The Wedding Diaries: Brainstorming for a Honeymoon

As I am sure some of you know, last year Jack and I finally got engaged. Yes, I am excited for planning the wedding, yes I am excited for tasting all the yummy food, but boy, am I truly excited for planning the best Honeymoon there ever has been or ever will be. I see it as our one big opportunity to go on the trip of a lifetime, to put all others to shame. As we are sat down in Coronavirus lockdown at the moment, I have taken it as my opportunity for brainstorming for a honeymoon, and listing the places that I want to go above all else.

The issue I have is that I have to limit my choice to a few countries which or geographically near, or just an exploration of one big country. I decided to whittle it down to my top few and, like always, I would really appreciate any feedback or tips which you have on these finalists.

Brainstorming for a Honeymoon

Sri Lanka & The Maldives

Before we booked our trip to Thailand, we actually had an itinerary for a trip to Sri Lanka with a stop-off at the Maldives on the way back. However, as I am sure you can guess, the latter is particularly expensive if you want to do it ‘properly’ with a wooden hut on the seafront. Therefore, as we were in the middle of purchasing a house at the time, we opted for a cheaper option and headed to Thailand instead (which was still incredible!)

Sri Lanka has always appealed to me. I love the idea of visiting the richly decorated temples in Colombo, hiking up to Sigiriya or going on a secret safari to see elusive leopards or crashing elephants. It almost seems as if there is something for everyone in Sri Lanka.

As well as this, the Maldives have become possibly the travel destination for honeymooners, and there must be a good reason behind that surely? That being said, I have never been one for clichés or anything of the sort, which to be honest does put me off the Maldives ever so slightly for a honeymoon destination. Although, for a mini-moon? Almost certainly!

Malaysia & Borneo

Borneo is on both of our bucket lists. It looks sensational and gives off a completely unique vibe. As we are both nature lovers, we could visit orangutan and turtle sanctuaries as well as taking a diving trip into the Indian Ocean.

As well as Borneo, I have always wanted to explore Malyasia. One place that has always intrigued me is the Cameron Highlands, an area filled with tea plantations and offering breath-taking scenery. That being said, I have heard from some people that the Highlands can get very busy and that the serene pictures hide the mass of tourists behind the camera. Naturally, Kuala Lumpur is also high on my list of places to visit in Malaysia, and I’d particular like to take a trip out to visit the Batu Caves.

The biggest downside to this trip is the cost. Because there is just so much to explore, you would need a minimum of three weeks, which when you are on your honeymoon could add up to a very expensive trip indeed.

South Africa

High on the list for many people, South Africa is also up there at the top in terms of a dream honeymoon destination for me. The thought of trekking along Boulders Beach being surrounded by the penguins, or taking a hot air balloon over the savannah, surely has to be a dream for any travel lover.

As well as this, I would absolutely love to drive along the Garden Route and see the famous vineyards of the cape and, of course, sample the wine. If I was feeling a bit cheeky, I would also maybe tie in a little stopover in the Seychelles to compliment this trip. I mean, after a week or so of heavy exploring it’s the least I could do!

Costa Rica

Costa Rica was visited by a good friend of mine a few years ago and I didn’t think much of it. Then, after doing quite a lot of research, I realised that this could be an almost perfect getaway. It would allow me to fully immerse myself in nature and to be transported to a completely tropical getaway.

In my opinion, it offers some of the same benefits of somewhere like the Maldives such as sun, sea and relaxation, but allows you to venture out further and explore more of the country’s rich culture.

Also, the Caribbean islands are just on the doorstep, meaning that you are just a stone throw away from another little stopover should you want it.

Peru

At first glance, Peru may seem like a strange honeymoon destination, but hear me out. Firstly, the Capital Lima has glowing reviews from many travellers, all of whom have been impressed at the rich history of the city as well as its culture.

Perhaps the main magnet for Peru is Machu Picchu; an ancient city within the clouds. Whether or not I am brave enough to trek the Inca Trail remains to be seen, although just getting the chance to visit such a wonder is a once in a lifetime event.

As well as this, I think that South America will completely push us out of our comfort zone; neither of us have any idea what to expect!

Australia

Last but not least, Australia simply has to be on the honeymoon list. I see it as a completely different world and literally is as far away as you can physically get from home Yes, there may be a lot of spiders and other animals which are there simply to kill you, but I think that three weeks exploring Australia, with a mix of relaxation and exploration, could be just the ticket.

The main issue will be timings because, as we are travelling so far around the world, I feel that you need at least a solid three weeks, otherwise what is the point?

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

Flights

My usual go-to for booking flights is Skyscanner, the flight search engine. What I love about Skycanner is that you have various options depending on your situation. If you know where you want to go it’s easy – all you need is to search for your destination and dates, and you are provided with all flight options to choose from. If you haven’t decided on your next trip yet, you can use the Everywhere tool for inspiration and to find the cheapest places to fly to.

Accommodation

Whenever I plan my travels Booking.com is my best friend. The website is super easy to use and provides a whole range of accommodation from fancy resorts to budget hotels. Jack and I also regularly use Airbnb – in particular, for staycations in the UK.

Things I can’t travel without

As a travel blogger and keen photographer I never travel without my trusty technology. Always packed are my

Canon EOS M3
GoPro Hero5 Black
I’m also saving for a DJI Mavic Pro

Travel Insurance

It is so important to be prepared for all possibilities when travelling and you simply shouldn’t travel without insurance. When looking for cover I would personally recommend World Nomads or the Post Office – both are affordable and certainly won’t break the bank.