WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
INSIDER
Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait
Your ultimate guide to the best hotel venues for the big day and dreamy honeymoon hotspots
2019
EDITORIAL Editorial Director John Thatcher Managing Editor Faye Bartle ART Art Director Kerri Bennett Senior Designer Hiral Kapadia COMMERCIAL Managing Director Victoria Thatcher Group Commercial Director David Wade Commercial Director Rawan Chehab Senior Advertising Manager Mia Cachero PRODUCTION Production Manager Muthu Kumar Cover image A memorable honeymoon experience at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Weddings & Honeymoons Insider. Tel: 00971 4 364 2876 Fax: 00971 4 369 7494
2 Welcome
Anantara The Palm Resort Dubai
Welcome
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lanning your wedding is meant to be one of the most exciting times of your life, but with so many great venues and honeymoon destinations on the doorstep, narrowing down your options can feel overwhelming at times. The good news is we’re here to help. Inside this guide, we spotlight a selection of coveted venues in Dubai and beyond, highlighting exactly the type of ceremony you could have there. Plus, we’ve drawn on our travel know-how to compile an in-depth feature on where to spend your first holiday as a married couple. So whatever romance means to you, you’re sure to feel inspired. All that’s left to say is “congratulations!”
Contents
Weddings
Show-stopping venues that dreams are made of, from secluded spots on the sand to grand ballrooms
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JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
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Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa
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The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre
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Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
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Honeymoons
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives
Baros Maldives
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JA Manafaru
From epic adventures to tropical island bliss, we’ve found a honeymoon for you
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Vakkaru Maldives
Baros Maldives
Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
33 Welcome Contents
4 Weddings
WEDDINGS
VENUES THAT’LL BLOW YOU AWAY From small celebrations on the sand to glamorous, city-centre ballrooms with wow factor. Read on to find the perfect place to say “I do”
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JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
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ffering luxurious accommodation and incredible dining, with a choice of cuisines from around the globe, the world’s tallest five-star hotel can cater to weddings that are large or intimate. MAX CAPACITY 1,000+ guests. THE CEREMONY With a canal-side setting and a backdrop of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai, the hotel's sparkling pool terrace will ensure unforgettable memories when it comes to exchanging vows. Marriott Certified Wedding Planners can coordinate all types of celebrations, including ethnic and military weddings, and can help you determine an overall vision for your big day, and help you to refine each detail. THE RECEPTION The hotel has over 8,000sqm of flexible event space, which houses cuttingedge technology including huge LED screens, outstanding sound systems, a hydraulic stage and sophisticated 6 Weddings
lighting schemes, meaning you can go as large as you want. But thanks to the dedicated on-site planners, you can also make the occasion a bespoke affair. The process is aided by an experienced catering team, who will draw upon the hotel’s 15 award-winning restaurants and bars to curate a memorable menu for your big day. SPECIAL TOUCHES The hotel’s 1,608 rooms allow the rare opportunity of all guests staying on-site. And the hotel will happily coordinate on booking those guests, sending you regular status reports so you can see who's confirmed. When they arrive, there are plenty of ways to entertain them, including a bridal breakfast or afternoon tea at La Farine Café & Bakery, a casual get-together at the outdoor pool area, or a bachelorette party at Saray Spa, which houses 17 treatment rooms. And don’t think the men will be left out of the equation – the facility won Best Male Spa at the World Luxury Spa Awards in 2017. Last, but certainly not least, the 70 th floor Penthouse is so large that you
could host a post-wedding brunch for you and up to 10 of your closest guests. It's the perfect way to end the occasion. SUITS YOU IF… ... you don’t want to limit your imagination, thanks to the sheer scale of the property, and its range of facilities. Equally, having your ceremony here offers the flexibility to draw upon those services as you wish to create a personalised experience of any scale.
Your Wedding Celebration Re-Imagined Dubai is home to a landmark hotel in the heart of the city where wedding dreams come to life amidst 5-star luxury, flawless service and redefined taste. With luxurious accommodation, awe-inspiring venues, intuitive service and culinary expertise, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai will take your wedding celebration to new heights. Find out more about the hotel’s distinctive venues and bespoke wedding packages and contact the certified wedding planners at +971 4 414 2000 or email jwmarquis.dubai@marriott.com
JW Marriott® Marquis® Hotel Dubai jwmarriott.com/DXBJW Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T +971 4 414 2000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
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or a luxurious experience in a breathtaking desert setting, complete with Arabian style architecture, Bab Al Shams is ideal for couples seeking a storybook style venue. The emphasis here is on understated luxury, with the resort delivering an enchanting backdrop to your very own Arabian Nights fantasy.
THE CEREMONY Your wish is their command. From an intimate blessing and photoshoot among the rolling dunes, to a low-key union beside the tranquil courtyard pool, or a larger gathering at the aforementioned Arena, Bab Al Shams has a plethora of options depending on your guest numbers and tastes.
MAX CAPACITY The outdoor desert Arena can fit a whopping 6,000 seated guests, so you won't need to worry about overshooting the numbers.
THE RECEPTION Again, the choice is all yours when it comes to celebrating your marriage. The hotel will arrange a desert setting for your party, with a firework display if
you wish. Or, you can opt for the Masala Rooftop Lounge, which can host 250 guests and has stunning views over the desert. Larger groups can step things up a notch by taking over the al fresco Al Hadheerah restaurant for an Emiratistyle feast, complete with fire pits and traditional entertainment. And of course, you could go all out by hosting your guests for a celebratory evening under the stars at the Arena. SPECIAL TOUCHES The tradition of Arabian hospitality doesn’t just mean you are guaranteed a warm welcome. Here, you'll feel as if the resort is yours alone, with fireworks, photoshoots and whatever else you desire to make your wedding a truly memorable occasion. A special mention should also be made of the award-winning Satori Spa, which has a range of pampering treatments for men and women to get you ready for the biggest day of your lives. SUITS YOU IF… ... you want quiet intimacy during the day but an evening celebration that neither you nor your guests will ever forget.
“Bab al Shams provides an enchanting backdrop to your very own Arabian Nights fantasy”
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BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA
WHERE WEDDING DREAMS TURN INTO DREAM WEDDINGS Plan your happily ever after surrounded by desert landscapes, majestic sunsets and a choice of grand venues for the big occasion. babalshams.com
For bookings please contact: bas.events@meydanhotels.com +971 4 809 6498 /babalshamshotel
/babalshamshotel
/babalshamshotel
Love at first sight Fall head over heels for the exceptional setting of Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, where dream weddings become reality
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s fantasy wedding venues go, Emirates Palace is sure to impress. With its magnificent ballrooms, beautifully landscaped gardens and exceptional service, it comes as no surprise that royal weddings are a signature. This landmark hotel is ideal for those who want to host a wedding like no other, with its timeless architecture making a bold statement and an idyllic setting along a private stretch of beach. The most popular venue is the opulent Etihad Ballroom, with its three
sparkling Swarovski crystal chandeliers and luxurious touches of marble and gold. It can accommodate up to 2,400 guests or, for more intimate affairs, can be divided into three separate sections. There is a florist on-site to provide your favourite blooms while the talented culinary team will whip you up a wedding feast to remember. Due to the sheer number of venues to pick from, weddings requiring dedicated areas for men and women are easily arranged. Gentlemen can gather in a VIP tent on the front lawn and enjoy
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traditional entertainment as a selection of delicious canapÊs are served. Ladies can ensure they look their best by taking over a luxurious suite where they can be pampered with hair styling and make-up. Choosing a room in the same wing as the ballroom offers easy access for the whole party. When it’s time to dine, you can enjoy a sumptuous wedding feast of local delights and international cuisine for a memorable start to married life. To find out more, call +971 2 690 8896 or email mice@emiratespalace.ae
The most magical journey in your life begins at Emirates Palace. Celebrate, commemorate and cherish your love. Immerse your senses in a luxurious, ethereal world, crafted to be the crowning glory of your wedding day. As you gather with family and friends in our exquisite ballroom, appointed with elegant dĂŠcor, high ceilings and Swarovski chandeliers, allow our culinary team to delight your senses with a bespoke menu designed just for you while your dedicated Wedding Planner ensures that even the smallest detail is perfect. At Emirates Palace, your dream will become a reality. Please contact our team at +971 (0) 2 690 8895 or email weddings@emiratespalace.ae
/EmiratesPalace
@EmiratesPalace
@EmiratesPalace
#AtThePalace
Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa, Kuwait
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ocated on the southern coast of Kuwait, an area of outstanding natural beauty, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa offers a beautiful setting in which to celebrate the best day of your life. Here, you'll be dazzled by the glittering Arabian Gulf, and can enjoy access to a long stretch of private beach. MAX CAPACITY 1,800 guests in the Badriah Ballroom. THE CEREMONY The sprawling resort has indoor and outdoor venues, making it perfect for large family celebrations and intimate ceremonies alike. The Secret Garden is romance personified, tucked away by the outdoor pool, while a ceremony on the private beach will bring you closer to nature. THE RECEPTION The Badriah Ballroom, the largest pillarless ballroom in Kuwait, is sumptuously decorated, with excellent banqueting facilities fit for a sizeable reception – it can accommodate 1,800 people. For smaller gatherings, the tastefully designed Messilah ballroom has capacity for 250 guests. SPECIAL TOUCHES The dedicated events team can help you plan and execute the perfect day. Trust in their expertise and experience, and you can simply sit back and enjoy seeing it all come together. Perhaps the best touch of all, however, is the complimentary private bridal suite. Located on the second floor of the purpose-built ballroom, a private salon gives you the space you need to ensure you look and feel your best ahead of 12 Weddings
“The Badriah Ballroom is the largest pillarless ballroom in Kuwait" the ceremony, while the separate photo room allows for every special moment to be captured undisturbed. The real highlight of the room, however, has to be the secret screened corridor that encircles the second-floor balcony of the ballroom. It offers the bride a sneak peek of the set-up, giving you peace of mind that's everything's going to plan, so you're ready to make
your grand entrance with confidence. Catering and a custom-made wedding cake are also part of the package. SUITS YOU IF… ... you tend to obsess over the smallest details – it's all taken care of here. The team go all out to ensure every bride feels special, with an aim to deliver the fairytale wedding of your dreams.
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre
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legantly luxurious, with the buzz of the city on its doorstep, the Ritz Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre is just the place for a touch of urban glamour. MAX CAPACITY 750 guests.
THE CEREMONY Time stands still in the city when vows are exchanged in the serene Sunken Garden. THE RECEPTION Be the reflection of grace in the Samaya ballroom, where more than 1,000 antique mirrors adorn the walls. Ahead of her big entrance, the blushing bride will be waited on hand and foot by a dedicated wedding concierge in the adjoining bridal
suite. Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed with handcrafted mocktails to sip while they admire the opulent ceiling, which is embedded with 10,000 crystals. Once the reception is in full swing, with two LCD screens and projectors creating a celebratory ambience, a lavish buffet will be served to impressed guests. SPECIAL TOUCHES Thoughtfully crafted wedding packages mean customising your big day is simple. From a consultation with an inhouse wedding specialist, to a tasting of the buffet menu, and an extended check out for the happy couple, this hotel does the hard work for you. SUITS YOU IF‌ ...the packages make this a great option for busy brides.
“Time stands still when vows are exchanged in the Sunken Garden"
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Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection
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or a fun, family-focused wedding on your doorstep, this Polynesian themed resort is a winning choice. As well as being all set to host a brilliant destination wedding, it's a gateway to endless adventures at Dubai Parks and Resorts, home to three world-class theme parks and one water park, as well as Riverland Dubai.
THE RECEPTION The Tamure Main Ballroom accommodates 1,000 for a standing reception. Alternatively, the Pavilion venue can easily seat 120 guests for a banquet. Dedicated planners add thoughtful touches to ensure your special day goes smoothly, while a customised menu can be crafted with care by the culinary team.
MAX CAPACITY 1,000 in the Tamure Main Ballroom.
SPECIAL TOUCHES Lapita is especially popular for Indian weddings and receptions that run for anywhere up to five days. In these cases, guests often choose to utilise Bollywood Parks Dubai on one of those days as an additional venue to celebrate a lavish, yet fun-filled wedding.
THE CEREMONY Dedicated to the spirit of the Polynesian islands, the architecture and landscaping of the resort lends a sense of serenity. Expansive pathways sprinkled with colourful flowers adorn the entrance and will ensure your wedding is a unique and magical experience. Whether you want a grand celebration, or an intimate affair, you are spoilt for choice with 14 event rooms to choose from. 14 Weddings
SUITS YOU IF‌ ... there will be a lot of families present. Themed activities at Lapita are designed to offer endless surprises to children and the young at heart.
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Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
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elebrate in one of the world’s most majestic and secluded desert destinations, just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. MAX CAPACITY 350 guests in the ballroom. THE CEREMONY Your options are extremely varied and all utterly unique. You can opt for an intimate pool villa ceremony, or reserve all 10 Royal Pavilion villas for prestigious exclusivity where private butlers will ensure your guests feel like royalty. Alternatively, choose the Sunset Desert Wedding package and create the celebration of your dreams. From a camel or an Arabian horse arrival at your ceremony and a cocktail celebration around a roaring bonfire in a traditional setting, to a dinner under the sapphire blue starry skies, this package is full of romance and passionate touches for enchanting memories. THE RECEPTION After the ceremony, the Reflection Courtyard is the perfect place for an intimate cocktail reception, surrounded by a host of local touches from Arabian lanterns to traditional Sadu and tapestries, each celebrating the rich heritage of the Emirates. Traverse 16 Weddings
the patio and sit back on The Terrace for a lavish dinner complemented by sweeping views of towering sand dunes. An indoors option is Liwa Ballroom, which has a private entrance, reception and an outdoor terrace that has extraordinary desert views and is ideal for up to 350 guests. But our favourite has to be the chance to dine like Bedouins under the stars of the vast Liwa desert. SPECIAL TOUCHES Prior to the ceremony, the bridal couple can indulge in a couple’s spa treatment and then spend their wedding night in
one of the beautifully appointed Royal Pavilion Villas, followed by in-villa breakfast and romantic amenities the next morning. One further nice touch is a cocktail that Anantara will make the night before. Tailor-made to each couple’s taste, it’s a memorable drink to personalise the wedding day. SUITS YOU IF… ... you have guests who want to arrive by air. It’s not uncommon to see helicopters soar over the legendary Empty Quarter to land at the hotel’s private helipad.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
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et the scene for a lifetime of happiness by celebrating your union in a stunning shoreline setting at this picturesque resort, which is famous for its over-water villas. If you prefer to stay out of the sun, there's also a number of opulent indoor venues to choose from here. MAX CAPACITY 200 guests by the outdoor pool.
THE CEREMONY The ceremonies can take place in a variety of locations across this stunning Palm Jumeirah resort, and will be tailored to suit you. Our favourite has to be the 400m golden beach, where you can unite with your loved one while aside the ocean.
THE RECEPTION Up to 200 people can dine on the shore. Alternatively, you could move to the Poolside Terrace where the glow from the infinity pool, sea views and the resort's distinct Thai-style architecture lend an exotic flavour to celebrations for up to 200 people. If you want to head indoors, natural light and a neutral palette make the Palm Ballroom an ideal setting for your choice of themed décor. High ceilings and drop-down chandeliers add elegance, and the space is ideal for up to 140 guests. SPECIAL TOUCHES The wedding package includes a specially designed two-tiered wedding cake, an Anantara Spa signature couples' massage, one
“Celebrate your union in a stunning shoreline setting at this picturesque resort"
night’s accommodation in a Lagoon Access room with breakfast, as well as an exclusive room rate for your guests. And when the evening comes to a close, you can treasure your romance with a selection of luxurious spa experiences and culinary journeys for two. SUITS YOU IF… ... you’re looking for an intimate and personal experience. Anantara weddings are designed to reflect a couple's dreams in a way that is utterly unique to you. The experienced wedding coordinators will be with you every step of the way to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. And when you’re done with the big day, you can celebrate in signature Anantara style with the most romantic honeymoon imaginable, combining great adventures with indulgent experiences you'll remember forever.
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HONEYMOONS
SWEETHEART ESCAPES Exotic adventurers, urban wanderers or beach dwellers, plan the perfect honeymoon with our globetrotting recommendations for post-nuptial getaways
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Above: Machu Picchu Below: Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, India Opposite: The Trolltunga in Norway
WE'RE LOOKING FOR A HONEYMOON THAT OFFERS ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES. ANY SUGGESTIONS? INCA TRAIL Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to tackle Peru’s intrepid Inca Trail where the end goal is the goosebumps inducing sight of the ruined city of Machu Picchu. The distance to cover is barely 39 kilometres but the four-day trek between the Sacred Valley and your final destination snakes it way through the Andean mountain range and up over a trio of high passes. Pause for breath (you’ll need it at an altitude of 2,430 metres) and marvel at snowcapped peaks, forests and the rugged beauty of this ancient route. MONGOLIAN STEPPES Vast, landlocked and suitably remote, adventure is par for the course in the birthplace of Genghis Khan where 15 nomadic ethnic groups make up the population. The horse still plays a vital role as a transport necessity, and is also an indication of wealth and status. 20 Honeymoons
Saddle up as part of a small group tour and hit the epic plains, but don’t expect brick and mortar hospitality – this is the land of the ger (circular tent), although glamped-up options are starting to make an appearance. HIMALAYAN RIVERS There’s more to Nepal than treks to Everest Base Camp, with whitewater rafting and kayaking aplenty courtesy of melting mountain snow and monsoon rains. Liquid thrills include rafting the rapids of the Sun Kosi, a National Geographic top 10 world river journeys rated experience, and the Kali Gandaki near Pokhara, which
flows through the world’s deepest gorge at one point. WE LIVE IN A BIG CITY AND WANT TO GET OUT INTO NATURE AND EXPERIENCE LOCAL WILDLIFE. WHERE DO YOU RECOMMEND? RWANDA The country’s gorilla population is a major draw with tourists hiking to the Virunga Mountains to spot them in their natural habitat. Only a limited number of permits are issued each year and special packages combining gorilla trekking with trips to other national parks in Rwanda are also available.
We want to set sail on a cruise and wake up to lots of different destinations, but what are some less touristy options for couples?
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TURKISH MED Charter a traditional Turkish wooden gulet (where three to 10 cabins is the norm) for a more intimate cruising experience along the country’s southwestern Mediterranean coastline. Berth at picturesque harbour towns like Göcek with its Roman ruins; Fethiye, for a wander through the charming old town; and end your trip in the lively resort of Marmaris. On-trend Bodrum is another great embarkation point in the Aegean and is close to the nearby Greek islands of Kos and Rhodes.
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NORWEGIAN FJORDS With one of the longest coastlines in the world and a visually arresting alternative to the classic western Med routes, a cruise through Norway’s jaw-droppingly beautiful fjords ticks both the romance and natural world boxes. The region is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites with cascading waterfalls, lush mountain scenery with notable port towns like the former Viking stronghold of Bergen and Ålesund’s turreted Art Nouveau.
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BLUE DANUBE One of Europe’s most scenic waterways, stretching almost 3,000 kilometres and passing through 10 countries, a Danube cruise will invariably take in the grandeur and historic attractions of major capitals such as Budapest and Prague, as well as the chocolate box quaintness of places like Bratislava and Linz. It’s also great for collecting passport stamps, which is always a nice bonus. 21 Honeymoons
We need to get our culture fix when we travel. What city breaks are a good alternative to the usual honeymoon trip?
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PARIS Whether it’s simply sitting at a pavement café watching the world go by, taking a twosome selfie at the top of the Eiffel Tower or strolling along the River Seine at dusk, it’s hard to beat the eternal love fest going on around you. Add in cultural exploration courtesy of the Louvre, the Paris opera at Palais Garnier and in the charming lanes of Montmartre, home to the stunning Sacré-Cœur basilica, or with a cruise through the Canal St-Martin. The City of Love indeed.
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BUENOS AIRES Tailor-made for romance, Argentina’s capital is the home of European influenced architecture, Eva Peron and the tango. Wander through the cobbled streets of local neighborhoods like colourful working class La Boca, San Telmo for its bustling Sunday market or Barracas with its artistically decorated façades. For Peronista flashbacks, take a tour of
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the presidential Casa Rosada or follow in the first lady’s footsteps with a night at the Teatro Colon opera house, or start as you mean to go on with a tango lesson for two.
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NEW YORK If you love the 24/7 buzz of a city then Manhattan is well placed to satisfy daytime desires and afterdark exploration. Amp up the romance with a picnic in Central Park on Sheep Meadow or sitting on the bleachers of the High Line, a former elevated rail line transformed into a cool urban park. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a good spot to meander handin-hand between cultural exhibits while the architectural grandeur of Grand Central Station is also home to cool watering holes, and don’t forget a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge. A Broadway play, Harlem jazz performance or Rainbow Room sundowner atop the Rockefeller Center seal the deal.
NEW ZEALAND Whale watching tours are a year-round attraction and just one reason to head north to south where 11 species, including orcas, frequent Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf and sperm whales are a staple sight off the coastal town of Kaikoura. Playful fur seals, dusky dolphin pods and endangered yelloweyed penguins are also part of the wildlife-rich islands offering. INDIA The world’s largest cat can be seen closer to home in India where almost 50 percent of the remaining global wild tiger population roam under government protection in some 40 national parks. With around 1,400 big cats spread across the country, these elusive beasts are notoriously difficult to spot. Top locations include the gloriously photogenic Ranthambore National Park, once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, and Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh, which is also home to the famed white tiger (although one hasn’t been sighted in over 50 years). For all-round wildlife spotting, Jim Corbett National Park, in the foothills of the Himalayas is also one of the best locations to see wild elephants.
coastline and chic Yucatán Peninsula playground, Riviera Maya is Mexico’s beach destination of choice from the all-inclusive resorts of Playa del Carmen to the more boho vibe of southern Tulum. Immaculate stretches of white-bright sand meander for some 1,600 kilometres and are offset by the cerulean ocean waters. The quaint fishing village of Puerto Morelos, untouched sands of Punta Bete and boutique Tankah community are worthy contenders for best beach experience. FOOD AND LOVE GO HAND IN HAND – HERE ARE THE HOTSPOTS... Feast on the best of both French and Italian inspired cuisine on the rugged island of Corsica, the birthplace of Napoléon. Rustic gastronomy is the foodie theme with a hearty dish of wild boar stew, or a plate of local oysters and fresh river trout symbolic of its beautiful coast and rivers. A very different experience would be Japan, where each region is a proud supporter of its own local specialities. Take a day trip out of Tokyo to explore the port town of Shimoda, home to some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste, tuck into a wagyu sukiyaki in
THAILAND Avoid the tourist hordes and seek out Thailand’s as-yet-unexploited seaside locales for some of the best beach action in Asia. South of busy Koh Lanta, tiny Koh Kradan island is ideal for kayaking action or just to lay back and soak up the sun while Mae Nam on Koh Samui may be mere minutes from all the trappings of modern-day tourism but feels like an island idyll of its own. There’s even a stretch of heaven on Phuket, where the hidden west coast delights of Laem Sing are to be found. beef capital Kobe, or enjoy a classic okonomiyaki savoury pancake on Honshu Island. South of the equator, the farm to table culture makes South Africa a must-do destination for foodies with a wealth of both high-end and down to earth dining opportunities. Head to Johannesburg’s Soweto community for traditional bunnychow and malva pudding or take in the pan-African flavours of the Yeoville neighbourhood. Cape Town is the gastronomic heartland from the delights of a traditional braai in Gugulethu township to Cape Malay recipes found in Bo Kaap suburb and fine dining in the Western Cape valley town of Franschhoek.
BEACH HOLIDAYS ARE OUR THING, BUT WE WANT TO CHILL OUT SOMEWHERE EXTRA SPECIAL. WHAT ARE THE BEST BEACHES TO ESCAPE TO? MALDIVES The 1,190 atolls and islands that make up the Maldives offer an endless profusion of impossibly good-looking stretches of white sand embraced by deep blue skies and lapped by turquoise waters. Can’t decide on a single location? Opt for an islandhopping honeymoon to experience both the breathtaking underwater coral reefs to the north and stunning lagoons and marine life-rich dive spots in the south. Lush, tropical and perfectly paradisiacal. MEXICO A popular stretch of Caribbean 23 Honeymoons
Cinque Terre
WE’D LOVE TO ESCAPE TO SOMEWHERE REMOTE. WHAT’S OUT THERE? SHETLAND ISLANDS, SCOTLAND Scotland’s most northerly point, some 160 kilometres from its mainland, offers guaranteed escapism, so cosy down in a stone cottage with a roaring fire and embrace the isolation. Rolling green landscapes and ocean waters for miles and miles is a sight for weary post-wedding eyes. The Scandi link felt in Old Norse place names like Jarlshof, Unst, Fetlar and Muckle Roe adds a certain Viking romanticism to the islands’ cultural provenance. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR A volcanic archipelago in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, this clutch of UNESCO World Heritage islands is an adventure playground teeming with wildlife and surrounded by inviting blue waters, with a sprinkling of fine sand beaches for good measure. The 24 Honeymoons
inspiration for Darwin’s theory of evolution, honeymoon in the company of giant tortoises, blue-footed boobys, iguanas, penguins, flamingos and more. The Instagram worthy black lava shoreline of Puerto Egas and spectacular Alcedo volcano cap this unique South American odyssey. MADAGASCAR, AFRICA The perfect combination of culture, landscape and lemurs, this East African island is a dream destination for a tropical honeymoon without the masses. Rainforest meets desert and natural sights include a protected stone forest and surrealistic avenue of towering baobab trees, while ancient Madagascan rituals are still practised by local peoples. Beach relaxation is also on the agenda with picture postcard locations aplenty. Take a traditional canoe out to Ile aux Nattes for unspoiled beaches, palm trees and exotic marine life or check out the mystical island of Nosy Tsarabanjina.
PICTURE-POSTCARD DESTINATIONS TO HEAD TO Fringed by the ice-cold Baltic Sea and nestled in the fells of the Scandinavian mountains, Finland's Lapland offers unique experiences from reindeer sledding through a winter wonderland to the Northern Lights in all their technicolour glory. The dramatic cliffs of the Italian Riviera are the cinematic setting for Cinque Terre, a string of four 16th century villages made famous by their precarious setting and their pantone perfect colour palette. A care-free zone, the quintet of communities is best admired by boat. Stop off for a trattoria seafood lunch or dinner in any one of the enchanting harbours then take the Via dell’Amore (Love Walk) above Riomaggiore. In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies Banff National Park. Rent a car to explore this enchanting and vast wildlife-rich corner of the world with swimming, hiking, hot spring and ski action on offer. The Vermilion Lakes at sunrise is bucket list stuff while Lake Louise is year-round photogenic whether it’s with canoe paddle in hand or as a winter ice skating rink with the majestic mountains your silently appreciative audience.
Vakkaru Maldives The romance factor Vakkaru, meaning coconut wood in Dhiveni, is a fitting name for this idyllic Maldivian island resort, which was formerly a coconut plantation. Today, there are over 1,400 swaying coconut trees strewn across the natural island, which sits atop a dense coral reef nurtured by parrot fish, and is a 25-minute seaplane flight north west of the main airport. Boasting untouched natural beauty, Vakkaru is a picture-perfect place for a tranquil honeymoon. Take in the thriving marine life in your private Over Water Villa, or dive deeper into the reef with the resort's own PADI diving centre. For a soothing way to unwind, you can spot dolphins while on a sunset cruise to a nearby island for a traditional Maldivian dinner. After your
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busy wedding celebrations, this glimpse of paradise offers you both the chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with each other. The suite spot Make the most of your seclusion at the Over Water Suite with you own private pool, living area. If you're too loved up to leave, a dedicated butler is on hand to cater to your every need. Memory makers Take to the ocean and discover the beauty of the Baa Atoll reefs at your own pace along with a private captain and snorkel guide. More experienced divers can take a private guided tour under the surface for an unforgettable experience that'll be a talking point for decades to come.
A secluded tropical island resort in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, blessed with timeless ocean views, white sandy beaches and nurtured by nature, Vakkaru Maldives offers every couple a holistic approach to unassuming luxury and cherishable experiences in arguably one of the most desirable island destinations on the planet. Whether celebrating the start of your life or a milestone of years together for a special anniversary, Vakkaru Maldives is an ideal place for you and your loved one to experience a memorable life celebration amidst the tropical paradise. Experience romantic encounters from the first time you step onto the island, with a private destination dining with idyllic settings around the island, pampering spa treatment or private excursion, arranged personally, humble or heavenly as desired.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives The romance factor Spread across the Emboodhu and Finolhu islands, this postcard-perfect getaway, situated just a 15 minute speedboat ride away from the airport, spans one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives, with a backdrop of lush flora and fauna. Within this oasis of calm, you can lounge by the infinity pool or on your private beach, laze in a hammock over the blue waters and just lay below the stars at night. If you can work up the energy you could also go on a wildlife-spotting walk or partake in any number of water sports activities, including snorkelling and scuba diving. Or perhaps you and your partner would like to cruise around the lagoon in a traditional Maldivian dhoni to view the sunset on Hembadhu Island and the chance to spot the rare grey Dolphins pass? After this burst of activity you’ll be ready to sip leisurely on a cocktail at the Equator Bar as you take in the awe-inspiring views of fiery Indian Ocean sunsets. And then you’ll be ready to experience the hotel’s famed culinary offerings. Carefully selected ingredients, sourced both locally and globally, include fresh seafood at Deep End or 24 Degrees, where you experience a performance of art assembled on your plate at the theatrical Teppanyaki kitchen. 28 Honeymoons
For these reasons, and many more, the Taj Exotica has become popular not just for honeymooners, but for couples celebrating the renewal of their vows. The hotel has a dedicated site under the tropical sky and overlooking the Indian Ocean where you can celebrate your love amid a natural paradise. The suite spot The Rehendi Presidential Overwater Suite suite has a living room, two bedrooms, a freshwater pool, two ‘salas’, and a suspended sundeck with a hammock over the lagoon. Here you can enjoy in-room dining experiences and be pampered by dedicated butlers. Memory makers Though it’s hard to pick a highlight, the unique dining options rank highly. You can enjoy an intimate evening in the heart of the lagoon, only minutes by boat from the shore. Or enjoy a unique experience in a beach lounge carved out of sand, and dine by candle light under a canopy of stars. Perhaps you’d like your first experience of tree top dining? If so, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the lagoon, the sounds of waves crashing against a silent shore, and the stars twinkling above, like the light in your lover’s eyes. (And yes, you can have that line on us!)
“Taj Exotica is popular for couples celebrating the renewal of their vows"
Baros Maldives The romance factor Following a two-year renovation process to celebrate its 45th anniversary last year, Baros Maldives now combines the charms of an established property with the most up-to-date facilities you could wish for on a luxury honeymoon. Guest villas are either perched over the water or nestled among lush jungle foliage on the island. Once there, you’ll be well served on the dining front – restaurants include The Lighthouse, which serves its world-famous lobster bisque, and Cayenne Grill, with its open-sided pavilions overlooking the Baros
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Lagoon. And to work up an appetite you can book a fishing or diving trip – or perhaps just opt for a couples’ treatment at the award-winning Serenity Spa if you feel like simply unwinding in each other’s company. And all of this is just 25 minutes by speedboat from the Maldives’ international airport, which means your luxury holiday of a lifetime is tantalisingly within reach. The suite spot The new Baros suites comprise two private villas that each come with a swimming pool, a separate hot and cold Jacuzzi and a secluded swing
gazebo – all with spectacular ocean views, naturally. Memory makers As a pioneer in reef restoration, Baros is famed for its incredible House Reef. Last year the hotel’s marine biologist team introduced a ‘Coral Lines’ initiative where guests collect coral fragments and tie them to ropes to be nurtured for up to three years before being replanted on the reef. So you could help with the initiative and them come back in a few years’ time on your second honeymoon to see how your efforts have blossomed - just as your marriage will surely have done by then.
Another day dawns at Baros. The air is light and balmy. It whispers through your open window as the sun wakes up the sky. The lagoon beyond your sundeck invites a morning dip.The third resort to open in Maldives, Baros strives ˧ˢ ˣ˥ˢ˩˜˗˘ ˧˛˘ Ёˡ˘˦˧ ˙˔˖˜˟˜˧˜˘˦ʟ ˜ˠˣ˘˖˖˔˕˟˘ ˖˨˜˦˜ˡ˘ ˔ˡ˗ unadulterated Maldivian hospitality. ʵ˔˥ˢ˦ ˠ˔˜ˡ˧˔˜ˡ˦ ˔ ˖ˢ˟˟˘˖˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˛˔ˡ˗˖˥˔˙˧˘˗ ˕˘˔˖˛˙˥ˢˡ˧ ˔ˡ˗ ˢ˩˘˥˪˔˧˘˥ ˩˜˟˟˔˦ʟ ˕˨˜˟˧ ˙˥ˢˠ ˧˜ˠ˕˘˥ ˔ˡ˗ ˦˔ˡ˗˦˧ˢˡ˘ʡ ˇ˛˘ ˠˢ˦˧ ˥ˢˠ˔ˡ˧˜˖ ˢ˙ ˔˟˟ʟ ˜˦ ˧˛˘ ʵ˔˥ˢ˦ ˆ˨˜˧˘˦ʟ ˔ ˡ˘˪˟ˬ ˜ˡ˧˥ˢ˗˨˖˘˗ ˖˔˧˘˚ˢ˥ˬ ˢ˙ ˉ˜˟˟˔˦ʡ ˇ˛˘˦˘ ˆ˨˜˧˘˦ ˢ˙˙˘˥ ˔ ˛˔˩˘ˡ ˢ˙ ˦˘˖˟˨˦˜ˢˡ ˦ˣ˘˖˜˔˟˟ˬ ˖˥˘˔˧˘˗ ˧ˢ ˠ˔˜ˡ˧˔˜ˡ ˧˛˘ ˨˧ˠˢ˦˧ ˧˥˔ˡˤ˨˜˟˟˜˧ˬ ˪˜˧˛ ˖˟˔˦˦˜˖ ˗˘˦˜˚ˡʟ ˙ˢ˥ ˚˨˘˦˧˦ ˧ˢ ˘ˡ˝ˢˬ ˧˛˘ ˙˥˘˘˗ˢˠ ˢ˙ ˦ˣ˔˖˘ ˔˦ ˪˘˟˟ ˔˦ ˧˛˘ ˜ˡ˦ˣ˜˥˔˧˜ˢˡ ˢ˙ ˧˥ˢˣ˜˖˔˟ nature and a chance to relax in solitude. ˊ˔˧˘˥ ˃ˢˢ˟ ˩˜˟˟˔˦ ˔˥˘ ˙˔ˡˡ˜ˡ˚ ˢ˨˧ ˢ˩˘˥ ˧˛˘ ˟˔˚ˢˢˡʟ ˧˛˘˦˘ ˢ˩˘˥˪˔˧˘˥ ˥˘˧˥˘˔˧˦ ˢ˙˙˘˥ ˧˛˘ ˣ˘˥˙˘˖˧ ˕˔˟˔ˡ˖˘ ˢ˙ ˣ˥˜˩˔˖ˬ ˔ˡ˗ ˔˖˖˘˦˦ʡ ʸ˔˖˛ ˉ˜˟˟˔ ˛˔˦ ˔ ˣ˥˜˩˔˧˘ ˣˢˢ˟ ˔ˡ˗ ˔ ˗˔ˬ˕˘˗ on a sun-soaked veranda, with a stairway descending to pristine waters below. Baros is close enough to the airport that you’ll be rounding ˢ˨˧ ˔ ˕˥˜˦˞ʟ ʥʨʠˠ˜ˡ˨˧˘ ˦ˣ˘˘˗˕ˢ˔˧ ˥˜˗˘ ˙˥ˢˠ ˧˛˘ ˔˜˥ˣˢ˥˧ ˧ˢ ˬˢ˨˥ ˩˜˟˟˔ ˪˜˧˛˜ˡ ˠ˜ˡ˨˧˘˦ ˢ˙ ˧ˢ˨˖˛˗ˢ˪ˡ ˔˧ ˧˛˘ ˔˜˥ˣˢ˥˧ʡ +960 664 26 72 / www.baros.com
JA Manafaru, Maldives The romance factor Romance is in the air at JA Manafaru, Maldives, the idyllic island escape from Dubai’s homegrown brand, JA Resort Hotels. Set against a backdrop of exquisite vistas, and blending tropical serenity with amazing restaurants, extensive leisure activities, and luxurious spa and wellness facilities, magical moments are all but guaranteed. When not lazing by your own private pool, cruise on a traditional dhoni canoo looking for dolphins, try deep sea fishing and enjoy traditional local island experiences or Maldivian cooking classes. You can also challenge yourself with water activities, including wakeboarding and stand-up paddling. Whatever your preference, be assured of a good time out on the ocean. 32 Honeymoons
Guided by the resort’s certified team, explore marine life around the Haa Alif atoll, one of the most beautiful and pristine sites for diving in the world. And when you need to relax again, step into a tropical wellness haven and explore authentic Maldivian traditions infused with the therapeutic wonders of Ayurveda and aromatherapy. After you’ve worked up an appetite on your sunset beach strolls, you’ll be spoiled for choice with seven worldclass restaurants. Highlights include White Orchid, where one of China’s most renowned chef, Da Dong, brings his Michelin acclaim with an awardwinning Asian fusion cuisine that blends harmoniously with the tropical surrounds of the restaurant – a stilted over-water bungalow. Or stroll down to the beachfront Ocean Grill where
you’ll find a selection of local seafood and steaks freshly prepared from a live grill seasoned with herbs farmed from the resort’s organic garden. The suite spot Settle into lavish island living in The Royal Island Suite, with its own spa and treatment room, private courtyard and private pool bordered by a large sundeck. Memory makers For the ultimate castaway experience, head to one of the resort’s two uninhabited islands, a truly secluded retreat to call your own. This truly unforgettable experience is perfect for a day of romantic strolls along white sandy beaches or completely private snorkeling in azure waters. You’ll feel like you never want to come home.
THe footprints will fade but THE MEMORIES WILL LAST Say “yes� to a dream destination wedding in the Maldives, or a honeymoon at an award-winning sanctuary. With breathtaking island venues, two photography studios, seven restaurants, 10 spa treatment suites and 84 villas, this 35-acre island is perfect for creating awe-inspiring moments.
For bookings and more information, please visit JAresorts.com or call +960 6500 456 or email reservations.manafaru@jaresorts.com
JAresorts.com
/Manafaru
@JAManafaru_Maldives
Making your dreams come true. Reaching for Stars in the Sky.
There are few days more memorable than your wedding day. At The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, we help create memories for you to treasure forever. To speak to a wedding planner, please call +971 4 372 2628 or email difcweddings@ritzcarlton.com. Š2019 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
