20-25 feature romantic holidays 19/9/08 14:40 Page 23
HONEYMOON HEAVEN: Maldives
Asia and the Indian Ocean L-R: the Seychelles; These tiny islands offer the perfect hideaway for
This region is famed for its scenic beauty and Sri Lanka; Banyan Tree couples looking to escape. They are famous for
luxurious hotels, and world-renowned standards Vabbinfaru in the crystal clear waters and some of the world’s most
of service. The Indian Ocean islands offer a Maldives; Anantara romantic resorts, with villas on stilts over the sea,
romantic getaway where lovebirds can retreat to Hua Hin, Thailand some with their own private infinity pools. Resorts
the comfort of opulent resorts or even enjoy the offer private islands, sumptuous spas, seaplane
privacy of their own private island. The Seychelles transfers and romantic trips in a traditional dhoni
is famous for its unforgettable scenery, Mauritius – a Maldivian sailboat.
and the Maldives are known for fabulous resorts
and Sri Lanka serves up a strong cultural flavour. TOGETHER AFTER ALL THESE YEARS:
Visitors choosing Thailand, Malaysia and renewing vows in Thailand
Indonesia can discover temples, jungle-trekking The Land of Smiles has much to offer couples
and remote hill tribes, while Singapore and Hong looking to recapture romance with a vow renewal.
Kong offer sophisticated metropolis experiences. Its temples and Buddhist traditions can inject a
cultural element to ceremonies, while the tropical
POPPING THE QUESTION: Seychelles scenery provides a beautiful backdrop at resorts
Where to do it? Island-hopping is a joy with so such as Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Krabi and Koh Lanta.
many beautiful outposts to choose from and there In Phuket, couples can choose the “Chapel on
is a good network of plane and helicopter links. the Lagoon” for a ceremony at the white chapel
Alternatively, explorers can jump on a ferry, join a built on stilts over the water at Laguna Phuket.
cruise or enjoy the luxury of a crewed yacht. Each
island has its own character and some, such as Top tips: Mosaic Holidays’ managing director,
Anonyme, can be exclusively hired out. Sabina Shaida, says: “Indian Ocean hotels offer
high standards and many have good value
THE BIG DAY: Sri Lanka inclusive wedding packages, and deals for honey-
This island nation off the southern tip of India mooners. Airlines also often provide discounts for
offers an intoxicating mixture of scenic beauty brides. In the Seychelles, couples are marrying on
and culture, which has made it one of the most one island and honeymooning on another.”
popular long-haul wedding destinations. This
popularity is explained by Sri Lanka’s wide choice Sample package: Mosaic offers a week’s
of wedding options combined with good hotels, full-board at the eco-friendly Banyan Tree
excellent service and value for money. Clients can Vabbinfaru from £2,398 per person. The resort
choose from elephant rides, barefoot ceremonies offers extensive water sports, spa and fitness
on palm-fringed beaches and ceremonies with centres and a restaurant overlooking the ocean.
traditional dancers, drummers and singers. www.mosaicholidays.co.uk
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