For some people, lying around by the hotel pool on your honeymoon is not enough. And why should it be? If you and your love are adventure-seekers, there’s enough to get your heart rate up in this country.

When planning your post-lockdown honeymoon, keep these places in mind and take a ride on the wild side of life.

1. Skydive

Want to know how it feels to fly? Skydiving is super popular and the view from the top is spectacular. There are several places across the country that offer this sport, but we love Skydive Tandem Johannesburg. Always make sure you only go through a registered company and qualified instructors.

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2. River raft 

River rafting, or white water rafting, is an extremely fun activity for two. Make sure you go in the summer months, because you will get wet, trust us! Choose one of South Africa’s many beautiful rivers. We like Gravity Adventures in the Northern Cape.

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3. Bungee jump

This is inevitable for anyone who calls themselves an adrenaline junkie. Be brave, take that leap! South Africa has the world’s highest bridge bungee. Take a look at Face Adrenalin.

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4. Scuba dive

Lovers of the underwater world will know we have some of the most incredible diving spots. From reef diving to shark diving to wreck diving, take your pick. Only go with a diving company and qualified instructors. We love Adventure Mania in Sodwana Bay.

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5. Cliff jump

Not only is cliff jumping, or kloofing, an adrenaline pumping activity, but to get to the cliff you often have to hike along beautiful routes. Get down and dirty in nature, also a summertime activity but if you’re brave enough, all year round. Have a try at Canyon Adventures on the Garden Route.

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Image: Instagram

Trip planning time! If you’re recently married or plan to get hitched as soon as lockdown lifts, you’ll want to go on a special vacation with your love.

A honeymoon is a time to celebrate your new life together, bond and grow close without all the hassles of everyday life like work and kids.

A honeymoon abroad may sound exotic and exciting, but it might not be possible for another while to come. We’ll let you in on a secret. Honeymooning in South Africa is actually a way better idea! Here’s why.

1. You’ll boost local economy

The South African tourism industry is on its knees since the coronavirus hit. The lockdown has been especially hard for hotels, restaurants, tour operators and travel agents. Why not play a part in helping them get back on their feet? Supporting the local industry will strengthen the economy and recover livelihoods.

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2. It’s lighter on your budget 

Of course, travelling abroad is expensive, no matter where you go. Booking locally means you can plan your budget in your own currency and don’t have to worry about exchange rates. Many tourist attractions have special prices for South African citizens, too.

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3. You’ll have more time 

Not having to sit on planes and airports for hours means you spend more time having fun. Destinations are closer and getting where you want to be is easier than flying overseas. No time difference also means no jet lag, bonus!

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4. There is so much to discover

You might not think so, but there’s way more to South Africa than safari and Table Mountain (although those two are pretty awesome). Our diverse country offers remote camping spots, loads of adrenaline pumping adventure activities, idyllic beaches that are not overcrowded (try the West Coast) and a wealth of cultural heritage (have you ever been to the Cradle of Human kind?).

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5. It’s convenient

Unless you’re rolling in cash and can afford to book all the most luxurious companies that will do almost everything but your packing for you, it’s hard work travelling overseas. Getting from place to place can be a hassle on public transport and struggling to get an activity booked in a foreign language can be terrifying. Plus, you’re already missing your biltong and milk tart when you look at the menu with no idea what’s on it.

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Image: Instargam/VisitSouthAfrica

For some, the classic island getaway is perfect for a honeymoon. But for the couples who are always looking to shake things up, that may be a bit boring. Newlyweds these days are often looking for alternative ways to celebrate their marriage.

Some have opted for honeyteering, and others have chosen to have no honeymoon at all. If neither of these options suit you, perhaps some weird and wonderful hotels around the world will tickle your fancy.

Check out these creative and different-from-the-usual hotels around the world:

– Gladstone’s Library

Gladstone’s Library in the UK offers bookworms a getaway with a difference. The library boasts 26 boutique bedrooms, a bistro that offers breakfast, lunch and supper, and an ideal location.

It is situated just outside the famous walled city of Chester, and is on the doorstep of the Welsh countryside, so you’ll have many tourist opportunities on your book-lovers’ honeymoon too.

Surround yourself with 150 000 books, in the UK’s only residential library for a honeymoon like no other.

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– Bjorli Snowhotel

This hotel is made from 15 million litres of water. Impressive, right? Igloo accommodation is definitely a break from the usual and will be an unforgettable experience.

Bjorli Snowhotel also comes with an ice bar and a ice chapel, if you’re interested. Their rooms feature ice beds, mood lighting and fleece-lined sleeping bags to keep you warm.

Situated only 1km from Bjorli ski resort, you’ll be in for some snow activities too. It is also a 45-minute drive from it’s sister hotel, Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park, which comes with a hot-tub, sauna and indoor pool that visitors can use.

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– Kokopelli’s Cave

Spend your honeymoon on the inside the vertical cliffs of the 60 million year olf Ojo Alamo sandstone, in a cave house that over looks the La Plata river valley.

From the bed and breakfast, you have an unmatched view of awe-inspiring southwestern sunsets over the beautiful La Plata River valley and the four states of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado,  in the USA.

The Cave is man made and was originally intended to be a an office for Bruce Black, the owner, who is a consulting geologist. When his plan didn’t materialize, it was made into a bed and breakfast.

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Hotel Costa Verde

As if a honeymoon in the tree-tops is not different enough already, Hotel Costa Verde takes things to the next level and offers a stay in a refurbished vintage 1965 Boeing 727.

Have a honeymoon that makes you feel on top of the world and opt for the airplane in the rainforest!

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– Palacio de Sal, Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Built entirely of salt, the first of its kind, Palacio de Sal (Salt Palace Hotel) is in perfect harmony with the white desert that surrounds it. This one is a truly unique experience.

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– Dog Bark Park Inn

This hotel, built in the shape of a beagle, is a well-known landmark in Idaho, USA. Being ranked in the top 20 most fun and exciting places to stay by the London Times, it is surely not to be missed. This is the one time that being in the doghouse is a good thing!

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– Bonus – Underwater suites at various hotels 

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to breathe under water, this is probably the closest you’ll get. Live out all your fairytale, little mermaid fantasies and spend your honeymoon in an underwater suite!

There are various hotels around the world, in Dubai, Jamaica,  India, London, and Mexico, that offer this option. You won’t struggle to find a good option for you. You may, however, struggle to get a booking as most hotels only have one underwater suite – so get planning now!

Atlantis The Palm – Dubai 

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The Manta Resort – Jamaica 

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Image: Instagram / hotelcostaverde

Havana offers more than just the average romantic getaway activities. A trip to Cuba’s capital is like taking a journey through time. It’s architecture and experiences offer a glimpse into the past, while providing a healthy number of modern offerings too.

Cheap lobster dinners, dancing in the streets,  history oozing out of every crevice and more is what you’ll get from this tropical city.

If you’re looking for glamour and grit, look no further.

Here are some activities you should try with your special someone in the city of Havana:

– Experience the old days in a classic car 

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Havana has maintained some of the elements of their heyday. Among these elements are cars and architecture from the 50’s, a time when Cuba was known as the most glamorous of places.

You can ride in one of these vintage cars, through the streets of Old Havana. Tours are available too. A tour will take you to some of the most important spots in the city, with opportunities to eat, shop and have some classic Cuban cocktails while the wind blows through your hair.

– Enjoy the street music 

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You are undoubtedly in for a festive feeling when roaming the streets of Havana. Throughout the city you’ll find a variety of street musicians bringing the party to you. As you explore Havana, ensure that you stop and have a listen… and maybe an impromptu dance on the streets.

– Stroll along the Malecón

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A good view of the sunset always makes for the perfect backdrop on a relaxing stroll. The Havana Malecón is known for its beautiful sunsets.

The boardwalk and seawall was constructed in 1902. At the historical Malecón, you’ll find tourists and locals alike, and may even catch some performers livening up the mood. Take a stroll and take in the Havana vibes.

– Visit the Viñales Valley

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About 147km west of Havana is the Viñales Valley. A two and a half hour drive will get you there, so it’s recommended that you make a day out of the trip.

At the valley, you’ll experience a full day of activities including roaming the tobacco and sugar cane fields (and trying out the products), visiting caves, horse riding, and seeing some amazing views of mountains and lush greenery.

If you and your partner are lovers of nature,  there are many more experiences like this throughout Cuba. In fact, there are two natural World Heritage sites – Alejandro de Humboldt and Desembarco de Granma national parks.

– Indulge in the Cuban cuisine 

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The best way to experience a city is through it’s food! Try one or two of the restaurants and go for local favourites.

–  Visit the Museo de la Revolucion

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The Museum of the Revolution is in Old Havana. It was previously the presidential palace of presidents of Cuba through the years. At its completion in 1920, the buildings interior was decorated by Tiffany’s of New York, so you can be sure its stunning.

Inside you’ll find the Room of Mirros, which is a replica of the Room of Mirros in Versailles. You’ll also see some artifacts and exhibits featuring items from Castro’s regime.

Image: Pexels 

With winter lasting about seven months long, and the temperature averaging from just a few degrees below zero to just above zero, you wouldn’t think Lapland is a great destination for a romantic getaway. But, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Lapland, Finland makes for an amazing romantic destination for couples. It boasts unmatched natural phenomena, blissful boarding options, and a variety of subarctic wilderness to marvel at.

The region also has a very small population, and isn’t packed with tourists. This means you won’t be in a crowd, and will have loads of private time with your significant other.

If this hasn’t sold you on Lapland, here are some romantic activities on offer that may win you over:

– Experience a night in a glass igloo village 

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The Kakslauttanen Glass Igloo Village is one-in-a-million. You’ll spend a night in a luxurious glass igloo, gazing up at the stars in style. What could be more romantic?

Staying toasty warm while watching the snow fall around you is a unique experience you’ll never forget.

– Watch the Northern Lights 

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One of the natural phenomena’s on many peoples bucket list is the Northern Lights. Not only is this phenomena incredible to marvel at, but it comes with its own folklore too. Some believe that the auroras have a favourable effect on fertility.

There are safari’s you can join which take you on a hunt for the auroras on snowmobiles, an adrenaline rush ending in a spectacular show from mother nature. It can’t get much better than that.

– Relax on a Reindeer Safari 

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Sit in a traditional sleigh and get drawn across the snow-covered landscape by a caravan of reindeer. Snuggle up, have some snacks, and share a special moment with your partner as you experience a once in a life time ride.

 – Go ice swimming 

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Take the plunge! It’ll be a shock to your body like you’ve never felt before. What makes a romantic getaway more memorable than some new and exhilarating experiences?

– Visit a national park 

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Have some quiet relaxating time out in nature. There are guided hikes available; this is the perfect way to take in the fresh air and experience the wilderness that Lapland offers.

– Go cloudberry picking 

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Enjoy a nice stroll while you pick some berries to snack on! This is one of the sweeter activities offered in Lapland. You may have to do some scavenging, but it will be worth it.

Image: Unsplash 

Most couples look to tropical islands for the ideal romantic getaway. You wouldn’t be wrong, islands are amazing destinations for couples. However, cities make for magical escapes too… if you know where to look. Bruges in Belgium is one of the best cities for a romantic getaway.

The city is known for its cobbled streets and medieval buildings and offers many options for romantic activities.

Here are some of the best things to do In Bruges.

– Couple’s Boat Tour along the canals 

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Ride along the canal side-by-side with swans and see the city from a different perspective. This is one of the most romantic things to do in the city. It’ll be like a scene from a movie.

– Indulge in Belgian Chocolates 

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As we all know, Belgium is known for its chocolates. For this reason, there is an abundance of chocolate shops to satisfy your every need. Stop by at one…or ten of these shops and get your fill of hot chocolate, waffles, and much more. After all, chocolate is the way we show love!

– Cross the Meestraat Bridge 

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This is known as the bridge for eternal love. The legend says that a young woman, Minna, died on this spot while trying to reunite with her lover. The story goes that if you cross the bridge with your partner, your love will be eternal. How could you pass up this opportunity to ensure a long-lasting love?

– Take a horse-drawn carriage through the city 

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It doesn’t get more “fairytale romance” than this! A relaxing ride on the cobble-stone roads, marvelling at the architecture and happily sitting side-by-side is a great way to spend the day.

– Have a date night at the Markt 

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The Markt is essentially the town square and, unlike the rest of the town which is asleep by 7pm, it stays lit up and lively until the early hours of the morning.

At The Markt you can get snacks, enjoy the vibe, climb up the belfry tower, or have a sit down meal at a fancy restaurant. If you’re there at Christmas time, you’ll find an ice-skating rink in the market square too.

– Have a picnic at Minnewater Park

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Take the stroll in the beautiful park and pack a picnic to enjoy on the lush green grass after your walk. Sit by the lake, known as The Lake of Love, and watch as the swans float by.

– Visit the Groeningemuseum

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At the museum you’ll see more than 600 years’ worth of Belgian and Flemish paintings. Immerse yourself in some culture and get some great photos.

Image: Pixabay