykonos Brewing Company in 2017. Yes, the rich and famous let their hair down here (mover over Tropez) and couples can pick from over 100 hotels, dining venues and buzzing taverns. Sant Anna, a newly launched beach club, features the continent’s largest pool. You’d want to check the moony-eyed romantic and private beach at Santa Marina Luxury Resort.

a9a14a54 dce1 40d6 978c b916c281b600 | eTurboNews | eTN
fdad97cc 39ff 48e5 a62a 7692e0ddf217 | eTurboNews | eTN
Los Cabos Mexico & Mykonos Greece
4ef29152 41e4 4ed9 9896 2bbe6a921b29 | eTurboNews | eTN
c23c76c5 81ba 4ec3 af9f 3d5ccdd5b615 | eTurboNews | eTN
Bermuda & Indonesia
Successor to the Hamptons, Bermuda is the unexpected entrant in this list. The Loren at Pink Beach is located right above the hypnotically beautiful Atlantic Ocean and happens to be the first new hotel to be constructed here (2017) since the past 45 years. There are plans in the offing to launch the Ritz-Carlton Reserve this year. Foodie couples will be delighted to know that Bermuda will welcome a bunch of new eateries in 2018, including a Michelin star restaurant by renowned chef, Lucy Collins. There’s also Mediterra for fans of small plates. What is it they say about a happy stomach paving the way for a happy heart?

While Bali’s eastern belt is looming under the threat of a volcanic eruption, the other parts of Indonesia seem to be thriving. From the Four Seasons Resort Bali (Jimbran Bay) which is dripping with revamped luxury after a long break. It has beachfront villas, a beach facing spa , and a range of adrenaline soaring activities (for the adventure bug bitten couples) such as water biking and helicopter surfing. 2018 will also witness the launch of Six Senses Uluwantu, complete with romantic villas perched on cliffs.

dd3c00d5 e73f 4754 b3db 3b4831120516 | eTurboNews | eTN
48d6448c d4c8 4d03 b7df 0685c9b31128 | eTurboNews | eTN
Belize & Costa Rica
a2132093 6e3e 4063 a5fa 256fb6b92ca2 | eTurboNews | eTN
e2cc44bd 8dd4 46e3 aa2b 82fccd4e8abe | eTurboNews | eTN
St. Vincent & Grenadines & Ibiza Spain
Belize will charm love struck honeymooners with its lush emerald, vibrant reefs and untouristy beaches. The Naia Resort and Spa (housed in a secluded 200-acre nature reserve within the Placencia Peninsula) is the perfect place to indulge in some much needed PDA away from the crowds. Don’t miss the private island resort’s luxuriously appointed spa suite or enjoying a series of thrilling adventures including hiking, zip lining, canoeing and tube riding.
Costa Rica is an emerging destination for honeymooers concerned with sustainable and eco-friendly travel. Its rainforests and beaches are a hub for a range of rugged, natural adventures including zip lining, paddle boarding and jet skiing. The Peninsula Papagayo i(1,400 acres property) is presently undergoing a massive $100 million revamp to feature among several other attractions, eight miles of lush nature walking trails and a fascinating macaw sanctuary.
Hurray, now that the 32 chcichi islands at St. Vincent & the Grenadines are more accessible with the launch of Argyle International Airport, honeymooners are expected to flock to this sultry island destination. Be prepared to fall in love all over again at the Pink Sands Club in Canouan, a fairly recent entrant to St. Vincent’s enviable resort profile. Oh, and did we mention swish new luxury villas (complete with large patios) are being built at the property? You can’t have a more romantic meal than the one you’ll enjoy at the resort’s romance special Romeo and Juliet restaurant.
This is the hub of the straight from the farm to your table revolution, which has led to an exploration of fine new restaurants. Ibiza is awash with eateries and an uber trendy party vibe. El Portalon, in the heart of the town, offers a sustainably sourced menu. Similarly, Aiyanna is known for its seasonal, fresh and nutrition-rich menu served in an idyllic Mediterranean Sea backdrop. From Rnrique’s Iglesias’ Tatel to Robert De Niro’s recent joint venture, Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay, the place is brimming with celebrity driven properties and restaurants.
61c25160 a3b8 4eb8 b593 725cb0170c2e | eTurboNews | eTN
17100548 23f5 4914 96b3 21cf61ae5be6 | eTurboNews | eTN
Cambodia & Paris France
59981f46 e3b2 484c 9cdd 776e882501c6 | eTurboNews | eTN
acdf670f b241 48d1 9f26 9fe23ca1155e | eTurboNews | eTN
London England & Jamaica
While most archeologically fascinated couples make a beeline for Angkor Wat, there’s another reason to visit Cambodia now. The Sambor Prei Kok (a 16th century jungle temple complex) has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. When you are done with the culture fix, head to Six Senses Koh Krabey (launching in 2018) for its magnificent pool villas.

You can’t talk about romance and leave out Paris. The uber trendy and artsy French capital is undergoing a series of changes (all for good we say). Head to Hotel de Crillon (a property that has undergone a recent revamp) to experience living in one of its 124 antique and artifacts adorned suites. Disneyland Paris (you are never too old for Disney, are you?) has launched a new themed resort, Villages Nature Paris. And the big daddy of all revamps and makeovers – the Eiffel Tower will undergo refurbishment in the range of $318 million in stages for the 2014 Olympic Games.

London was as the planet’s most attractive city (no surprise there) for the sixth consecutive time by Global Power City Index in 2017. Witness its postcard perfect monuments, palaces, landmarks and parks to believe its irresistible charm. Head to Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square for its 20’s style roman public bath influenced inspired luxury spa or the English Capital’s desirable new restaurant – Nobu, housed within the Nobu Hotel Shoreditch.

Jamaica is exploding with visitors thanks to its hip revelry vibe and a series of new hotels/resorts. Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa features the island nation’s sole rooftop bar and swimming pool. This was followed by another couple of all-inclusive resorts, including Royalton Negril (check out their adults only Hideaway area) and the clothing optional, suites only Grand Lido Negril. Similarly, the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa launched in September, featuring a private inlet and butler service) for each room. Honeymooners can experience the Chukka Caribbean Adventures’ latest action-packed attraction – Jungle Adventure Falls at Good Hope Estate. Tuck into a jerk falafel at the recently launched Kosher Hot Spot in Chabad of Jamaica.

6aea1bdf 08ea 49c2 9fc7 88fc2b33b272 | eTurboNews | eTN
b6dd38ee 3336 4040 b819 3209ff8b27fb | eTurboNews | eTN
Fort Lauderdale Florida &  Santa Barbara California
1c496002 f065 4d88 b12a 2bc25026a934 | eTurboNews | eTN
0a6733f5 f732 414b 8ed1 485a45fcb7d4 | eTurboNews | eTN
Thailand & Riviera Maya Mexico
With a fast growing list of connected destinations and increasing number of flights (a staggering $450 million airport expansion will conclude in 2018), it’s little wonder that Fort Lauderdale is packed with honeymooners from all around the world. Ease of access aside, it is the quintessential romantic beach destination with a relaxed and intimate vibe. Experience the Plunge Beach Hotel (opened in 2017), featuring an ocean pool and a barefoot on the sand ocean bar. Spend a day experiencing the rich ecology of the region in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (don’t forget to sample Park & Ocean’s simple yet delicious tacos and craft beer meal). Relax at the luxurious spa housed within Auberge Beach Residences & Spa Fort Lauderdale. Santa Barbara made its way into the wine map thanks to Sideways. Check into the luxuriously appointed boutique hotel – The Sideways Inn. Juxtaposed between the blue Pacific and the ruggedly beautiful Santa Ynez Mountains, Hotel Californian is another stunning debutant on the hotel scene. Rosewood Miramar is also slated to unveil a 16 acre oceanfront property. You may want to dine at Somerset, which boasts of straight from the farm onto the table local delicacies with plenty of Mediterranean influences. Adventure buffs can enjoy the wine country’s guided snorkeling and kayaking tours.

Bangkok bagged the first position in the Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index 2017. Predictably, the Land of Smiles is exploding to swish new hotels and resorts to cater to an ever growing community of international visitors. Head to Ananda Hua Hin Resort & Spa at Hua Hin (around 3 hours drive from Bangkok) to get away from the city crowds. Their signature honeymoon package (includes a decadent honeymoon cake, relaxing bubble bath and romantic meal) is much sought after by love struck couples. Enjoy the traditional ‘Thai for Two’ couple Thai massage treatment at the recently unveiled Ritz Carlton, Koh Samui. A set of 20 hip and luxurious pool villas have been added to The Library Koh Samui.

Musedo Frida Kahlo Riviera Maya and Mayan Park are two brand new entrants in this giddily beautiful Mexican Caribbean coast. Dripping with remnants of the fascinating Mayan culture, the town has honeymooners swooning over its lush mangroves and green jungles. Head to the newly opened KanXuk Blue Maya Resort (built inside jungles and verdant mangroves) or Hotel Esencia, which is now revamped to include 11 new swanky suites, a new restaurant, an avant-garde restaurant, a well-stocked library and a relaxing hammock garden.

7fa95298 808e 4a3e b2b5 e084db1615e2 | eTurboNews | eTN
073b0cfc fd9b 476c b3a2 d2b2257b88fa | eTurboNews | eTN
Vietnam & St Lucia
16eb9822 046d 4c0e bfca f39b9cecbc25 | eTurboNews | eTN
7ae66ba5 c50f 4992 a3b3 4e1e01a7d96f | eTurboNews | eTN
Island of Hawaiii & Nassau Paradise Island Bahamas
Vietnam hosted a staggering 13 million global tourists in 2017. Little wonder then that it is slated to be the season’s hottest honeymoon destination. Go to Phu Quoc (the nation’s biggest island). The island houses JW Marriott Phu Ouoc, Emerald Resort & Spa that made a huge splash after it was unveiled in 2017. If you prefer a more laidback colonial charm, stay in the coastal Nha Trang town at The Anam, a pretty colonial theme ultra luxury ocean resort.

Owing to the innumerable resort construction projects being undertaken here, St Lucia’s hotel room profile is slated to grow by 2000 rooms over the next few years. Head to this utterly charming Caribbean hotspot before you jostle for place with other tourists. The new all-inclusive Royalton Saint Lucia Resort & Spa boasts of an adults-only zone (what more do you want?) comprising a well-appointed infinity pool and a pleasant beach area. The adults only, all-inclusive Serenity at Coconut Bay is another new stunner on the scene. Enjoy an indulgent treatment at Stonefield Villa Resort’s swish new spa. If a romantic date night is what’s on your mind, there’s no better place than the Marigot Bay Resort and Marina’s By Capella’s restaurant – Hurricane Hole Bar & Restaurant.

The largest and most recent of the entire Hawaiian Island network, couples can now enjoy a waterfall swim and volcanoes tour (fly over Kilauea) conducted by Paradise Helicopters. Look out for the recently revamped Westin Hapuna Beach Resort (their ultra comfy Westin Heavenly Bed) is to die for. Keep it cozy and intimate with Hale Ohu Bed and Breakfast, nestled at 400 feet and 10 minutes from the spectacular Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Enjoy morning dolphin encounters at the secluded and gorgeous Dolphin Cay or tuck into a romantic meal at Sip Sip and Fish. In addition to two recently unveiled hotels (SLS Baha Mar and Grand Hyatt Baha Mar), there is Rosewood Baha Mar bar opening in 2018.
e0f6fdb6 ee23 4bdb 9e4d 1d0c0fa9541c | eTurboNews | eTN
cd891a3f 71a3 4c2b a33b 668ac70a7b89 | eTurboNews | eTN
Orlando Florida & Iceland
a486e8fc afd3 4748 be50 17a66aef4f52 | eTurboNews | eTN
da0c19e0 1340 42f4 be05 f3c98a313dc7 | eTurboNews | eTN
New Orleans Lousiana & Rome Italy
The United States’ most visited destination retains its aura, and adds even more jazz. The Pandora World of Avatar was unveiled last year. Try the insanely thrilling Avatar Flight of Passage 3D ride with your better half. The no queue water park Volcano Bay around 20 attractions. Look out for the newly launching 300-acre Margaritaville Resort, which features among other amenities, a lagoon with sandy beaches.
Slick tourism marketing and Game of Thrones has put Iceland right on top of everyone’s travel wish list. It hosts around 2 million visitors, with the local population touching a mere 334,000 residents. Turn on the heat at the popular Blue Lagoon, which features a chic underground spa, a 62 suite luxury hotel and a signature restaurant. The Silica hotel at Blue Lagoon will also turn into an adults-only property come 2018.

New Orleans celebrates its tercentennial in 2018, which means there will a line-up of exclusive events and state of the art infrastructural projects. Think a 6 million refurbishment of Bourbon Street. Enjoy romantic dining at Briquette, a contemporary seafood restaurant or celebrate your togetherness at NOPSI Hotel’s rooftop bar. Sail on the Norwegian Breakaway from NOLA Port.

Another addition to the increased flights and frenzied resort construction list, Rome is undergoing an overhaul of sorts. The Colosseum’s recently unveiled upper levels have been opened to the public in 2017. Lots of newly launched direct flights from LA and Newark make this a much accessible honeymoon destination.
SOURCE: Awesome Places for Travel

WHAT TO TAKE AWAY FROM THIS ARTICLE:

  • Yes, there are lots of beaches and islands but there are plenty of other experiences such as taking a spa treatment together or dining at a kosher eatery or enjoying in an uncrowded water park.
  • Couple can enjoy endless intimacy and privacy in one of the island's much hailed overwater bungalows (romance smack in the middle of the ocean) or head to the recently opened and utterly swish Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay.
  • The Loren at Pink Beach is located right above the hypnotically beautiful Atlantic Ocean and happens to be the first new hotel to be constructed here (2017) since the past 45 years.

About the author

Avatar of Juergen T Steinmetz

Juergen T Steinmetz

Juergen Thomas Steinmetz has continuously worked in the travel and tourism industry since he was a teenager in Germany (1977).
He founded eTurboNews in 1999 as the first online newsletter for the global travel tourism industry.

Share to...