Honeymoons Archives | Page 2 of 14

In Fashion

Ryan Reynolds’ reaction to wife, Blake Lively’s Met Gala gown has us swooning

May 4, 2022 No Comments

Ryan Reynolds may be married to Blake Lively, but he’s the internet’s husband now. The Marvel actor has left women around the internet swooning after his adorable reaction to Blake’s colour-changing Versace dress.

And deservedly so. The dress is a beautiful ode to the Statue of Liberty and the theme for the Gala titled: “Guilded Glamour.”

The dress is perfect, mesmerising, beautiful, and a shiny example of glamour:

The pictures of the dress “changing colour” is equally as beautiful, it’s hard not to see why anyone would have an awe-inspiring reaction:

While it would’ve been incredible to see a dress changing colour before our eyes, it was actually a top layer that was expertly removed by a crew of handy individuals half way up the stairs.

Here’s a peek at the stunning reveal:

pic.twitter.com/53aN3t2Qrd

— #MetGala (@21metgala) May 2, 2022

And here’s a peek at Ryan’s adorable reaction:

Talk about a fashion moment. We love a husband that supports his wife in all things!

Feature Image: Met Gala 2022 Twitter

In Advice

Looking for the perfect wedding dress? Here are a few tips to find ‘the one’

April 29, 2022 No Comments

When it comes to finding “the one” and having that movie-magic moment where your bridesmaids break into a sob after just one look of you in the perfect dress, it all comes down to finding the right shape for your body. We’ve turned to the experts for this one, putting our ear close to the ground and listening to the suggestions that dress designers may have for some potential gown stumbling blocks.

You’re fuller in the hip/thigh area:

Choose something you are comfortable in. If you are confident and love your curves, then there are ways to make a fitted dress accentuate all the right areas. If you are more conservative or feel self-conscious, then go with something that cinches in at the waist and naturally flows out from there.

You have larger than average breasts:

Get a fully structured bustier if your bust needs that lift and support, or a daring plunge for those girls stay in place.

You are petite

If you are going for lace, something with smaller patterns would be best. If not, choose something streamlined and gorgeous! Even the princess look can work, if done right.

You don’t look good in classic white or ivory

Nude, toffee and sand shades are hot this season! Oyster is also a wonderful shade that suits a variety of skin tones.

You’re not too keen on exposing a lot of skin

A beautiful, hand-engineered, appliquéd illusion sleeve is the best of both worlds!

Feature Image: @aglowceleste

In Advice

5 Reasons we can’t get enough of the Seychelles

April 12, 2022 No Comments

One thing that we love the most about honeymooning in Africa is that there are so many incredible options to choose from. However, there’s nothing more idyllic than soaking up the glorious African sun, drinking cocktails poolside, and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

As travel restrictions continue to ease, more and more newlyweds are looking across the waters to book their honeymoons. The Seychelles has continuously made the list of the top places to visit on your honeymoon, and with good reason.

It’s a breath-taking paradise just off the east coast of Africa and home to incredible culture, activities and sights. With its Insta-perfect beaches, luxurious accommodations and jam-packed itinerary, it’s not difficult to see why South African bridal couples are obsessed.

There’s no visa requirement

For South African citizens, travelling to the gorgeous islands of The Seychelles is a breeze. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 3 months, making it the perfect spot for a honeymoon – with a valid passport of course.

It’s nearby

Just off the coast of East Africa, roughly 1 600 km from Kenya, there won’t be any long and unbearable flights involved when travelling to The Seychelles, making it a quick and easy option. It will take you about 5 hours to get there, and flights leave regularly from Johannesburg or Durban through Air Seychelles.

They have a similar climate

Warm tropical weather covers the island year round, with temperatures rarely hitting extremely hot or cold levels. Being used to our own Mediterranean climate, South Africans migrate towards the warm and sunny island tropics for fun days in the sun and exciting water activities.

It’s a gorgeous island escape

Perhaps one of the most obvious attractions of The Seychelles is its absolute luxury. White sandy beaches and crystal blue waters create a breath-taking backdrop, while the weather conditions are perfectly suited for all sorts of activities. Besides the beaches, The Seychelles also has its own gorgeous mountainous terrains and tropical forests filled with beautiful wildlife to explore.

There’s plenty to do

With perfect day weather and a range of landscapes, there’s no shortage of creativity when it comes to activites and adventure. You can experience the incredible roaming creatures on wildlife tours, go bird-watching, snorkelling, or take part in adventurous endeavours with island hopping, skiing and kayaking.

Feature Image: johan_drone_adventures

In Destination

Botswana’s Tuli Game Reserve – Say ‘I do’ in the heart of nature

March 17, 2022 No Comments

There’s something magical about saying “I do“ under a canopy of indigenous fauna and flora, the burnt-orange sun setting in the background and an endless array of wildlife as bystanders.

And there’s certainly nothing more magical than Botswana.

Home to the best wilderness and wildlife spots on the African continent, Botswana is a dream for wedding couples looking to tie the knot and immerse themselves in nature.

While the Okavango Delta may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of nature and Southern Africa, it’s the unsurpassed natural beauty of Tuli Private Game Reserve that will truly steal your heart.

The destination – Tuli Game Reserve

Featuring 72 000 hectares of unadulterated beauty, this privately-owned land in the north-eastern sector of Botswana’s Tuli Block offers a timeless African experience.

But this wild stretch of land goes beyond offering picturesque views of rugged landscapes, flowing rivers and a region teeming with wildlife, it also provides one of its shiniest gems – the Africa Experience.

The Africa Experience features excellent wilderness retreats, specialised private African safaris, interactive research participation, and now, a wedding venue. Nestled between the lush greenery of the Tuli and perched on the banks of the Limpopo River, lovebirds have the opportunity to plan a wedding ceremony that they will never forget.

Accommodation options come in the form of Koro River Camp, beautifully appointed tented master suites that offer fantastic views, and Koro Island Camp, four simple yet elegant tented en-suites. It’s the perfect spot for newlyweds looking to stay and enjoy the beauty of the region a little longer.

The Wedding Experience

The bridal couple and guests will be treated to a three-day wedding extravagant, in the heart of the bush. Doesn’t get much better than this, right? Wrong!

Africa Experience offers couples the chance to spend some quality time with loved ones with a fully inclusive three-night stay for a maximum of 30 pax.

Breakfast, pre-wedding dinner, a spa day for the ladies and a morning walk for the guys are just a few amazing activities you’ll get to indulge in with your guests. The ceremony and reception will take place at the gorgeous River Camp, perfect for those eager to enjoy the sweet sounds of Mother Nature and incredible views over the river. Fall asleep to the wonders of the universe as you top this experience off with an incredible sleep out under the stars!

Depart with your heart full and stomach full as you enjoy breakfast at the camp.

Newlyweds eager to spend a little extra time enjoying this part of the world can stay on for their honeymoon.

For the ecologically conscious bride and groom, the Africa Experience prides itself in being at the forefront of conservation tourism and this ethos is at the heart of their operations, having established the foundation, TIMBO AFRIKA.

This incredible foundation funds and supports numerous conservation and community projects, including an accredited PhD level field study, which focuses on the ecology of leopards and hyenas of the Tuli.

What’s more, bridal couples staying at the camps have the opportunity to get their hands dirty by joining in with monitoring activities and field observations – if that’s not an incredible way to spend your honeymoon, then we don’t know what is!

With conservation and community at the heart of everything they do, there’s no better place to say “I do” than at this incredible wedding destination.

To find out more, head to their website.

In Advice

Stargazing honeymoon destinations: Where to see the stars in South Africa

March 11, 2022 No Comments

There’s nothing more romantic than grabbing a blanket, snuggled up with your boo as you lay underneath a canopy of stars. Your honeymoon is meant to be the start of your spectacular journey together, so why not make it a magical one with a shooting star or two. South Africa is home to some incredible honeymoon destinations – away from the hustle and bustle and glare of city lights.

If you’re looking to enjoy the splendours of the night sky with your main squeeze by your side, here are a few honeymoon destinations that are perfect for a little star gazing.

Cederberg Mountain Conservancy, Western Cape

A few hours outside of Cape Town lies this magical oasis filled with some of the country’s most stunning rock formations. While it’s bursting with some incredible history, the Cederberg Wilderness also has some pretty great spots for couples looking to gaze up at the night’s sky. The Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve is famous for its one-of-a-kind accommodation, which … you guessed it, is under the stars.

honeymoon destinations south africa — Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve

Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga

If you’re looking for a little adventure with your stargazing, then nothing beats a honeymoon in the wild Kruger National Park. Spend your nights listening to the majestic roars of lions while making a wish on a shooting star. It doesn’t get more perfect than that! If you’re really looking for a glittering showcase from our galaxy, then head to the northern region of the park. A luxurious honeymoon experience is at your fingertips when making a booking at The Outpost or keep things simple with Punda Maria Camp.

Amphitheatre Central, Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal

The couple who hikes together, stays together. Isn’t that how the saying goes? Either way, if you and your significant other are looking to work for some incredible views, then the Drakensberg’s Amphitheatre is a must for those looking to stretch their legs and enjoy the stars. Pitch your tent and enjoy the view, or head down to spend some quality time in nature with Thendele Camp.

Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, Limpopo

This incredible region is situated Musina, in the far north of Limpopo and nothing showcases South Africa’s beauty quite like this destination. If you’d love to spend your honeymoon listening to the wild calls of nature and the sweet gurgling of flowing rivers, then spend the night and enjoy a starry bath with Leokwe Camp.

Sutherland, Northern Cape

The charming town of Sutherland is home to the largest telescope in the southern hemisphere – the Southern African Large Telescope. With that reputation, you’re bound to have an epic stargazing experience that will leave you starry-eyed for weeks to come. Die Heks se Huis : Amethyst is also a great little Airbnb, and not at all what its name suggests.

Picture: Unsplash

In Destination

Garden Route on the list of most romantic road trips in the world!

February 11, 2022 No Comments

Whether you call the Western Cape home or you and your significant other love to hop in your car and explore what our beautiful country has to offer, as South Africans, we all know that the Garden Route is a scenic slice of paradise, promising a road trip that will take your breath away.

This 300 km route of spectacular beauty along the southwest coast of South Africa is known for its ecologically diverse vegetation, numerous lagoons, forests, lakes, and beautiful beaches.

And now the rest of the world knows it too after the latest research revealed the most romantic road trips for couples to explore, and the Garden Route is on the list!

Car insurance company Confused.com took a deep dive into hundreds of thousands of reviews from popular venues that you may encounter along each route, and this was then used to calculate an overall ‘romance score’.

The ‘Count of Reviews Containing Romantic Terms’ was the main component to measure romance, and routes that included romantic terminology in their reviews scored much higher.

According to the research, the German Alpine Road is the most romantic driving route, earning a delicious romance score of 9.56/10. Puglia in Italy bagged the second spot with a 9.13 score and the Amalfi Coast in Italy claimed third with a 8.69 rating.

The list goes on to evaluate more than 20 other stunning locations, including the Garden Route!

So there you go lovers, a trip to the Garden Route awaits, and right on time for Valentine’s Day!

Picture: Cape {town} Etc

In Destination

Swoon! South Africa was voted the 6th best honeymoon destination in 2022

January 31, 2022 No Comments

Forget the Amalfi Coast of Italy or the azure blue waters of the Maldives, South Africa is the perfect destination for newlyweds looking to kick back after months of wedding planning, stare into each other’s eyes, and enjoy a romance-filled getaway that will inevitably set the tone for a lifetime of adventures.

While we know South Africa is a destination close to our hearts, it seems 1.6 million international travellers agree with us. According to a survey conducted by Big 7 Travel, SA is the perfect destination to enjoy a romantic getaway after saying “I do.“

Looks like the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch and the majestic Big 5 in the Kruger National Park have snagged us a spot at number 6, beating out honeymoon favourites such as Hawaii and Spain.

Also Read: How to pick your honeymoon destination

The gorgeous white-sandy beaches of Clifton, coupled with the mesmerising beauty of Table Mountain ensure honeymooners get to enjoy the perfect beachside escape. But it’s this classic honeymoon picture juxtaposed with the rugged beauty of South Africa that is sure to steal every newlywed’s heart. An epic trip in a hot air balloon over the beauty of Magaliesberg or a magical stroll in one of the many tropical forests that make up KwaZulu-Natal – there’s literally something for everyone.

“South Africa is a dream location to visit: endless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink neighbourhoods in Cape Town, wineries in Stellenbosch and turquoise waters. What more could you ask for from a romantic honeymoon?“

Yes to all of the above!

Picture: tripstocherish

In Accessories

How to pick your honeymoon destination

January 9, 2022 No Comments

The first step towards planning your dream honeymoon is selecting the perfect location. The place you choose will determine the best time to go, activities you enjoy, and the general vibe of your honeymoon.

Deciding on a honeymoon destination can be a little overwhelming. If you’re having trouble narrowing your options down, keep these tips in mind.

Select a general vibe

Before you settle on a location, it may be easier to know what kind of honeymoon you want. If you’re the adventurous/outdoorsy type, a tropical location like Bali may be best for you. On the other hand, art-lovers will enjoy more cultural locations like Rome. City slickers will thrive in metropolitan areas like New York and those just wanting a relaxing break should opt for a beach getaway like the Seychelles.

Make a list and check it twice

Now that you know the type of honeymoon you want, you can begin researching locations that offer what you want. Write a list of dream places you and your fiancé would like to travel to, and see if/which places are on both your lists.

Set a budget

It’s important to stay within budget when honeymooning. Remember, you just blew quite a bit on your big day so you don’t want to start your married life in even deeper debt. Now that you’ve got your list of destinations, evaluate which one best fits with your budget. For example, if you want a cultural experience abroad, it may be better to opt for smaller locations in Eastern Europe rather than Western Europe, as they’re often way more affordable.

Factor in out-of-pocket costs

Travelling can easily become expensive if you forget to sweat the small stuff. Things like Visa applications, the exchange rate, transportation, surge pricing for in-season activities and restaurants can all add up quickly.

Consider the time of year and weather

If you plan on soaking up the sun all day, it would be best to check ahead of time to make sure the weather will be on your side. Travelling in-season is often more expensive but it ensures you’ll be able to enjoy the activities you want, whereas off-season travelling may save some coin but run the risk of some things being closed.

Stay abreast of current events

Make sure to do your research beforehand to make sure you are aware of all the health risks and requirements of every individual destination. This is especially important if you plan to travel amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Some countries require certain vaccines and paperwork before entry. It is also important for many to consider whether your destination of choice is LGBQTI+ friendly.

In Weddings

Say hello to the latest wedding trend – ‘preddings’ or ‘pretend wedding’

September 13, 2021 No Comments

It’s been a weird 18-months. Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all needed to adjust our lifestyles – sanitise, wear masks, social distance – it’s been an interesting adventure. The pandemic has also spawned a host of trends as various industries learn to pivot and adapt to the “new normal”.

Our new reality has been pretty tough on the wedding industry, with thousands of couples watching their wedding date come and go without saying “I do.” However, grabbing a huge slice of wedding cake and sulking is the last thing couples are doing, birthing a new kind of pre-nuptial ceremony.

There’s plenty that goes into planning a wedding. From choosing your dream venue to the perfect date, many couples are choosing not to compromise on the details of their dream day despite working within the confines of the pandemic.

The pretend wedding, or predding, has been an intimate substitute for wedding celebrations, honouring would-be wedding dates. There might be no signing of a marriage license, but it’s a great way to celebrate love with friends and family.

The hashtag #pretendwedding has been making the rounds on social media, a trend that’s still going strong despite the easing of lockdown restrictions.

A casual setting and dress code, and no strict itinerary makes this new trend a welcome distraction from the stress of wedding planning. Here are a few of our favourite “preddings” online.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CApO0J0F6jx/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=b5954adf-5802-4c03-b7fb-0841ec473b19

https://www.instagram.com/p/CCObvNcHPVs/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=cff00f7a-0d72-4d2d-a6b4-7985b15d91f4

https://www.instagram.com/p/CFIHpQdp5Qm/

Picture Credit: Unsplash │Instagram

In Destination

5 ‘Solomoon’ destinations you can head to before getting married

September 8, 2021 No Comments

You’re about to say your “I dos,” an event that will undoubtedly sweep you up into a love bubble of bliss as you learn to adjust to your new life as Mr and Mrs. But after 18 months of living in close proximately (at least for some of us) with your other half, spending some quality time with the most important person in your life – you – is crucial to stepping into this life of partnership on the right foot.

Indulging in a solomoon is a great way to get some much-needed “me time” before standing at the altar. Whether you choose to enjoy a week-long solo trip or a weekend under the stars, experts are adamant that prioritising some alone time is a must before embarking on your new journey.

What is a Solomoon?

Think of it as a honeymoon, but solo. Basically, it’s an independent trip that’s taken before your wedding day. Marriage is about finding that sweet spot between independence and dependence, learning to build a life with someone while staying authentically you. Taking time out to enjoy your company – alone – is the perfect way to get reacquainted with yourself before getting married.

Sky Villa Boutique Hotel – Plettenberg

Perched on a hilltop, Sky Villa offers incredible views of Plettenberg Bay that will definitely make your soon-to-be-husband a little jealous. It’s only a five-minute drive from the beach, but trust us, you won’t want to leave this sprawling property. They offer a range of accommodation options, but it’s the Sky Villa cottage that you have to take advantage of. The cottage provides comfort and luxury, with a touch of independence if you’re not keen on spending your time in a hotel during your getaway. A gym, restaurant, fynbos garden, swimming pool and their famous Sky bar are all on-site, so you’ll never have to leave (or lift a finger).

Leobo Private Reserve – Vaalwater

Solomoon - Leobo Private Reserve — Lebo Private Game Reserve

The key to an incredible solomoon is peace and quiet, and Leobo Private Reserve is paradise. Nestled within the Waterberg mountains, it’s a three hours drive from Johannesburg and offers everything you can possibly imagine for the nature-loving bride-to-be. Spend your day exploring this 20 000 acre reserve, with bird-watching, safaris, kayaking, game viewing and sky diving all on offer. Or enjoy a quiet time out by relaxing alongside the swimming pool or enjoying the mesmerising views. There’s literally something for everyone

Woodsong Cottage – Dargle, KwaZulu-Natal

Solomoon - Woodsong — Woodsong Cottage Airbnb

Resorts aren’t the only place you can enjoy a solo vacation. If you love spending time on your own, blasting some R&B while cooking up a storm, then self-catering is a great option. Whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal or looking for something a little closer to home, Woodsong Cottage is a steal. Nestled in the Dargle Valley and overlooking the Umngeni River, it provides some amazing views for the ideal time alone. Each bedroom leads out onto the deck, where views, views, and more views are on offer. A feast for your eyes for sure, but it’s the minimalist interior design and sense of escape from the bustle of wedding planning that will really leave you screaming with delight.

A Treehouse Stay – Port Elizabeth

Allow your inner child to live vicariously through you before committing yourself to a life of forever with your person by booking a stay at this incredible Port Elizabeth Treehouse. You know it’s great when it’s ranked one of the top treehouse stays in South Africa, with endless views of the valley and sea in the distance right outside your window. Don’t forget to take your Lush bath bomb as you unwind in a bathtub that offers some incredible views of the forest – a nature lover’s dream! Grab a book and enjoy the incredible bird calls, soaking in the magical yet simple architectural design and interior. If it’s not on your solomoon list, then make sure to add it to your travel bucket list.

Picture: Spirited Pursuit