'Choosing the honeymoon is traditionally the groom’s domain. Whilst your wife-to-be probably thinks this will be cinch (particularly if she's ensured the wedding is organised from start to end), there’s nothing worse than the fear that you may choose the wrong destination or resort. We know your dilemma so having planned our own up-coming honeymoons here are our top tips...'
Jonty & Steve – The Turquoise Holiday Company
Steve Wallace is going for culture in South-East Asia...
'For my upcoming honeymoon I’ve gone for a cultural tour of Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. The trip starts in Bangkok for some R&R at the Anantara Resort in Chiang Rai and then onto Evason Hideaway in Hua Hin for some beach time with water sports for me and spa for her. We are then off to Laos, beginning with a boat cruise down the Mekong River near Luang Prabang where I’ve booked us into La Residence.
'We also plan to check out the sacred city of temples and hike to the top of Phousi Hill for a great panoramic view. We will then fly to Phnom Penh in Cambodia for local markets and to see the stunning Khmer art. Our trip finishes in Siem Reap, home to the famous carved ruins at Angkor Wat and the jungle temples of Ta Prohm.
'It must be the sentimentalist in me, but what better way to finish off your honeymoon than to take an elephant trek up Bakheng’s hilltop to watch the sun set behind the historic temples?'
Jonty Higgs is going for the perfect combination of beach and safari
'I’m lucky enough to have three weeks away for my honeymoon so I’ve combined a relaxing, beach stay in Mauritius with an action packed adventure in South Africa. La Residence in Mauritius is the perfect resort to relax in after the big day and, even better, brides stay free.
'We’ll be spending the money saved from La Residence on a bungee jump over the Rivermont in South Africa but you needn’t be as adventurous (or foolish) as us. Perhaps, you could treat your new wife to one of South Africa’s finest local products (at a snip of what you’d pay in the UK) – diamonds.
'Whatever you choose, the beauty of South Africa is that there’s an activity to suit everyone. I’m really looking forward to the self-drive part of the trip which will combine the vineyards of Franschhoek (staying at Klein Genot Wine Estate), the scenic Garden Route and, of course, getting in some safari action with the Big Five along the way.'
'Our best advice is to have a good chat about the options with someone in the know. Turquoise consultants at The Turquoise Holiday Shop can take you through some itineraries over a glass of bubbly in the shop, or you can speak to them on 01494 678400.'