Now that you’ve set your wedding date, you should be ready to embark on the next step - planning your honeymoon. We've done pretty much everything for you so your planning process and experience can be that much better! You're welcome.
Written by Rihaab Mowlana & Zainab Faizal
Many couples get caught up in the wedding chaos, and regrettably, the honeymoon doesn’t get the attention it deserves.
After all, you can never recreate your honeymoon memories. however much you try. Ask around, couples will attest to it. So to ensure that you don’t get caught up in the whirlwind that is your wedding and leave out your honeymoon prep, we’ve compiled a honeymoon guide to help you get started.
Local honeymoon locations
Sri Lanka, our motherland and a place we’re oh so familiar with, is definitely one of the best destinations if you're planning your honeymoon. Although living in this pearly paradise, we probably haven't had the time to discover the richness and beauty it has to offer.
Here’s a roundup of Sri Lanka’s top destinations for your perfect honeymoon!
North west - Jaffna
Found on the Northern tip of the beautiful island! Sure enough it faced a dark history all the way back from Portuguese, Dutch and British occupants from the 16th to the 18th century and during the civil war. Despite this, Jaffna yet stands tall and glorious, and with so much history. It’s time to get lost in its colonial charm and to indulge in the culture, surrounded by the Indian Ocean and the Jaffna lagoon.
Main attractions - Jaffna Fort & Nagadeepa Hindu Temple, Jaffna Lagoon
Recommended hotels in the area
According to the luxury hotel guides, The Jetwing Jaffna and The Valampuri have the highest guest ratings.
Jetwing Jaffna
Pic courtesy www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingjaffna
Located on a 40 perch land in the heart of the town, with a stunning seven story physique, this hotel offers panoramic views of Jaffna and a fabulous restaurant with both international and Asian cuisine and elegantly furnished 55 deluxe bedrooms
Telephone 011 234 570
The Valampuri
Pic courtesy www.valampurihotel.com
A very special hotel in Jaffna Peninsula, which offers 32 spacious deluxe rooms including two breathtaking suites. You’ve got the spa, swimming pool and a gym and you most certainly wouldn’t want to leave.
Nature and National Parks - Yala
For all those who want adventure, wildlife and nature, we’ve got the Yala National Park on the south east coast of Sri Lanka - elephants, leopards and a healthy coastline which is home to many exquisite reefs.
Main attractions - Yala National Park, coastline.
Recommended hotels in the area
Jetwing Yala
Pic courtesy www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingyala
A blend of overwhelming wildlife, a wellness center, beyond compare beach access and a promise to sustainability makes Jetwing Yala a symbol of hope in the Deep South. Forget your cares in the spa or lying in sun-kissed sands and enjoy the sounds of the wild on your doorway.
Telephone 011 234 570
Saraii Village
With a 2015 certificate in excellence awarded by Trip Advisor, you’d be assured there’s nothing to worry about in terms of quality and experience. At Saraii Village, it’s all about sustainability. This is an Eco Lodge which is one of a kind.
Telephone 011 304 7051 (24/7 Front Desk)
West coast – Bentota
Love the coast and water sports? Then Bentota is the place for it all, with a reputation for premier water activity in Southern Sri Lanka.
If you two love birds are adventurous, then you’ve got the full range of surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, scuba diving and water skiing!
Main attractions – Water sport activities, coastal areas
Recommended hotels in the area
Bentota Beach by Cinnamon
Pic courtesy www.facebook.com/bbhmain/
This vivacious beach resort, intended to bear a resemblance to a Dutch fort, is set between Ventura Beach and the Bentara Ganga River, and is 2 km from Aluthgama. With fabulous beach views, a sports complex, colourful rooms and four international restaurants/bars, you’re bound to have the complete Cinnamon experience.
Telephone 034 2 275176
Vivanta by Taj
Pic courtesy vivanta.tajhotels.com
Surrounded by abundant gardens and overlooking the Laccadive Sea, this beachfront resort is 4 km from Kande Viharaya Temple.
It’s got renewed living spaces, fine restaurants, high energy bar and relaxing bar, fantastic food and exotic views of the stunning Indian Ocean and so much more to offer on arrival!
Telephone 034 5 555555
East coast – Trincomalee
More commonly known as “Trinco”, this has one of the most natural harbors in the world as reported, reaching over approximately 2000 hectares. It’s also got beautiful beaches with clear water and white sands – Nilaveli and Uppuveli.
You’ve got Pigeon Island, with all sorts of watersports available, and apart from the main attractions being the beaches, it’s also quite famous for its complex colonial history.
Main attractions – Pigeon Island, beaches, colonial ruins, harbor
Recommended hotels in the area
Trinco Blu
Pic courtesy www.facebook.com/TrincoBlubyCinnamon
With a stylish retro – chic design, they’ve got 81 rooms to offer with an attractive honeymoon package.
Telephone 011 2 161161
Maalu maalu Resort
Pic courtesy www.theme-resorts.com/maalumaalu
Get lost in the inviting arms of the turquoise expanse of the Indian Ocean and the placid coastal breeze. With stunning coconut trees, white gorgeous sands and an endless infinity pool!
Telephone 065 7 388388
Cultural triangle - Sigiriya
Sigiriya is one of the most stupendous architectural wonders in Sri Lanka and was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This giant granite monolith is definitely an unforgettable site!
Main attractions – Sigiriya, the fortress
Recommended hotels in the area
Jetwing Vil Uyana
Pic courtesy www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingviluyana
Jetwing Vil Uyana is built over the first man-made lake since the era, of King Parakramabahu, which is pretty impressive. Experience a stay, never to forget.
Telephone 011 234 570
Amaya Lake Hotel
Pic courtesy www.amayalake.com
This is a stunning four star hotel located within the historic town of Dambulla, a serene spot for honeymooners to be associated with nature and culture and to explore the great history of Sri Lanka.
Telephone 011 4 767888
South coast – Galle
Now what comes to your mind when you think of Galle? Yes the famous Galle Fort and the Old Dutch Hospital spanning over 90 acres which was originally built by the Portuguese. And once again, this too is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Main attractions – Galle Fort, Dutch Hospital, Unawatuna, Mirrissa
Recommended hotels in the area
Jetwing Kurulubedda Villas
Pic courtesy www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingkurulubedda
Closer to the town, you find this retreat with gorgeous wooden interiors and a perfect ambience for your honeymoon.
Telephone 011 234 570
Mandara Resort – Mirissa
Pic courtesy www.facebook.com/mandararesort
Mandara Resort offers a realm of luxury and comfort in the heart of the tropics. You’ve got mouthwatering delights and luxury everywhere – definitely to provide you with an unforgettable experience
Telephone 041 2 253993
West coast - Negombo
Often referred to as “Little Rome”, this is a historically interesting place strongly influenced by the Catholic faith. Furthermore for all those seafood lovers, Negombo is a hotspot for tourists and its lagoon for the marvelous catch of lobsters, crabs and prawns! There are also pretty cool fish auctions that take place regularly. With amazing colonial architecture and influence around you’re bound to get mystified!
Main attractions – Fish auctions, lagoons
Recommended hotels in the area
Jetwing Lagoon – Negombo
Pic courtesy www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwinglagoon
Experience the perfect respite in a spa resort with a difference
Telephone 011 234 570
Paradise Beach Hotel
Pic courtesy www.paradisebeachsrilanka.com
They are committed to ensure that guests have the most memorable holiday of their lifetime. What more do you want?
Telephone 031 2 238154
Kandy and the hill country
Two beautiful cities amidst the mountains and uphill, with oozing culture and history, are Kandy the land of kings and Nuwara Eliya famed for its cool climes and commonly known as “Little England”.
Main attractions – Kandy temple, Kandy City centre, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, Nuwara Eliya Racecourse.
Recommended hotels in the area
Grand Hotel – Nuwara Eliya
Pic courtesy www.tangerinehotels.com/grand-hotel-nuwaraeliya
Grand Hotel is an outstanding architectural structure of the Elizabethan era and is also the former mansion of Sir Edward Barnes, who was the Governor of Sri Lanka during 1830-1850. You’re sure to have a Grand time!
Telephone 094 52 2 222881
Cinnamon Citadel – Kandy
Pic courtesy www.facebook.com/CinnamonCitadelKandy
There is something about the city of Kandy today that has a certain magic, secrecy and an atmosphere of the past that still resonates in every corner and gap of this old-fashioned city of old-world charm. Inclined by the old and enthused by the new, Cinnamon Citadel has a merged retro chic design with the wealthy legacy of this ancient kingdom.
Telephone 081 2 234365
Tricks when planning your honeymoon
Many couples get carried away planning their wedding, allocating almost no time to have a proper discussion about the honeymoon. So the process is usually rushed, as couples decide on locations based on magazines or celebs or their friends. With a little forethought, your honeymoon could be filled with days of unlimited bliss and relaxation, instead of one of stress and regret.
We’ve listed down some steps for easier sailing!
1. Decide on a budget. Budgeting is the gateway to your honeymoon, considering that the location of your choice will depend quite largely on how much you’re willing to allocate to it. Seemingly expensive locations may not be too far out of reach if you start saving early.
2. Decide on the location together. Your favourite celeb went to Aspen on their honeymoon so you’re going to Aspen too. Of course, you haven't spent even a mere second taking into account that neither you or your partner particularly enjoy snowcapped mountains or skiing. A honeymoon location should be selected based on both your preferences. If you don't see eye to eye, try to find middle ground and compromise so both parties are happy.
3. Research. Research. Research. It may be perpetually summertime in good ole Lanka, but it may be winter in your honeymoon location. If you’re planning a beach honeymoon and it's freezing cold in the seaside location you’ve selected, disappointment will be the least of your worries. Besides the weather, get to know as much as you can about the location and your accommodation so there are no surprises when you turn up there. While reviews are not 100% reliable, there’s always a modicum of truth to them. Especially if a large number of reviewers are saying the same thing.
4. Start early. Planning your honeymoon last minute is a disaster waiting to happen. Besides, booking early means you will be entitled to early bird rates and can avoid last minute price hikes. Planning early also means you won’t miss out on your dream location because the hotel is full.
Most popular types of foreign honeymoon vacations
Of all the vacations you will take in your life, your honeymoon will always hold the coveted position of all-time favourite. It’s no surprise then that many go all out to make it as memorable as possible. As much as the logistics of the wedding be given preference, so must that of the honeymoon.
1. Beach Honeymoons
If you both enjoy soaking up the sun and drinks by the beach, beach honeymoons are the way to go! While many pick this type of honeymoon to usually spend their time chilling and lazing around, you could also plan to try out the watersports that your location will most probably have on offer. For a change, skip the famous beaches and opt for the more obscure ones. This way, there's a better chance you won't be stuck in an overcrowded beach overrun by noisy kids and obnoxious adults.
2. Old World Romance Honeymoons
This fairytale romance honeymoon is still as popular as ever. If candles, rose petals and poetry float your boat, a honeymoon in a charming town in a European country may be the best option. Walking through cobblestoned paths, exploring castles and sampling local wares with your significant other will make for priceless memories. But, there is only so much to see and do in such locations, so decide if you want to spend long periods in one location. If possible, try to visit more than one such location so you won't be bored.
3. Big City Honeymoons
Whether it’s New York, Paris or some other bustling city, couples who opt for big city honeymoons are never short of things to do. From museums and art galleries to fine dining and shopping, you can choose to live in the lap of luxury as you take in the sights and smells of the city. Although you will be spoilt for choice, you should be aware that you will have to brave crowds (especially if your city of choice is a very tourist-y one), busy roads, and most importantly most things will be comparatively pricey.
4. Adventure Honeymoons
Gone are the days when honeymoons included 80% rest and 20% recreation. In fact, more and more adrenaline junkies are opting for adventure based honeymoons. After all, nothing builds relationships more than toughing out challenges together. The options are endless, not only in other countries but also in Sri Lanka. From trekking to zip lining to mountain climbing, you will be spoilt for choice. Just make sure to do plenty of research on the weather conditions at the time, especially considering your honeymoon plans would depend on it. Also look into and pack your gear and clothes accordingly.
5. Budget Honeymoons
It’s not how much you spend, but the memories you make. It’s a mantra followed by a growing number of couples embracing simplicity on their honeymoons. With a bit of preplanning, budget honeymoons have never been as easy to put together as they are now, thanks to various websites offering tips and advice. From booking your flights in advance to scouring the interwebs for the best deals, your affordable honeymoon is literally just a click away. Take care not to skimp on accommodation too much though - if a large number of the reviews say that cost effective hotel you’re looking to book is rat infested, it probably is.
We spoke to a few couples who honeymooned abroad and they shared their experiences as well as advice for those considering the same locations. Here’s what they had to say:
Honeymoon destination/s: Maldives and Dubai
Honeymoon type: Relaxed with a bit of activity
Duration: Around 13 days
Approximate overall cost: 1milActivities:
Maldives: We went jet skiing and snorkelling. snorkelling was amazing! I know you get snorkeling everywhere but the reef in the Maldives was just epic! We were there for 3 days, and we didn’t do much and spent most of the time relaxing. We stayed at the Paradise Island Resort. I would probably not stay there again, the restaurants were mediocre but the water made up for it. They have a watersports facility on the island but all the activities are super expensive, you could do the same things in Dubai for much much cheaper on Jumeirah Beach.
Maldives was quite expensive. Unless you get a full board package, you’re gonna spend a lot just on meals, leaving little for you to spend on activities which are just pretty much watersports. We spent $33 for 4 king prawns, and close to a $100 for the buffet for a person. We thought Paradise Island would be decently priced as it’s quite popular and it falls into the lower price range. People might as well try to get an offer on the hotel then you’ll have enough to spend on water sports.Dubai: We stayed on Jumeirah Beach Residence. It’s a pricey area but since it’s your honeymoon and you’re not gonna do it all the time it’s worth it. We stayed at the JA Ocean View Hotel, the whole idea was to get a hotel to watch the fireworks from the room. We got an awesome show, if you get a club room there we got a cheaper deal than the regular room at the hotel on booking.com. We saw the fireworks of Atlantis and JBR and it went on for a good 20 minutes. Totally worth it.
We went on desert safari in Dubai but didn't just stick to the usual thing. The company we used is called Platinum Tours and they offered a lot of additional activities. The Falconry lesson was really awesome. They flew the falcon onto your arm. Then you go dune bashing through an Arabian Oryx reserve.
We went swimming with the dolphins at Atlantis. They have 3 packages - the basic one is for kids and people who can’t swim at all. When you sign up for the dolphins you get free access to the water park, but the water park closes at 5 so if you book a dolphin session later than 5, get there early in the day and use that free pass, cuz the water park at Atlantis is amazing. We showed up at around 4 and by the time we looked around and checked in it was already 5, so we basically wasted the free water park pass. The dolphin adventure is sort of expensive, but it’s still worth it.
We also rented a supercar and drove around which was fun. Quite pricey but was worth it. Ferrari world was a letdown, except for the Formula Rossa I think, the fastest ride in the world. The other rides were more kids oriented so if you decide to go to Ferrari world, don’t get the full package for all the rides cuz there won’t be a lot of rides you’ll truly enjoy.
We also went to Wild Wadi Water Park - it was deserted at the time cuz this was in January and in the winter, the rides were pretty cool. But we didn’t stick around for long cuz theme parks without people can be haunting. We did a few water slides and headed out. We spent the rest of the week on JBR, visiting friends and doing a bit of shopping. There’s a whole bunch of cool restaurants on JBR, and the place is always buzzing late into the night. We went go karting and tried out a whole bunch of places.
Also there’s this place called buffalo wild wings - they have amazing wings and the restaurant in Dubai is the only outlet they have outside of the U.S so give it shot and try their mango habanero wings. They have sauces from mild to hot but the habanero will hit the Sri Lankan taste buds right on the spot.
Dubai is definitely worth it - there’ still a whole lot more to do, we just got lazy and wanted to chill afterwards. You good go clay shooting, horseback riding and do a few other things.
- A and A
Honeymoon destination/s: Maldives
Honeymoon type: Relaxed
Honeymoon duration: 5 nights 6 days
Activities: Dolphin watching, spa, snorkelling, island hopping and romantic private dinners on the beach.
What advice would you give a couple considering this location/s for their own honeymoons? Best place to go if you want to relax after the wedding and spend some time together.
Approximate overall cost: It was a wedding gift.
Any final piece of advice? Enjoy every minute
- Rukshika & Binara
Honeymoon destination/s: Europe (Belgium, Luxembourg, Austria, Italy, France, Switzerland)
Honeymoon type: Mostly sightseeing with some time to be on our own
Honeymoon duration: 18 days
Activities: Visiting places where we both had mutual interest, tasting different types of food, meeting different people and of course a little bit of shopping (picking souvenirs and country specific items)
What advice would you give a couple considering this location/s for their own honeymoons?
● Travel period - Summer would be the best time to go
● Group travel as opposed to finding your own way - saves time and money but should be with an international/recognised agent
● Need at least 15 days
● Work on your tour plan and visa early
● Travel lightApproximate overall cost: LKR 1Mn
Any final piece of advice? Have a break after the wedding ceremony/all functions before you head on for your honeymoon and plan it early.
- K & R
