Love, like travel, knows no borders. If you’ve been reserving your special day for a limitless, pandemic-free world, now would be the right time to start planning it. Here are 24 ideas for the perfect wedding-honeymoon itinerary. By Rashima Nagpal & Shrimayee ThakurIndia
Rajasthan
TIE THE KNOT UDAIPUR
Flanked by the Aravalli range, Udaipur has two monikers: ‘City of Lakes’, for its seven gorgeous lakes; and ‘White City’, for its sprawling marble palaces. The city’s old-world charm and regal air make it one of the most popular destinations for weddings. Organise your ceremonies at The Leela Palace Udaipur, which offers bespoke wedding experiences against the backdrop of Lake Pichola.
HONEYMOON JAISALMER
Once a stronghold of Rajput kings, Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City because of the rich yellow sandstone used to make the impressive Jaisalmer Fort, India’s last ‘living fort’. Rajasthan’s lively and colourful culture comes to the fore amid Jaisalmer’s towering sand dunes. Explore exquisite havelis or sit down for a performance by the Merasi singers—a honeymoon here is sure to entertain and enlighten.
Goa
TIE THE KNOT CANSAULIM
Peaceful and idyllic, Cansaulim holds all the beauty associated with Goan beaches but without the crowds. A coastline that stretches out for miles, glittering blue water, and swaying palm trees form a fabulous wedding backdrop. With direct access to Arossim Beach, ITC Grand Goa is the perfect venue for a beachfront wedding. For local flavours, visit Tempero, which serves a blend of Indian and Portuguese cuisines.
HONEYMOON ASSAGAO
Assagao also goes by the name ‘Village of Flowers’ and is known for its beautiful white churches and Portuguese villas, some of which can be rented. While it’s rich in heritage, it is also suitably modern. Assagao forms the middle ground between quiet, isolated South Goa shores and lively North Goa beaches such as Anjuna and Baga, which are only minutes away. It is the perfect base for a honeymoon itinerary that has a bit of everything.
West Bengal
TIE THE KNOT KOLKATA
While it was built by British colonialists in the style of a grand European city, Kolkata’s present-day cultural tapestry mixes Bengali heritage with Western influences. The city also boasts state-of-the-art modern amenities that make grand events possible. Novotel Kolkata offers elegant venues such as spacious banquet halls and a sprawling lawn.
HONEYMOON SUNDARBANS
With a name translating to ‘beautiful forest’, Sundarbans is also known as the largest contiguous halophytic mangrove forest in the world. The forest is teeming with rare endangered species, including the Royal Bengal tiger, Ganges and Irrawaddy dolphins, estuarine crocodile, and the endemic river terrapin. Although the best time to visit is between May and September, in the winter, you might see tigers sunbathing on the river banks.
Kerala
TIE THE KNOT KUMARAKOM
A sleepy little village on the bank of Lake Vembanad, which is fed by 10 rivers, Kumarakom is a natural haven rich in mangrove forests, green paddy fields, coconut trees, and myriad species of fauna. Whether you want a lavish wedding or an intimate affair, Kumarakom elegantly fits the bill. The Kumarakom Lake Resort offers several venues, including one atop a bedecked boat in the middle of the lake.
HONEYMOON MUNNAR
Located in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 1,530 metres, the hill station of Munnar is covered in lush forests, tea gardens, and exotic wildlife. It is also home to endangered species of animals like Nilgiri tahr. The gorgeous Atukkad waterfall is perfect for your first picnic as a married couple. There is even a ‘Photo Point’ for you to take stunning pictures for the ‘gram!
Himachal Pradesh
TIE THE KNOT SHIMLA
Blessed with forests of cedar, fir, rhododendron, and oak, Shimla is popular for tourism and weddings alike. Once the summer capital of the British Empire, Shimla’s past glory is evident in its heritage buildings like Wildflower Hall, the former residence of an erstwhile commander-in-chief of the British army. The property offers customised wedding venues.
HONEYMOON KINNAUR
One of the most beautiful valleys in Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur is known for its bright red apples, sprawling orchards, vineyards, meandering rivers, and majestic mountains. The landscape varies between the lush greenery of the Sangla Valley and the rugged peaks and barren terrain of the Hangrang Valley. Kinnaur offers both adventure and serenity in equal measure.
Madhya Pradesh
TIE THE KNOT BANDHAVGARH
A former hunting ground of the Maharaja of Rewa, Bandhavgarh was declared a national park in 1968. Today, it is famous for its thriving population of tigers. The place also features in Hindu mythology and is ideal for an intimate wedding surrounded by nature. Its charm is reflected in Bandhav Vilas, which offers “experiences that are personalised but never obtrusive.”
HONEYMOON KHAJURAHO, PANNA, AND ORCHHA
Famous for their intricate stone carvings, the Khajuraho temples are fine examples of the craftsmanship prevalent in the 10th and 11th centuries. Explore the nearby Panna National Park by taking a safari or a boat ride on River Ken, which glides through forests inhabited by tigers, leopards, and gharials. A few hours away, Orchha lets you travel back in time with its ancient monuments.
Rest of Asia
Singapore & Malaysia
TIE THE KNOT SENTOSA
A tiny island off the coast of Singapore, Sentosa is known for its beautiful man-made beaches, and makes for a laid-back wedding venue. With traditional architecture and gardens surrounded by the sea, Capella Singapore melds with its surroundings. It offers Singapore’s first circular ballroom with a glass dome that allows the sun to shine through a glass sculpture overhead.
HONEYMOON PENANG & MALACCA
The island of Penang is known for its soft-sand beaches and mouthwatering food. Dive into colonial-era George Town to marvel at intricate murals, or go on a dinner date for a taste of the region’s cuisine. Then, move on to coastal Malacca to witness the historic Dutch Windmill Square and shop at Jonker Street. You can also explore the town by taking a boat ride on River Melaka.
Thailand
TIE THE KNOT BANGKOK
Gorgeous beaches, vibrant nightlife, and world-class amenities make Bangkok one of the most popular tourist destinations. The same qualities make it a favoured choice for destination weddings as well. The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River can host a fairy-tale wedding amid its opulent interiors and a glamorous outdoor reception with a grand fireworks display.
HONEYMOON KRABI
Just over an hour by air from Bangkok, Krabi’s natural beauty helps you unwind. Turquoise waters and white beaches, sunset cruises, numerous caves, lush foliage, and Thai delicacies make Krabi a paradise. Hire a canoe at Bor Thor pier and enjoy solitude on the water. If you seek adventure, there’s snorkelling, rock climbing, and more. Hin Klarng in Phi Phi Islands is one of the most popular reefs for snorkelling in the open sea.
Indonesia
TIE THE KNOT BALI
It is a place that is rooted in spirituality and pulsing with energy. The island has everything from great nightlife to intriguing culture, adventure sports, beaches, culinary delights, and natural treasures. In Bali, your wedding can be as lavish or as intimate as you want it to be. The ANVAYA Beach Resort Bali offers both options with a selection of venues, such as the Kuta beach.
HONEYMOON BELITUNG
An island east of Sumatra, Belitung is secluded and serene—with calm waters, granite boulders, and white sand. Danau Kaolin, also known as the Blue Lake, was created by water collecting in a mine. The brilliant white terrain of the mineral-rich area looks akin to snow next to the blue water of the lake. On the island of Pulau Lengkuas, you can climb up a 19th-century Dutch lighthouse.
Maldives
TIE THE KNOT RANGALI ISLAND
The Maldives is truly heaven on earth—picture-postcard beaches, aquamarine water, private bungalows perched on the water, and coral islands. Tapping into this beauty is Conrad Maldives, on the island of Rangali in Alifu Dhaalu Atoll. Every wedding package at the resort offers a spa treatment for the couple, a three-tier cake, and a photographer, along with a private sunset cruise for the newlyweds.
HONEYMOON FLOATING RESORT BY SCUBASPA
After a dreamy wedding, sail off into the crystal clear water of the Maldives onboard a luxurious floating resort. It combines a relaxing spa experience with the exhilaration of scuba diving. Scubaspa offers a choice between spa treatments and soaking in a jacuzzi, and familiarising yourself with the region’s rich marine life—or a combination of both!
Vietnam
TIE THE KNOT PHU QUOC
Made up of 28 islands, Phu Quoc is a romantic destination like none other. One of its most beautiful islands, Hon Xuong is reachable only by boat. Phu Quoc’s remoteness makes it perfect for a quiet wedding. A 19th-century French university has been reimagined as the J W Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa), where you can hold a private ceremony on Khem Beach.
HONEYMOON LAM DONG
Sip on local coffee as you explore the hills, lakes, and waterfalls of the Lam Dong province in Vietnam. There are ample sites to see, such as the Pongour waterfall, the Lang Biang mountain, and the Hang Nga guesthouse, whose unique architecture gives it the name Crazy House. The city of Dalat, a popular destination for newlyweds, is often compared to Paris. It even has a mini Eiffel Tower and a park called Valley of Love.
Sri Lanka
TIE THE KNOT GALLE
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle is a historic city best known for the Galle Fort. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it was fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. The city can be explored on foot. It looks and feels European with its ancient buildings. Heritance Ahungalla has direct access to the Ahungalla Beach, considered to be one of the best on the island, and offers a fully customisable beach wedding.
HONEYMOON ELLA
Also known as ‘Little England’, Ella is a remote mountain town in Sri Lanka’s southern Hill Country. Here, you can unwind with luxurious massages and tea tastings, or go on hikes to explore the mountainous terrain. The famous Ravana Falls in Ella is a must-see. Alternatively, you can take a two-hour walk along a railway track, which goes through tea plantations, up to the 1,300-metre-high Ella’s Rock.
Europe
Switzerland
TIE THE KNOT ST MORITZ
The crowning glory of Switzerland, St Moritz plays host to everything from ski holidays to destination weddings. Sitting at a height of 1,822 metres on the southern slopes of the Albula Alps and overlooking a lake of the same name, the town is dotted with world-class designer boutiques and lavish resorts. One such landmark venue is the Kulm Hotel St Moritz, which is fit for a million-dollar wedding. Think horse-drawn carriages, vintage cars, and the ballroom of your dreams.
HONEYMOON TICINO
In the south, bordering Italy, the canton of Ticino reveals the sunny side of Switzerland. A mediterranean vibe washes over you the moment you arrive in the capital, Bellinzona, which is home to UNESCO-listed medieval castles. In lively Lugano (named after an eponymous lake in the region) thrives a rich cultural scene marked by annual music and theatre festivals. Ascona, on the fringes of Lake Maggiore, beckons travellers with its countryside charm.
France
TIE THE KNOT PARIS
Nothing comes close to the City of Love for romantics. The French capital’s cityscape is singularly atmospheric: the Eiffel Tower at its heart, streets brimming with boulangeries and haute couture, impeccable art nouveau architecture. To live your fairy tale, hold your nuptials at the five-star Disneyland Hotel. It has a Cinderella Suite, among other whimsical features.
HONEYMOON CORSICA
If anything can follow—and elevate—the elegance, flair, and joie de vivre of Paris, it’s the Mediterranean beauty of Corsica. Hike the island’s craggy peaks, cruise through canyons and grottoes, explore medieval citadels, discover secluded beaches, sample atypical French cuisine—a honeymoon on this unique island can be as eventful as you like.
Spain
TIE THE KNOT BARCELONA
Barcelona’s combination of seaside location and cosmopolitan culture makes it a coveted destination for weddings. While landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia and Casa Milà sing of the city’s heritage, the culinary scene here—a mix of traditional recipes and avant-garde concepts—is remarkable. Marriott’s modern-looking W Barcelona is a fitting venue to experience it all.
HONEYMOON ANDALUCIA
From bullfighting traditions and tapas bars to charming flamenco clubs and remnants of the Moorish lifestyle, Andalucia is stuck in a different era. The region redefines Duende, a word that means a mischievous mythological creature in the rest of Spain. In Andalucia, it loosely translates to a heightened sense of emotion experienced through art—pick one of the many theatres in Seville or the museums of Malaga, Picasso’s birthplace.
Austria
TIE THE KNOT VIENNA
The Austrian capital has always been at the crossroads of cultures. Its reputation goes back to the Habsburg Empire, which ruled the city for over six centuries and left behind a legacy of grand chapels and palaces as well as a coffee-house culture. Famous residents like Mozart, Schubert, and Beethoven gave the city its opera culture, while modern art thrives in its museums. Imbibing the city’s spirit is Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere, perfect for an upscale wedding and minutes from the landmark Belvedere Palace.
HONEYMOON SALZBURG
Take it slow in scenic Salzburg with your beloved. With River Salzach running through the city and the eastern Alps looming on the horizon, Salzburg is perfect for a laidback honeymoon. Visit the 11th-century Hohensalzburg Fortress, sample the best of Austrian cuisine, attend classical concerts, and sign up for The Sound of Music tour if you fancy it.
Greece
TIE THE KNOT CRETE
The biggest of Greece’s islands, Crete is a haven of beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and ancient history. The Island Concept Boutique Hotel by Aria Hotels in the town of Agios Nikolaos makes for the ideal venue for a stylish wedding. It features no more than 15 rooms and a private beach where you can have the aisle of your dreams.
HONEYMOON SANTORINI
Fly to paradisiacal Santorini for its turquoise waters, uptown vibe, and picture perfect views, including some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever witness. Your Greek holiday is sure to be memorable with a meander through the iconic chalk-white houses of Fira and Oia, several uniquely. hued beaches, the breathtaking Santorini caldera, and ruins of ancient cities such as Thera and Akrotiri.
Italy
TIE THE KNOT BELLAGIO
Lake Como needs no introduction. The destination in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region is straight out of a fairy tale. Bellagio, a postcard village with winding lanes flanked by restaurants, boutiques, and villas, is famous as the pearl of the lake. Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is an opulent resort since the 1850s, with sprawling gardens, vintage interiors, and the service of a Michelin-star restaurant.
HONEYMOON TUSCANY
The perfect combination of world-class art cities and pastoral bliss, Tuscany is the balmy heart of Italy. Art lovers should hop through Florence, Lucca, Siena, and Pisa, and then wander off to places like Montepulciano, Cortona, Suvereto, and Barga in search of the finest Italian delicacies and perhaps the essence of dolce far niente.
Americas
The Caribbean
TIE THE KNOT PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Caressing the Atlantic Ocean, Punta Cana lies on the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic and is blessed with a long stretch of beaches. The Coconut Coast nearby features a string of lavish resorts. Eden Roc Cap Cana, the only Relais & Chateaux property in the region, comes with a private sea-facing location to host the beach wedding of your dreams.
HONEYMOON TURKS & CAICOS
When in the Caribbean, one isle getaway is never enough. For your honeymoon, fly from the Dominican Republic to the nearby Turks & Caicos Islands. An all-inclusive resort such as Beaches Resort by Sandals on Provo is highly recommended. Expect a haven of five tropical villages with a waterpark, 21 gourmet restaurants, a 19-kilometre beach, and 10 swimming pools.
Canada
TIE THE KNOT VICTORIA
The capital city of British Columbia, Victoria is a mix of seaside scenery, colonial heritage, and cosmopolitan culture. The city also has a wealth of manicured gardens, a cafe culture, and bicycle-friendly roads. To make the most of its gorgeous harbour, pick The Fairmont Empress for your nuptials. With venues like Crystal Ballroom and English Rose Garden, the hotel has been charming guests since 1908.
HONEYMOON ALBERTA
For a romantic tryst with nature, explore Alberta and its wealth of mountains, prairies, lakes, and forests. Get a cabin in the woods, and call the world-famous Banff National Park your home for a few days. Marvel at the Rockies, go kayaking in Lake Moraine and Lake Louise, explore hiking trails, and simply be one with the wilderness.
USA
TIE THE KNOT LAS VEGAS
If an indulgent American wedding is on your mind, look no further than Las Vegas. A treasure trove of eclectic experiences in the middle of Nevada’s desert landscape, the city warrants a glittery affair. Wynn Las Vegas, with its range of wedding spaces and dedicated ‘wedding salon’ services, specialises in curating a personalised gala for you.
HONEYMOON CALIFORNIA
In neighbouring California, soak in the essence of the Golden State with a city-hopping honeymoon. Begin with the liveliness of luxe Los Angeles, home to the popular Santa Monica Pier, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Disneyland. Move on to San Francisco, and experience its dramatic landscape of the Golden Gate Bridge and vibrant Hispanic culture. In the capital city, Sacramento, which lies at the confluence of two rivers, you’ll find ample old-world charm and history.
Africa & Middle East
UAE
TIE THE KNOT FUJAIRAH
On the east coast of UAE, the emirate of Fujairah is blessed with pristine beaches and the rugged beauty of the Hajar Mountains. The capital, Fujairah City, is home to the landmark Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the second-largest mosque in the country, while the 16th-century Fujairah Fort casts a spell. Much of the region offers a striking blend of world-class resorts and rustic backdrops that are fit for grand weddings. One such venue is the InterContinental Fujairah Resort, which enjoys views of the Hajar Mountains and the Aqah Beach.
HONEYMOON DUBAI
For the ultimate Emirati experience to round off your wedding and honeymoon, look no further than Dubai. The emirate remains popular for a reason—it continues to steal the show with its wide range of indulgent offerings. From dining at the top of the Burj Khalifa to the wonders of the Palm Islands, and a private yacht trip on the charming Dubai Canal, Dubai presents a problem of plenty for your itinerary.
South Africa
TIE THE KNOT RUSTENBURG
Situated at the foothills of the Magaliesberg range, Rustenburg is a city in the North West Province of South Africa. While platinum mines are its claim to fame, there are many underrated gems in the region. One such venue is The Palace of the Lost City set on an extinct volcanic site.
HONEYMOON KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
It is only fitting that a wedding in South Africa end with a honeymoon amid its wilderness. Not too far from Rustenburg, Kruger National Park is one of the biggest game reserves on the continent. Spread over 19,000 square kilometres, the national park is segregated into smaller Host an African wedding gala, complete with hot-air balloon rides and poolside sundowners. reserves that come with safari lodges and the promise of sighting the Big Five.
Seychelles
TIE THE KNOT PRASLIN
Seychelles holds many secrets within its armada of 115 islands off East Africa. A boat ride away from the country’s gateway island Mahe, Praslin is its second-largest island. Its virgin beauty is best witnessed at the UNESCO-recognised Valleé de Mai nature reserve, home to many endemic palm species. For a memorable wedding, Raffles Seychelles comes with the promise of a sublime setting along the azure Indian Ocean.
HONEYMOON LA DIGUE
Sail further away from civilisation to La Digue island. It offers fine beaches such as Anse Source d’Argent on the west coast, the secluded Anse Bonnet Carré Beach on the south coast, and Anse Cocos Beach, which is part of a protected bay on the east coast. Also, visit the Veuve Nature Reserve on the island to spot exotic wildlife.
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