For those looking for a romantic break, there are destinations and locations that offer a more intimate getaway.
For Paddy Brearley, MD of Legacy Hotels, Africa has always held a romantic allure for couples. With the perfect mix of wilderness, mystery and adventure, it is the ideal destination for those seeking the thrill of a safari or the beauty of an African sunset. He believes that the value of visiting Africa lies in the fact that there is so much to choose from – whether it’s the couple looking for a chance to relax and reconnect, or those who want to experience an adventure.
Namibia has plenty to offer for those seeking both romance and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, he continues. It holds a plethora of fantastic activities to excite even the most adventurous soul – from riding down dunes on quad bikes and archery, to dining under a canopy of stars in the desert.
Honeymoon havens for every couple
One of the top honeymoon trends of 2018 is going back to nature; taking adventures in less commercial locations, and experiencing new cultures and activities.
Southern Africa as a whole is an ideal honeymoon destination, especially if a traveller doesn’t want to spend an entire trip in one place, explains James Robb, aha Hotels & Lodges International’s Sales Manager. Perfect for multi-destination vacations, it is very easy to incorporate a range of different locations and activities into a spectacular holiday. Honeymooners can enjoy time at the beach, take in cultural sites and visit historic attractions within the major cities, and also indulge in a little rest and relaxation at some of the luxury hotels and spas across the region.
Robb mentions a trip to Victoria Falls as the perfect example of just how versatile southern Africa really is. Experience one of the Seven Wonders of the World, stay in upmarket accommodation, go bungee jumping or micro-lighting, enjoy a helicopter flip, white-river rafting or a leisurely cruise up the Zambezi and visit one of the region’s game parks just a short distance away. “Essentially all itineraries to southern Africa are multi-destination itineraries,” he adds.
Mpumalanga in South Africa is an excellent destination for couples seeking adventurous holidays, where hiking trails, horse rides and scenic views of the third-largest and greenest canyon in the world, Blyde River Canyon, are on the menu, according to Mari Schoeman, Marketing Co-ordinator at Forever Resorts, Lodges Hotels and Retreats. And from here, it’s easy to visit the small museum town of Pilgrim’s Rest and marvel at natural wonders like Bourke's Luck Potholes and God's Window.
“Africa knows how to surprise,” concludes Brearley. “Love is always in the air in Africa, giving couples the chance to make their personal love story that extra bit more special.”