Few journeys come with greater expectations than a honeymoon. It marks the official start of your married life and so seems to carry with it signs of what your future will hold. Every couple is unique and honeymoons should be tailor-made to reflect the particular interests and identity of newlyweds. Indagare has perfected the art of the bespoke journey: we find out what’s most important to you and tailor our suggestions, taking into consideration the time of year, the best routing and, above all, the romance factor. Let Indagare’s travel specialists take the stress out of the planning by pinpointing the best honeymoon destinations for you, whether you select a classic location or take advantage of a longer travel window by fulfilling a far-flung dream.
Here we break down 10 of Indagare’s most iconic honeymoon destinations, and who they’re right for. Our team of experts can arrange many other itineraries, so if you don’t see your dream destination, contact our Bookings Team for more ideas and help planning your perfect getaway.
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Related: Indagare Favorites: Romantic Escapes
The Glamorous: Amalfi Coast and Capri, Italy
Why?
The Amalfi Coast and the jewel-like isle of Capri are magical places where land, sea and sky strike a note of otherworldly perfection. Imagine days in this iconic destination beginning with breakfast on your terrace overlooking the sea, then island-hopping by private boat, lunching at chic beach clubs, people-watching in romantic piazzettas and savoring gelato at moonlight.
Who?
Couples looking for a beguiling seaside setting with charming towns, fantastic restaurants, cultural offerings and excellent food and wine, all of which make for a glamorous trip.
When?
Late spring and the fall are the best options, but June and late August are also doable. Avoid July because of crowds and November through April, when most businesses are shuttered.
Related: La Dolce Vita: Amalfi and Capri
The Wild One: South Africa
Why?
South Africa tops many honeymoon lists, in part because of the level of luxury lodges and the incredible variety one trip can include — from vibrant Cape Town and the romantic Winelands to mesmerizing wilderness safaris and Indian Ocean hideaways.
Who?
Couples looking for a fabulous introduction to southern Africa, combining culture and sightseeing in Cape Town, culinary exploration in the Winelands and seeing the Big Five at some of the region’s most sumptuous game lodges.
When?
The best time to visit South Africa is between November and April. December and January are peak season, so many travelers prefer to visit in the less-crowded months of February and March.
Related: All Eyes on Cape Town
The Indulger: Thailand
Phulay Bay, Ritz-Carlton reserve
Why?
Thailand has all the ingredients for a great honeymoon: stunning island resorts, romantic jungle hideaways, incredible food and some of the best service in the world.
Who?
Couples looking for an exotic, far-flung destination with lots of different experiences, including a vibrant city (Bangkok), adventures in the jungle (Chiang Rai) and a glorious beachside ending on one of Thailand’s acclaimed islands.
When?
Between November and April, when temperatures are bearable, and there is little rain. Year-round, temperatures range between 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Note that the yearly crop burn begins in late February, so air pollution becomes an issue.
Related: Just Back From…Thailand
The Style Maven: South of France
Courtesy Hotel du Cap Eden Roc
Iconic, sun-kissed and picturesque beyond words, the South of France has many dynamic faces. You can explore the hilltop towns on tiny back roads, have lunch poolside at a fabulous grand hotel, shop and people-watch in Cannes and dine under a giant linden tree in St. Paul de Vence all in the same day.
Who?
Couples looking for a winning combination of laid-back country charm (Provence) and a stunning coast, all with world-famous resorts (St. Tropez), incredible food and wine and stylish hotels.
When?
The most idyllic months for visiting the south of France are May and June. Blooming flowers along country roads make for beautiful drives and the days are long. July and August are more crowded, so a well mapped-out itinerary is key. September is another good option.
The Adventurer: New Zealand
Courtesy Pure New Zealand, Fiordland Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters
Why?
New Zealand is one of those rare places where the reality actually surpasses the fantasy, be it in the drop-dead beauty of the nature, the amazing breadth of experiences or the quality of the country’s incredible super lodges. Outdoor enthusiasts and active couples will be in heaven, especially on South Island with its Lord of the Rings landscapes, and the adventurous experiences are rounded out by great food, wine and luxury accommodations. For those who want to relax somewhere tropical after a trip of adrenaline-pumping activities, spectacular South Pacific resorts like Laucala or The Brando await.
Who?
Couples looking for a far-flung, activities-heavy honeymoon that can include spectacular nature hikes, fly-fishing, golf, helicopter tours, rainforest exploration and seaside relaxation.
When?
New Zealand has a temperate climate with moderately high rainfall and many hours of sunshine. The best time to travel to New Zealand is between November–April with January and February being the warmest months (70-90°F) and July being the coldest (50-60°F.)
Related: Indagare Matchmaker: New Zealand
The Culture Lover: India
Why?
Few countries in the world stimulate the five senses in such a vibrant way as does India. The riot of sounds, the richness of traditions, the vivid colors and the complexity of languages and religions add to the intoxicating mix of culture, chaos and beauty. The country is filled with incredible destinations from the pink-hued city of Jaipur and the magnificent palaces of Rajasthan to the historic sites of Old Delhi and the timeless, stupendous beauty of the Taj Mahal.
Who?
Couples looking for a new cultural experience with ample sightseeing opportunities, best-in-class luxury accommodations, great shopping and a touch of adventure.
When?
The best time is during the cooler winter months between October and April when temperatures are comfortable. Monsoon season (June-September) should be avoided.
Related: Just Back From…India
The Tropical Explorer: Hawaii
Courtesy Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii
Why?
With wild terrain, active volcanoes, pristine beaches of red, black and white sands and a unique culture, Hawaii’s allure lies in its spectacular tropical landscapes and wecloming aloha spirit. Each of Hawaii’s five main islands – the Big Island, Maui, Lanai, Oahu and Kauai – offer countless adventures, beautiful vistas and pampering, five-star properties.
Who?
Couples who want a remote and tropical destination that boasts an abundance of activities, such as helicopter excursions, whale-watching, snorkeling, diving and surfing.
When?
Hawaii’s prime position in the Pacific means warm weather and ocean breezes year-round.
Related: Love Letter to Hawaii
The Wildlife Enthusiast: Tanzania
Courtesy Singita Sabora
Why?
Tanzania attracts wildlife enthusiasts with such legendary sights as Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. A honeymoon spent at luxe treehouse lodges or antiques-filled safari camps with incredible game drives and romantic dinners in the bush is best capped off at an island beach resort ringed by turquoise seas.
Who?
Couples who want an exotic and once-in-a-lifetime trip with exquisite accommodations and topnotch service, as well as extraordinary wildlife viewing.
When?
The best time to go is January and February and from May to October, which are the dry seasons. The annual migration of wildebeest is generally in the northern Serengeti in June, July and August and in the south in December and January.
Related: Just Back From…Tanzania
The Romantic Historian: Tuscany and Venice
Why?
Unparalleled in its splendor, Italy is simply magical. From the centuries-old vineyards of Tuscany to the enchanting waterways of Venice and the cobblestoned streets of Florence, the country’s charms are no secret. Days can be spent exploring medieval villages tucked in the lush countryside or cruising the Floating City’s romantic canals fronted by exquisite palazzos.
Who?
Couples who seek a wonderful mix of city, country and coast, all stepped in rich history, fantastic shopping and unmatched food and wine.
When?
April to October boasts the loveliest weather, but summers in Venice and Florence can get very hot and crowded.
Related: Why We Love Italy
The Oenophile and Foodie: Napa and Sonoma
Courtesy Visit Napa Valley
Why?
The California wine country with the bucolic hamlets of Napa and Sonoma has long lured oenophiles and foodies with vineyard-striped hills, charming towns, restaurants at the forefront of culinary innovations and sumptuous retreats.
Who?
Couples looking for an opportunity to unwind in a beautiful setting with incredible wine and dining balanced by spa and wellness experiences and outdoor activities in a sophisticated rural setting.
When?
April to November, from the spring grape harvest to the fall crush.
Related: Indagare Matchmaker: Napa Valley
