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Have you ever imagined experiencing a romantic getaway in the wilds of Africa? Well, if you have, few destinations on the continent can match what Namibia has to offer. Here’s a closer look at how you can plan an amorous adventure in this fascinating country.

When to Visit

Before you pack up everything and head off to Africa with your partner, it’s a good idea to look up what the best timings are for visiting Namibia. Here the land is primarily covered in desert, meaning it’s hot and dry for the most part. When the rains do come down though – usually around October – they come down hard, so you might want to stick to the dry months.

Getting to Namibia

So, just how are you planning to visit Namibia? Of course, you can always fly into the country – flights from Europe for example will cost around 650 to over 1000 pounds. That being said, if you initially travel to South Africa or Botswana, you can simply rent out a car and drive to the desert.

Where to Stay

Namibia offers plenty of options when it comes to accommodations, particularly for travelling couples. Hotels in Namibia range from simple boutique options to luxurious options like the Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino. There’s always the option to camp out in the desert too.

Planning Your Itinerary

There are a great many options when it comes to a couple’s itinerary in Namibia. Spending a night or two in the desert wilderness can be a once in a lifetime experience – so don’t pass it up. Just as well, a cruise along the Zambezi River or a safari at the Kalahari are great choices.

Many newlyweds flock to the paradise Thai island of Koh Samui – and with good reason too. This stunning beach getaway is perfect for a romantic excursion with your significant other. Here’s a quick couple’s guide to this amorous island found in the Gulf of Thailand.

An Overview of the Island

Koh Samui is a resort island that’s perfect for relaxing and lounging. Travelling around the island is relatively easy via taxi or even an open-air truck. Most tours available here also have couples offers – so don’t forget to take advantage of these.

The Beaches

The beaches are Koh Samui’s premier attractions, and you’d be remiss not to visit these with your special someone. While Chaweng Beach is far the most popular option, it does tend to get crowded rather quickly. If you prefer something more intimate, consider Coral Cove or Crystal Bay.

Outdoor Excursions

Of course, Koh Samui isn’t just about beaches and resorts – if you and your partner like to explore and break a sweat, there’s plenty to do here! One of the best outdoor activities to try out is a trek to the Namuang Waterfalls.

Where to Stay

Being a resort destination, you won’t have too much trouble finding a place to stay here in Koh Samui. For starters, there’s plenty of Chaweng Beach resorts to choose from – like the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort. Most of these also come with exclusives couples’ packages and deals. So, as with the tours, be sure to do your research ahead of time.

 

Romantic sunsets|Image via wallpaperflare.com

A truly romantic holiday in Namibia is one that you will be talking about for years to come.So, here are our top five most romantic experiences for you to check out when you head over for a honeymoon.

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Hot Air Balloon ride in Namibia
Hot Air Balloon ride in Namibia|Meeta, Hot Air Balloon Ride by Sky Waltz , marked as public domain, details on Wikimedia Commons

Fly over the Namibia desert with your beloved on a hot air balloon. It is quiet up there as you look around the purple mountain ranges rising out over the dunes and pretty yellow grasslands.

2. Rolling Down the River

The northeast of Namibia is rich in reserves the likes of Kwando, Chobe, Okavango and the Zambezi rivers. Take a boat ride down the Zambezi and find yourself floating by the wildlife.

3. Romantic Camping

Hotels in Namibia can organise romantic glamping trips for both of you if reservations are made ahead of time. There’s nothing more romantic than staring into their eyes over the crackle of a campfire.

4. Starry Nights

Check with your hotel as some the likes of Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino will organise for you to make a trip to the International Dark Sky Reserve, the only one on the continent, for a night amongst the stars.

5. Beaches & Sunsets

Nothing says romantic like the beach. Spend a picnic in the afternoon, just the two of you, and go for a walk until it’s time to see a sunset. It will create the most romantic atmosphere for both of you and a great way to end your holiday in Namibia

Planning the perfect Chinese wedding is just like any other wedding, there is so much to do and not enough time to keep track of it all. So, we have made a list and divided it by the number of months in a countdown to your wedding. Let’s take a look.

1. 6-12 Months Until the Day

Have a meeting with your parents and the parents of your partner. You can start discussing the plans for the wedding in sweeping strokes. Book your stylist, hire a wedding planner and consider where you hope to hold the wedding, for example, a popular choice is Xi An China. Hotels in this city are popular for weddings and some of them, like Grand Park Xian, will be more than happy to arrange a wedding planner for you.

2. 4-5 Months Until the Day

Finalise your guest list now and also go shopping for your wedding dress or tux. Select the outfits for your wedding party. Book your wedding car, florist, wedding entertainment, shop for your wedding bands and start planning your honeymoon.

3. 2-3 Months Until the Day

Plan the itinerary as well as religious ceremonies etc. Do a hair and makeup trial, this is a great time to book a photographer as well. The bride’s family should prepare the Jia Zhuang and the groom’s family should prepare the guo da li. Send out your invitations.

4. 1 Month Until the Day

Divide your responsibilities between the organisers, confirm your wedding programme with the hotel, caterers and musicians.

Grand Park Xian
Wedding Venues| Img via Grand Park Xian

 

Thailand Bangkok

Bangkok has become one of the most popular destinations to visit, especially for couples. So, if you’re looking to have a romantic time here in Thailand’s capital, here’s how to do it.

A Romantic Cruise

A romantic cruise along the river with your special someone can be the perfect way to start off your romantic getaway in Bangkok. The Chao Praya river is ideal for this. Gaze at the picturesque sights Bangkok has to offer as you taste traditional Thai cuisine on-deck.

Dinner for Two

No romantic escapade is complete without an intimate dinner for two. There are plenty of options for restaurants in Bangkok, from quaint cafes to 5-star hotels, such as the Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok. Great dining options can even be found at establishments which normally supply event facilities. Bangkok is simply full of romantic dinner spots – it’s up to you to choose one.

Learning Together

What better way to solidify a relationship than by learning a few new skills together! Well, that’s exactly what you can do at the Blue Elephant. Widely regarded as one of the best cooking classes in Bangkok, the establishment offers private sessions for couples.

Relax as a Couple

Indulge in a relaxing time together at a couple’s spa in Bangkok. You can treat yourselves to centuries-old healing rituals that’ll help alleviate stress, relax your body and even set your mind at ease.

 

Apart from the usual culture, heritage, and food tours, Sri Lanka has now become a great honeymoon destination as well. Newlyweds can enjoy the rich wildlife in the country during their romantic escape, while also admiring nature together.

Bentota – a beach getaway

If you are looking for some great coastal spots to visit during your honeymoon, particularly near Colombo, you can always choose the option ‘Bentota’. Your question of ‘where to stay in Colombo?’ is answered bygreat hotel options such as Cinnamon Red Colombo that is already popular among honeymooners.

Ella – filled with serenity

Ella is a mountain village in Sri Lanka that has wonderful cool weather. Honeymooners will just love gazing at the Ella Rock through the Ella Gap and other attractions such as the Ravana’s Cave will make their days blissful.

Kandy – a cultural atmosphere

Kandy is a beautiful ancient town surrounded by mountain ranges and it truly provides a very different vibe. During your days in Kandy, you may visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic as well as the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.

Hikkaduwa – days by the waves

The adventurous couples out there can, of course, try some surfing together on the Hikkaduwa Beaches in Sri Lanka. It is a fun-filled experience that has some excitement too.

 

Img via Pikist

 

 

Krabi for couples

What can you do with your better half if you chose Krabi as your destination to rekindle your love? Well, here is the ideal list!

A couple’s massage

One of the most relaxing things a couple can do together is definitely going for a couple’s massage. From open spaces in tropical gardens to indoor air-conditioned rooms, Krabi has it all. So grab your partner and head out for a special Thai massage session to experience pure soul-soothing!

A sunset cruise

Feel the love as you watch the sunset paint the sky with pretty colours of warm orange and dusty pink. One of the most romantic things you can do with your partner when in Krabi is opt for a sunset cruise on a special traditional long-tail boat. If you are staying at a hotel in Ao Nang Krabi such as the Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, you can even request the hotel to arrange such a cruise for you and your loved one.

How about some partying?

Looking to loosen up a little while on holiday? Krabi has you covered even in this aspect! The Ao Nang beach is one of the best places where beach bars are aplenty, and nightlife thrives. Sip on a delicious tropical cocktail and dance the night away with your better half on the balmy shores.

Relax in nature’s pool

For a more intimate and private experience, try relaxing in nature’s hot tub! If you head out about 70km from the town, you will come across a set of thermal springs with water temperatures ranging from 35 – 42 degrees Celsius. These warm pools are mineral-rich and originated deep underground in volcanic chambers. Perfect for an intimate escape surrounded by lush greenery.

Honeymoon Guide

Many find Bangkok an alluring honeymoon destination as it is filled with romantic places. The enthralling cityscapes and romantic sunsets will make you fall in love with your significant other all over again! Why not have a second wedding with just the two of you at the many Bangkok wedding venues available? How romantic would that be?! Many places such as Avani Atrium Bangkok offer to plan a fairy-tale wedding just for you!

Image Credit: Avani Atrium Bangkok

Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit Bangkok are the months between December to February. It is the most refreshing time of the year and ideal for not only for the honeymooners but also for travellers from all walks of life.

The Packing Guide

The packing list should include all your legal documents required for international travelling. Pack lightly using clothes that are easily dried. Ensure that you pack all the electrical equipment you need, and lastly, the essentials such as bug repellents, headwear, and sunscreen.

Best Places to Visit

For a spectacular view of the skylines, you can ride on the Asiatique Ferris Wheel, and for people who adore architecture, Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall will be a treat! Discover a secluded place for you at Lumpini park and have a scintillating end to your day with delicious street food at the Chinatown.

Things to Do

In Bangkok, there is a never-ending stream of activities for couples to try out, such as morning walks, dinner cruises, couple massages, nightlife, and shopping. You will leave Bangkok with a heart full of memories to cherish.

 

Honeymoon in Koh Phangan

Time to plan the honeymoon and leaning towards an island getaway? Here’s why Koh Phangan in Thailand makes an ideal choice for newlyweds looking for both relaxation and adventure!

Escape to the Beach

Sun-drenched shorelines with idyllic beaches make up one of the main attractions in Koh Phangan. Resort options can be found right by the sand and surf which sets the perfect mood for romance! Be it at the Thong Nai Pan Noi, Haad Yuan or Haad Salad beaches, there’s much coastal bliss to experience.

Activities for Couples

Couples who enjoy adventure have much to look forward to as well; embark on a longtail boat sunset cruise, try various water sports, visit local temples, shop at the Thong Sala night market and explore the Ang Thong Marine National Park. Resorts such as Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas even offer special cooking classes, the perfect joint activity!

cooking classes
Image Credit: Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas

Indulge in Spa Rituals

Some sublime pampering awaits at a Koh Phangan spa resort, with some offering private treatment suites for couples to share in the joys of holistic healing. You can look to experience a traditional Thai massage, herbal steam and coconut scrub that aide in relaxation after what may have been a stressful wedding!

Intimate Beach Dining

Dining by the beach overlooking the ocean is as romantic as it gets and Koh Phangan offers some enchanting backdrops for such an occasion. Some resorts will specially arrange an area on the shore for you and that special someone complete with a candlelit setting, personal chef and choice selection of wine.

Honeymoon in Koh Phangan
Image Credit: Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas

 

Isurumuniya is a beautiful and enchanting Buddhist temple constructed in ancient times in the kingdom of Anuradhapura.

The Carving

Yasasuru, Lovers of Isurumuniya, CC BY-SA 4.0

One of the carvings that call a lot of attention is known as the Isurumuniya lovers and features a woman seated on the lap of a man, holding up a finger as if in admonishment.

Flawless and Beautiful

There are no flaws in the carving and it is carved entirely of one rock face. It is mentioned often in travel guides such as Truly Sri Lanka thanks to its uniqueness.

History

There may be a romantic story behind the carving as it is said to depict King Dutugemunu’s son Prince Saliya who fell in love with a low caste maiden named Asokamala and left the throne for her.

An Ardent Love

It is a love story that has survived for centuries depicted in a place considered holy to all Buddhists and draws visitors on their Sri Lanka sightseeing tours. Be sure to visit if you are in the area and take a picture of the lovers for yourself.