"It was honestly amazing, we learnt so much"
Honeymoon destinations are often one of the hardest decisions a Desi couple ever has to make. With many to choose from and many places to see, it is never easy.
Are you getting married soon? Planning a big Desi wedding surely does increase your stress levels, organising the six-tier cake, the swanky decor and much more.
After plastering a smile on your face and being bombarded with cameras, you deserve a relaxing honeymoon.
There are various destinations to suit Desi couples, some better than others. It all comes down to what you both enjoy, are you up for an adventure? Or are you the chilled out type?
Either way, there is something for everyone, from the traditional, authentic city of Cappadocia to the glimmering island of the Maldives.
DESIblitz highlight 10 top honeymoon destinations for Desi couples.
Seychelles, Africa
Honeymoons in Seychelles are becoming popular amongst Desi couples, especially Indians. This is of course, due to the twinkling beaches, mouth-watering foods, and the ever so nice people.
Seychelles is one of those places that you would find on the front of a postcard, it is heaven on earth. With countless islands to visit and the sight of palm trees with thick green leaves, you can not go wrong.
Aisha Hussain exclusively speaks to DESIblitz about her honeymoon in Seychelles. She says:
“We were both up for something really private and quiet, after so much research, we found ‘the one’. It was honestly amazing, we learnt so much about each other especially after snorkelling.
“My husband was so scared, it really made me laugh. Anyway, we had the best time and I actually want to go back again.”
July is the coolest month to go on your honeymoon to Seychelles with temperatures varying between 24 and 28 degrees Celcius.
It is also the perfect month to go island hopping as the weather is bearable. Islands such as Praslin, Mahé, La Digue and Curieuse are some of Seychelles’ finest islands and are perfect for couples.
If you and your loved one are people who love to relax, wind down while sipping on a mojito, then Seychelles is for you. Enjoy the mesmerising sunsets on the beach, maybe take a walk through the ‘Garden of Eden’ on Praslin Island.
Water sports are a popular honeymoon activity to do too, along with guided nature hikes at Mahé Island. Guided boat tours are also pretty awesome, you and your partner are able to stop off to snorkel and feed turtles.
Along with its turquoise pristine waters and its pearly white sand, Seychelles also has stunning hotels and resorts.
Banyan Tree Seychelles (Mahé), Carana Beach Hotel (Mahé), Constance Ephelia (Mahé) and Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie (La Digue). These are a few first-class, deluxe places to stay in Seychelles.
Reach out of your comfort zone and try Seychellois cuisine. It is made up of sensational flavours from Chinese, French, African English and Indian cooking.
They use plenty of warm spices, attracting Desi couples; spices that are typically used in curries such as chilli, ginger and garlic.
Seafood is what Seychelles is famous for, as well as its fresh, sweet fruits and its brews such as palm wine and calou. In terms of snacks, many restaurants on the islands serve octopus salad consisting of onions, tomatoes and of course octopus.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Turquoise crystal clear waters, palm trees standing high, blue skies and clean sands are some ways to describe Bora Bora.
Bora Bora is truly a tropical paradise for newlyweds. It is the most beautiful island on the planet and is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations.
It is full of exquisite resorts, tasty restaurants and refreshing views. One of the islands’ most popular place to stay is at the Four Seasons Resort.
The resort offers 108 overwater bungalow suites and some beachfront villa estates. It is set upon the surrounding coral atoll of Bora Bora.
St Regis Bora Bora Resort, Le Méridien Bora Bora and InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora Resort are some more amazing hotels.
As Bora Bora is famous for its clear waters, seeing the life that is going on underwater is always a good idea. Swimming with turtles is something you and your partner can do when in Bora Bora.
You could also hop on a helicopter and see the stunning tropical island from the sky. Kayaking along tropical lagoons together is another nice idea when you are planning your honeymoon to Bora Bora.
Go to Matira Beach for a relaxing, peaceful evening stroll as it is one of the best beaches in the world. Or go on a wild safari adventure where you will visit three villages, four lookout points and eat fresh tropical fruit.
Food glorious food! Want to know what is the most romantic restaurant in Bora Bora is? It is The Chef’s Table by La Villa Mahana.
Here, they only serve seven couples at a time, so it is important to book before-hand. The chef will offer you a five-course meal in a cosy, romantic setting.
There are also various other cuisines in Bora Bora offering Italian, French, Chinese, American and many more.
Santorini, Greece
Clean white buildings, shades of blue at every point, blooming flowers, cobbled streets and cute cats sitting in doorways. The perfect description of Santorini in a nutshell along with many others.
Santorini is fast becoming one of the popular honeymoon destinations for Desi couples.
The picturesque land of Santorini screams out ‘Instagram Husband’ from the rooftops. Why get married if you are not going to gain a personal photographer from it? Especially when in Santorini.
As well as its Instagram worthy shots, Santorini is typically known for its vineyards and wine tasting. Kill two birds with one stone and visit Art Space, a gallery which is full of wine tasting opportunities.
You could also take a cable car ride up the cliffs of Fira for a smooth and wonderful experience. A Santorini day tour with a sunset in Ohio is always a romantic idea.
Rather than hotels, if you are after something with privacy, then it is recommended to book a villa. Villa Lava is a sensational place for two, with a private pool overlooking the Aegean.
Cape 9 Exclusive Villas & Suites, San Antonio Luxury Hotel, Pegasus Suites & Spa and The Tsitouras Collection Hotel are a few more worth considering.
Moving on, if you are a couple who are all about a healthy eating lifestyle, then you have got no problem in Santorini. Salads are famous on this beautiful island, the Santorini salad and of course Greek salad.
The salad consists of feta cheese, olives, peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes. Almost every restaurant will sell salad including Finikia, Floga, Franco’s Cafe and Pelekanos.
Kofta (balls of minced meat), spanikopita (spinach pie), fava (mashed fava beans) and saganaki (fried cheese) are more famous foods in Santorini.
If Greek food is becoming a little repetitive, then there are a few Indian restaurants in Santorini too. These include Jaipur Palace Restaurant, Naoussa Restaurant and Vinsanto Restaurant.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast beautifully sits along the Tyrrhenian Sea and is one of the most perfect honeymoon destinations. Whether you are looking for a budget or a luxury honeymoon, the Amalfi Coast has it all.
With cliffs so high and the sea so blue, the word ‘gorgeous’ is an understatement. Rows of hotels and boutiques are found along the cliffs, with many to choose from.
When deciding upon the perfect hotel to stay at, the Amalfi Coast offers some amazing hotels with spectacular views.
The II San Pietro di Positano, Belmond Hotel Caruso and Villa Cimbrone are a few top hotel picks. They each share a sense of romance and each overlooks the most scenic views of the Amalfi Coast.
Along the coast are several, pretty towns such as Positano, Ravello and Capri. Each town offers several sites to see and things to do.
As honeymoons represent romance, Positano is up there as one of the most romantic towns on the Amalfi Coast. It is full of pastel-painted houses, cobbled streets, small boutiques and much more.
How does a boat ride along the Amalfi Coast sound? It sure does sound romantic. You could even take a ferry to Capri, another stunning town on the Amalfi Coast.
You could maybe go on a stroll through the Gardens of Augustus in Capri. The Blue Grotto is another appealing site for couples.
It is an appealing sea cave in Capri for couples to go on a boat trip and admire the view. The skipper who rows the boat will sing you Italian songs when taking you around the cave, setting a romantic scene.
When thinking about what to eat in Italy, the first thing that comes to mind is pizza. There are many restaurants and cafes you can find delicious pizza and of course, pasta.
If you want a more romantic dinner, why not book the Amalfi Coast Sunset boat trip. On the boat, you can watch the scenic sunset, with colours of purples, oranges and yellows bursting out from the sky.
The boat then stops at a romantic seaside restaurant where you and your other half can enjoy a serene candlelit dinner; ultimate bliss.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali, the province of Indonesia is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations for Desi couples.
Wake up, walk out into your private garden and step into the pool. Maybe order a floating breakfast, something Bali is famous for.
Picture this, you are in the pool with a basket of flaky pastries and a bowl of Indonesian fresh fruits. As well as French toast covered with maple syrup and freshly squeezed juices.
You might be wondering where you can find a floating breakfast. You will be glad to know that there are several hotels in Bali that offer it.
The Kayon Ubud Resort is a hotel that is strictly only for couples, ensuring they have a romantic time. It is the number one hotel to book when you are on honeymoon and has a tropical rainforest surrounding it.
Villas are always a good idea when honeymooning in Bali, as there is ultimate privacy at all times. This is a prime reason why Bali is one of the top honeymoon destinations.
Also in Ubud, there is the Udaya Resort where it is best to book their pool villa when on honeymoon. Here, you will find floating breakfasts and a rooftop candle-lit dinner with breathtaking views.
Berry Amour Villas in Seminyak and Own Villa are some more impeccable places to book when visiting Bali.
When speaking to Hina Ahmed about her honeymoon in Bali, she exclusively revealed to DESIblitz about why it is the best location. She says:
“My husband and I just knew we wanted to do Bali for our honeymoon, we didn’t even think twice. When we got there it actually felt like a dream, everyone was super nice too.
“I was a tiny bit worried because I am a huge lover of typical Desi food and before this, we were in Dubai so I hadn’t had it in ages.
“Surprisingly, there was so much choice for Desi food, I loved it and would highly recommend it to all newlyweds!”
As well as the endless amount of hotels and villas, there is twice as much to see and do in Bali too. The first thing is first, you need to trek to the top of Mount Batur at sunrise.
Mount Batur is for those couples who are up for an adventure and love the outdoors. It is an active volcano on the island of Bali and is amazing for couple photoshoots.
Speaking about photoshoots, the Bali Swing is perfect for those shots, swing over the island of Bali and take in the stunning views.
Jet skiing is another activity for those adventurous couples. The beach Nusa Dua is known for experiencing jet skiing with your other half.
Moving on to something a bit more simple and relaxing, there are several stunning beaches in Bali.
Do you and your other half have a passion for shopping? If so, then put your shoes on and get to Canggu, the shopping central of Bali and spoil your partner rotten with cute gifts.
Another thing you could do is have a couple’s massage. Yes, this might sound typical but massages in Bali are cheap and they are to die for.
In terms of eating, Bali is recognisable for its bold food such as seafood, noodles, fried banana and mixed rice. Almost every restaurant and cafe sell foods like these and more.
However, if you are a couple who craves some warm Desi food, then Bali has got you covered. Queen’s Tandoor, Spice Mantraa, Bangle Bali and LaRouge are a couple of restaurants offering some good Desi food.
Northern Lights, Iceland
Here is something rather different in comparison to the other honeymoon destinations mentioned, Iceland’s Northern Lights.
Calling all photography enthusiasts, grab your camera and get to Iceland to catch the Northern Lights.
A secluded, romantic place for those Desi couples who want space as well as a bit of adventure.
It is not recommended to spend too many days in Iceland, as the temperatures are particularly low. However, the best times to see the Northern Lights is between September-April.
Aanya Singh, who visited Iceland to see the Northern Lights for her honeymoon, exclusively speaks to DESIblitz. She says:
“Whenever I told people we were going to Iceland for our honeymoon, they would weirdly look at me. I think it’s because they expected me to say that I’m going somewhere sunny.
“You’ll be surprised but seeing the Northern Lights was hella romantic, I’ve never experienced anything like it.”
Seeing the Northern Lights firsthand is a once in a lifetime experience in which you will never forget. The colours vary across the spectrum, with colours such as greens and purples exploding into the sky.
To make your trip slightly more romantic, you can view the Northern Lights from a cruise ship, in the middle of the sea.
However, when you are not staring at the blissful Northern Lights in awe, you can take a dip into the Blue Lagoon. It is a super hot lagoon with temperatures at 100 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect to warm up and relax your muscles after being out in the cold.
Explore caves around the Blue Lagoon, see the Gullfoss Waterfall or go whale watching, the endless choices are all yours!
Northern Light Inn is one of the perfect hotels to stay in if you want to watch the Northern Lights from your room. Hotel Rangá also marks its place on the list, with amazing opportunities to view the aurora of the Northern Lights.
If you want to witness the Northern Lights from a bubbling, hot jacuzzi with your other half, then Hotel Kjarnalundur is the one for you.
When thinking of Iceland, the only thing you think of is the Northern Lights, the icy glaciers and the black sand beaches. However, what about the food?
Iceland has a variety of popular dishes that are worth a try. These include skyr (dairy product), ice-cream and cheese, seafood and much more.
One thing in Iceland that is extra tasty and beautifully cooked is lamb. The sheep walk around freely on the hills, drink water from glacier rivers and consume plants.
They cook the lamb in various ways, it is sometimes made as a stew with vegetables or gravy. To try some luscious lamb, head to popular restaurants KOL or Islenski Barinn.
Skardu, Pakistan
Now you might be wondering how Pakistan is an ideal honeymoon location, it is hard to believe indeed. However, if you want to branch out and change it up a little, then Skardu is the place to be.
With landscapes presenting tranquillity and mountains standing high, it is an undiscovered gem in Pakistan. If you live in Pakistan or near the area, Skardu could potentially be one of your honeymoon destinations.
The Shangrila Skardu Honeymoon Tour is something worth booking. The company plans your entire honeymoon for four days and three nights.
In the package, they show you the breathtaking areas of Skardu such as Shangrila Lake, Upper Kachura Lake and Satpara Lake. As well as lakes, you will be visiting Khaplu Palace, Katpana Cold Desert and Shigar Fort.
Serena Khaplu Palace and Shangrila Resort are the two hotels you will be staying at during your honeymoon in Skardu.
However, you could also book your honeymoon to Skardu privately. In this case, Serena Shigar Fort is a hotel fit for you and your partner. You could also visit the Manthokha Waterfalls which are enchanting and very romantic.
Moving on to the most exciting part of being in Pakistan for your honeymoon, some good old Desi food. From spicy, creamy curries, fresh tandoori chapattis to a juicy seekh kebab, you will feel right at home.
You can find these foods at restaurants such as Dewan-e-Khas Restaurant, City Inn Restaurant, Al-Yousuf Banquet and many more. You will find that the interior of the restaurants is not top-notch, however, the food is unbeatable.
Doha, Qatar
Doha, the buzzing capital of Qatar, the perfect place for honeymoon couples who enjoy the nightlife. However, it is also one of the safest places in the world.
If you are a city couple, then this one is for you. Doha situates on the coast of the Persian Gulf and is Qatar’s fastest-growing city.
Here you will find some of the most luxurious, upper-class hotels. The service and hospitality in Doha are untouchable, ensuring you and your partner are comfortable.
Hotels in Doha take honeymoons fairly seriously when you tell them at reception.
The hotel staff will organise some heart-touching gifts for you both such as a scrumptious cake.
Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Qatar, The Ritz-Carlton and Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara are a few amazing hotels.
When planning on things to do in Doha, there are plenty of options. Going for a walk around the Souq Waqif is one of the dreamiest things to do while in Doha.
Souq Waqif consists of traditional small shops selling spices, handcrafted items, souvenirs are much more. You might as well make a day out of it and spend the evening at a luxury restaurant around the area such as Parisa.
Go on a sand dune adventure, visit the Katara Cultural Village, skydive over the city or go to the top of the Aspire Tower. However, this is not it, there are many other activities to do too.
Middle Eastern food is a must when you go to Doha. There are various exquisite restaurants such as Al Terrace, Al Shurfa and Argan Moroccan Restaurant.
These restaurants serve delicious foods such as creamy houmous, chicken or lamb shawarma, kofta kebabs and much more. Batata harra is also a famous Middle Eastern side dish consisting of lightly spiced potatoes, it is a must-try.
Many Desi couples are lovers of good shisha, many of the restaurants and cafes in Doha serve it as well as food. You will find that your hotel will most likely have a rooftop shisha lounge too.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Turkey is becoming one of the go-to honeymoon destinations for Desi couples, especially those who are young. Moving away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, Cappadocia is the place you need to book for your honeymoon.
With only a 90 minute flight from the Turkey capital, you have no excuse to visit. Some couples spend a few days in Istanbul and their remaining days in beautiful Cappadocia.
You will find that April to June and September to November are the best times to visit. This is down to the fact that the majority of activities take place outdoors.
Imran Habib exclusively spoke to DESIblitz about his honeymoon in Cappadocia. He stated:
“So, we were in Istanbul first, spend a couple of days there and then went to Cappadocia for two days. Let me just say, I regret not staying an extra day or two.
“It was honestly so so magical, my wife and I love seeing traditional things and Cappadocia was full of it. It was much more romantic, especially watching the hot-air balloons from the rooftop, that was memorable.”
Cappadocia, just like the rest of Turkey is relatively cheap from the hotels to the food. This means you do not need much spending money to have a good time!
Hotels in Cappadocia are particularly traditional to match the vibe of the city. However, they are magical and almost feel as if you are in an old fairytale.
Argos in Cappadocia is one of the many five-star hotels, it is a resort that is found upon a formation of rocks. Soak in the amazing view of the city while laying on the balcony with your loved one.
Sultan Cave Suites, Hermes Cave Hotel and Carus Cappadocia are some more fantastic five-star hotel recommendations.
If you and your other half are foodies, in which Desis always are then you will love the food in Cappadocia. It is Turkish food, who does not love it?
From the garlicky olives, the meat-filled pides to the flavourful kebabs, you will not be disappointed. With a piping hot Turkish tea to finish accompanied by Turkish delight; the perfect touch.
Elai, Urfa Sofrasi, Aravan Evi Restaurant, Turkish Ravioli are just a few tasty restaurants to try. Be sure to order some fresh, soft bread when in Cappadocia, it will be complimentary in most places.
When you type ‘Cappadocia’ into Google Images, pictures of brightly coloured hot-air balloons will fill your page. You will be happy to know, that you and your partner can jump into one and fly above the city.
There are many choices and prices when booking a ride, you can choose from a balloon ride with a champagne breakfast. Or, you can go on a balloon ride from Istanbul over two days which is more expensive.
Hikes, either guided or independent into caves are worth a go together, or horse-riding and spa treatments.
The Maldives
The Maldives, the honeymoon capital for newlyweds. It never gets old, it is truly a ravishing island.
One thing is for sure, it is one of the quietist honeymoon destinations as there are mainly couples on the island. Many couples spend approximately three or four nights here and then jet off to another country.
While you are in the Maldives however, make the absolute most of it. Go all out, book a swanky resort, eat all the food you can with the Arabian sea as your view.
Jane Anderson, the editor of 101 Honeymoons exclusively speaks to DESIblitz about planning a honeymoon in the Maldives. She says:
“If you’re planning a honeymoon in the Maldives, you are no doubt counting the days until you find yourselves relaxing on an idyllically romantic Indian Ocean beach.”
The Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa Deluxe is an impeccable place to stay with stunning overwater villas with private pools.
Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa and Constance Halaveli Maldives are a few other top hotel picks.
When talking about hotels and food, Jane Anderson mentions:
“All-inclusive can mean great value and there aren’t independent restaurants to visit so you are limited to the hotel’s own restaurants.
“Most offer a choice of places to eat but do your homework- it’s buffet only but you prefer to dine a la carte experience for example.”
When couples to go the Maldives, there are a few popular dishes they try. These include garudhiya (fish soup), Bis Keemiya (filled pastry) and Maldivian fish curry.
Dining and romance bind together fairly well in the Maldives. Why not dine underwater at 5.8 Undersea. Eat, have a chat, clink your glasses together while being surrounded by various fishes.
Experience the borderless dining at Dusit Thani Maldives where you and your partner can dine on the beach underneath the glistening stars.
You also have the option of dining amongst the lush greenery and tropical leaves of the Maldives. Soneva Fushi is an example of this and is very suitable for those who are vegetarian.
While some couples visit the Maldives for pure relaxation, others visit to dive into the crystal clear ocean. The Glowing Beach is a spectacular place to visit at the end of a beautiful day and is rather romantic.
At the Maldives, large cruise ships are also available to take you both to different islands and deserted beaches.
The ten honeymoon destinations mentioned are evergreen and will only probably become better over time. Honeymoons amongst Desi couples are rising, becoming much more luxurious and extravagant.
As well as the destinations mentioned, Mauritius, Hawaii, Thailand, the Caribbean and Goa also make great, romantic locations.
Countries each offer unique cuisines, spectacular sites and jaw-dropping views, causing Desi couples to visit more than one location.
Book your tickets, pack your bags and get on a plane to the destination of your choice. Whether you want to swim with dolphins, hike a mountain or hop onto a hot-air-balloon, the choice is yours.