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7 Unbelievable Asian Honeymoons Loved by Discerning Travellers
To the misinformed, Asia is a world of backpackers, poverty and archaic cultures. To the conversant, Asia is a vast continent designed by contrasts; where there is poor there will be riches, where there is primitive culture there is extravagance. What many travellers don’t realise is that some of the world’s most ornate and opulent venues can be found in beautiful parts of Asia. From the secreted private islands of Laos to the spectacular sea safaris of Indonesia, there’s plenty of Eastern promise for couples in search of romance.
Asia may not spring to mind for those planning a honeymoon break. But for those in the know, Asia is still the world’s best kept secret for sophisticated getaways. Here are 7 unbelievable Asian honeymoon destinations loved by discerning travellers.
1| MOUNT FUJI, JAPAN
The Japanese are not said to be the most romantic in the world. Perhaps this is compared to the French with their "la langue de l’amour" or the Italians with the claim to the word “romance” (meaning “about Rome”). But this lack of love is surely just a misconstrued myth. Because the town of Hakone in Kanagawa is one of the most romantic destinations on the planet. That of course though, depends entirely on what you’re looking for. If you want an unobstructed view of Mount Fuji, romantic strolls along blossom tree lined promenades, and access to the most serene natural hot springs – then you might find yourself agreeing with us.
Where to Stay
Whatever month you go, Gora Kadan in Hakone will envelop you in the season. Enjoy the romance of the cherry blossoms in springtime, the lushness of the summer greenery, the heart shaped maple leaves of autumn and the dreamlike serenity of winter – nowhere will calm the senses quite like this luxury ryokan. You will be challenged not to become infatuated with the unparalleled indulgence of this luxuriant hotel as you slip into a robe on arrival and spend the rest of your moments sipping Sake and savouring the environment and company of your loved one.
What to See / Do
The Hakone area is famous for its hundreds of ‘onsen’ baths and natural hot spring spas. For newlyweds looking to relax, it’s a must. As well as discovering Mount Fuji, many honeymooners like to explore Lake Ashinoko, the magical Hakone Shrine, the Owakundani crater, and the acclaimed Hakone Open-Air Art Museum.
Where to Eat / Drink
Many of the town’s main restaurants are centred around the hotels so you need not venture too far to taste the exotic flavours of Japan. The village of Sengokuhara is a popular place for food and you will never be too far away from delicious snack bars or small, independent cafes.
Honeymoon Ideas
For the full Japan experience, we would recommend our 13 day Ultimate Luxury Tour taking you from Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto to the island of Naoshima.
2| PHUKET, THAILAND
It’s very easy to think of student travellers and Full Moon parties when talking about Thailand. But Ko Pha-ngan’s east coast party destination is many miles away from the peaceful west coast. Phuket is one of Thailand’s major spa destinations and many people from around the world come here every year to recharge in luxurious surroundings. Phuket’s many 5 star resorts and spas are highly rated not only for their perfectly relaxing environments but also for the outstanding service; the kind of service we barely see in the western world.
Where to Stay
Lying on a sheltered headland on Phuket’s west coast is Aman’s flagship property, Amanpuri. Meaning 'place of peace' in Sanskrit, this beautiful hotel is cocooned in a tranquil air and makes for the perfect place to get away from it all, while overlooking the glittering Andaman Sea and basking in the sunshine.
What to See / Do
The beaches of Phuket are beautiful but as with many other parts of the country, some are quieter than others. For that precious just-married privacy, we would recommend Mai Khao Beach, Haad Sai Kaew Beach, Freedom Beach and Ao Yon. Whilst in Phuket, you can also enjoy snorkelling and diving, try your hand at sailing, or visit one of the many relaxing spas. The area also has a lively nightlife; though not as crazy as other parts of Thailand, it’s still thriving with tourists.
Where to Eat / Drink
Amazing food comes as standard in Thailand. Even the most primitive street food can deliver outstanding flavours and textures – and many say, the street food is much better than the restaurants. But if you’re after some fine dining, you will find many of the best establishments tucked away in the area’s best hotels and resorts. Try Sizzle Restaurant at Avista Hideaway for utter luxury or try Mom Tri’s Kitchen for a view of the open sea.
Honeymoon Ideas
If you’re interested in visiting Phuket or having spa treatments in Thailand, our luxury Two Kingdoms Tour could be the perfect honeymoon.
3| THE MALDIVES
Many people believe the Maldives to be a part of Africa due to its proximity but it’s actually the smallest Asian country (both by population and by land area) and sits south of Sri Lanka. Officially known as the Republic of the Maldives, this nation of pretty islands dot the Indian Ocean. And if you’re in search of your own little piece of paradise, beaches simply don’t get any better than this.
Where to Stay
Visit Cocoa Island for a romantic getaway in the Maldives. The island is run by a small and understated luxury resort (the COMO hotel group) and you can enjoy unbelievable views from private verandas. The resort also offer some fantastic spa treatments.
What to See / Do
The Maldives is the perfect place for diving, water sports and game fishing but for the most part of your trip, there is nothing more glorious than doing the sweet art of ‘nothing’ on the country’s secluded beaches.
Where to Eat / Drink
Maldivian cuisine is very heavily based on three main ingredients; coconuts, fish and rice. This is the basic melting pot of Maldivian island life and the best restaurants are often found by hotel resorts or on Male Island.
Honeymoon Ideas
For the ultimate honeymoon, we recommend visiting the Maldives after touring Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle.
4| RAJASTHAN, NORTH INDIA
Rajasthan is India’s largest state, and as with many of India’s regions, Rajasthan is a stark contrast between rich and poor. Although it’s considered to be one of the country’s wealthier states, there is still visible poverty in the shanty towns of its main cities. But far away from the darker side of the district, you will find a decadent world of boutique hotels and romantic adventures into the beautiful desert.
Where to Stay
While there are a vast array of romantic hotels in Rajasthan, Umaid Bhawan Palace comes out on top for us - thanks to its magnificent dome, commanding views and fabulous candle-lit dining experiences.
What to See / Do
A visit to Rajasthan is not complete with a journey into the desert; let the infinite planes and dunes of golden sand enrich your holiday and be sure to enjoy an enchanting desert picnic. You can also take a tour of the region’s colourful cities, quite literally; Jodhpur is known as the blue city, Jaisalmer is known as the brown city, Jaipur is the pink city, and Udaipur is the white city.
Where to Eat / Drink
The best cities for dining including Jaipur and Jodhpur. In these major cities, you will find a realm of untouched luxury and so many designer restaurants to choose from. For an elegant setting, book a table at Cinnamon at the stunning Jai Mahal Palace (Jaipur), or for magnificent views of the Mehrangarh Fort head to Darikhana at Raas Hotel (Jodhpur).
Honeymoon Ideas
Here at Ampersand, we can offer a luxurious 13 day tour of Rajasthan’s colourful cities. Taking you from Jodhpur, Rohet and Jaisalmer to Osian, our Rajasthani Nights honeymoon is the ultimate mix of relaxation and discovery.
5| VINH HY BAY, VIETNAM
Most people have seen or heard of Halong Bay; some of Vietnam’s most iconic images come from there. But head over to Vinh Hy and you can discover a place of untouched, unscathed, untainted luxury. This is the ultimate escape for honeymooners – and if you happen to be foodies, you can enjoy an exciting and exotic culinary exploration too.
Where to Stay
You will be hard pressed to find a more perfect beach resort than Amanoi along this stretch of dramatic coastline: this sleek resort really does make for a dreamy honeymoon escape, overlooking the bay below.
What to See / Do
Many say that the coastline in the Ninh Thuan Province is very much like that of Sardinia or the Adriatic Coast. So for beach bums, there is much sunbathing, swimming and lounging around to be enjoyed. You can also visit Nui Chua National Park or go diving at the coral reefs.
Where to Eat / Drink
It’s impossible to eat badly in Vietnam and wherever you go during your honeymoon, you will be sure to find the most amazing dishes. But if it’s choice you’re after, the best place to go is Saigon, otherwise known as Ho Chi Minh City. It’s very easy to eat cheap in the city or you can find upscale establishments such as Restaurant Bobby Chinn at Kumho Asiana Plaza, Shri Restaurant & Lounge at Center Tower, or Cirrus Saigon on Bitexco Tower’s 51st floor.
Honeymoon Ideas
To get the best out of your Vietnam honeymoon, we would recommend adding a number of key destinations to your itinerary – including Hanoi, Halong Bay, Vinh Hy Bay and the exciting city of Saigon. For help with building the perfect holiday, take a look at our Best of the Best Luxury Tour.
6| ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA
With so many sights to see and so much to tick off on the bucket list, it’s easy to assume that a holiday to Cambodia could be hectic or demanding. But many don’t know about the Cambodian’s mellow way of life. They are amongst the most relaxed, laid-back and gentle of their neighbouring nationalities and life here can be as quick or as slow as you wish. Throw in the Cambodian’s eye for perfection when it comes to resort and spa management, and you’re set for a one-of-a-kind honeymoon. This could be the trip of a lifetime.
Where to Stay
Phum Baitang is our top choice for honeymooners in Siem Reap. Not only does this elegant hideaway lie within rural paddy fields away from the bustle of the city but its suites are traditional yet spacious stilted villas: bliss.
What to See / Do
There is so much to see in Cambodia but Angkor Wat is of course one of the biggest tourist attractions. The stunning temples are nothing short of breath-taking and they will make your holiday truly special. If you’re interested in Cambodia’s sad and violent history, you will find a number of memorials dotted around the country, including the Choeung Ek Memorial. For nightlife, spend a few nights in Phnom Penh and order cocktails at Angelina Jolie’s favourite bar, the Piano Lounge.
Where to Eat / Drink
Eating like a local is a little trickier in Cambodia for the less adventurous. Cambodian cuisine has no qualms about serving the most unusual creatures or scary looking bugs. So if the street food doesn’t appeal, stick to main tourist areas in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Some of our personal recommendations include the famous FCC Hotel & Bar (Phnom Penh), Bayon Restaurant (Siem Reap) and Le Malraux (Siem Reap).
Honeymoon Ideas
Travelling through Cambodia can be stressful if you’re unfamiliar with the country and its customs. To have the complete relaxation experience, let Ampersand fully manage your trip and make your honeymoon as stress-free, enjoyable and convenient as possible. Take a look at our Laidback Luxury Travel Package which includes time in both Laos and Cambodia.
7| BALI, INDONESIA
Bali is an exotic mix of vernacular architecture, striking natural landscapes and sophisticated hotel resorts. The eclectic contrast creates a memorable and unique honeymoon destination; enjoy spectacular views from the countless infinity pools of the island’s resorts or take long walks across the beaches at sunset.
Where to Stay
Set in nine acres of stunning Jurassic-like tropical grounds, COMO Shambhala Estate is set in a prime position, and its interiors and spa are just to die for.
What to See / Do
Experience classic Bali by taking a tour of the stunning Mother Temple of Besaki. Explore the jungle-surrounded temples and catch sight of the ancient architecture at sunrise or twilight to see it at its most beautiful. You can also soak up some natural greenery at Ubud, a picturesque village occupied by rice paddies and rolling green hills. And of course, don’t forget the amazing beaches where the sands are powdery soft and the waters are bright turquoise blue.
Bali is also known for its lively party atmosphere so if you’re looking for bars and beach parties, you won’t need to look far. The Nikki Beach Aussie Invasion takes place in January and many of Bali’s clubs and bars regularly play host to top musical artists and DJs from around the world.
Where to Eat / Drink
Bali has a dynamic nightlife scene so you will always be able to find great places to wine and dine. As well as the highly rated resort restaurants, there are hundreds of other restaurants on the island, many of them in South Kuta or the North Kuta coastal strip. You will also find a cluster of restaurants more centrally located, close to Ubud. Unlike other parts of Asia, you will never be short of contemporary restaurants here in Bali.
Honeymoon Ideas
Explore Seminyak and Jimbaran, two stunning parts of the island famed for their sandy beaches. Bringing together the island’s most bohemian district in Seminyak and the upscale luxury of Jimbaran, a honeymoon package with Ampersand could give you a perfectly balanced experience of this wonderful island.
To discover more amazing honeymoon destinations in Asia, take a look at our specialist Honeymoon Tours. Or contact our team on +44 (0)20 7819 9770 to discuss your dream holiday.
