In the current climate the general request for a honeymoon is “beautiful on a budget”. Karen Creed lines up the cheapest and nicest places to honeymoon this year
Mexico
The slide of the Mexican peso and favourable exchange makes Mexico a good option for visitors. Flights to Cancun are cheaper than they've been for some time. Visitors can explore the Yucatan Peninsula and enjoy the exotic beaches, world-class snorkelling and scuba diving or opt to explore the remarkable Mayan ruins left behind by the last Mexican natives. Things are relatively cheap, even in the tourist areas, but if you stay in an area that is not one of the tourist hot spots, it will be cost you much less and give you a proper taste of local life.
South Africa
South Africa may be the sporting destination of 2010 but long after the World Cup is over, it will still be on the honeymoon hit list. While flights might be relatively expensive, there are plenty of budget accommodation options combined with a low cost of living (a beer will cost you around €1), which make South Africa a good choice for the budget conscious. Try a safari break in the Kruger National Park, with tented accommodation being a good cheap option. Renting a car and doing a road trip down the Garden Route or staying in modest guest houses in the wine regions will also reduce prices considerably. May to September is the low season and whilst these are the cooler, winter months, many visitors choose to visit during this time as both safaris and other accommodation are significantly cheaper than in the high season.
Dubai
The country may be in financial meltdown and its hotels struggling, but this has resulted in bargain rates for visitor to this world famous emirate. The first point of passion has to be the hotels. The resorts in Dubai range from nothing less than lavish to the ultra-luxurious. Many of the renowned resorts line the shimmering beaches, with couples making the most of their infinity pools, water sports and impressive waiter service. The hotel you choose is largely down to your style and budget. If you want an Arabian fantasy to come alive, stay at the opulent all-suites Burj Al Arab or the Bab Al Sham in the desert. The Jumeirah Beach Hotel makes for an opulent getaway while The Westin has all the ways and means to pamper you into paradise. Sun worshippers revel in the fact that sunshine is as guaranteed in Dubai as are the five star treatments.
Egypt
Fine sandy beaches and some of the world’s best historical sites make Egypt a hot destination in many more way than the excellent sunshine hours. Don't forget that Egypt has some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling around and the likes of Sharm el Sheik is now one of the first places that people will take the plunge if they want to learn to scuba dive. This combined with five star hotels rank it as one of the best sun resorts in the world.
Morocco
Another North African option, Morocco enjoys fine sunshine which sees it as a popular spot for both winter and summer honeymoons. Accommodation and eating out are great value, making it a great choice for the budget conscious couple. Five star resort hotels are in abundance with the Atlas Hotel in Essaouira being one of the newest on the block. Boutique hotels are also a favourite in this coastal town, with the Heure Bleue Palais leading the way. This hotel was a former palatial residence and is now an impressive colonial style hotel, combining authentic Morocco with a dash of French chic. Each bedroom and suite is themed on different destinations from Africa, to Portugal, English to Oriental. The hotel is designed like a typical riad and the rooftop terrace is the icing on top with its swimming pool and awe-inspiring view overlooking the port.
Dominican Republic
Sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, the Dominican Republic is typically Caribbean with 1,000 miles of white-sand beaches, primo surfing and diving in turquoise waters, mountains, rain forest, and fast-flowing rivers. The large ex-pat population keep the nightlife varied and restaurants are well above the Caribbean average. The capital, Santo Domingo, is truly historic, with many 16th-century buildings in the Zona Colonial. There's not much of an off-season, even though the June through November rainy season does get wet. Look for bargains in April and May.
Ibiza
Many are largely unaware of Ibiza’s idyllic coves and enchanting retreats that celebrities and Europe’s elite swarm to every year. Ibiza is relatively small but to see it in all its glory you need a car or moped. Outside of the main towns, the island is largely made up of rolling countryside with numerous fincas (rural hotels) luring those who seek luxury in serene settings. Atzaro and Can Cerreu are two of the most popular, specifically designed to whirl their guests into a cocoon of pampering with incredible dining, pampering and sunsets to match. Hacienda na Xamena is the most talked about resort in the north of the island.
Croatia
If you are on a budget, there is no lack of reasonable accommodation in Croatia outside of the peak season (June to August). Instead if you can travel in May or September, you should still experience good weather but find room prices far cheaper. While Croatia lacks sandy beaches, its coastal resorts and array of glittering islands are the main attraction for sun seekers. This combined with visits to the old town of Dubrovnik and the shopping mecca of Split make for an all encompassing honeymoon. Istria in the north is also a lovely day trip with the towns of Pula, Porec and Rovinj being three of its star attractions.
Thailand
Almost everybody who has been to Thailand will rave about its exotic beaches but there is also rugged terrain for trekking and biking, and one of the world’s best cuisines. Thailand has everything to suit the taste of the honeymoon couples and Lover's Escape is one of the most romantic spots - ideal for newlyweds. The best time to visit this Asian destination is between November and February when the weather is cooler and there is less rain. Political unrest in the country has indirectly helped reduce demand for flights and holiday packages, and as a result, prices have fallen. For many, Bangkok is a must, and with plenty of flights to choose from, airfares are generally low.
Iceland
For anyone craving a winter wonderland honeymoon, they can enjoy Iceland’s lava landscapes or bathe in natural hot springs such as the geothermal 'Blue Lagoon'. Iceland has never been noted for its cheapness - until now. Financial meltdown of the country, which saw it effectively made bankrupt, has seen Iceland go from seriously expensive to affordable. Basics like food and hotels have near halved in price. While it is still not considered exceptionally cheap when compared to other bargain destinations, it is more affordable than it has been in years.
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