World's Best Honeymoon Hotels

It’s not just the destinations but also the hotels which make your honeymoon romantic. And not all couples are the same as they may have different honeymoon goals. Taking romance as the most important aspect, here we have presented some of the best honeymoon hotels in the world.

1) Shangri-La Hotel, Paris

Although there are countless honeymoon hotels in Paris, Shangri-La is one of the most romantic of them all. As Paris is coined as the ‘City of Love’, the hotel only seems to embrace the repute.

Although all hotels in Paris offer sumptuous romance, only Shangri-La offers the unparalleled porch views of the Eiffel Tower. So, when you and your newlywed partner sit back on the porch and watch the Tower sparkle at night-time while sipping fine wine, your honeymoon is certainly well spent.

2) Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood, Thailand

If you want your honeymoon to be exotic and out of the ordinary, then you should consider spending your honeymoon in Soneva Kiri. Situated between the lush jungles and ocean, Soneva Kiri is a sophisticated resort and is only a minute away from the Gulf of Thailand.

Soneva Kiri boasts of 36 thatched villas, and the facilities available for each villa include indoor-outdoor bathroom, sundeck, and private infinity pool. The biggest feature of Soneva Kiri is the Cinema Paradiso, which is an open-air movie theatre that is set above a lagoon.

3) Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling, India

For those couples who prefer to spend their honeymoon in an old world charm, staying at the Windamere Hotel might just be a dream come true. The Windamere Hotel is undeniably one of the best Colonial hotels in India as it has been highly preserved to retain the pristine Colonial experience.

Windamere Hotel offers old worldly rooms that take you back to the British Raj – a priceless experience worth living. As the Windamere Hotel is located on the top of the picturesque town, Darjeeling, you can treat yourself to the awe-inspiring views of the mountainous skyline and precipitous valleys.

4) Helena Bay Lodge, New Zealand

Privacy and unparalleled luxury are what define Helena Bay Lodge. The sumptuous lodge is located in the North Island of New Zealand and is set upon nearly two miles of coastline.

In total, there are five villas, each featuring fireplaces and terraces. Some of the biggest highlights of the property include a spa inspired by Russian Banya and a fine-dining Italian restaurant which boasts of a 1000-bottle wine cellar.

5) Conrad Bora Bora Nui, Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a relatively new hotel and is becoming increasingly popular as an ideal honeymoon getaway. The island of Bora Bora itself is mesmerising, and the resort only accentuates the natural beauty.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui is best popular for its 2-bedroom presidential villas. Luxurious features offered by the resort include infinity pool, fitness room, beach-viewing, outdoor movies, and clothing store.

These Places in India Take you Back to the Raj Era

It has been 69 years since the British left India and everything has unmistakenly changed. However, there are some places in the country which still bear that authentic Colonial charm which can take you right back to the Raj Era.

Here are some of these places.

Kolkata

Kolkata was the most important place during the British as the city served as the capital. Therefore, several British architectures in the city which function till date. One of the most prominent Colonial buildings in Kolkata is Fort Williams. Named after King William III, Fort Williams was the first British building in Kolkata. The Indian Army now owns Fort William, and civilian entry to the building is restricted.

Another prominent British building in Kolkata is the Victoria Memorial. The exemplary building was commissioned by Lord Curzon, then Viceroy of India, as a commemoration to Queen Victoria’s demise in 1901. The building has a beautifully proportioned white marble exterior which gives it a unique character. Writer’s building is also a reminiscent of the British Raj. It was the office of writers during the British rule.

Darjeeling

Nestled in the arms of the Himalayas, Darjeeling was the favourite summer retreat for British officers and also the Central Government of India (before New Delhi was built in 1911) therefore several boarding houses were constructed during the Raj era. The picturesque town still holds the Colonial nostalgia as British buildings are hot attractions for tourists till date. Darjeeling is also popular for British-style schools including St. Paul’s, St. Joseph’s, Mount Hermon, and Loreto Convent.

St. Andrew’s Church is another fine reminiscent of the British Raj. Built in 1843 under the supervision of Captain Bishop, the church is situated on the Mall road, a promenade which overlooks the entire town. Interestingly, there’s one more British establishment near the Mall road, and it’s the Windamere Hotel – the best British Colonial hotel in India. Originally known as “Ada Villa”, Windamere Hotel was established in the 19th century as a boarding house for English and Scottish tea planters, and other British Raj types working in the local area.

An authentic Colonial hotel which still functions at its best, is Windamere Hotel.  It has been highly preserved and not renovated – the hotel has been able to retain the exquisite old world charm till date. So, the next time you want to book a hotel in Darjeeling, book Windamere Hotel.

Mumbai

Mumbai is another city which is home to several remnants of the Raj era. One of the most prominent colonial structures in the city is the Town Hall which is situated in Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Fort.

Town hall has also been considered to be one of the last remnants of the Victorian Bombay. The colonial structure is very popular for housing over 8,00,000 antique volumes in the library.

Another prominent colonial structure in Mumbai is the St Thomas Cathedral which has been considered as the oldest British-era building standing in the city. St Thomas Cathedral was also the first Anglican church in Mumbai.

The Best Honeymoon Destinations Around the World

The term ‘honeymoon’ may be ambiguous, and can be interpreted in different connotations – a rejuvenating beach vacation, an opulent city sojourn, or an adventurous peregrination; the list can go on and on.

Here is the list of some of the best honeymoon destinations around the world.

1. Paris, France

If you are big on budget, then you definitely should consider visiting Paris for your honeymoon. Coined as the ‘City of Love’, Paris makes for a perfect romantic city break. Everything in Paris is about love, incredible red wine, world-renowned art museums, palaces, and quaint city outskirts.

As a newly-wed couple, you can cultivate your ingenuous love by getting lost in the city, wandering the cobblestone streets. Apart from the ‘obvious’ visit to the Eiffel Tower, you should also visit the city’s most popular attractions including Notre-Dame de Paris, The Louvre, Latin Quarter Paris, Île de la Cité, Luxembourg Palace, Versailles, and Pantheon.

2. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is another world-popular romantic getaway and a perfect honeymoon destination. The place is widely recognised for distinctive whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and captivating sea views. There are about 1.5 million tourists who visit Santorini every year, no wonder the place is a holy-grail in many traveller’s bucket list.

Some of the activities worth doing in Santorini include long walks, wine tasting, swimming, exploring the place’s history, and sunset-viewing. There’s no perfect time to visit Santorini, and you can visit the place during any time of the year.

3. Darjeeling, India

If you want your honeymoon to be modestly beautiful, then Darjeeling is the perfect honeymoon destination for you. Darjeeling, also known as ‘Queen of the Hills’ has spread its  ribbons over the majestic ridges of the Himalayan Range.

You should definitely spend your honeymoon in Darjeeling if you love nature. As Darjeeling is also popular for Colonial-era architecture, you should definitely stay at the Windamere Hotel – one of the best Colonial hotels in Darjeeling. Although there are several other honeymoon hotels in Darjeeling, making your stay at the Windamere Hotel will give that authentic English/Colonial experience which is nowhere to be found anytime soon.

Some of the popular attractions in Darjeeling include Tiger Hill, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Observatory Hill (on which Windamere Hotel is situated), Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, and Shrubbery Nightingale Park.

4. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is nature in its juvenescence; the extraordinarily spectacular sceneries are what have made Bali one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations in the world. You can do everything in Bali, bask in the serene beaches, explore rekindling lush forests, and discover historical temples.

You can also enjoy out on several watersports including surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, sea walking, rafting, banana boating, and kitesurfing. The best time to visit Bali would be May, June, and July.

Consider a Stay in these Places for More Romance in your Honeymoon

The place where you stay is what makes your honeymoon romantic and unforgettable. The hotel that you choose to stay during your honeymoon should have unmistakable privacy and pampering – two of the most crucial elements that shape up the romance.

Here are some of the most romantic hotels where you should consider making your stay.

1) Coqui Coqui, Tulum, Mexico

Honeymoon is not always about all the fancy party scenes and huge resorts. And for the couples who like to stay away from all the extravaganza, Coqui Coqui is a perfect place to sojourn.

The place is best popular for technology detoxes, rejuvenating therapy sessions, and yoga retreats. So, if you are one of those who wants to log off and rather enjoy the surroundings, then you should definitely make your stay in the hotel.

2) Fundu Lagoon, Zanzibar

Fundu Lagoon is a perfect hotel if you want to spend your honeymoon in a remote setting. The boutique hotel is located on the tranquil island of Pemba, and newlywed couples can get really close to wilderness.

The hotel is surrounded by pristine coral reef and enchanting white sand beach. Fundu Lagoon can also be considered as an epitome of barefoot luxury as the hotel boasts eight tented safari-style bungalows, each offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

3) Windamere Hotel, Darjeeling, India

There’s no better way to spend your honeymoon than to stay in a Colonial hotel that has an old world charm. Situated in the picturesque town of Darjeeling, the Windamere Hotel is a haven surrounded by the nature’s bliss.

Originally known as “Ada Villa – a British Colonial Hotel for tea planters and other Raj types -  Windamere Hotel has been highly preserved throughout the years to retain the authentic English charm in a pristine condition.

A hotel in Darjeeling near mall road

Windamere Hotel is situated on Observatory Hill, a viewing point that overlooks the town. Visitors get to enjoy captivating views of the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga. So, consider making your stay at the Windamere Hotel if you plan on booking hotel in Darjeeling.

4) Huka Lodge, New Zealand

Experiencing out of the ordinary honeymoon is becoming highly popular amongst newlywed couples. If you crave for the same, then you should definitely spend your honeymoon at the Huka Lodge.

The lodge is located on the banks of Waikato River and oozes adventure from every aspect. Initially built as a simple fishing lodge in the 1920s, Huka Lodge now attracts honeymooners from all over the world all year round. Some of the facilities that Huka Lodge is critically acclaimed for include spa pools, heated swimming pool, tennis courts, hunting, and fishing.

5) Byblos Art Hotel, Verona, Italy

If you like your honeymoon the classy way, then Byblos Art Hotel is there to serve you with fascination in every right. The 18th-century villa boasts of contemporary artwork which will leave you mesmerised in every instant.  Apart from the unparalleled interior work, Byblos Art Hotel is a gem on the exterior too.

6 Most Romantic Escapes in India

India has great romance associated in every aspect of history, and the country is undoubtedly one of the most romantic destinations in the world. As the country is a beguiling mix of different cultures and landscapes, several romantic places abound.

Here are the 6 most romantic escapes in India.

1. Taj Mahal, Agra

The Taj Mahal in Agra is not just a magnificent piece of architecture but also a felicity for blossoming romance. Built as a token of love by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, visiting Taj Mahal is definitely one of the most romantic escapes in India.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

High and bold as love, Manali is nature in its pure bliss and is one of the most popular romantic escapes in India. In Manali, you can transcend your love on the adventurous front too; the place is popular for several outdoor adventures such as mountaineering, paragliding, and skiing.

Some of the most romantic attractions to visit in Manali include Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, and Bhrigu Lake.

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

One of the premier tourist spots in West Bengal is Darjeeling. The quaint town is situated 7.3K feet up the Himalayas and is a magnificent choice for a romantic retreat. One of the greatest perks of visiting Darjeeling for romance is that you can get really close to nature.

The mist covered mountains and emerald green tea plantation are sure to get you awe-inspired. Some of the most popular attractions of the town include Tiger Hill, Peace Pagoda, Shrubbery Nightingale Park, and Chowrasta.

Book hotel in Darjeeling

If you plan on visiting Darjeeling, make sure to stay at the Windamere Hotel – one of the best Colonial hotels in Darjeeling. The Windamere Hotel is situated on Observatory Hill – named by the British for its wonderful lookout advantages. The Hotel is also surrounded by the Mall Road which is a promenade that overlooks the entire picturesque town.

4. Puducherry, Tamil Nadu

Puducherry (aka Pondicherry) is a perfect romantic escape. The place has been coined as “Little Paris” and certainly doesn’t fail to espouse the City of Love’s romantic charm. Some of the most popular attractions of the city include Rock Beach, Promenade Beach, Old Lighthouse, French War Memorial, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple.

5. Kumarakom, Kerala

The God’s own country, Kerala, is another most romantic escape in India. The scenic setting disposed by lush green banks is nothing short of magical. One of the most romantic things to do in Kumarakom is to take a boat ride on the enchanting backwaters.

Some of the best places to visit in Kumarakom include Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Beach, Vagamon, Pathiramanal Islands, and Kottayam.