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.
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?“
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.
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.
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.
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).
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
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.
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.
Scent is a powerful tool. A fact that was so beautifully proven by Cleopatra, who brought two powerful warlords to their knees through the art of scent.
A scent tells a story, can evoke a memory, or ignite your fight or flight response. Much like how scents can excite or repulse you, the way you smell can encourage those reactions in others. Desire is formed by engaging all the senses, and smell is a key factor. Fragrance is the ultimate accessory, much like wearing a scarf or a dazzling pair of earrings; adorning yourself with the right perfume can make those around you stop and turn.
As German writer Patrick Süskind perfectly surmised in his novel – Perfume: The Story of a Murderer: “Odours have a power of persuasion stronger than that of words, appearances, emotions, or will. The persuasive power of an odour cannot be fended off, it enters into us like breath in our lungs, it fills us up, imbues us totally. There is no remedy for it.”
Credit: Pexels
Aside from the obvious advantage of keeping you smelling good throughout the day, what other reasons could there be to splashing on your favourite perfume? Here are three of our favourites:
Confidence:
Did you know that fragrance can enhance your mood and the way you feel? Fragrance plays a role in eliciting emotion and can include anything from sexy, happy to relaxed. It’s all about how you connect to the scent on an emotional level. The perfect example of this is the Montblanc Legend and Montblanc Explorer.
Legend combines notes of bergamot, lavender, sandalwood and oakmoss to create a contrasting and strong, yet tender, perfume. Bergamot, vetiver and patchouli mingle to produce the woody, aromatic and leathery concoction that is Mont Blanc Legend. All of these elegant and sophisticated notes combine to form a fragrance that exudes a scent of confidence.
A lasting impression:
Only 10% of the impressions you leave on someone are related to the words that you utter, while the rest is hinged on body language and appearance. When you’re feeling confident and in your power people remember this, which can provide a potent first impression. As humans, we utilise our five senses: scent, sight, taste, sound, and touch. Certain scents can trigger our memory, and if you’re wearing the right scent, this will only add to the allure and impact of that all-important first impression.
A unique signature:
Similar to pheromones, everyone has their own unique scent. A person’s fragrance is unique to them, that’s why finding the right one that suits you is so important. There are so many incredible fragrances to choose from that perfectly encompass an individual’s personality. There’s no question that finding this level of individuality through scent can influence confidence and self-esteem.
After the stress of planning your big day, the honeymoon is the perfect time to sit back and relax while you enjoy your first days as a newlywed couple.
Your honeymoon is about romance, adventure, and intimate time with your new spouse. Naturally, you don’t want to have a care in the world besides what outfit you’re gonna wear and to remember to wear sunscreen when out and about.
For stress-free honeymoon planning and a trip that’s nothing short of perfect, follow this easy checklist.
Allocate a captain
Consider electing one person to be responsible for the majority of the travel details. While both views are valid and considered, things are more streamlined if one person handles the reigns. This might be the partner who is handling fewer of the wedding details.
Set a budget
Work out what you can afford to pay first, then make plans around it. This will gauge the destinations, hotels, transport and activities you can include in your trip. Although a lavish trip may be exceptional, keep in mind that life goes on after the honeymoon so be wise about funds and make sure you have something to come back to.
Consider the season
You may get married on a hot, South African summer’s day but if you’re heading north to the likes of Europe it’s likely to be significantly cooler (or the other way round). Take note of rainy seasons – you don’t want to get caught in a three-day cyclone in the tropics.
Book early
For tourist hot spots, try to reserve flights and accommodation at least six months prior to departure. Trips closer to home – two months in advance is suitable.
Don’t lose the maiden name (just yet)
If you’ve decided to change your name after marriage, make sure to use your maiden name when booking flights as you won’t actually be able to use your partner’s name until after the wedding. Make sure to book with the same name as what’s on your passport or ID book.
Rather be safe than sorry
Opt for travel insurance to give you both peace of mind. Compare rates and policies online, with sites like Insure My Trip, or go to your nearest Travel Agent to find out more.
Print out proof; keep it charged
Keep online printouts with you – email confirmations, a copy of your ID or passport and any necessary documents you might need. Don’t forget your camera charger (and an electricity converter if necessary). Have fun!
Money, and how people spend it, is often a major cause of tension in couples. Before you walk down the aisle, it’s important to make sure you and your partner are on the same page when it comes to what you plan on doing with your money.
While we hate to rain on anyone’s wedding parade, it’s important to not get so carried away that you forget to stay within your financial means or forget to make responsible preparations for your financial future together. Before taking the big step, here’s what you should consider.
Know your options
First things first: you need to know the type of marriage as well as the type of matrimonial property regimes you can enter into, as each one has its own financial repercussions. Marriage in community of property means everything you own and owe that you each had before the marriage becomes jointly owned. This is the default contract in South Africa.
Marriage out of community of property means that your assets and liabilities are kept separately and is drawn up as an antenuptial contract.
Check out this breakdown to help you decide which contract is right for you.
Have a pre-wedding money convo
It’s crucial to know your partner’s credit profile, especially if you plan on getting married in community of property. Knowing each other’s credit history will also give you some insight into each other’s financial behaviour. Be honest from the outset about debts and current financial responsibilities, such as child maintenance or assistance for parents or siblings. This way, neither partner will be shocked with unforeseen expenses after you tie the knot.
Think about a joint account
If you and your partner are comfortable sharing everything, a joint bank account is a convenient way to manage your day-to-day spending and saving. If one of you is less financially responsible, make the decision that the person who is good at handling finances will take care of the household budget instead.
Plan, plan, plan
Your wedding is only the beginning of your married life, so commit to saving and creating wealth from the start. Set up a meeting with a financial advisor to help you draw up a plan suited for your life goals and needs, and ensure you meet with them yearly to stay on track.
Budget – every month
Sit down together on a monthly basis to check on your financial behaviour and spending. Not only is this good practice but will alert you to any potential shortfalls that you can tackle as soon as they come up.
Paris, Zanzibar and Thailand are all lovely places, but a little bit… cliché as honeymoon destinations. If you really want something unforgettable in a staggeringly beautiful place, why not try something different?
We aren’t traveling much right now during the pandemic but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream. Use your time at home wisely and do some more research into these four exhilarating alternatives. They won’t disappoint.
This town in southern Iceland lies on the banks of the Ölfusá river. It offers stunning scenery and unique activities without the craziness of more popular cities like Reykjavik. From taking in the Northern Lights to trekking across an ancient glacier, this town has it all.
The ION Luxury Adventure Hotel is one of the more popular places to stay, boasting contemporary architecture and an indoor/outdoor natural spa.
Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji are popular destinations in the South Pacific Ocean, but have you ever considered New Caledonia? This French territory comprises of dozens of islands and is known for its palm-lined beaches and being home to the world’s largest marine-life-rich lagoon.
Head to the Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Golf Resort & Spa for an upscale beachfront vibe. The hotel overlooks a UNESCO World Heritage-listed barrier reef and features tons of luxurious offers.
Mexico is a popular wedding destination, but Guatemala is perfect for those wanting the same vibe in a less crowded atmosphere. This Central American country is home to Lake Atitlán, a stunning lake surrounded by blue mountains, misty volcanoes, and Mayan villages. Adventure-lovers will revel in the Old Mayan trails, nature reserves and tall buffs to jump off of.
Book your stay at the Laguna Lodge which is exclusively nestled in its own nature reserve. This boutique hotel commands sweeping views over azure waters to a trio of dramatic volcanoes.
Just a two-hour drive from the popular Rio de Janiero lies Armação dos Búzios, an oasis waiting to be explored. This little beach town is known as an upscale vacation destination boasting numerous beaches, stunning scenery, and active nightlife.
The Insólito Boutique Hotel comes highly suggested thanks to its vibrant antique-meets-modern design elements and a bustling beach lounge.
Ever wondered where the rich and famous jet off to when celebrating their new status as Mr and Mrs? Well, wonder no more…
With a little more disposable income than most, celebrities often go big to celebrate their recent nuptials. Instead of the big tourist destinations, however, they tend to set trends and visit smaller, more private spots.
Here are a few of the most dreamy destinations celebrities have been loving.
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West ended off their lavish wedding celebrations in Cork, Ireland. Situated in one of the most historic parts of Ireland, the Castlemartyr Resort is an 18th-century manor house that offers special honeymoon packages – including spa treatments and delicious complimentary treats on arrival to set the mood for a couple’s stay.
Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel enjoyed a stay in Tanzania after their super-secret exchange of vows in Italy. Following a private flight into Kilimanjaro International Airport, the couple lived it up in the lap of luxury at the Singita Faru Faru riverside lodge in the Serengeti. The lodge is said to be a combination of contemporary, organic styles and quirky practicality of a botanist’s camp.
Lying 240 km east of Puerto Rico, the volcanic island in the Caribbean is frequented by celebrities on a regular basis. Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo honeymooned here in 2011, joining the likes of other celeb couples like Beyoncé and Jay Z who have visited the island for a little relaxation time before. The Hotel Guanahani & Spa is made up of 68 Creole-style cottages – a change from the towers of luxury suites and restaurants that often characterise exclusive resorts.
The St Regis Punta Mita Resort was the choice of more than one celeb couple for their 2014 nuptials. Adam Brody and Leighton Meester revelled in the beauty of the romantic getaway, and Jessica Simpson and husband Eric Johnson spent time at the resort later in the year. A Couples’ Luxury Suite at the resort’s Rèmede Spa sees to all your R&R requirements.
One of Hollyood’s favourite couples Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner enjoyed a low-key wedding at this exclusive private island getaway. The Parrot Cay is an award-winning luxury holiday resort on the island that’s seen its fair share of celebs… Barbara Streisand, Britney Spears, Bruce Willis, to name but a few.
While this breathtaking location charts on Kim Kardashian’s list of honeymoons (she and second husband Kris Humphries flew there after their flash 2011 wedding), Reese Witherspoon and husband Jim Toth have also enjoyed a taste of this scenic spot on the Italian coastline. The Le Sirenuse Hotel offers unbeatable views of the 50 km stretch of beach with rooms 70 m above sea level.
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa is where Beyoncé and Jay Z spent their honeymoon in 2008. The resort offers sporting facilities for guests who want to unwind on the tennis court or book sessions with a personal trainer. Getaway packages for the resort include a meditation-focused retreat, a Ferrari Casita package (designed for those with a need for speed) and a Thrill Seekers package for the adventurous.
There are plenty of us who roll our eyes at the very idea of Valentine’s Day. The day of love has become so commercialised that many couples have opted out, and then there’s the argument that “every day should be Valentine’s Day”.
But this year it’s all different. It’s been a difficult time for most since the onset of COVID-19. Many life partners have been tragically lost, and we’ve all generally had very little quality time with our significant others as we grapple with all the extra demands of living in a global pandemic.
So if ever there was a Valentine’s Day to celebrate the love of your life, this is it! And here are some great ideas about how to make it special:
Be day tourists in your city
This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday, making it easy for couples to spend the entire day together. You could use the time to do some safe sight-seeing in your own city. For those in Johannesburg, you could explore the historical sites before grabbing a bite to eat or something to drink in Maboneng.
If Cape Town is your home, what about a day out enjoying some of a long list of pocket-friendly experiences compiled by Cape Town Tourism. All the details on how to enjoy Cape Town for under just R150 per person can be found here. Or if you’re into art and culture, pop into Zeitz MOCAA for some of the best art on the continent all in one place.
Make this year the year of the splurge
If you’re seeking a really special Valentine’s Day break, then definitely consider booking into one of the world’s top new hotels – Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge. Suspended over the Sabi River in the heart of the Kruger National Park, this hotel assures an exceptionally romantic getaway. Visitors enjoy a unique vantage point from above the river, soaking up unparalleled views of the Kruger National Park and the majestic Sabi River below.
Do something different from the comfort of home
Did you know that you can still enjoy a local jazz club’s cocktail hour, experience a cooking experience in France, take part in a dance class in Brazil, get involved in a fun scavenger hunt hosted by someone in the USA, or get your zen on in a meditation session with a Japanese monk – all from the safety of home? With Airbnb’s Online Experiences, you can explore the world from your sitting room, while also helping these Experience hosts continue to earn a living.
Enjoy a stay-cation
If you don’t want to venture too far from home, but you are keen to get away, then take a look at what hot deals your local hotels are offering for Valentine’s Day. Many hotels create special Valentine’s Day packages, like Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront in Cape Town, for example. Their special Valentine’s staycation includes a romantic picnic-style dinner in your room. You can enjoy it while watching the sunset over the ocean from your balcony – the perfect backdrop to a romantic getaway. If you’re not Cape Town-based, just get on to Google and check out the romantic escapes on offer in your own city.
Have a dance party at home
If spending money isn’t on your agenda this Valentine’s Day, what about organising a fun, old-fashioned dance party at home? Download YouTube music on to a device of your choosing and blast some of your favourite songs – or any songs significant to your relationship. Then take your significant other for a whirl around your living room dance floor! Love is free, after all.
