Honeymoon and travel ideas for Essex couples

Picturesque French hotel to re-open

Surrounded by six hectares of private parkland and rolling vineyards, Château de Candie is located in picturesque Chambéry, just an hour from both Geneva and Lyon airports. The property sleeps up to 60 on a by-room basis and provides a quintessential Savoyard escape for couples. Reopening until 31st October, Château de Candie has introduced a number of new experiences for guests this summer. From a new menu at the restaurant featuring locally sourced produce and dishes typical of the region to champagne picnics on the estate's rolling vineyards, water sports at the local Bourget lake and visits to Chambery's famous covered market.

Discover more at www.purplesummer.co

Ibiza hotel opens up for their first full season

Hyde Ibiza is now welcoming guests for its first full season. The property is a 401-room hotel nestled on the luscious green hills of Cala Llonga. Offering a relaxed sea view oasis, the property occupies a prime location right next to the beach, with direct access to the crystal waters and a boat dock with a public ferry to the peaceful sister island of Formentera. There are also three glistening outdoor pools and diverse culinary experiences.

Launching this June is Sonrojo, an authentic beachside dining experience with a soundtrack of Balearic beats to accompany the beautiful coastline. Sonrojo serves a laid-back menu of Spanish cuisine, including paella and freshly grilled fish.

Check out www.hydeibiza.com for more information.

African sea resort has a glow up

Set in a coconut plantation overlooking the cerulean shores of the Indian Ocean, Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare has undergone a two year transformation that has added new vim and vigour to almost every part of the resort. Every room and suite has been meticulously refreshed, breathing new energy into the collection of bright and airy abodes, which open up onto emerald landscapes and azure sea views.

The new treatment menus at Kempinski Spa now feature locally sourced organic products, while the gym and fitness centre boast floodlit tennis and padel courts for after-hours tournaments.

Visit www.kempinski.com for more information.

Fun in the sun

With their increasingly tropical temperatures, the countries of Europe are proving to be favoured over tourist-traps elsewhere. Below are destination suggestions to keep your lovebird holiday quiet and picturesque: 1. Lithuania: Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Trakai. Float above Trakai Castle and the tranquil lakes surrounding it - a magical scene for any proposal. As couples fly, they are treated to stunning views of the ancient city, nestled on an island in the middle of Lake Galv. 2. Poland: Tatra Mountains. The magnificent peaks of the Tatra Mountains create a truly breath-taking setting for quality time together. Imagine standing at the top of the mountain

TRS Ibiza Hotel releases new deals

The presidential suite makes guest couples feel like royalty. With its large two bedrooms and two bathrooms, there's enough room for a King and Queen. The panoramic windows offer stunning sunset views of the surrounding bay - the jewel in the crown. Tailored especially for couples, the romantic packages are hard to pass up. The deal offers free champagne, 20% off access to the spa and wellness centre and premium cocktails courtesy of the rooftop Gravity Sky Bar – an experience you both won't forget in a hurry! The Pawradise programme, extends the honeymoon to accommodate your furry friends. With complimentary toys, cushions and food bowls, spoilt is an understatement. The dog-friendly walking areas make this hotel a home away from home.

walk on the wild side with Aardvark Safari's new trails

The Cheetah Trail, launching September 2024, is sure to provide some unforgettable moments. Averaging 10-15 km a day, participants are handed a golden opportunity to tick an item of their bucket lists. Keep your eyes peeled, they're fast!

If relaxation is more your style, the Walks for Wellness trails in Tanzania allow for that mind and nature connection. Strolling through Tanzania's scenery, the surroundings provide a spiritual experience, a connection with nature that's irreplaceable.

Tanzania's Footsteps of Mankind trail tops off the trio. Starting the journey at the birthplace of humankind, guests embark on a seven day journey through highlands, valleys and gorges. An experience that's sure to enhance your honeymoon.

Angama Amboseli, an intimate safari lodge, announces new experiences

Angama Amboseli, an intimate safari lodge located in the heart of Kimana Sanctuary, has announced its full menu of on-site guest experiences in Kenya's first community-owned conservancy. These include a pyjama safari, where couples will witness the mesmerising awakening of Mount Kilimanjaro from its slumber as the clouds slowly reveal its beauty, and a night safari where you can see bush babies, bat-eared foxes and porcupines. If you're after something creative, there is an art gallery and painting kit available, as well as a photography and weaving studio. Through its partnership with the Big Life Foundation, a non-profit organisation committed to preserving the Greater Amboseli Ecosystem, couples can engage in meaningful conservation activities that leave a lasting impact on the environment. Head over to www.angama.com/stay/angama-amboseli to find out more information.

Quiet European getaways

Honeymoon hacks that save hundreds

Saying "I do" comes with a large price tag. But fear not, lovebirds! Jason Higgs, Senior Deals Strategist at Bountii, talks you through some money-saving hacks to combat those hefty honeymoon expenses. Being flexible with dates allows for off-peak seasons to open
considering alternative destinations can broaden your travel horizons Time your planning - organisation is key for honeymoon budgeting be on the look-out for deals and packages cruises are a cool alternative for travelling in style using travel points is a no-brainer for cutting those pennies these few simple hacks are sure to help when hunting for your perfect getaway. Happy honeymooning!

Exceeding Honeymooners' Expectations at The Xara Palace, Malta

For couples seeking an exclusive getaway of romance and luxury, The Xara Palace is designed to exceed expectations.

The Xara Palace is an intimate 17th-century palace hidden away in the medieval fortified city of Mdina, the old capital of Malta – the perfect place for honeymooners. Surrounded by stunning baroque architecture, The Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux holds luxurious accommodation and award-winning haute cuisine. It is often described as a haven in which guests are able to pause and be pampered.

From the décor to the serene unhurried pace of life at The Xara Palace Hotel, they set the scene for an unforgettable honeymoon for any lucky couple.

New hotel just opened in Mykonos

Nammos Hotel Mykonos is a new property with 26 bedrooms and suites, as well as three private villas, complete with 24/7 personal butler service. The villas boast serene seclusion and range from four to nine bedrooms with spectacular views, al fresco dining areas and private infinity pools. The exclusive Nammos restaurant has a menu of Mediterranean cuisine with pan-Asian influences and is a must-visit.

Just steps away from the hotel lies Nammos Beach, where couples can lounge in private cabanas or on plush daybeds, providing a stylish base for days in the Grecian sun. In the evening, enjoy intimate performances from some of the world's leading DJs and world-class entertainers who frequent the bay in the summer season. More information can be found at www.nammoshotels.com

To Infinity and Beyond – The rise of stargazing honeymoon destinations

Astro-tourism honeymoons are perfect for adventure-seeking newlyweds and spectacular views free from light pollution. If you and your partner are big travellers or astronomy enthusiasts, then you may want to consider astro-tourism honeymoons which blend education, adventure and luxury to provide you a destination displaying stars and constellations in all their glory. From a picturesque town in the Swiss Alps, to a chic setting facing the Mediterranean sea in Sicily, Italy there are plenty of options to delve into if you are considering a cosmic inspired honeymoon. Here, we have narrowed down some state-of-the-art options whether it be simply for you newlyweds of a family-filled adventure.

Glenapp Castle in Scotland launches Downton Abbey-inspired package

In anticipation of the third film set to launch in 2025, Glenapp Castle cordially invites guests to step back in time into the Edwardian Era with a 'Downton Abbey' inspired two-night stay, where history, elegance and luxury combine...

If you are a 'Downton Abbey' fan or are simply inspired by this regal weekend away – maybe this is your ideal honeymoon getaway to experience the grandeur of upper-class life. Your days could be spent engaging in a plethora of outdoor activities supplied by the Castle's 70+ activities and experiences programme, or undergoing etiquette lessons from the Edwardian era taught by your own butler! Oh, my!

Familymoon venue at Koh Samui Beach Resort in Thailand

Nestled on the shores of Lamai Beach, OUTRIGGER Koh Samui Beach Resort has opened an indoor laser tag venue, perfect for family-moons. Armed with cutting-edge technology such as infrared emitting light guns and infrared-sensitive signalling vests, players will engage in thrilling battles that test their agility, strategy and marksmanship skills against the backdrop of the resort's glorious natural surroundings. Complementing the excitement of laser tag are the venue's luxury amenities. From the Coral Kids' Club to the Edgewater Family Beach Club, four pristine beachfront pools, an exhilarating water slide and spacious connecting family rooms, the resort caters to every aspect of a beachfront family holiday. Young guests can also indulge in an activities programme featuring arts and crafts sessions, dance activities and a well-equipped games room with pool tables, air hockey and movies in a state-of-the-art insulated cinema room. Find out more at www.outrigger.com

Save up to 30% off Coco Collections Splendid Honeymoon Package

Coco Collection – a group of family-owned luxury resorts in the dreamy tropical Maldives, are offering guests up to 30% to spend on their Splendid Honeymoon Package with Luxury Holidays Direct at their idyllic Coco Bodu Hithi resort.

This luxury five-star island resort – Coco Body Hithi – has enhanced its Splendid Honeymoon package so that any newlyweds that visit the resort within six months of their wedding date can receive the Honeymoon package.

Coco Collection prides itself on being one of the most generous packages in the Maldives for newlyweds, so get your swimwear at the ready!

Make your dream honeymoon a reality with these top saving tips from real couples

With 39 per cent of couples spending £5,000 - £8,000 on a honeymoon and the average cost of a wedding being £24,710.00 in 2024, there is a lot of saving to do. A honeymoon is more than just another holiday; it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, so it's definitely worth spending a little extra on.

Rather than compromising on your dream honeymoon holiday, Viva Holidays, an award-winning online travel company known for specialising in tailor-made multi-centre holidays, has given some top tips on how to save and also asked real couples what they're doing to save for their dream honeymoon.

Jasmine, who is getting married in November, and Lidia, who was married last year, knew they wanted a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon. They have both saved in different ways and shared their examples with us.

Klarna unveils the preferences of British travellers and anticipates the holiday trends

As the summer holiday season approaches, Klarna, the AI-powered payments network and shopping assistant, reveals new insights from its 2024 travel report. Despite cost of living affecting two-thirds (66%) of Britons travel plans, a significant 96% are gearing up for summer vacations with 81% planning trips abroad and 35% planning to travel somewhere in the UK. This underscores an unwavering commitment to maintaining travel as a priority, but finding ways to keep budgets in check will be top of mind for many. As Klarna continues to expand into the travel sector, offering its interest-free payment solutions at the checkout of leading travel companies, such as Airbnb, Hotels.com and Booking.com, Klarna looks into the key trends shaping British holiday plans this year.

Top romantic European destinations for a magical honeymoon

With its sunshine and warm breeze, summer provides the perfect backdrop for love and adventure, making it the ideal season for unforgettable mini-moons and honeymoons. There's a number of stunning yet lesser-known destinations across Europe that provide excellent adventure and romantic spots to create lasting memories:

Lithuania: Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Trakai. Float above the picturesque Trakai Castle and the tranquil lakes surrounding it, setting a magical scene for a romantic trip away. As couples fly in the sky, they are treated to stunning panoramic views of the ancient Lithuanian city of Trakai, nestled on an island in the middle of Lake Galv.

Poland: Tatra Mountains. The magnificent peaks and serene valleys of the Tatra Mountains create a truly breathtaking and adventurous setting for quality time together. Imagine standing at the top of the mountain, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, and celebrating the love you both share.

Visitors to Sweden can enjoy the meditative benefits of a new sauna ritual

Visitors to Sweden can enjoy the health and meditative benefits of a new sauna ritual. Bathe in crystal-clear natural spring water 80 metres below ground as part of the new Savouring Swedish Serenity itinerary created by Scandinavian travel specialists Off the Map Travel.

Couples can access this out-of-the-ordinary experience via a series of spacious tunnels and steps, which gradually descend to the experience below. Guided by sauna master Elin Hietanen, couples will receive local drinks and delicacies, including local cheese from a nearby farm.

Hôtel du Couvent is a former 17th-century convent set to open in France

Perched on a hill in the heart of Nice's Old Town, the Hôtel du Couvent is a former 17th-century convent that has been immaculately restored and transformed into a luxurious 88-room hotel. Set to open in June 2024, the property promises a serene sanctuary away from bustling city life. Highlights include an indoor pool, Roman-inspired thermal baths, a 20-metre outdoor pool, a resident herbalist, an outdoor cinema, a colourful farmer's market every Saturday, as well as delicious farm-to-fork cuisine courtesy of the convent's own farm.

To find out more information, visit www.fandptravel.com