Honeymoon and travel ideas for Essex couples

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

Salamander Voyages has announced its new History Voyage

Salamander Voyages, a small luxury gulet and yacht charter company, has announced its new History Voyage. Launching in June 2024, this new seven-night itinerary will begin at Bodrum Castle. Home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, it displays shipwrecks and their contents from as far back as 3,500 years ago. From Bodrum, couples will sail onto Gumusluk (ancient Myndos), where they will explore the settlement and walk across the ancient sunken walls to Rabbit Island. From here, it is on to Ancient Knidos, a largely unrestored ancient city dating back 3,000 years. The final port of call before sailing back to Bodrum is the magical Sedir Adasi, which sits at the top of the unspoiled Gulf of Gokova.

Gundari is a new luxury hotel in Folegandros

Set high on rugged hills overlooking the Aegean Sea and surrounded by 80 acres of wilderness on the secluded island of Folegandros, Gundari is a new luxury hotel set to open in May 2024. The hotel has just 27 suites and villas, each with its own private heated pool and ocean views. Highlights include gastronomy, with renowned Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou and a clifftop spa offering traditional Cycladic treatments. It will also have a conservation and bird monitoring programme.

As a member of EarthCheck Certified, sustainability is at the heart of the resort, with its use of bioclimatic materials, commitment to renewable energy and target for zero waste.

The Château La Coste estate in France has launched an exciting new addition

Auberge la Coste is an exciting new addition to the stunning 600-acre Château La Coste estate, situated between Aix en Provence and Luberon Nature Park. Set to open in April 2024 with 76 rooms, the hotel promises intimate and simple provençal living with stunning views across vineyards.

Couples can explore everything the estate offers, from its art and architecture dotted across the estate to learning about winemaking, which dates back to Roman times.

Don Totu Dimora Storica in Italy is celebrating its 10th anniversary

A haven for couples since it first opened its doors 10 years ago, the luxurious Don Totu Dimora Storica continues to raise the bar for boutique B&Bs. The historic mansion is a great example of 18th-century architecture and every effort has been made to retain the soul of the building while continuing to add luxury facilities in keeping with the style and generous layout.

The palazzo has been elegantly restyled to offer six graceful bedroom suites (including a two-bedroom family suite), stunning parlours, a handsome library and a modern wine cellar. The internal courtyard, complete with centuries-old olive trees and sweet-smelling botanicals, is complemented by verandas, rooftop terraces, pergolas and an orchard with aromatic herbs and fruit trees leading to a lush garden and swimming pool area.

Atzaro Okavango is a new property in Botswana

Wildly luxurious and sustainably powered, Atzaro Okavango is a new property that has been carefully designed to offer comfort in the breathtaking wilderness.

Ten luxury suites, including two double family suites, each with a private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers and a decked dining area under a grass-topped roof, offer spacious privacy for its visitors.

Further highlights of the 60-acre riverside site include a luxurious spa, a 20-metre infinity pool overlooking a wildlife-rich waterhole, a yoga deck, a gym, a chic wine bar and an ancestral boma for dining and gatherings.