By Edwin Thomas
Honeymoons are, by definition, a special kind of trip. The ideal honeymoon destination should offer things that will satisfy both newlyweds, and above all be memorable.
Asia, a vast continent packed with exotic culture and natural wonders, as well as some outstanding bargains, is a great place to look at when planning a honeymoon. Yet even Asia, with its bewildering array of choices, has a handful of standout honeymoon destinations.
Rajasthan, India
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
One of the best sites for a honeymoon in India is the arid state of Rajasthan. Rajasthan can be easily reached from the capital of Delhi, and whether the honeymooners stay firmly anchored or make a circuit, they will find romantic accommodations in lovely, Persian-style havelis and in the palaces of maharajas amid a setting that combines exotic India with a dash of the Arabian Nights. An example is the Lake Palace of Udiapur, built by Jagat Singh II in the mid-1800s, now a top hotel. A honeymoon tour of Rajasthan might also include the beautiful Blue City of Jodhpur; the charms of Jaisalmer, a living medieval fortress town; the ornate Jain temples of Mount Abu; and the famous Pushkar Camel Fair held every autumn.
Taj Lake Palace
Post Box No. 5
Pichola Lake
Udaipur - 313 001
Rajasthan
India
Bali, Indonesia
A Balinese Pura
Bali has enjoyed a reputation as an exotic tropical island paradise for decades, and for a honeymoon it can satisfy the tastes and interests of all newlyweds. The beaches of Bali are justifiably famous, and the sea offers both surfing and scuba diving. Further inland, trekkers will find the heights of mighty Gunung Agung a challenge, and fans of the discovery channel will love the volcanic, smoking Gunung Batur. Finally, Ubud offers numerous cultural delights in the form of performances and crafts, as well as some truly stunning natural scenery and lovely Balinese Hindu temples. A good honeymoon in Bali will split its time between one of the numerous beaches and Ubud.
Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Maya Beach
For those looking to spend a honeymoon simply getting away from everything by the beach, a great destination is Koh Phi Phi, Thailand. This island is so picturesque that its clear blue waters, tropical green, and stunning cliffs have been featured in movies from "The Man with the Golden Gun" to "The Beach." Although Koh Phi Phi is more expensive than some other areas of Thailand, that is just a reflection of the island's incredible beauty. Go scuba diving or snorkeling, rock climbing, do some sunbathing, take in a Thai massage or simply curl up in a hammock with your sweetheart and do nothing.
Hong Kong, China
Some people simply are not happy unless they are in the midst of a buzzing, vibrant, urban beehive. The classic destination for honeymooners of this stripe is Hong Kong. Get a booking in a glitzy hotel, take in Hong Kong's nightlife, bet on the ponies and play some mahjong for money, eat some truly exotic food and go shopping. A couple can drink a deep draught of urban living on a honeymoon in Hong Kong, but they will never get to truly know one of the world's most idiosyncratic cities in such a short time.
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About the Author:
Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.
