What makes a honeymoon to remember? A beautiful setting, endless sunshine and the option to relax or explore, whatever your mood – a Caribbean honeymoon offers all these things and more. Honeymoon experts Dreams and Secrets Resorts and Spas tell us where to stay, when to go and what not to miss in Jamaica, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
Jamaica
Feeling hot, hot, hot!
They say in Jamaica, ‘once you go, you know’ and it’s true that everyone who has honeymooned there has nothing but wonderful things to say about the place. Apart from its breathtaking beauty and hot, hot sunshine, Jamaica is best known for its warm and gentle people and laid back style, and there’s also a wealth of adventures to be had when you explore.
Jamaica is located in the western Caribbean sea, south east of Miami and there are direct flights from the UK. The Caribbean islands have been the holiday choice of the rich and famous for years now and it’s no wonder why. You want your honeymoon to be the holiday of a lifetime so it makes perfect sense to go all out and honeymoon in paradise.
Where to stay
For the ultimate in luxury stay at Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay, an award-winning resort with a vibrant locale, or the Secrets St. James Montego Bay, another award-winning resort in a more peaceful ocean-front setting.
Secrets Resorts and Spas offer adult-only luxury settings for the finest romantic honeymoon. There are elegant rooms and suites with 24-hour concierge and room services, where everything is included with an amazing choice of multiple gourmet restaurants and lounges as well as activities running throughout the day and evenings, all in spectacular settings.
What not to miss
Spectacular sunsets off Negril’s Seven Mile Beach and a romantic ride down a mighty river on a bamboo raft for two in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.
Best time of year to go
March to December, with the coolest months being January and February, the hottest months being July and August. The average annual temperature is 27-30 degrees centigrade. This is an ideal winter wedding destination!
Dominican Republic
For a truly unique culture
The Dominican Republic quite simply has it all. Apart from its gloriously hot and sun-drenched climate, unusual culinary treats and distinctive art, this beautiful island is best known for its unique culture which stems from an unlikely mix of influences.
Its heritage is a blend of European, African and Taino Indian which can be seen in every aspect of their food, music, art and even sports.
The food here is amazing as many dishes carry familiar Latin American flavours. Try traditional seafood, bean and rice meals, casseroles and stews with chicken, pork and goat or wonderful plantain, yucca and potato dishes. The food has to be tasted to be believed!
Where to stay
There is a variety of great places to stay, and for a honeymoon to remember we recommend the luxurious Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts – ‘boutique havens’ which offer the highest level of priviledges with the utmost attention to detail. With unequalled romantic and holistic experiences and exceptional service, the Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts also boast accommodation with unique design elements, exceptional views and award-winning dining and wine collections as well as an array of personalised services.
What not to miss
Don’t miss the carnival which is a colourful, month-long celebration, climaxing on 27th February. Los Tres Ojos (the three eyes) National Park is a wonderful day out and The Palace of Fine Arts is worth a look too. This is an island for art lovers as it is filled with distinctive brightly coloured works of art. Visit local markets for amber jewellery and stunning statuettes.
Best time of year to go
Go for the carnival which lasts for most of the month of February or for Constitution Day on November 6th. This is a great winter wedding or honeymoon destination.
Mexico
An exquisite paradise
Mexico is a place of natural beauty with a rich culture and plenty of history to discover. For nightlife head to the Riviera Maya while Cancun is a breathtaking paradise location with a rustic, romance in the air.
Visit Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos or ‘magical towns’ such as Papantla, in Veracruz; Malinalco in Morelos; Santa Clara del Cobre in Michoacán; or Taxco, in Guerrero. The peaceful and beautiful surroundings are full of mountains, rivers, lakes and gorgeous beaches as well as interesting archaeological sites. You can go diving or enjoy extreme sports, or just relax.
Where to stay
Stay at the Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, which is surrounded by glistening pools, lush tropical gardens and a beach complete with palm trees. Luxuriate in a spacious haven of a room with its own Jacuzzi. There are several gourmet restaurants and bars ranging from elegant to swim-up, plus a fully-equipped fitness centre and spa.
You can also stay at the Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa at the Riviera Maya which has long been admired for its history and white sandy beaches. This is a spa resort offering ultra-luxurious accommodation with superior facilities and first-class service.
Best time of year to go
October to July to avoid the rainy months though you can get some great deals in early September so you could take your chances. Tulum is very hot in summer and generally warm most of the year though the nights can be cool.
What not to miss
Playa del Carmen and the breathtaking ruins at Tulum and Xel-Ha which are just minutes away from the Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa.
We have lots of great weddings abroad advice on Confetti!
