Tag Archives: honeymoon

Honeymoon destinations: Fiji

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A Tropical Paradise of Culture, Nature, and Romance

Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands, each surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs.

Located approximately 2,000 km northeast of New Zealand, its two main islands—Viti Levu and Vanua Levu—are home to most of Fiji’s nearly 920,000 residents. The islands’ geography ranges from lush rainforests and volcanic mountains to white-sand beaches and secluded lagoons, creating a breathtaking natural canvas.

Fiji enjoys a tropical marine climate, with warm temperatures year-round averaging 77–86°F (25–30°C). The dry season from May to October is especially popular with tourists, while the wetter months bring lush vegetation and dramatic tropical showers. The islands boast rich biodiversity, from exotic birds and fruit bats to flowering hibiscus, towering coconut palms, and vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.

Fijian culture is a warm blend of indigenous Melanesian traditions and strong Indian influences, rooted in community, hospitality, and connection to nature. Visitors can experience traditional village life, enjoy a kava ceremony, or watch firewalking and meke dance performances. English is widely spoken, though Fijian and Hindi are also national languages. Christianity is the dominant religion, alongside Hinduism and Islam, creating a rich tapestry of festivals and traditions.

A traditional thatch hut, a “bure”

For travelers—and especially honeymooners—Fiji offers an unmatched blend of luxury and authenticity. Whether you’re sipping cocktails in an overwater bungalow, diving with manta rays in the Yasawas, snorkeling in the pristine coral reefs…

… or enjoying a private beach picnic on a deserted sand cay …

Fiji invites romance at every turn. Resorts often incorporate Fijian design and local produce, enhancing the cultural immersion without compromising comfort. Locals are generally very friendly and welcoming (though business-minded…), the beaches offer powdery white sand and crystal-clear water, and the technicolor sunsets create an unforgettable backdrop for beginning a new chapter in life.

In every sense, Fiji is not just a destination—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience of serenity, wonder, and romance in the tropics.

Honeymoon Destinations: Tahiti and her Islands

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The ultimate honeymoon dream, to me, are the Polynesian islands – Tahiti, Moorea (just a stone’s throw away out in the lagoon), Bora Bora with its dramatic volcanic peak, Mt. Otemanu (and then the “outer islands” that are less touristy and harder to reach). Their natural beauty is simply breathtaking – the backdrop for romance and an opportunity to experience the culture and cuisine of the islands. They form an archipelago in the South Pacific Sea, scattered across more than 4000 square miles, 8 hours flight time from Los Angeles.

What makes Polynesia so special for couples is its stunning landscape: emerald-green peaks, powdery white-sand beaches, and turquoise lagoons that seem almost unreal. Overwater bungalows in places like Bora Bora and Moorea offer ultimate privacy and luxury, with direct access to the sea, private decks, and breathtaking sunsets.

Beyond the beauty, Polynesian islands provide rich cultural experiences. You can witness traditional dance performances, enjoy beachside luaus, and learn about island heritage through music, tattoos, and storytelling.

Not to forget – on Bora Bora, you should visit the Musee Gauguin. As you may know, Paul Gauguin, a 19th century French banker, was one of the first Europeans to “escape” to the islands, leaving behind his family and his career to paint the life and culture of Tahiti and Moorea, and many of his world-famous paintings (at least copies thereof) are on permanent exhibit at this intimate museum.

Despite the fact that tourism has become the foundation of the local economy and that tourists are largely considered a necessary evil, most locals are friendly and retain a deep sense of hospitality, rooted in their culture, which adds warmth to every encounter.

Moorea is a little more sleepy and laid-back than the main island, Tahiti;

… while Bora Bora has become the center of luxury tourism. But still, it’s main “town” – Vaitape village – feels like time has stood still…

Adventure and relaxation go hand-in-hand everywhere in Polynesia. Snorkeling with rays and reef sharks, hiking volcanic trails, or sailing across a calm lagoon are just a few of the activities to share together. For quieter moments, you can enjoy a beach picnic, a couples’ spa treatment, or simply watch the stars from your private deck.

The islands also offer world-class cuisine featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and French and Polynesian fusion. Oftentimes these foods are enjoyed as part of a luau with a Polynesian Dance performance…

Or you could enjoy a romantic dinner by torchlight, with your feet in the sand and the sound of waves in the background – the epitome of island romance.

Whether you’re exploring lush jungle paths or enjoying breakfast delivered by canoe to your overwater villa, the Polynesian islands create unforgettable memories. They offer a rare combination of tranquility, elegance, and authenticity—ideal for couples beginning their journey together; a true honeymoon paradise for memories of a lifetime.

Honeymoon destinations: Munich and the south of Germany

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Munich – that’s “Oktoberfest,” right? Was that your first association?

Well… yes. Parades and beer tents and the general atmosphere of a time-honored country fair. That’s what you get when you travel to Munich in the Fall – between September 20 and October 5 this year, to be exact. BUT there is so much more to Munich… let me show you.

Beautiful baroque architecture…

The Marienplatz and Liebfrauenkirche…

… parks and beer gardens…

… and lots of things to see in the vicinity. You could go on a day trip to King Ludwig’s castle Neuschwanstein (inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella castle)…

… a folly that actually cost the king his life – he was found drowned in a nearby lake, most likely a political assassination motivated by his enormous spending spree on fairytale castles.

You could go on a day trip to see the Alps and the picturesque little town of Mittenwald …

… or, even better, stay there for a while for mountain hiking. Also less than 200 miles away is Lake Constance with its fully restored Bronze Age village…

… absolutely worth the detour.

For your stay in Munich, I recommend as your homebase the hotel Bayerischer Hof – traditional, elegant, centrally located (with the most famous dirndl shop right next door!) and the additional benefit that the Oktoberfest parades go right past its front entrance.

Once you are in Germany, what about traveling a bit further north for a Rhine river cruise past countless medieval castles…

… and a visit to the medieval city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber – also home to one of the most famous “Christkindlmaerkte” (Christmas markets) in all of Germany?

I am sure you’ll love it. Again – send photos!

Honeymoon destination: the Maldive Islands

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The Maldive Islands are a world-renowned tourist destination, celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and vibrant marine life. Located in the Indian Ocean, this island nation comprises over 1,000 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, offering pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and spectacular sunsets.

It all started in the 1980s as an unspoiled location for hardcore SCUBA divers – the colorful reefs on the Maldives were untouched and unmatched in their natural beauty. There was no “tourism” to speak of… very few of the tiny islands – most of them easily walked around in 20 minutes! – had any accommodations, and the ones there were consisted of primitive coral rock huts. (I happen to know because I was one of these first dive enthusiasts…). Fast-forward twenty years, and luxury hotel chains discovered this island paradise, from Hilton to Four Seasons to St. Regis… pools and tennis courts were built, and these days you’ll find luxury amenities, food and entertainment.

A favorite for honeymooners, SCUBA divers, and luxury travelers, the Maldives combine tropical serenity with exceptional hospitality. Visitors these days stay in iconic overwater bungalows …

enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving among coral reefs teeming with marine life …

… any type of watersports…

… or relax with spa treatments and private beachfront dining.

Whether you’re seeking romantic seclusion, underwater adventures, or a high-end wellness retreat for your honeymoon, the Maldives offer a unique blend of tranquility and indulgence, making it an absolute tropical dream destination.

Honeymoon destinations: Paris

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The city of light, the city of love – once in your lifetime, you HAVE to see it, so why not for your honeymoon? Believe me, it IS magical – still, despite the traffic and the tourists…

One of my own fondest memories is arriving at the Gare du Nord via night train with my then-fiance, now-husband, at the crack of dawn – way too early to check into our hotel. We left our luggage at the station and walked. We watched the sun rise in the Jardin du Luxembourg.

We wandered the streets as the city was waking up. It was a rare epiphany: we felt the soul of the city… beyond the Eiffel Tower.

Yes, of course, you should visit the Eiffel Tower, that’s a “must” for all tourists, but there is so much more! The Palace du Louvre with its world-famous museum and the glass pyramid in front …

… the newly restored and reopened Notre-Dame cathedral, one of the greatest Gothic masterpieces…

The Seine with its many bridges (and don’t forget a boat tour on a bateau mouche – maybe at night..)

… the Palais Royal…

… and long strolls throught the St. Germain des Pres neighborhood.

This here is MY Paris… quiet, romantic, and steeped in history.

Bon voyage!

Dream Honeymoon Destinations: Mauritius

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For the start of my new series, let’s begin with my own honeymoon destination – still a tropical dream!

An island country in the Indian Ocean, 2,000 km off the coast of East Africa and east of Madagascar, it is part of the Mascarene Islands of volcanic origin, and a true melting pot of cultures, religions and languages – where just over a million of Mauritians of Indian, Chinese, French and Creole origin live together peacefully. The capital city Port Louis is home to a daily market with an overwhelming selection of fresh fruit and local spices – you’ll never forget that aroma, nor the aroma of the multicultural Creole cuisine with Indian, French and African influences. I learned cooking curries there… and it has stayed with me to the present day!

Mauritius is a dream honeymoon destination, with turquoise waters and white powdery sand on postcard-perfect beaches—for example Belle Mare and the serene lagoons of Le Morne.

Beyond sunbathing and every watersport imaginable, newlyweds can hike in the lush Black River Gorges, enjoy local culture ….

… swim with dolphins, encounter the diverse wildlife ….

… go on a helicopter tour of the island, or take a catamaran to uninhabited islets.

Sunset beach dinners, private villa stays, and spa experiences make it easy to unwind and disconnect from the daily grind. Chances are, you simply want to stay there… for the rest of your married life!