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    Honeymoons

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    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.

    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.

    honeymoon destinations south africa
    The Outpost

    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. 

    @patricks_adventure_travels

    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. 

    @out_of_focus_yufus

    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

    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

    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

    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 

     

    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 

    Sky Villa Boutique Hotel

    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 

    Port Elizabeth Treehouse
    Port Elizabeth Treehouse Airbnb

    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

    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.

    Picture/s: Supplied

    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!

    Picture: Unsplash

    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.

    Picture: Pexels

    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.

    Selfoss, Iceland

    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.

    New Caledonia

    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.

    Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

    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.

    Armação dos Búzios, Brazil

    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.

    Picture: Instagram / ION Hotel