The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact on honeymoons, as well as weddings. After the year everyone has had, it’s safe to say we’re all deserving of a luxury honeymoon, but we don’t all have a luxury budget.
Read more: The most incredible over-water villas for your honeymoon
We asked Ollie Rozdarz, co-founder of honeymoon fund Hitchd, about how to have a budget-friendly but luxury honeymoon. Here are his recommendations for the best affordable honeymoons that will still feel luxurious…
Seven Budget-Friendly Luxury Honeymoon Destinations
1. Cape Verde
Dubbed the ‘African Caribbean’, Cape Verde is an ideal winter sun destination, just a six-hour flight from the UK. The warm year-round climate and world-class beaches make this the ideal spot for excursions and other seaside activities.
There is certainly something for everyone, whether you fancy topping up your tan or enjoying the local cuisine.
Read more: The best honeymoon destinations for winter weddings
2. Phi Phi Island, Thailand
Uninhabited apart from a few rangers from the Hat Nopharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, the island became world-famous after the release of the 2000 blockbuster ‘The Beach’ which was filmed on Maya Bay.
No matter where you are on the island, you’ll find rich opportunities for snorkelling, SCUBA diving, swimming, and sunbathing. The best time to visit is November to April, which is ideal for winter-wedding couples.
Read more: Your guide to honeymooning in Thailand
3. Croatia
Thanks to its stunning beaches and charming old towns, Croatia is a favourite honeymoon spot for those on a budget.
Explore Croatia’s luxurious gastronomy scene and discover its wonderful specialties: aperitifs such as the world famous Maraschino of Zadar, oysters and mussels from Ston, and delicacies such as eels and frogs from the Neretva Valley are among the many dishes in an unforgettable menu that will conquer your senses. For a unique way to see the Croatian coast why not consider taking a cruise?
Read more: 10 reasons to have a cruise wedding
4. Negril, Jamaica
With its turquoise water and sandy beaches, Negril is an ideal location for budget-conscious couples looking for glamorous escapes. Hotels and restaurants are built into the area’s rocky cliffs and the brightly painted vending stalls and traditional homes only add to the town’s charisma and laid-back charm. Negril is truly a tiny paradise perfect for the luxury traveller on a budget.
Read more: The most luxurious honeymoon suites in the Caribbean
5. Mediterranean Cruise
Many luxury travellers dismiss cruise holidays, but they can be a cost-effective way to see the best of a region. The Mediterranean has always been one of the most popular cruise destinations – it‘s close enough to be familiar, but it’s still different enough to our everyday lives.
Who wouldn’t want to visit Venice or Split? How could anyone resist the beaches of the south of France or Italy, and those glorious, azure waters?
6. Bali, Indonesia
Bali attracts travellers of all budgets, and luxury honeymooners are no exception. You’ll find five-star quality at prices that will make you want to extend your stay an extra week—or month!
This jewel of Indonesia’s many islands boasts not only incredible beaches and endless blue-sky views, but also a rich historical background with unique Balinese traditions. It’s truly a standout, even among the many appealing budget-friendly beaches in Asia.
Read more: Our review of a Bali honeymoon
7. Mauritius
Many couples are surprised to find out this Indian Ocean island can be a budget-friendly destination. Although Mauritius has the warm clear beaches of an island paradise, it’s also a destination all on its own.
The Creole influences throughout the famous art and architecture are a sight to behold, as is the artisanal rum distilling the island is famous for. Active pursuits include hiking through the Chamarel Mountains and learning a new water sport. Alternatively, take a boat out onto the calm waters and snorkel until the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
After an expensive wedding, you’re probably going to want to save what you can on your honeymoon, and with these destinations, you won’t have to compromise on luxury.
As countries around the world are trying to rebuild their tourism sectors after the pandemic, many places are offering freebies and huge holiday discounts for lavish trips, so now could be the best time to book your luxury honeymoon!
Read our guide to where to honeymoon and when for the best deals for even more advice.
