From bustling cities and idyllic islands to snowy ski slopes and safaris, here’s a list of hot honeymoon destinations for 2011

Mauritius

If you’re keen to experience true island paradise, Mauritius is a magnificent choice. With azure seas, white sandy beaches and extravagant hotel resorts, it’s the ultimate in tropical luxury. Swim, tan or snorkel in the ocean; explore sand-rimmed lagoons, wide open beaches and forests; browse markets and food stalls; sip cocktails at sunset; and enjoy romantic dinners for two on the sea shore. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming and the food fabulous too (a mix of Chinese, Indian, French and African cuisine).

WHEN TO GO:  Mauritius enjoys year-round heat, but the best months to visit are May to early December when it’s not too humid. January and February, the peak cyclone months, are best avoided by water-sports enthusiasts and divers because they can result in days of rain.

WHAT TO TAKE:  Island-style resort wear: floaty summer dresses, an endless supply of bikinis, an oversized sunhat, Jackie O sunglasses, fun accessories like floral clips and a pretty pashmina for the evening.

HOW TO GET THERE:  Fly direct on airlines such as British Airways, Air Mauritius and South African Airways.

WHERE TO STAY:  While there are many wonderful hotels to stay at, we loved the Veranda Group’s luxury hotel destinations – Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort and Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort – both situated in the south of Mauritius. They combine elegant accommodation and gracious hospitality with gorgeous cuisine, superb golf courses and stunning spas to ensure an unforgettable honeymoon.

 

Austria

Mozart’s home country is renowned for its rich culture (beautiful palaces, a world famous opera, the Lipizzaners and medieval festivals), but for adventure seekers its superb ski slopes are the major pull. Winter resorts such as Kitzbühel, Lech, St Anton and Westendorf all buzz during snow season with visitors soaking up white-capped scenery, festive après-ski atmospheres and adrenalin-pumping activities. Try your hand at skiing and snow-boarding (most destinations cater for beginners), or enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, tobogganing, mountain hut meals and shopping. The cold weather provides honeymooners with the perfect excuse to snuggle up before a log fire, enjoy intimate dining or take advantage of spa packages for two. Either way, the fun begins early and finishes late…

 

WHEN TO GO:  The ski slopes are at their best between December and March but if you can’t travel during winter, Austria offers plenty of adventure in the summer too, including lake swimming, hiking and mountain biking.

WHAT TO TAKE: For the slopes: hats, waterproof gloves, goggles and sunglasses, as well as thermal underwear (you can save the sexy stuff for night), ski jackets and pants, and sunscreen (which also prevents against wind burn as you race down the slopes). For downtime: waterproof boots and jackets, gloves, scarves and beanies.

HOW TO GET THERE:  Most South African travellers fly into Munich (or Zurich if going to St Anton), then transfer by car to their ski resort (which is typically three to four hours away). Bus and train travel may also be an option – ask your travel agent for advice.

WHERE TO STAY:  If you prefer small, intimate accommodation, ask for a pension or guest chalet. Otherwise check out the range of hotels (which vary from top-class resorts to traditional, family-run venues) and self-catering apartments available.

 

Kenya

This African gem has long been regarded as one of the best places to enjoy a wildlife safari – places like the famous Tsavo National Park teem with lions, leopards, elephant and wildebeest. Kenya is an unabashedly romantic destination (which is probably why Prince William chose to propose to Kate Middleton here), offering open plains and tropical rainforests, crater-studded valleys and coral reefs and beaches.

Mombasa, the largest city on the Kenyan coast, is a fascinating blend of old and new with diverse cultures and traditions. Visit here for white sandy beaches, the warm Indian Ocean, deep-sea fishing and water sports such as scuba diving and sailing. Other musts include a balloon ride over the Masai Mara and trekking the glacial ridges of Mount Kenya.

WHEN TO GO: The most popular tourist months are January and February when the weather is at its hottest and driest (the animals tend to congregate around water holes making them easier to spot). From June to October, thousands of wildebeest migrate to the Masai Mara Nature Reserve from the Serengeti – an annual highlight.

WHAT TO TAKE: Cool, lightweight clothing in neutral colours for bush safaris, plus hats, cameras, insect repellent and sunscreen. Pack swimwear for water activities in Mombasa (buy a colourful kanga or kikoi there), climbing or hiking boots for mountain trails and bush explorations. Check with the travel clinic about malaria tablets and other vaccinations.

HOW TO GET THERE: Catch a direct flight to Nairobi or Mombasa, and an internal flight or road transfer to your honeymoon destination.

WHERE TO STAY: If you’re visiting the northern region, take your cue from Prince William and Kate and stay at Il Ngwesi Lodge, an environmentally friendly, community-run retreat that offers open-air luxury tents with views of the surrounding landscape.

 

Argentina

South America’s second largest country offers breathtaking scenery, cosmopolitan cities and vibrant traditions. Capital city Buenos Aires gave rise to the tango and is a brilliant place to soak up the passionate Latin way of life. Enjoy old-world cafés and outdoor markets, glitzy boutiques and grand parks. Sample steak (the meat here is tops), shop up a storm, watch futbol with the locals and dance the night away in one of the city’s lively nightclubs.

For rest and recuperation, head to Patagonia in the south where open spaces, jagged peaks and pristine rivers reign supreme. Explore the Patagonian steppe, icy glaciers and Andean desert, walk among penguins and marvel at the majestic Iguaza falls near the Brazilian border.

WHEN TO GO: Argentina has wildly varying climates. The best time to visit Buenos Aires is in spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May), when it’s not so hot and humid, although summer is better for Patagonian explorations.

WHAT TO TAKE: For the city: comfortable shoes for daytime, heels and sexy skirts for night-time; sun hats; lightweight clothing and warmer jackets for the evening. If you’re going to Patagonia, you’ll need hiking boots and practical outdoor gear.

HOW TO GET THERE: The flight from South Africa to Buenos Aires is about 9.5 hours. You can take an internal flight to Patagonia, hire a car or book yourself onto a bus heading south.

WHERE TO STAY: If money is no object, the five-star Sheraton Buenos Aires offers spectacular views and easy access to many of the city’s best cultural attractions. In Patagonia, try the unique Llao Llao Hotel & Resort between Lake Moreno and Lake Nahuel Huapi, an ideal spot from which to enjoy outdoor activities such as golf, snow skiing, fly fishing and rafting.

 

New York

The Big Apple is the ideal destination for city-slickers who love life in the fast lane. If you’re into culture, the museums and galleries here are world class – starting with the Museum of Modern Art. Then of course there’s Broadway and plenty of experimental theatre venues where you might spot a rising star. Take a guided tour of famous TV sights, visit tourist hotspots like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, and stroll through the vast open spaces in Central Park.

For good times, head to Chinatown, SoHo, the Meat Packing District and Greenwich, which are filled with trendy bars, restaurants and shops. If you’re keen to get off the beaten track, Brooklyn and Harlem are colourful residential districts worth exploring. Whatever your preference, there’s plenty to keep you entertained, day and night.

WHEN TO GO: New York is seductive in all seasons but spring and autumn offer the best temperatures for strolling and sightseeing.

WHAT TO TAKE: Not too much! The shopping in New York is world renowned so rather save space in your suitcase for new purchases. You need comfortable clothes for sightseeing and pretty pieces for nights out on the town.

HOW TO GET THERE: South African Airways offers direct daily flights to the Big Apple.

WHERE TO STAY: For a five-star splurge, try the Waldorf Astoria. Alternatively, check out the upscale Warwick Hotel which is located close to Broadway or the Edison Hotel near Times Square.

London

Britain’s capital has become a melting pot of cultures and traditions, but it is still quintessentially English at heart with boxy black cabs, red double-deckers and iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and Westminster. You’ll easily fill several days soaking up the sights – just make sure you also allow time for retail therapy on the high street, a West End show, a pint of beer and a plate of fish and chips in the pub, and at least one night out in a hip area like Soho.

WHEN TO GO: If you’re keen to avoid the cold, go between April and September. Winter is wet and dark (February is particularly gloomy), but December is so festive that it’s almost worth freezing for!

WHAT TO TAKE: Comfortable walking shoes, a raincoat and umbrella for summer. Think city chic for evening restaurants and theatre. In winter, a warm coat, gloves, scarf, beanie and boots will get you from A to Z without too much fuss.

HOW TO GET THERE: Most major airlines in South Africa operate direct daily flights to London.

WHERE TO STAY: The Chesterfield, a four-star luxury hotel in Mayfair, offers traditional, old-world charm in a stylish location and good value for money. Situated minutes away from Bond Street, Regent Street and Piccadilly, it’s an ideal base for sightseeing, and a gorgeous place to return to at the end of a busy day (weddings are held here, so honeymooners are bound to be well received).

 

Thailand

A firm favourite with South African travellers, not least because of its affordability, Thailand offers visitors an intoxicating blend of Eastern and Western tradition, bustling city life and laid-back beach. Capital city Bangkok never sleeps and is worth visiting for its impressive array of temples and palaces, plentiful shopping opportunities and spirited restaurants and bars. To properly appreciate Thai culture and hospitality though, head for serene beach destinations such as Phuket, the “Pearl of the South” and Koh Samui, a less commercialised but no less beautiful oasis.

WHEN TO GO: Peak tourist season runs from November to late March as temperatures and humidity are lower then. If you want to avoid crowds and take advantage of discounted room rates, consider travelling between April and June or September and October.

WHAT TO TAKE: Your usual beach gear: slip-slops, bikinis, sarongs, sunhats and sunscreen; pretty little dresses for sundowners overlooking the ocean; and comfortable shoes for exploring island hideaways and city sights. Check with the travel clinic about vaccinations.

HOW TO GET THERE: Thai Airways operates directs flights to Bangkok three times a week. You can also access the country from other fabulous destinations such as Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong, depending on your choice of airline.

WHERE TO STAY: Rocky’s Boutique Hotel is a small, family-run resort offering accommodation in private bungalows and unrivalled views of the Gulf of Thailand. It also has three secluded beaches and is a popular choice (with good reason) for romantic, laid-back weddings and honeymoons.

Mozambique

Closer to home, Mozambique is a rising favourite among diving enthusiasts (its coral reefs and sea life are spectacular) and a popular choice for travellers seeking island adventure. Soak up the sun on palm-fringed beaches, sail on a dhow through mangrove channels, explore the remote Quirimbas Archipelago, admire the local wildlife on off-beat safaris and watch the world go by over an espresso – or caipirinha – at one of Maputo’s lively, Portuguese-flavoured pavement cafés and bars. The game fishing is fantastic; the abundance of seafood on offer even more so.

WHEN TO GO: Visit from April to September for sunshine, blue skies and temperatures in the mid-20s. Other times can be wet and sticky, or as at Christmas and Easter, just plain busy!

WHAT TO TAKE: Swimwear and a snorkel! Cool clothing for the day and a lightweight cover up for balmy nights. Insect repellent and malaria tablets are a must.

HOW TO GET THERE: Catch a direct flight to Maputo, then an internal flight to Inhambane or Vilancoulos. If time is on your side, you can also drive from South Africa to Mozambique – the journey to Ponto D Oure on the Kosi Bay border should take around four to five hours from Johannesburg.

WHERE TO STAY: Matemo Island Resort is a true tropical paradise with palm-fringed beaches and turquoise sea. Located in the beautiful Quirimbas, it’s an ideal destination for honeymooners keen to soak up beautiful scenery and explore fun marine activities. Other lovely hotels in the Rani Resorts collection include Indigo Bay Island Resort & Spa on Bazaruto Island and Pemba Beach Hotel and Spa on the northern coast of Mozambique.

For more information, contact Thompsons Holidays (www.thompsons.co.za), Flight Centre (www.flightcentre.co.za) and Club Travel (www.clubtravel.co.za)