Minimoon, Boutique Stays, Curated Experiences to rule 2021 Honeymoon Roster

As well know, the pandemic has arisen a need for the nouveau: new wedding trends, new experiences, new design elements and favourites when it comes to honeymoon destinations. “As couples rethink ways to safely marry and celebrate with loved ones, they are also revamping the honeymoon experience since international travel is still deemed unsafe and restricted in some popular countries. Couples are turning to unexplored domestic gems to celebrate their marriage and spend quality time together,” says Aditya Mehra, Director Ninety Nine Travels.

Minimoon before a honeymoon

Brides and grooms have gotten more pragmatic and are learning to plan their milestone celebrations with ‘tolerance to ambiguity’. “Much like the 70s and 80s where hill stations or weekend getaways like Darjeeling, Nainital, Mahabalipuram, Mahabaleshwar were the top honeymoon hotspots, couples are choosing to have a mini-moon at a luxurious resort in one of these places before deciding where they want to go on their honeymoon after the situation makes it easier for them to plan a 15 to 20 day travel to an exotic location far away from their home,” says Parthip Thyagarajan, co-founder and CEO, WeddingSutra. With a shorter honeymoon, most couples intend on saving finances to do interesting activities on a longer trip later.

Safety comes first for newly-wedded couples
Accessibility and safety being the key factors, travellers are selecting destinations which do not take a lot of travel time. Also, couples are increasingly opting for boutique and luxury properties ensuring better hygiene and safety standards. “Couples are keen on places which will guarantee social distancing but also complete relaxation after a long wedding and a challenging year. Hence, time spent together is all about quality and not quantity,” says Shanith Jayalath, Managing Director of Ceylon Travel Consultancy. Several couples are consulting their travel agents for resort recommendations, safety protocols followed by hotels and their ability to personalise a romantic experience. To sum it up, couples are looking for luxury and flexibility balanced with seclusion and safety.

Top domestic destinations
Dharamshala, Shimla, Manali, Mussoorie, Auli, GulmarG, Pahalgam, Alleppey, Munnar, Kumarakom, Goa, Coorg

Top International destinations
Maldives, Dubai, Srilanka, Bhutan, Mauritius, Seychelles, Bhutan, Nepal

SOME OFF-BEAT EXPERIENCES FOR TWO

FINE DINING AT SONARA CAMP IN DUBAI

Situated in the heart of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Sonara Camp offers a magical fine dining experience in a casual-chic desert setting. The region is home to hundreds of oryxes and gazelles.



REGIONAL CUISINE AND WELLNESS IN KOVALAM



“Kovalam in Kerala is a wonderful place to rejuvenate with your parther. At Niraamaya Retreats, couples can enjoy regional gastronomic experiences, authentic Ayurveda therapies, explore the countryside on a bicycle or have fun over a cooking session with the chef,” Manu Rishi Guptha, CEO, Niraamaya Retreats.


MOUNTAIN AND APPLE ORCHARD VIEWS IN CHAIL, HIMACHAL PRADESH


“Perched on the height of 7000 ft. amidst the Shivalik Mountains, flanked by Deodar and Pine trees, Treehouse Chail Villas is a great place to unwind. When here, admire the verdant greens of the apple orchards or take a trip to Chail Wildlife Sanctuary or unwind over a glass of your favorite spirit while romancing the twinkling Shimla,” Jayant singh, MD, Treehouse Resort.

ART CLASS, SUNSET CRUISE IN MALDIVES

When at Kandima Maldives, consider a fun art class, movie under the stars, oh-so-romantic sunset cruise, floating breakfast or an unforgettable Island Castaway Experience to an exotic private island.

HERITAGE AND LUXURY IN KUMARAKOM



Romance speaks louder than words at Kumarakom Lake Resort. Their tastefully-done private heritage villas reflect the heritage of Kerala and come with a private plunge pool and jacuzzi. Perfect for a couple!