Top five honeymoon destinations

A honeymoon needs to be all about unforgettable indulgence. The big question is: where? Qatar Airways can whiz loved-up couples off to some of the world’s most romantic destinations from six UK airports. You can be sure you’ll start your union off in style too – the five-star carrier has been named the World’s Best Airline 2019 by Skytrax and the World’s Best Business Class 2019 by Skytrax TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. With Economy-class seats that are among the widest and most spacious, however you travel you’ll arrive feeling relaxed and raring for a week of blissful romance.

Maldives

Swaying palm trees, colourful cocktails and friendly smiles, the Maldives is seriously seductive. It’s hard to avoid the romantic clichés in this classic honeymoon spot but why would you want to? The sun-kissed archipelago is all about lapping up the white sand, palm trees and crystal-clear waters. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to laid-back luxe retreats – many on their own private island with secluded thatched villas, lush gardens, plunge pools and direct access to leap into the Indian Ocean whenever the urge takes you. If you can summon up some energy, you can go diving, try out all the watersports, or go on an island cruise. But be sure to be back on the beach in time for sunset drinks by the lapping waves.

Bali

Whether you’re looking for a lush jungle setting, the thrill of an active volcano, or endless ocean views, Bali will have your dream honeymoon hideaway. The Indonesian archipelago has some incredibly romantic retreats, at both the luxurious and affordable end of the scale. This spiritually rich haven – all unspoilt beaches and startling green tropical landscapes – is a place to switch off and get deep and meaningful with your love: days should be spent swimming, doing yoga, being massaged and, of course, lazing poolside. But Balinese culture is endlessly fascinating, too, so be sure to visit its many temples, watch its traditional dances and ceremonies, spend time with the locals and seek out its incredible cuisine.

Zanzibar

You may be happy flopping poolside but perhaps your partner loves to potter about historic towns and get chatting to the locals? Sharing each other’s passions is the foundation of a great relationship, and there’s lots to be passionate about when it comes to Zanzibar, and its delightful blend of dreamy beach escape and fascinating cultural melting pot. This drop-dead gorgeous Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of Tanzania has all of the romantic tropical scenery you could want for a passionate jaunt (white sand beaches, coral reefs and luxury resorts) along with a good dose of history. As a stop on the spice trade route, Zanzibar’s food, architecture and heritage is an intriguing blend of African, Arabian and European influences. Stone Town on the main Zanzibar Island is the archipelago’s crown jewel with its maze-like alleyways, ornate houses, courtyards, mosques and palaces. 

Cape Town

If both of you think married bliss is about eating, drinking and making merry then Cape Town, South Africa’s vibrant coastal city, is the ideal romantic escape for you. As well as its rich history and buzzing neighbourhoods, Cape Town has plenty of romantic settings with its gorgeous peaks, mountains and coastline. You can take a private tour of the Cape winelands to taste fine wines and sublime local produce and be back to party the night away in one of the city’s seriously cool bars. Or linger on for a few days more to enjoy a few idyllic rural hikes and bike rides. Finding a romantic bolthole is no problem in this smart city, either, with a range of luxurious hotels and intimate guesthouses, many with sensational spas. Unforgettable dining experiences are also on the menu in Cape Town, which is home to some of the country’s best restaurants. Don’t miss a drive around the stunning Cape of Good Hope and spotting penguins at Boulders Beach. 

Seychelles

Beautiful beaches, turquoise waters to snorkel and swim in and extraordinary wildlife, this 115-island archipelago off the coast of East Africa is a little patch of heaven on earth. Of course, their insane beauty makes the Seychelles extremely popular with honeymooners. So, to escape the crowds, seek out the quieter corners – on the main island Mahé, for example, head south and west for quieter local areas. You can stay in the lap of luxury at any number of islands where it’s all about making the most of the deserted-island vibes – swim, eat, snooze and repeat. Oh, and perhaps strolling out for a starlit beach walk for two. It’s also worth making it over to some of the islands’ precious nature reserves: you could spot the Seychelles black parrot in the thick green jungle of Vallée de Mai on Praslin or catch a boat to Curieuse Island to see baby giant tortoise. 

Discover Qatar

Experience a journey like never before with the World’s Best Airline, as awarded by Skytrax 2019. 

Qatar Airways takes you to over 160 destinations from six UK gateways (Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, Cardiff, Manchester Edinburgh) via Doha.

With Qatar Airways you can combine a short stay in Doha at extraordinary prices with time spent at a huge variety of worldwide destinations.

Enjoy special fares on Qatar Airways flights until 23 January exclusively at qatarairways.com