The days are getting shorter, and most of us wake up in the dark of the morning before the sun rises, and return home after it has set. If you’re getting married in these sun-deprived months, as autumn turns to winter, it’s likely that the sun will set early on your wedding day. But don’t fret, there’s no reason why it has to set early on your honeymoon. Take a look at my picks of the best honeymoons to chase the sun. They’re all blue skies and sunshine.
Cook Islands
These beautiful specks of land are a South Pacific paradise. Idyllic surroundings and a serene atmosphere make for a charmingly easy pace of life, not to mention an unforgettable honeymoon.
Aitutaki Beach, Cook Islands
This vibrant, diverse land boasts fascinating tribal culture, as well as thrilling natural sights on land and astounding natural phenomenon in the waters, the most magnificent of which are the many humpback whales that frequent the bay in the migratory winter months. Nestle into your front row seats on the soft sandy shores and marvel at these majestic mammals. For those who are fond of a spot of fishing, the capital island of Rarotonga is unbeatable.
Mauritius
Take inspiration from the hundreds of birds that migrate to Mauritius every winter, taking refuge in the warmth of the seemingly endless sunshine. Mauritius is an Indian Ocean gem, with serene waters and some of the best beaches around.
Le Morne Brabant Mountain, Mauritius
South west Mauritius is home to some of the most awe-inspiring sights to discover during your honeymoon wanderings. Dramatic gorges, epic waterfalls, dense jungle and beautiful coastline abound. Away from the sandy planes, Port Louis, Mauritius’ vibrant capital, scintillates with colourful, spice-laden markets and tropical city life.
Cuba
Whether roaming the colourful, crumbling city streets or sunbathing on the pristine beaches, Cuba is a country with a palpable eccentric spirit that permeates every inch of its landscape.
Not to be missed is the bustling capital city of Havana, with its pastel coloured colonial buildings and vintage cars. Stay at the elegant Hotel Saratoga, a Havana landmark. From here all your honeymoon city adventures are within reach.
Havana Old Town, Cuba
By day visit the legendary Partagas cigar factory, by night dance until sunrise in one of the many Salsa clubs peppered through the city. When you’re ready to leave Havana behind, head north to your own tropical hideaway at Villa las Brujas.
Columbia
The rich culture, awe-inspiring landscapes and colonial architecture of this Latin American treasure make for a fantastic honeymoon destination, not to mention the sunshine.
Every corner of this richly historical country tells a fascinating story. None more so than the colonial gem of Cartagena, once considered the jewel of the Spanish empire’s crown. Wander through the cobbled streets and leafy plazas admiring the wooden balconies and buildings in vibrant hues of blues and orange.
Tayrona National Park, Columbia
Escape the pulse of the city at Tayrona National Park. Here you’ll find 37,000 acres of pristine ecotourism park to explore, including reefs, beaches, mangroves and Indian ruins.
Mexico
Mexico is a vibrant and colourful honeymoon destination bathed in culture, with an absorbing mix of festivals, rituals, and intriguing characters.
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
For a sun-drenched honeymoon head for Isla Mujeres, one of Mexico’s best kept secrets. It’s a little island of true western Caribbean calibre. This unpretentious gem sits out of the hustle and bustle of mainland Mexico and is just seven kilometres long and barely one wide. It is without doubt one of the best places in the world to swing in a hammock. Most importantly though, the sun is always shining.
Guest post by Tom Marchant of Black Tomato
Images from Black Tomato
