Romantic Honeymoon Destinations | Best Honeymoon Destinations

Hawaii Honeymoon Guide

Emily Island Honeymoon Destinations, Romantic Honeymoon Destinations December 5, 2017October 1, 2018

The Hawaii honeymoon guide – It’s the quintessential tropical holiday for many around the world and after over a decade of world travelling, it did not disappoint. From the swaying palm trees to those famous Maui sunsets, Hawaii is a bucket list destination for all sun lovers.

With four main islands, as well as many smaller islands to choose from, Hawaii has a spot to suit your travel needs. With glorious tropical weather all year round and warm water temperatures, it’s not hard to see why nine million tourists flock to this paradise every year.

WHY GO TO HAWAII?

Amazing weather and water temperature all year round, outlet shopping, that friendly Aloha welcome, mai Thais (or any cocktail really), water sports, amazing sunsets and green, rugged cliffs.

GETTING TO HAWAII

Hawaii is a group of islands off the south-west coast of the United States. The 50^th State of America is situated in the middle of the North Pacific Ocean and was formed by undersea volcanic activity. It has a total land area of approximately 28,311 square km (10,931 square miles). It’s largest and capital city is Honolulu on the island of Oahu.

Direct flight times from:

New York: 10 hours	New Delhi: 15 hours
L.A.: 5 hours	Beijing: 11 hours
London: 15 hours	Dubai: 18 hours
Sydney: 10 hours

THINGS TO DO IN HAWAII HONEYMOON

Follow the above link for information and reviews on a selection of romantice, adventurous, relaxing and cultural activities on the islands of Oahu and Maui.

SOMETHING SPECIAL IN HAWAII FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT 1

Helicopter

For a bird’s eye view of Hawaii, take to the sky on a scenic helicopter flight. Zoom over an active volcano or just cruise up the beaches of Oahu and take in Hawaii’s breathtaking mountains, hidden valleys and dramatic waterfalls.

Star Gazing

For a unique and romantic first night, enjoy a glass of champagne and chocolate covered strawberries as you gaze at the universe above. There are a number of places that offer stargazing experiences but we recommend you try out the Hyatt Regency Maui’s Tour of the Stars, which was named the world’s top hotel for stargazing. This one-hour experience takes place on the hotel rooftop and ensures you will come away with some magnificent views of the Milky Way above. Don’t forget to take a camera and try to pick a full moon night for a mesmerising shot.

FESTIVALS IN HAWAII

Waikiki Spam Jam – April

You won’t be able to miss the love the locals have for Spam in Hawaii. Just visit the local supermarket to see shelves stocked with very flavour of Spam you can imagine and be sure to try Spam Musabi, a sushi style snack, which can be found year-round in most local supermarkets. During April, Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu is blocked off for this one-day celebration of Hawaii’s favourite lunch meat. Enjoy the huge street party which includes souvenirs and food, including some big-name restaurants cooking up some innovative Spam dishes.

Lantern Floating Hawaii – last Monday of May

This stunning ceremony held in Oahu every Memorial Day, sees thousands of floating lanterns placed into the water at Ala Moana Beach

Park. As the sun sets over the water, over 50,000 attendees remember and honour lost loved ones. The cultural event is marked with a Japanese taiko drum performance and Hawaiian chant and hula.

Aloha Festivals – Around September for Oahu

These month-long celebrations, which take place at various times on the Hawaiian Islands, are the largest Hawaiian celebration of culture and celebrate the huge variety of traditions and customs that each island has to offer. Enjoy food, games, live entertainment and don’t miss the floral parade which goes down Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu.

Hawaii Food and Wine Festival – Around October to November

Featuring over 100 international chefs, tv personalities and alcohol producers, this month-long celebration, showcases the best locally sourced produce from around Hawaii and has events on all of the main islands. Take part in exclusive dining experiences, wine tasting, cooking demonstrations and more, all showing off produce from the state’s best fisherman, farmers and ranchers.

Billabong Pipeline Masters – December

The final event in the World Surfing League season, the Pipeline Masters is held on the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore. Known as the deadliest wave in the word due to its massive swell and shallow reef, the Banzai Pipeline provides some amazing spectating for surf lovers and armatures alike to see the world’s best surfers in action.

GETTING AROUND HAWAII

Metred taxis, Uber, private drivers and car hire are the most popular ways to get around Hawaii. Most can be obtained from your accommodation or along the streets. Private drivers are great for longer excursions and are often included or available for a small fee for activities such as snorkelling. It’s worth hiring a car for a few days if you plan to do lots of driving or have a large group as it will work our cheaper and gives you freedom. Valet parking is available at most hotels and there are a few public parking lots for a similar fee around Waikiki.

If only going a short way, consider walking or grab a bicycle to get around. There are city bikes to hire in places like Waikiki and most of the beach strip is an easy, flat walk. There is also hotel shuttles and local trolleys that run past the main areas around every hour. These are a great cheap option and allow you to see the sites along the way in a traditional way.

ACCOMMODATION IN HAWAII

Budget: Under $50pn

Mid: $50-$300pn

Luxury: $300+pn

From 5 Star luxury hotels to self-contained condos, Hawaii has plenty of accommodation options. Be aware when looking at prices that hotels will charge a resort fee (usually around $30pp per day) on top of the accommodation.

This covers things like bottles of water and use of resort facilities. It doesn’t cover extras like water sport hire, breakfast etc unless stated so be prepared to pay extra for these items.

Waikiki, Oahu – If you like the hustle and bustle, shopping, restaurants and night life then this is the place for you. A huge beach strip lined with big-name hotels and a huge range of shopping, restaurants and water sports.

North Shore, Oahu – Known for its beautiful resorts such as Turtle Bay and famous Pipeline, the North Shore provides a quieter side of Oahu where you can take in quaint fishing towns, empty beaches and lush scenery.

Lahaina, Ka’anapali and Kapalua, Maui – These three towns on Maui’s west coast are the resort hotspot of Maui and provide white, sandy strips of water fronted by plenty of hotel choices. Lahaina itself hosts the harbor where many cruises depart and is worth a look around the old fishing town’s shops and restaurants. Ka’anapali covers 3 miles of beach and includes Whaler’s Village where you can shop and eat at a number of good restaurants on the water. Kapalua is arguably the most upmarket of the three and is set at the foot of the mountains. It too has many beautiful bays and beaches to choose from.

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES HAWAII

Hawaii has a number of all-inclusive resorts including those below:

Four Seasons Maui
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
Fairmont Orchid
Hanalei Bay Resort
Grand Wailea
Kaua’i Marriott Resort
Royal Lahaina Resort
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki
Hilton Waikoloa Village
Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott Maui
Turtle Bay Resort

ADULT ONLY RESORTS HAWAII

Hotel Wailea
The Modern Honolulu

Many resorts also offer an adult only pool and dining areas.

LOCAL CUISINES IN HAWAII

Spam Musabi – This sushi like snack is found all over Hawaii and consist of a slice of Hawaii’s favourite deli meat, on a wedge of rice and wrapped with Japanese seaweed
Masaladas – a Portuguese originating sweet, these donut like treats can be found with many types of filling and are said to be a favourite of former president and Hawaiian native Barack Obama. Locals will tell you to head to Leonard’s Bakery for the best in Honolulu.
Shrimp – You will see shrimp trucks all over Hawaii and can enjoy a plate with a variety of flavours. For traditional fare, go the garlic and be sure to try world famous Giovanni’s. Trust us you will smell it before you see it.
Shave ice –
Not to be mistaken for a snow cone, these frozen desserts come in a heap of different flavors and require a careful amount or preparation to be made well. A delicious treat for those hot, steamy days.
Poke – a raw, diced fish dish which is seen in many forms and made most commonly from ahi tuna. Poke bowls which are served on rice, poke salad, poke tacos and poke nachos are all common and an absolute must try for sashimi lovers.
Fish tacos – Tacos are hugely popular in Hawaii and none more so then one filled with delicious fresh fish such as mahi mahi and lime in a fresh tortilla.
Taro based treats – From poi which is a sticky pudding made from the Taro root to Laulau which is pork wrapped in taro leaves, taro is a huge staple in Hawaiian food. I personally could not get enough of taro chips which were used in nachos.
Kalua pig – No Luau is complete without the ceremonious unveiling of the Kalua pig from the imu (underground oven). Similar to pulled pork but with a smoky wood flavour, this dish is usually served with a delicious fried rice.
Tropical fruit – plantations can still be found all over Hawaii and although not as famous for tropical fruits as it once was, Hawaii still has an abundance of delicious pineapples, passionfruit, papaya and dragon fruit. Be sure to try Dole Whip – a pineapple-flavoured soft serve dessert.
Hula Pie – think macadamia ice-cream, hot fudge, whipped cream and nuts, on a chocolate cookie pie crust. Usually sized for sharing, you better bring your sweet tooth for this ice-cream treat.

LANGUAGE IN HAWAII

English is spoken everywhere in Hawaii; however, it is always nice to know a few native words when speaking with the locals and you will certainly hear many phrases widely used and most towns, streets and sites are in Hawaiian so it will help with correct pronunciation. You will notice that all Hawaiian words end in a vowel.

Useful Hawaiian phrases

Love, affection, hello, goodbye = Aloha
Thank you = Mahalo
Thank you very much = Mahalo Nui Loa
Excuse me – Kala mai ia’u
Delicious = Ono
Turtle = Honu
Hawaiian feast = Lu’au
The dance of Hawaii = Hula
Man = Kane
Woman = Wahine
Child = Keiki
Family = ‘Ohana
Expert = Kahuna
Necklace made of flowers and given as a symbol of affection = Lei
heavenly flower = Leilani
porch or balcony = Lanai

WEATHER IN HAWAII

Definitely the best thing about Hawaii is its amazing temperature all year round. Its proximity to the equator gives it a constituent, tropical climate year-round. Water temperatures are always amazing, generally hovering in the mid-twenties Celsius.

High season: December to April, June to August

Dry Season: May to October

Rainy Season: November to April

Months	min. Temp.		max. Temp.		Average Sea temp.		Rain days	Rainfall	Season
January	20°C	68°F	26°C	79°F	25°C	77°F	18	78mm	Wet
February	20°C	68°F	26°C	79°F	24°C	75°F	16	90mm	Wet
March	21°C	70°F	26°C	79°F	24°C	75°F	19	88mm	Wet
April	21°C	70°F	26°C	79°F	25°C	77°F	19	52mm	Wet
May	22°C	72°F	27°C	81°F	25°C	77°F	18	38mm	Dry
June	23°C	73°F	28°C	82°F	26°C	79°F	20	43mm	Dry
July	24°C	75°F	28°C	82°F	26°C	79°F	22	57mm	Dry
August	24°C	75°F	29°C	84°F	27°C	81°F	19	34mm	Dry
September	24°C	75°F	29°C	84°F	27°C	81°F	17	61mm	Dry
October	24°C	75°F	29°C	84°F	27°C	81°F	18	80mm	Dry
November	23°C	73°F	27°C	81°F	26°C	79°F	20	124mm	Wet
December	21°C	70°F	26°C	79°F	25°C	77°F	19	87mm	Wet

COST OF THINGS IN HAWAII

McDonalds Combo Meal	$8.00 USD
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught)	$5.00 USD
Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle)	$7.00 USD
Cappuccino (regular)	$4.65 USD
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)	$2.01 USD
Water (0.33 litre bottle)	$1.52 USD

HAWAII TIPS AND TRICKS

Timing – To avoid paying exorbitant rates for flights and hotel, avoid travelling during the school holidays, especially Christmas and New Year’s where the price of travel can increase by up to three times.

Stick to 1 or 2 islands – It can be tempting to try to cram everything into your trip to Hawaii and there are so many islands and sites to see. Do your research and pick your top spot or two to stay and just cover those places. If you’re like many others, it won’t be your last trip to Hawaii and you will have a more enjoyable time seeing the sites between relaxing, then running around from dawn to dusk trying to see everything.

Don’t book too much in advance – From the moment you arrive in Hawaii at the airport, you will see stands with dozens of brochures to cover sites and activities of every sort. There are also vendors along the streets and beaches selling activities and you will find that for many it’s cheaper to book once you get there and you may even be able to haggle a deal. Some of the cruises offer cheap last-minute seats as they are boarding people and there is so much competition that it’s easy to get a discount by shopping around. We travelled in September holidays and had a few things booked that we knew would sell out but found we waited to book other things including Pearl Harbour the night before so we could check the weather and how we were feeling.

I hope this Hawaii Honeymoon Guide helps you have a great time!!

Santorini Honeymoon Guide

santorini oia

Not far from the southeastern Greece’s mainland, lies a small, circular archipelago. This small group of islands is still an active volcano and possibly the only volcano in the world with its crater beneath the surface of the sea. The archipelago has the same name as its largest island – Santorini (or Thíra). This group of islands consists of Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni, and it is one of the most favored places for a romantic holiday in Greece.

WHY HONEYMOON IN SANTORINI

Where else can you stay on the rim of an active volcano in the middle of the sea, surrounded by crystal clear waters? It is also popular as a wedding destination among couples who still have not tied the knot. Couples from all over the world dream about a long walk beneath Santorini’s romantic sunset, with a magnificent view of the island’s famous caldera. There is an old saying – ‘Santorini has more churches than houses and more wine than water.’

HOW TO GET TO SANTORINI

santorini Donkey While some European operators offer direct flights to Santorini (primarily in the UK), a reliable option is to fly into Athens where there are daily flights that link through to Santorini. Be aware if you choose to try and track direct from another European country, accessibility of those flights can be seasonal.

Alternatively when you get to Athens, take a taxi or Bus to the Port of Pireaus where you can get a normal or high speed ferry for 25 to 40 Euro to Santorini.

You may even find yourself taking a donkey to help get you up the hill once you arrive!!

Flight times from:

New York: 11 hours	New Delhi: 11 hours
L.A.: 17 hours	Beijing: 15 hours
London: 4 hours	Dubai: 7 hours
Sydney: 24 hours

HONEYMOON ACTIVITIES IN SANTORINI

Try jumping off the cliff at Amoudi Bay – Once you come to this hidden spot, you will definitely enjoy. You can either swim right into the water or climb the stairs and jump off the cliff.

kamari beach santorini

Sunbake on the beach with a black sand – Visit black sand beaches of Kamari and Perissa, and see how it is to actually fry, and not only sunbathe on the beach. You can also rent a sun lounge or an umbrella, or relax in one of the many restaurants along the beachline.

Visit one of the Firá museums – The best of all museums is definitely the impeccable Museum of Prehistoric Thera. This place is mostly devoted to the Minoan settlement at Akrotíri. You may also visit the Archeological Museum, which warehouses finds from ancient Thera, the Lignos Folklore Museum in Kondohóri suburb, which completely reproduces a 19th-century cave-house, or the Tomato Industrial Museum, which displays the process of making sun-dried and canned tomatoes.

Enjoy a sunset wine tour with your loved one – Wine lovers should not leave the island without tasting some of the most exceptional Santorini wines. Take a sunset wine tour with your loved one, where you will visit three traditional wineries and taste more than 12 different wines. It is even better if you sample your wine on board of a catamaran.

Try scuba diving – Fans of adventure will surely enjoy scuba diving. Santorini and Thirasiá have nearly forty recognized scuba diving sites. They are mostly located around the caldera and its islets. Even though the sea life is limited, you will definitely enjoy.

Spend a night in a Windmill – In Imerovigli, you can spend a night in a newly-built Windmill Villas. This is a luxury equipped place with a private pool and a panoramic view of the Aegean Sea. Each windmill can accommodate up to five people, but you might want to come here for a romantic getaway with your loved one.

Take a wine or brewing tour – Many wine tours allow you to sample some wine for just a few euros, or, sometimes, even completely free. The most famous wineries on the island are Santo Wines and Volcan Wines. You should also visit the only real local microbrewery, Santorini Brewing Company. You will recognize it by its donkey logo. These ‘Donkey’ beers are unfiltered and unpasteurized, so they must be stored and served cold.

Have a night out – If you are in Fira town, you should visit one of its nightclubs. Some offer great cocktails and crazy parties, while others are more laid-back with some slow music.

Try parasailing – Not only you will enjoy looking at a panoramic view of Santorini, but you will also get a chance to enjoy watching magnificent sunset from about 100m in the air. The parasail fits two people, so this can also be a romantic activity.

Visit Ancient Akrotiri – This archaeological site reveals a history that is more than 6.000 years old. You can hire a real guide to help you get around. It will cost you 60 euros per visit, but you can split

Visit Virgin Beach – Vlychada beach is an untouched place with astonishing natural sand formations along the beach. This is also a fishing port of Santorini, so there are a few seafood taverns, too. The famous one is Psaraki, a small fish canteen, which is open during the whole year.

Have a romantic dinner – Many restaurants in Santorini overlook the magnificent caldera. One of the most romantic things you can try is having a candlelit dinner in the sunset.

Take a hiking tour from Fira to Oia – This is a three-hour hiking tour, which offers astonishing views. Follow an ancient trail that connects these two places, and enjoy every step you take. Best time for hiking is spring.

Try frozen yogurt for dinner – When you come to Greece, you must try frozen Greek yogurt. Chill out at Chillbox, you will not regret it. This tasty frozen dessert has low calories and low fat, and it is made from 100% fresh Greek low-fat milk, without any preservatives.

Practice yoga while enjoying the view of Fira – Upon request, yoga classes are available at Caveland Santorini terrace. There is nothing more relaxing than practicing yoga while watching the Aegean Sea, as well as Fira or Karterados.

STAYING FOR LONGER?

The amount of time you will spend in Santorini depends on the time of the year you are visiting the island and on the number of things that you would like to do and visit. You should not spend less than five days, but there is also no need to spend more than ten days on the island.

Consider spending time travelling to other parts of Greece honeymoon hot spots while you are in the area!!

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT 1

Watch a movie at an open-air cinema – You will find one of the best open-air cinemas in Kamari Village, in Santorini. Make yourself comfortable in a director’s chair, with a cocktail in one hand, and popcorns in the other. There are about a hundred chairs to choose from, as well as a lovely bar that serves cocktails, wine, and beers. While waiting for the movie to start, you will enjoy a light breeze and some jazzy music. The place also has a really good and free Wi-Fi.

FESTIVALS IN SANTORINI

Santorinians love to celebrate – if you are fortunate enough to be in town for the festivals below.

Ifestia Festival – This now wide-known and highly visited festival started entirely by accident. In 1991, during a musical concert, visitors were so thrilled with the firework, that the organizers decided to repeat it next year. Great music accompanies the firework explosions that recreate the volcanic eruptions. The festival was held in August, but it is moved to September, to prolong the touristic season.

Santorini

International Music Festival – Every year in September, since 1979, The International Music Festival welcomes famous artists from all over the world. For two weeks, they perform at the Nomikos Conference Centre in Fira. The organizer of this festival is a famous pianist Athena Capodistria, director and founder of ‘The Friends of Santorini Cultural Association.’

Easter – Greek Orthodox Church uses the ancient Julian calendar, instead of the Gregorian calendar. Easter is not just the holiest of all Greek holidays, but also a celebration of spring. Since most Greeks tend to spend this holiday in the countryside, Santorini is a popular destination for everyone who wants to spend a traditional Easter, with lots of tasty food and exceptional wines. Keep in mind that Easter does not fall on the same date every year.

HOW TO GET AROUND SANTORINI

Santorini is a small island with narrow and bendy roads however offers a selection of transport options.

BUS – KTEL offers public busses out of the capital to many destinations on the island with a bus map for Santorini available here.

CAR / ATV – Otherwise, there are a selection of car hire companies on the island or if you are feeling a little more adventurous, you can hire an ATV!! ATV’s are great if you want to go a little more off the beaten track to explore the island.

WALK – Walking can also be a great way to get around to immerse yourself in the local culture as you visit the picturesque locations.

ACCOMMODATION IN SANTORINI

The whole place could be divided into two parts – the western and the eastern side of the island, with the western side being more popular.

Budget – On the outskirts of Fira, you will find great hostels, as well as a budget-friendly campground (with rooms), for nearly 50€ per night.

Mid-Range – If you are looking for a mid-range option, you should check in Fira or Firostefani (there are less in Imerovigli and Oia), or book your accommodation early. Another great option for saving some money is to choose rooms without the caldera view. You will find great rooms for a great price, from one hundred to a few hundred euros.

Luxury – You will find most of Santorini luxury resorts on the western side of the island, and you will have to pay 2,000€ per night for that kind of luxury.

Keep in mind that prices are often in line with the view that rooms provide and that not all hotels on the western side have a sea view since some of them are in the city.

All Inclusive Resorts

santorini balcony

Hotel Makarios – A kid-friendly place, just five minutes away from the beach and ten minutes away from the main tourist area.

Mediterranean Beach Palace – A modern resort with a large saltwater pool and another, separate pool only for children. There are also on-site restaurants that serve buffet and a la carte meals.

Imperial Med Hotel, Resort & Spa – A kid-friendly place, located in Kamari, just two minutes away from a small, rocky beach.

Mediterranean Royal – Luxury hotel, located in Monólithos. It has spacious guest rooms with private balconies, and some rooms even have semi-private pools or hot tubs.

9 Muses Santorini Resort – Luxury hotel, with 74 rooms and 16 suites. It features a pool with a pool bar, as well as restaurants and bars that serve traditional Mediterranean food.

Adults Only Resorts

Many hotels built on the caldera do not accept children younger than 13 years, because of their dangerous location and lots of stairs they have. There are also some hotels oriented exclusively to people who travel without children.

Hotel 28 – A lovely boutique hotel with 28 rooms and pool area, located in Kamari. Guests can use beach chairs, as well as spa and fitness area from its sister property.

Santorini food

La Mer – A deluxe hotel, spa resort and conference center, located in Kamari, close to Kamari Beach. It has small rooms with lots of romantic details.

Honeymoon Petra Villas – Located on an impressive outcrop, in Imerovigli. Its guests will enjoy stunning sunsets and magnificent views.

Cocoon Suites – Luxury hotel, located on a peaceful clifftop in Imerovigli. It features cave-like suites, decorated in a minimalistic style.

Avaton Resort – Romantic boutique hotel, located in Imerovigli. Guests can relax in its cave-like spa with steam room, sauna, and hydrotherapy pool.

Local food in Santorini

Santorini is a real gourmet paradise, which will satisfy even the most delicate taste buds. Many agricultural products, such as intensely red cherry tomatoes, delicious fava beans, spicy caper, and

greek food

sweet white eggplant, are grown on fertile volcanic soil and used in various recipes. Once you come to this magnificent island, you must try some famous traditional products, like ‘hloró tyrí’ – a

special kind of fresh goat cheese, or ‘brantada’ – a local fish dish. And not to forget the wine. Although the wine industry is small, some of the most exceptional wines are produced at the island’s famous wineries. Assyrtiko, Aidani, Athyri, Nykteri, Vinsanto, and Mavrotragano are just some of the wines you have to try. Wineries are now also open for visitors and turned into museums and restaurants.

LANGUAGE IN SANTORINI

Greek is the primary language spoken in Santorini with a selection of Greek phrases below to help you get around and show the locals your respect for their culture.

Useful Greek phrases

Hello = Χαίρετε (Chaírete)
Good morning = Καλημέρα (Kaliméra)
Good evening = Καλό απόγευμα (Kaló apógevma)
Good night = καληνυχτα (kalinychta)
Goodbye = αντιο σας (antio sas)
How much is this? = Πόσο κοστίζει αυτό (Póso kostízei aftó)
Thank you = Ευχαριστώ (Efcharistó)
You’re Welcome = Παρακαλώ (Parakaló)
Yes = Ναί (Naí)
No = όχι (óchi)
Where is the toilet = Που είναι η τουαλέτα (Pou eínai i toualéta)

MONTHLY WEATHER IN SANTORINI

High season: June to August

Dry Season: June to August

Rainy Season: October to March (also the coldest / low tourism period)

Months	min. Temp.		max. Temp.		Rain days	Rainfall	Season
January	9°C	49°F	13°C	55°F	9	65 mm	Wet
February	10°C	50°F	14°C	57°F	9	48 mm	Wet
March	12°C	62°F	17°C	63°F	8	40 mm	Wet
April	13°C	55°F	19°C	66°F	4	17 mm	Wet
May	16°C	61°F	22°C	71°F	4	14 mm	Changing
June	20°C	68°F	27°C	81°F	1	5 mm	Dry
July	22°C	72°F	28°C	83°F	1	4 mm	Dry
August	22°C	72°F	29°C	84°F	1	5 mm	Dry
September	20°C	68°F	27°C	81°F	2	15 mm	Changing
October	17°C	63°F	23°C	736°F	5	40 mm	Wet
November	14°C	57°F	19°C	66°F	9	60 mm	Wet
December	10°C	50°F	16°C	60°F	10	70 mm	Wet

COST OF THINGS IN SANTORINI

McDonalds Combo Meal	$11.07 USD
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught)	$4.92 USD
Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle)	$3.69 USD
Cappuccino (regular)	$4.00 USD
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)	$2.37 USD
Water (0.33 litre bottle)	$0.62 USD

SANTORINI TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS

If you are planning to visit Santorini for your honeymoon, take these tips into consideration to ensure a beautiful trip:

Choose your ferry – You can choose between two types of ferries – the fast or the slow ones. If you choose one of the fast ferries (Hellenic Seaways or SeaJets), you will need about 4-5 hours to get to Santorini. But, if you take a slow ferry (Anek Lines or Blue Star Ferries), you will need about 8-9 hours. Slow ferries are more comfortable than the fast ones.

Climbing up – The ferry will get you at the bottom of the cliff. To get up, you will have to take the cable car, to walk up the 586 stairs, or to ride a donkey. The most convenient option is cable car, but, if it is windy, it will be closed, and it might get a little too crowded during the summer months.

Traveling around Santorini – The most convenient way to go from town to town is by KTEL public bus. It is cheap and environment-friendly. And if you want to go off the beaten track, you should rent an ATV (a four-wheel bicycle) or a scooter. A standard driver’s license from any country will be enough.

IS SANTORINI SAFE?

Santorini is considered a safe destination with minimal criminal activity. Narrow streets and drunk drivers can pose a safety hazard so be sure to stay safe on the roads and don’t drive after a visit to the wineries. For the latest travel assessments and warnings, take a look at the Greece page for the US passport and International travel website for the latest travel warnings and information for Greece – some of which apply to Santorini.

Paris Honeymoon Guide

David European Honeymoon Destinations, Romantic Honeymoon Destinations November 23, 2017October 1, 2018

There’s no better place to take a romantic honeymoon in than the city of love and Paris certainly lives up to its reputation of being romantic. There’s no shame in showing the world how much you love someone in this city. Everywhere in Paris, there are couples holding hands, kissing and embracing each other.

WHY HONEYMOON IN PARIS

A blissful romantic holiday in Paris will take you to places like the Eiffel Tower—where you can wine, dine and see some incredible views of Paris, the Lourve—where you can experience the world’s biggest art collection, and to Montmarte—a lively neighbourhood where you can get a taste of local Parisian life and the famous Sacre Coeur Basilica.

Paris is the perfect honeymoon destination if you want an experience filled with beauty, history and amazing food. The best part about the City of Lights is that you can have any type of holiday here—it can be super relaxing or super busy. You can visit a wide selection of museums or, simply hang out in parks and cafes. It doesn’t matter if you’re sticking to a tight budget, or are ready to splurge on a super romantic honeymoon. If you are a little tight on cash after the wedding, a Honeymoon in Paris can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. With so many things to admire and plenty of cultural sites to see, Paris offers a plethora of experiences to suit all types of honeymoons.

HOW TO GET THERE

Paris the capital city of France in Western Europe which fortunately makes it easy to get to from anywhere on the globe with their busy and well renown international airport – Charles de Gaulle. Once you are at the airport, it is less than 1 hour to get into Paris with self drive, taxi or train options into the capital.

A train will cost about 10 Euro per ticket, or 50 – 60 Euro for a taxi. If you choose to do the self-drive option, do some reading on traffic rules and conditions in Paris. Particularly on the roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe!! With 12 streets for entry and exit points and room on the roundabout for about 10 cars side by side, it can be an interesting experience for your first time driving through Paris. If you are after a laugh, request you taxi driver takes you for a lap around the Arc De Triomphe on the way to your hotel, or get a ticket up the top of the structure and watch the chaos unfold!!

Flight times from:

New York: 7 hours	New Delhi: 10 hours
L.A.: 11 hours	Beijing: 11 hours
London: 1 hour	Dubai: 8 hours
Sydney: 24 hours

HONEYMOON ACTIVITIES IN PARIS

With a population of over 2 million people, Paris is an expansive city that can offer you and you’re your partner a selection of romantic, cultural, adventurous or relaxing activities. It is no surprise that it is one of the most visited cities in the world by tourists. Below a taste of the honeymoon city highlights.

The Eiffel Tower – For lovely panoramic views of Paris, head to the iconic Eiffel Tower where love is always in the air. Enjoy the irresistible ambience with a glass of pink Champagne at the top-floor Champagne Bar to celebrate your honeymoon.

Picnic in the Champ De Mars – Another romantic way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower, pick up some wine, bread and cheese and sit with you loved one in the Champ De Mars which enjoys stunning view of the tower. Be aware alcohol is not allowed on the Champ De Mars after 4 pm so make sure you picnic lunch is all wrapped up by then if you want to have a drink.

Disney Land Paris – Just because kids love Disney Land, doesn’t mean that adults can’t love it too. Adventureland and Discoveryland, for instance, are packed with thrill rides and high-tech gizmos. But the whole experience of visiting Disney Land is magical for all ages—the sights, princesses, parades, music and light shows create a place ‘where dreams come true’,

Cruise over the “Old Paris”- A visit to the old district of Paris is always a treat for any newlyweds. Take a cruise on the canal St. Martin to admire its peaceful water and beautiful foot bridges.

The Musee Du Lourve – If you love art, you need to visit the world’s greatest art museum at least once in your life. It’s the largest museum on the planet, with 675,000 square feet of works from almost every civilization on earth. Famous pieces like the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory are all here—but there is so much more beautiful artwork than just these. You’re bound to stumble on something memorable.

Les Catacombes – A trip to Les Catacombes makes a thrilling adventure. Its curious cemetery has thousands of bones that line the tunnels underneath Paris. It’s definitely a creepy sight to see, but magnificent as well.

Musée Du Orsay – The Musée d’Orsay contains the world’s largest collection of Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Cézanne, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Degas, Gaugin, and more. It’s uniquely housed in a train station building constructed by Victor Laloux for the 1900 World Fair. There’s two excellent cafés to grab a bite to eat before viewing the works as well.

Notre Dame Cathedral – The Notre Dame Cathedral Paris is one of most beautiful cathedrals in the whole city. Its Gothic style features a unique grandeur, with flying buttresses and beautiful stained-glass windows used in its architectural design. In 1909, the famous Joan of Arc was beatified in the Notre Dame Cathedral by Pope Pius X. The cathedral is also best known for its relation to the story of the Hunchback of Notre Dame, made famous by a myriad of cartoons and movies inspired by it.

Paris Bike Tour – See some of the best hidden charms of Paris on two wheels with a professional guide. You’ll get a thrill from riding down some of the most famous avenues in the city! There are loads of bike tours that you can find online, so you can choose one that’s right for you and your lover.

Wine Tasting in Paris – Couples who love wine and cheese can enjoy a relaxing wine tasting in the heart of Paris. You’ll taste some of 4 the most interesting wines in the region with some top-notch cheeses to pair with them. You can book your wine tasting through this link.

Montmarte – Paris’s Montmartre neighborhood has more local color than in the center of Paris. Walk through the cobblestone streets of this hilly urban village to see where some of the greatest French artists and writers used to live. You can climb or ride the cable car up the hill to the beautiful Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre. The basilica was built to restore Paris’s spiritual community after the country’s military defeat at the hands of Germany. The best part is that it’s free to enter.

Place de Voges– The Place des Vosges is one of the oldest and most gorgeous squares in Paris. Have a romantic stroll under the arches or along the paths of the central garden, where you and your lover can take time to admire the beautiful facades of red brick. The square is the ideal departure point if you want to take walk in the Marais, one of the most charming historic neighbourhoods in the capital with a variety of museums, cafés and clubs.

IF YOU HAVE LONGER IN PARIS

If you’re looking to get out of Paris and have a few spare days, why not take a look at other attractions nearby.

Visit the Chateau de Versaille

The Château de Versailles is among the most visited sites in France and it’s only about 45 minutes away from Paris by train. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the greatest achievements in French 17th century art. A succession of French kings lived in the Palace up until the French Revolution. When you visit, you’ll see how it was built for the royals—the palace contains 2,300 rooms spread to over 63,154 m2. You can marvel at the palace, its gardens and its history with your lover on a self-guided audio tour. You can get tickets for the Château de Versailles here.

Stay in a Chateau

France has plenty of castles and chateaus if you want to feel a little bit regal for a few days. However most are in the countryside so best drive to them unless you are happy not to explore for a few days. There are some that are in close proximity to a train ride from Paris if you don’t want to drive such as the Chateau De Bourron to the south of Paris .

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT 1

Fine dining whilst enjoying the Parisian skyline – Start the first night of your honeymoon with a delicious intimate meal. Paris is known for its fine cuisine, and it’s only right that you should splurge at least once on an amazing meal. If you want wonderful, romantic views of the Eiffel Tower and Avenue des Champ Elysée, check out NoLita—a restaurant goes above and beyond for its customers. NoLita has a trendy intimate atmosphere with chic black and white interiors. Alain Ducasse-trained chef, Vittorio Beltramelli uses super flavorful regional produce, and impresses visitors with classics like Sicilian suckling pig and more unique dishes like Martini and shrimp risotto.

FESTIVALS IN PARIS

La Fête de la Musique (Paris Street Music Festival)

On the 21^st of June, the streets of Paris come alive. La Fête de la Musique attracts hundreds of Parisians every year for the summer equinox. Vibrant crowds form outside bars, cafes, and on the streets. If you’re a music-loving couple, you’ll adore the free performances of electronic music, jazz, hip hop and rock all around the city.

Paris Plages

During the summertime in Paris, you don’t have to head to the south of France just to get a taste of the beach. Around July 20, Paris closes the streets along the Seine River and brings in tons of sand and palm trees, deck chairs, and ice cream stands. You can even play beach volleyball, kayak and attend open-air concerts on three different man-made “beaches”.

Bastille Day

Bastille Day is celebrated every July 14^th and marks the anniversary of first major event of the French Revolution of 1789. The destruction of the Bastille prison in central Paris is a symbol of France’s first strives toward democracy. During the festivities, you’ll see patriotic processions all over Paris. At night, you can view an amazing spectacle of beautiful fireworks for a romantic date on your honeymoon. Bastille Day also lets you enjoy summery outdoor parades while learning more about French history.

HOW TO GET AROUND PARIS

Paris has a wide range of transportation options as you would expect for a city of its size.

Metro – Due to the size of the city, the metro offers a fast and affordable way to get around the city. It is one of the best metro systems in the world and is intuitive to use. If you are trying to get out of Paris, the RER network is a great option.

Walk – A great way to see and experience Paris, a walk lets you truly immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of this amazing city.

Hire a bike – Another great way to get around and appreciate the streets, Paris has a bike service named Velib. Velib has a series of stations all over Paris where you can grab a bike and leave it at any other station for a small fee. Options for 1 day and 7 day hire are available with 1 day hire less than 2 euro at the time of writing. Paris Velib bike information is available here.

Taxi – Taxis are available and are an affordable way to get to the more remote areas you don’t want to walk or ride to.

Water Taxi – If most of the sites are within proximity to the Seine, Batobus has 9 stations offering a hop on hop off service up the river. 1 day, 2 day or annual passes are available. Batobus information can be found here.

Hop on Hop off Bus Tours – Paris has a selection of hop on hop off bus tours that operate throughout the city. A summary of each is available at this Paris Hop on Hop off bus link.

Bus – Paris also has an extensive bus network offering a cheaper alternative to getting around Paris.

ACCOMMODATION IN PARIS

Paris offers a wide range of accommodation to suite every honeymoon couples priorities whether it be price, location, or amenities.

Budget – For a basic double room with private bathroom, within a mile of the city centre in a 1 star hotel you can expect to pay approximately $50 to $100 per night.

Mid-Range – 3 star hotels within 0.5 miles of the city centre will cost you from $100 to $175 per night.

Luxury – 5 star hotels within a mile of the city centre are available from $250+ per night.

RECOMMENDED HONEYMOON ACCOMMODATION IN PARIS

Westin Paris Vendome– This luxury hotel is a 5-minute walk from Place de la Concorde and a 10-minute walk from the Louvre Museum. The upscale rooms offer gorgeous views of the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. Relax yourself with this 5-star hotel’s awesome amenities, which include a luxurious spa and an exercise room, a chic restaurant with modern dishes and a lavish 19th-century inspired bar.

Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe Hotel – This stylish steel-and-glass hotel in the Monceau district is a 6-minute walk from Arc de Triomphe. The refined rooms and suites come with floor-to-ceiling windows, pillow-top mattresses, 24-hour room service, flat screen TVs and tea and coffeemakers. There’s also a modern French restaurant, a private outdoor terrace and a gym, if you’re looking to get some exercise.

Meliá París Champs Elysées – A 3-minute walk from Victor Hugo metro station, these elegant rooms come with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. There’s also a full breakfast buffet, a stylish lounge, a business center and a library.

Aparthotel Adagio Paris Centre Tour de Eiffel – Only a block away from the River Seine, this apartment hotel is housed in a modern building with a glass-walled lobby. The bright and airy studio-style apartments with hardwood floors and pull-out sofas feature flat-screen TVs, WiFi and kitchens and some even add views of the Eiffel Tower. Amenities include a heated indoor pool, a fitness room and underground parking.

W Paris – Opéra – Stay in this polished 5-star hotel if you want to be only minutes away from Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The elegant rooms offer flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, free Wi-Fi, rainfall showers and custom beds. Amenities include a trendy restaurant, a hip lounge with a bar and a 24-hour fitness center on the top floor.

ADULT ONLY HOTELS IN PARIS

If you are looking to get some quiet time away from the kids and families, the selection of hotels below might be just what you are looking for.

Le Fabe Hôtel – This cosy adults-only hotel gives you a relaxing experience in the vibrant district of Montparnasse. All rooms at Le Fabe offer a minibar, radio, free Wifi access, coffee maker and private bathroom with hairdryer. To spice things up, each room features unique French artwork as well.

Stella Etoile – Stay near the Arc De Triomphe and Avenue des Champ Elysées in the heart of Paris. Rooms in this adults-only hotel offer contemporary designs, with private bath rooms, minibars and free Wifi.

Mercure Paris Arc de Triomphe Etoile – This adults-only hotel is only a few steps away from the Arc de Triomphe and Avenue des Champs Elysées. All rooms have chromotherapy lighting, and are soundproofed. They also provide free Wifi access, minibar, coffee making facilities, satellite television as well as air conditioning.

LOCAL FOOD

French cuisine is definitely one of the finest. During your honeymoon, don’t hesitate to indulge in all the spectacular wine, French cheese, Champagne, and bread that there is to offer. Almost every Parisian restaurant has the French staple of crispy bread, cheese and a good French wine. There are more than 300 kinds of cheeses made in France, with the most famous being Camembert, Brie and the Roquefort. Make sure that you visit a French fromagerie to get some that’s truly authentic.

If you want to indulge in a typical Parisian meal, try Entrecote Marchand de vin, which involves a juicy steak served with red wine sauce, butter and onions. You may also want to taste a delectable confit de canard – duck confit in English — which is another French favorite. It’s tender, flavorful and some the best comfort food that you can eat in France. Don’t forget the French pastries too! You’ll enjoy their light, crispy flakiness on the outside, and their chewiness on the inside. Try the traditional croissant, or a scrumptious pain au chocolat.

If you are after something a little more unusual, you can find frogs legs (which taste a bit like chicken to me) and escargot cooked in a garlic and butter sauce at some of the local restaurants. Don’t worry though, the escargot are not as slimy as you may be thinking after they’ve been cooked – actually pretty tasty!

LANGUAGE

The main language spoken throughout Paris is French, however there are a lot of people who speak fairly good English – particularly in the service and tourism industry. Before going to Paris I had been told that the locals were not impressed if you tried to interact with them in English – I however found that to be 99% untrue. Some basic French will however be well received throughout Paris and it is highly recommended to learn a few polite phrases.

Useful French phrases

Hello = Bonjour
Good morning = Bonjour
Good evening = Bonsoir
Good night = Bonne Nuit
Goodbye = Au revoir
How much is this? combien ça coûte?
Thank you = Je vous remercie
You’re Welcome = de rien
Yes = Oui
No = Non
Where is the toilet = où sont les toilettes

MONTHLY WEATHER

Weather in Paris is fairly mild and dry all year round with no significant changes in rainfall, however the temperature changes a bit between the summer and winter months. The best time to visit to enjoy the warm weather is in the months of June to August which is the peak season for tourists in Paris however it is also the most expensive time to visit. If you can handle a slightly cooler temperature, a couple of months either side of the peak season will be cheaper and avoid the crowds.

High season: June to August

Dry Season: No predominate dry season

Rainy Season: No dominate rainy season

Months	min. Temp.		max. Temp.		Rain days	Rainfall
January	4°C	38°F	7°C	45°F	12	19 mm
February	4°C	38°F	8°C	46°F	12	21 mm
March	5°C	41°F	11°C	53°F	13	22 mm
April	7°C	45°F	16°C	61°F	13	24 mm
May	10°C	51°F	19°C	66°F	13	25 mm
June	15°C	59°F	24°C	75°F	12	24 mm
July	17°C	63°F	26°C	79°F	11	23 mm
August	16°C	61°F	25°C	78°F	11	22 mm
September	12°C	54°F	20°C	68°F	11	21 mm
October	10°C	49°F	15°C	60°F	13	24 mm
November	6°C	43°F	12°C	54°F	14	23 mm
December	4°C	38°F	8°C	46°F	13	22 mm

COST OF THINGS

McDonalds Combo Meal	$9.43 USD
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught)	$7.07 USD
Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle)	$7.07 USD
Cappuccino (regular)	$4.08 USD
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)	$3.14 USD
Water (0.33 litre bottle)	$2.05 USD

PARIS TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS

Take a cooking class – There’s no better place to take a cooking class than in Paris. Like mentioned before, Parisian cuisine is some of the finest in the world. You’ll learn something new, whether you end up making croissants, macarons, or steak frite.

Get the Paris Pass – If you have a busy itinerary, you may want to get the Paris Pass. It gives you a lot of free and reduced admissions to museums and sights around the city, which is great if you’re considering taking a long honeymoon. The Paris Museum pass is also a cheaper option, and is good for newly-weds who are focused on visiting as many museums as possible.

Secure your valuables – Pickpockets and thieves who will attempt to create a disturbance then lift your valuables are alive and well in Paris.

See more than the Mona Lisa at the Louvre – When you see the Mona Lisa in person you may be surprised at how tiny it is. Not saying that Di Vinci’s masterpiece isn’t brilliant—but there are loads of bigger and more detailed artworks to see in the Louvre. You can spend over five hours viewing only some of the 380,000 objects and 35,000 displays of art in this world class museum.

IS PARIS SAFE?

Like any major capital city, there are a variety of security threats to look out for such as opportunistic thieves, robbers and drink spikers. Also consider protests are common and should be avoided. For the latest travel assessments and warnings, take a look at the France page for the US passport and International travel website for the latest travel warnings and information for Paris.

Bora Bora Honeymoon

David Island Honeymoon Destinations, Romantic Honeymoon Destinations October 9, 2017October 1, 2018

A Bora Bora Honeymoon has become one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. Located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean lies the island with turquoise lagoons and beaches covered with white sand. You will soon realize why so many newlywed couples dream about spending their honeymoon there. Bora Bora is one of top honeymoon destinations, but not many couples actually manage to come there and the exclusivity is what makes it even more special!

All the luxurious resorts and private overwater bungalows will make you feel like you are in a paradise. You can either choose a ‘readyto-go’ honeymoon package, or you can tailor your own. And if you still have not tied the knot, you can do it here. Choose one of the two ceremony styles (Polynesian Traditional ceremony or Western ceremony) and say ‘I do’ in one of many romantic Bora Bora resorts or in a romantic chapel on top of the hill. Just imagine an intimate wedding in the sunset, with a magnificent view…

WHY GO TO BORA BORA FOR MY HONEYMOON

The pictures really do tell the story of this tropical paradise. If you are looking for a quiet, private and romantic location to spend with your partner, Bora Bora offers a place to enjoy each other’s company with crystal clear blue water and overwater bungalows sure not to disappoint.

With average sea temperatures that don’t get below about 27^oC (81^oF), the climate is truly available all year round to enjoy.

HOW TO GET TO THERE

Bora Bora is a group of islands with the main island surrounded by a lagoon and a series of smaller islands. The island group is about 1 hour flight time Northwest from Papeete in Tahiti which has direct flights from many destinations. Once at Faa’a airport in Papeete, catch a connection to the airfield. Be sure to have your camera ready for arrival into the island – The dormant volcano on the main island with the surrounding lagoons and islands make for a great photo. If you get in the line up early enough, try and sit on the left side of the plane for the arrival for the best photos and views.

The airport is on a separate island from Vaitape so you can expect a boat transfer upon arrival to one of the resorts. If you are flying with Air Tahiti, you may have a shuttle boat to Vaitape included in your airfare. Your resort may also offer boat airport transfers so be sure to see what transfer services they have available.

Flight times from:

New York: 18 hours	New Delhi: 26 hours
L.A.: 11 hours	Beijing: 20 hours
London: 26 hours	Dubai: 29 hours
Sydney: 11 hours

THINGS TO DO IN BORA BORA HONEYMOON

Although it is a prime destination for a relaxing, romantic honeymoon, it offers a selection of other activities for those couples looking for something more. Below is a list of honeymoon activities available on the island.

Enjoy a couples massage – There are a few places where you can book a massage for you and your loved one. Some therapists are willing to come to your place, too. They offer various techniques, including the Polynesian massage, with a wide range of different oils to choose from.

Swim with the sharks – It is not as scary as it sounds. If the weather conditions are right, you can take a small boat and go outside the reef. The water is crystal-clear, so you can easily see some blacktip reef sharks passing below.

Visit Alain Despert Studio – Art-gallery with works of internationally acclaimed artist Alain Despert. You will see his ‘Absolut Despert’ – a painting of a bottle of vodka floating in the Bora Bora lagoon, and many other colorful contemporary paintings, as well.

Enjoy a holistic spa treatment – Choose between different natural spa services and holistic disciplines – shiatsu and Thai massage, foot reflexology, or yoga. Some places offer beauty services and esthetic treatments, as well.

Bora Bora Stargazing Tour – The tour is intended for a small group of people – no more than twelve. It all starts with a sunset cruise by boat and continues on a private Motu (Islet), where you will enjoy listening to stories and legends about Polynesian people who used the stars as their guide across the Pacific Ocean. The price includes free hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as bottled water and a glass of sparkling wine.

Take a lagoon tour – Get on the boat, and enjoy breathtaking views of the lagoon. There is no better place for taking pictures than this. And it is a great place for snorkeling, too. Be sure to visit the lagoonarium – a small area in the lagoon, with captivated sea life. You will enjoy watching different marine species in their natural habitat.

Have a picnic on a Motu – Come to one of the small private-islands, where you can enjoy various water and beach activities. The best excursions include a Polynesian picnic with fresh fruits, grilled yams, poisson cru, grilled mahi-mahi, and coconut bread, served on large plates of hand-woven leaves.

Swim at Matira Beach – This two-mile long white sand beach is the only public beach in Bora Bora. It is considered to be one of the best beaches in the world.

Shop for black pearls – Your loved one will surely be thrilled if you take her to some pearl shopping. But remember – Tahitian Pearls may vary in their shape, size, color, and quality, so it is important that you know how to buy them. Arc En Ciel in Vaitape has plenty of strong reviews and would be a great place to start your shopping.

Try jet-skiing – Nothing boosts up your adrenaline as a jet-ski ride around the lagoon. This is one of the most exciting water sports. It may be a little intimidating for beginners, but once you learn the basics – you will enjoy it.

Shop at Vaitape markets – There you will find a wide variety of different hand-crafted jewelry, pearls, home-wares, and other interesting souvenirs for only a few dollars. You can spend hours there, especially if all the stalls are open (they are closed on Sundays and Holidays, and some of them are even closed if there are no cruise ships at the dock).

Book a sunset cruise – Sunset cruises are not reserved only for romantic couples. You can book a small group cruise on a sailing catamaran for you and your friends. Enjoy watching sunset, with champagne and some snacks.

Go hiking – There are a few different Bora Bora walking tours, but the most popular is the one through the Valley of the Kings. All these tours are possible only during the dry weather. But the tours are not only about the hiking – you will learn something about the geology, and hear some fascinating Polynesian legends.

Watch Tahitian dancing shows – Traditional Tahitian dancing shows are held in the evening at restaurants and bars in many of the Bora Bora resorts. To attend the shows you need only to purchase a cocktail from the bar, but for others, you will need to have the whole dinner.

Take professional photographs – Bora Bora is a perfect place for taking breathtaking photos. There is also an option of taking the photos under water in Bora Bora’s lagoon. This will be an amazing experience and you will have something to bring home and show to your friends and family.

STAYING FOR LONGER?

Is there a better way to spend your vacation in Tahiti, than in an ultra-luxury cruise ship?

Crystal Cruises – You can choose between four South Pacific cruise itineraries. In their all-inclusive packages, they offer a wide variety of complimentary services, such as an open bar and various onboard activities.

Paul Gauguin Cruises – All-inclusive packages include food, drinks (except some expensive liquor labels), and many activities. Other things that are not included are spa treatments, cabin upgrades, and shore excursions with guides, but they usually give a shipboard credit as a bonus. You can use this credit towards most of these additional expenses.

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT 1

Watch the sunset from the water – When visiting Bora Bora with your loved one, be sure to book a private sunset cruise. You will definitely enjoy this romantic experience which usually lasts for two hours. Most companies include a bottle of champagne, and some may even offer you a dinner.

FESTIVALS IN BORA BORA

Tahiti Pearl Regatta – This four-day sailing race, between Raiatea, Bora Bora, Huahine, and Taha´a, is usually held in May. The race attracts both local and international competitors since it is open to all types of sailing boats – monohull, catamaran, private sailboat, charter, sailing canoes… Once the races are over, participants and other visitors can enjoy parties, games, and local cuisine tasting, as well as arts and crafts.

Bora Bora Liquid Festival – Every year in December, hundreds of water athletes compete in the lagoon. The Liquid Festival closes the Waterman World Tour (WWT) championships. In addition to the competition, numerous beach parties, as well as children’s activities, are held all across the island.

Heiva I Bora Bora – The biggest annual festival in Tahiti, held every summer. On the island, it takes place in an open area in Vaitape. You can either stand on the side and watch all the events for free, or you can buy tickets and make yourself comfortable in the seated area. Whatever way you choose, you will enjoy the beauty and diversity of Polynesian history and culture. This festival combines dance, music, and handcrafted costumes, as well as various sports and other competitions.

HOW TO GET AROUND

With the unique island layout, boats will be one of you primary methods to get around the islands. Your resort may have a boat to transfer you to the main island if you situated off it.

Car hire is an option out of Vaitape or look for bicycle rental if you are after a cheaper alternative to get around the island. Taxis are available but be their rates can be higher than you may be expecting. Scooters can also be a cheaper option if you are after motorised transport.

ACCOMMODATION IN BORA BORA

Although it is considered a luxury destination, there are various accommodation options.

Budget – Choose one of pensions, guest houses or family hotels. You will enjoy in a friendly atmosphere, and you will not spend more than $150 per night.

Mid-Range – Beach or garden bungalows are always a good choice if you plan to spend no more than a few hundred per night, but still want to have a luxury vacation experience.

Luxury – There are a few levels of luxury accommodations on the island – the more features you add, the more prices go up (from nearly $1.000 to up to a few thousand).

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES IN BORA BORA

With an all-inclusive package, not only you will save some money, but you will also enjoy a relaxed holiday without having to worry about prices. The only true all-inclusive resort on the island was Club Med, but it closed in January 2009. There are no ‘official’ all-inclusive resorts.

In French Polynesia, the term ‘all-inclusive’ usually means that you have three meals a day included in the price. If you are looking for an all-inclusive experience, you can also book an all-inclusive cruise through Tahiti. Choose between Paul Gauguin and Crystal cruises, and enjoy sailing into the most beautiful lagoons in the Pacific Ocean.

ADULT ONLY RESORTS

People who do not have their own children or choose the island as their honeymoon destination usually look for adults only accommodation. Unfortunately, there are not any available. Though there are not many children, as well. To lower the possibility of spending your holiday with someone else’s kids, choose the time of your vacation wisely.

Families usually travel during the school breaks – from June to August or in December and January. Another option is to choose a resort that is reserved exclusively for adults and children over the age of twelve (The Sofitel Private Island Resort) or a resort with an adults-only pool (The St. Regis Resort).

LOCAL FOOD

Once you get to this island, be sure to enjoy the fresh local Polynesian food. The fish here is amazing (choose ocean fish, instead of lagoon fish). And you have to try poisson cru – a delicious dish of tuna marinated in lime and coconut. When it comes to eating out, you can either visit local grocery stores and buy some snacks, or you can visit one of the cafes and restaurants. But, whatever you choose, try not to miss ‘roulottes’ – rolling food trucks which serve grilled fish and fries, as well as kebabs and barbecued meat. These food trucks are a Tahitian tradition.

It would be a good idea to choose resorts with breakfast and dinner included, so you do not have to take a boat ride across the lagoon every time you want to eat something. Another option is to book a pension with fridge and a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals.

LANGUAGE IN BORA BORA

The main language spoken is French and Tahitian. French is used primarily in businesses and Tahitian is preferred between the locals. Fear not if your French and Tahitian is not good – English is widely spoken throughout the island particularly in the resort areas.

Below we’ve listed some Tahitian phrases for your use – a hello in Tahitian will be well received!! Otherwise some basic French will also go a long way.

Useful Tahitian phrases

Hello = la ora na
Good morning = Ia ora na ‘oe
Good evening = Ia ora oe i teie po
Good night = Taoto maita’i
Goodbye = Nānā
How much is this? E hia moni teie?
Thank you = Mauruuru roa
You’re Welcome = ‘aita pe’ape’a
Yes = E
No = Aita
Where is the toilet = E hia te fare iti?

MONTHLY WEATHER IN BORA BORA

Bora Bora offers a year round honeymoon destination with warmer air and sea temperatures throughout the year. The water temperature will sit at about 26^oC (79^oF) year round so you can make the most of the beautiful temperate water and beaches. Bora Bora has a prominent rainy season from November to March with high humidity and increased rainfall. Cyclones are rare during the rainy season however check that El Nino effects are not in the area before considering travel to Bora Bora – during the El Nino period there is increased risk of high rainfall and cyclone and hurricane effects.

High season: May to October

Dry Season: April to October

Rainy Season: November to March

Months	min. Temp.		max. Temp.		Average Sea temp.		Rain days	Rainfall	Season
January	25°C	77°F	31°C	88°F	27°C	81°F	23	270 mm	Wet
February	25°C	77°F	30°C	86°F	27°C	81°F	19	235 mm	Wet
March	25°C	77°F	30°C	86°F	28°C	82°F	16	180 mm	Wet
April	25°C	77°F	29°C	84°F	28°C	82°F	15	190 mm	Changing
May	24°C	75°F	29°C	84°F	29°C	84°F	15	135 mm	Dry
June	24°C	75°F	28°C	82°F	29°C	84°F	11	95 mm	Dry
July	24°C	75°F	28°C	82°F	29°C	84°F	12	80 mm	Dry
August	24°C	75°F	28°C	82°F	28°C	82°F	12	60 mm	Dry
September	24°C	75°F	28°C	82°F	28°C	82°F	14	65 mm	Dry
October	24°C	75°F	29°C	84°F	28°C	82°F	14	95 mm	Dry
November	24°C	75°F	29°C	84°F	27°C	81°F	17	205 mm	Changing
December	25°C	77°F	29°C	84°F	27°C	81°F	18	280 mm	Wet

COST OF THINGS IN BORA BORA

McDonalds Combo Meal	$11.83 USD
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught)	$2.89 USD
Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle)	$3.29 USD
Cappuccino (regular)	$3.99 USD
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)	$ 3.33 USD
Water (0.33 litre bottle)	$2.30 USD

BORA BORA TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS

Take reef shoes with you as the Bora Bora sand and ocean floor is composed of live and crushed coral. You can expect cuts and discomfort if you choose not to wear them – but don’t worry if you can’t get them before you get there, the shops will have some available. Otherwise an old pair of shoes you don’t mind getting wet will do just fine.

There is no hospital on Bora Bora, just a Medical Centre in Vaitape, so it is a good idea to take a small first aid kit with you. If you do some serious damage to yourself, you can expect a ride back to Papeete where there are suitable medical services.

Nothing works in town on Sundays or Holidays. And if there is no cruise ship at the dock most local stalls in the markets are closed even during the work week. To see the full range of stalls, be sure to check them out when a cruise ship is in town.

Tipping is not compulsory, but if you appreciate the service, they will definitely appreciate any form of gratuity.

Tap water in Bora Bora is normally safe to drink, however check with your resort to confirm its current state when you get there.

IS BORA BORA SAFE?

The Bora Bora Islands are considered a safe place to visit with low crime rates and violence. However be sure to limit opportunities for petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing. For the latest travel assessments and warnings, take a look at the French Polynesia page for the US passport and International travel website for the latest travel warnings and information for Bora Bora.

A Bora Bora honeymoon is up there with the best of them. SAFE TRAVELS!!

Maldives Honeymoon Destination

David Island Honeymoon Destinations, Romantic Honeymoon Destinations September 2, 2017October 1, 2018

With over 1000 individual islands and coral reefs, a Maldives honeymoon destination is perfect for white sands, clean air, crystal blue water and an abundance of unique and amazing tropical wildlife. Considered by many to be the best island honeymoon destination in the world, it is frequented by celebrities which is not surprising with what this tropical paradise has to offer. Its honeymooners can be treated with access to private islands, world renown diving locations, diverse marine life, quality restaurants, resorts and water sports to cater for all offering a unique opportunity to relax or explore this perfect island honeymoon location.

WHY HONEYMOON TO MALDIVES?

A top place to honeymoon, the Maldives offers couples an opportunity to engage in private activities with a choice of over 100 resorts – most resorts having their own private islands. For those that enjoy the water, it has excellent diving and snorkelling locations, marine life, postcard beaches, warm weather and water and a selection of cultural activities for all. A honeymoon to Maldives is sure not to disappoint.

WHERE IS MALDIVES ISLAND

The Maldives is approximately 600 NM to the south west of southern India and is made up of 26 atolls and approximately 1000 islands. The main way of getting to the Maldives is Velana international airport (also known as Mali international airport) which is in the north Male Atoll near the capital island Male. Once you are there, transfer to one of the individual islands will be by internal flights, Ferries, speed boats or sea planes depending on where you are planning to honeymoon.

Flight times from:

New York: 14 hours	New Delhi: 6 hours
L.A.: 24 hours	Beijing: 9 hours
London: 13 hours	Dubai: 4 hours
Sydney: 14 hours

THINGS TO DO IN MALDIVES ON HONEYMOON

Follow the link above for the full list of relaxing, cultural and adventurous activities in the Maldives. Also listings of which islands are best to stay at to dive or snorkel with the marine life of your choice as some are better than others for rays, turtles and sharks.

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR HONEYMOON NIGHT

Why not dine underwater – 2 restaurants in the Maldives off the unique opportunity to have a meal whilst being surrounded by a selection of tropical marine life. Truly a not to be missed experience if you after something special for your first honeymoon night. (ITHAA Undersea Restaurant Alif Dhaal Atoll, or 5.8 Undersea Restaurant Lhaviyani Atoll)

FESTIVALS IN THE MALDIVES

Ramadan – Celebrated in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the Muslim nation fasts during sunrise to sunset for the duration of the month. It will not generally effect the resorts however some local restaurants will be closed during the day time. Opportunity to see celebration with dancing / bands.

Independence day – Celebrated on the 26^th of July each year, the Maldives celebrate the independence of the Maldives from the British by parading and performing in the streets.

Republic day – Following the independence from the British in 1965, 11 November each year marks the celebration of establishment of the republic. Marching bands and parading can be seen throughout the streets.

National day (Quamee Dhuvas) – Celebrated on the first day of the third month of the Islamic calendar, National day celebrates the sessation of 15 years of portugese rule in 1973. It is celebrated by marching and parading throughout the streets.

Eid festivals – Celebrating 2 Eid festivals throughout the year – One at the end of Ramadan and the other after the Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca, locals will meet in the mosque for morning prayer followed by a series of parades and feasts and dancing with friends.

AROUND MALDIVES TRAVEL

The majority of islands in the Maldives are only small ranging from 200m to 3km in length so you can generally get around on foot once you are established at your location.

Getting from island to island can be either Ferry, speedboat, domestic flight or seaplane depending on how far you are looking to travel.

ACCOMMODATION IN THE MALDIVES

Budget: Around $50 + pn

Mid: $150-$500pn

Luxury: $500+pn

The Maldives offer an opportunity for pure luxury accommodation if you are looking to splurge a little for your honeymoon. Having an abundance of resorts on private islands, there is plenty of opportunity to stay in overwater bungalows with private plunge pools and Jaccuzzi’s. The cheapest you can expect to pay for an all-inclusive overwater bungalow will be upwards from $500 per night.

If you can’t afford to spend your entire honeymoon in an overwater bungalow, consider a night or 2 in the luxury accommodation at your resort for a truly memorable experience.

MALDIVES ALL INCLUSIVE HONEYMOON PACKAGES

Many resorts in the Maldives offer all inclusive honeymoon packages. Be aware of the following if you are looking for an all inclusive package to satisfy your desires.

Full Board – No alcohol, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Half Board – No alcohol, Breakfast and dinner included
All inclusive – Alcohol, Breakfast, lunch and dinner included (be sure to check the type of alcohol included as some will only include basic alcohol packages and may not include the cocktails you are planning to sip on all day)

ADULT ONLY RESORTS MALDIVES

Looking to celebrate your new marriage without the kids running around, below a list of resorts with adult only opportunities:

Centara Ras Fushi Resort and Spa – North Male atoll
Komandoo Maldive island resort – Lhaviyani atoll, Maldives
Como cocoa island resort – makunufushi – south male atoll
Veligandu Island resort – veligandu island
Conrad Maldives rangali island – rangali island
Kuredu Island Resort and spa – Lhaviayani atoll
Meeru Island resort and spa – North Male atoll

LOCAL CUISINE IN THE MALDIVES

The majority of local maldive local cuising consists of fish, rice and coconut. Fish is the staple food for the Maldives with Skipjack Tuna being one of the most prevalent. Below a list of the most common local foods:

- Mas Huni – One of the most popular local foods consisting of smoked fish with onions and coconut
- Mas Riha – Chicken Curry
- Keemia – Deep fried fish rolls
- Bajiya – fish pastry with coconut and onion
- Garudhiya – Fish broth with onions, chilli, lime and rice
- Gulha – Pastry balls stuffed with smoked fish
- Thelui mas – Chilli and Garlic Fried Fish
- Fihunu Mas – Chilli Barbecued Fish
- Kulhi Boakiba – Chilli fish cake

LANGUAGE IN THE MALDIVES

The most widely spoken and official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi – a mix of various languages. The second most used language in the Maldives is English and is widely spoken by many of the Maldivian locals.

Useful Dhivehi phrases

Hello = Kihineh
Good morning = Ba’ajjeveri hendhuneh
Good afternoon = Ba’ajjeveri mendhureh
Good night = Ba’ajjeveri reygade
Goodbye = Dhanee
How are you? = Hihineh
Good Thanks = Ran’galhu, shukuriyaa
Not good = Ran’galhu noon
How much is this? = Meethi kihaavarakah?
Please = Adhes kohfa
Thank you = Shukuriyyaa
You’re Welcome = Maruhabaa
Sorry = Ma’aaf kurey
Yes = Aan
No = Noon
Where is the toilet = Koba faahana?

WEATHER IN THE MALDIVES

The temperature in the Maldives is fairly consistent all year round with high humidity however there is a prominent wet and dry season. Regardless, the wet season can still be a good time to visit as all day rainy days are uncommon, the prices are cheaper and weather is still warm.

High season: December to April

Dry Season: December to April

Rainy Season: May to November

Months	min. Temp.		max. Temp.		Average Sea temp.		Rain days	Rainfall	Season
January	26°C	79°F	31°C	88°F	28°C	82°F	7	75 mm	Dry
February	26°C	79°F	31°C	88°F	28°C	82°F	3	50 mm	Dry
March	27°C	81°F	31°C	88°F	29°C	84°F	5	75 mm	Dry
April	27°C	81°F	32°C	90°F	30°C	86°F	9	130 mm	Changing
May	27°C	81°F	32°C	90°F	30°C	86°F	15	230 mm	Wet
June	27°C	81°F	31°C	88°F	29°C	84°F	14	170 mm	Wet
July	27°C	81°F	31°C	88°F	29°C	84°F	13	150 mm	Wet
August	26°C	79°F	31°C	88°F	29°C	84°F	14	190 mm	Wet
September	26°C	79°F	31°C	88°F	29°C	84°F	15	250 mm	Wet
October	26°C	79°F	31°C	88°F	29°C	84°F	15	220 mm	Wet
November	26°C	79°F	31°C	88°F	29°C	84°F	13	200 mm	Wet
December	26°C	79°F	30°C	86°F	28°C	82°F	12	230 mm	Changing

COST OF THINGS IN THE MALDIVES

McDonalds Combo Meal	$11.33 USD
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught)	$2.75 USD
Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle)	$5.34 USD
Cappuccino (regular)	$2.47 USD
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)	$0.75 USD
Water (0.33 litre bottle)	$0.26 USD

MALDIVES TIPS AND TRICKS

Muslim state – The Maldives is a muslim state operating under Sharia law so ensure you are respectful of the cultural differences. Note that alcohol will not be available outside of the resorts. You will also be required to sign a document on arrival confirming you are not bringing alcohol, pork products or any other items contrary to Islamic beliefs into the country.

Tipping – The is a 10% service tax added to most things to tipping is not compulsory, however if the service is good, it is a good gesture.

ATM – Access to ATM’s can be difficult so make sure you take lots of USD and MVR with you if you are travelling for extended periods to the more remote island destinations – particularly if you aren’t staying in one of the resorts.

IS THE MALDIVES SAFE?

The Maldives is generally considered a safe honeymoon destination, particularly if spending the majority of time in the resorts. However consider sticking to the main streets in Male if you are walking around after dark. For the latest travel assessments and warnings, take a look at the Maldives page for the US passport and International travel website for the latest travel warnings and information for the Maldives.

I hope you enjoyed the review of the Maldives honeymoon destination – Safe Travels!!