WEDDINGS &HONEYMOONS

- 2016 -

Your guide to the best hotels for the big daY

and beYond

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WEDDINGSNo matter where you travel to get married the same rule

always applies: your wedding must be absolutely perfect. To ensure the big day gets off to the best possible start, we’ve

cherry picked some of the finest hotels and resorts from near and far where you and your guests can make memories that

last forever.

6 JW MarrIott MarquIS HotEl DubaI

8tHE rItz-CarltoN DubaI INtErNatIoNal

FINaNCIal CENtrE 10

SoFItEl balI NuSa Dua bEaCH rESort

12 arMaNI HotEl DubaI

13Ja MaNaFaru

14VElaa prIVatE ISlaND

15FaIrMoNt aJMaN

16lE royal MoNCEau – raFFlES parIS

17bab al SHaMS DESErt rESort & Spa

18outrIGGEr laGuNa pHukEt bEaCH rESort

19 park Hyatt DubaI

3ContentsWeddings & Honeymoons

CoNtENtSWEDDINGS & HoNEyMooNS

HoNEyMooNSYou’ll always look back on your honeymoon. Make sure you do so fondly by perusing our line up of beautiful hotels and

resorts. Whether you want to combine romance with culture, adventure or relaxation, we have the perfect place just for you.

20 tHE SuN SIyaM Iru FuSHI

21DuSIt tHaNI MalDIVES

22ENCHaNtED ISlaND rESort

23HaSSlEr roMa

24SHaNGrI-la’S lE touESSrok rESort & Spa,

MaurItIuS

25SHaNGrI-la’S HaMbaNtota rESort & Spa,

SrI laNka

26SoNEVa FuSHI

27SHaNGrI-la’S VIllINGIlI rESort & Spa, MalDIVES

28VIVaNta by taJ Coral rEEF

Group Commercial Director

David Wade

Commercial Director Rawan Chehab

EditorChris Ujma

4Weddings & Honeymoons Contents

Contributing Editor Hayley Skirka

Art Director

Andy Knappett

DesignerEmi Dixon

IllustratorAndrew Thorpe

Sales ManagerLisa Price

Production Manager

Muthu Kumar

Managing DirectorVictoria Thatcher

Editorial Director John Thatcher

Getaways for the real youFor bookings or more information, please call +971 4 814 5500 or

email reservations@jaresorts.com

jaresortshotels.com /JAresortshotels @JAresorts @JAresorts

Romantic destinations for the real youCelebrate your love at JA Manafaru in the Maldives or

at Enchanted Island Resort in the Seychelles, two luxurious resorts ideal for weddings and honeymoons like no other. Create everlasting

memories you will cherish forever while basking in the tropical breeze, as the warm water beckons you for a swim. Stir your senses with invigorating spa treatments and delight in romantic dinners by

the beach. We’re ready when you are.

for REAL LOVEISLAND ESCAPE

6Weddings JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOTEL

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITAll of the rooms are huge, with great views of Downtown Dubai. The hotel also has multiple award-winning restaurants where your guests can dine in style –we recommend Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar, the world’s first Michelin-starred Indian chef. It’s also a great base for sightseeing; Dubai Fountain, The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa all just five minutes away.

THE bEST SUITEThe Penthouse Suite features two levels of impeccably-designed space that is stylishly contemporary with a subtle nod to the hotel’s Arabian base. With carved Mashrabia elements in the open hall and a Majlis recreation area connecting the levels, the suites also boast Bose speakers, iPad room controls and a selection of mood lighting schemes, meaning you’ll settle-in, in no time.

PIcTURE PERfEcTYou’ll be spoiled for choice for stunning picture opportunities at this hotel but for ‘wow’ shots that will impress your friends back home, we recommend heading to the Aqua Pool deck where you can have pictures taken in a private cabana, surrounded by palm trees, with background vistas of the city below. jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOTELInspired by the shape of the date palm tree, the towering JW Marriott Marquis is the world’s tallest hotel. This is the place to head if you’re planning a mammoth-sized celebration as it can accommodate groups of over 1,000. The Saray Spa bridges the entire third floor of both hotel towers, offering luxurious spa treatments that are perfect for getting you ready for your big day. There’s also on-site event planners who are experts in finalising the most minute details, so you can relax knowing that your wedding day is sure to be exactly what you’ve always dreamed of.

Your wedding celebration re-imaginedDubai is home to the World’s Tallest Hotel in the heart of the city where wedding dreams come to life amidst 5-star luxury, flawless service and redefined taste. With luxurious accommodation, awe-inspiring venues, intuitive service and culinary expertise, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai will take your wedding celebration to new heights.

To find out more about the distinctive venues and bespoke wedding packages, please contact the hotel’s certified wedding planners at +971 4 414 2000, email jwmarquis.dubai@marriott.com or visit jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com for more information.

Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay PO BOX 121000, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 414 0000

8Weddings THE RITZ-cARLTON, DUbAI INTERNATIONAL fINANcIAL cENTRE

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITRitz-Carlton DIFC is sited in the heart of the city, close to some of Dubai’s thrilling attractions – The Dubai Mall and iconic Burj Khalifa are here – making this a great base for guests travelling over for your wedding. What’s more, all wedding guests are treated to monogram bathrobes if they extend their stay beyond the big day. The perfect memento.

THE bEST SUITEYou deserve the royal treatment on your big day. Soak up and unwind in a hot bath, and jump into a plush feather bed after the occasion. The Royal Suite boasts views of the city, a jacuzzi, personal butler service, fluffy bathrobes, Asprey-branded bath products, connection to the Premier Room to accomodate larger groups, and transportation to the airport so you can head off for your honeymoon in style. If you’re not in the mood to step out, cosy up and watch a movie in bed. Couples also enjoy daily access to the hotel’s Club Lounge, where myriad delights are offered complimentary.

PIcTURE PERfEcTOne spot at this hotel trumps all others – the magical sunken garden, complete with palm trees and a fountain. Sure to impress your guests, it also makes for a lush photoshoot setting with memorable snaps of your big day guaranteed. ritzcarlton.com/hotels/dubai/difc

THE RITZ-cARLTON, DUbAI INTERNATIONAL fINANcIAL cENTRE Planning your wedding doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience. At The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, brides-to-be can conceptualise the wedding of their dreams, thanks to guidance from the hotel’s assigned expert. Intimate celebrations and elaborate parties are welcomed at the expansive indoor venue and outdoor terrace. Couples can choose the ‘Crafted with Love’ service to customise their own cake and get a miniature version created prior to the occasion. Complimentary spa treatments for the couple and numerous other perks are included in an array of great packages here.

Create your dream destination wedding in the heart of Dubai atThe Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, and let usmake memories for you to treasure forever. To speak to a weddingplanner, please call +971 4 372 2628 or emaildifcweddings@ritzcarlton.com.

©2016 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company

Let us be the place where you spend the �rst day of the rest of your life.

Let us o�er a feast for your eyes as well as your taste buds.

Let us plan a day your guests will smile about for years to come.

Let us turn one night into a lifetime of memories.

10Weddings SOFITEL BALI NUSA DUA BEACH RESORT

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITStunningly beautiful and right on the shoreline, this is the quintessential Bali retreat. Guests can relax at the iconic So Spa by Sofitel, tuck into fine Asian cuisine in Kwee Zeen, or indulge in The Weekend Chic Brunch. It’s also a great base with Uluwatu, one of Bali’s most famous temples and surfing spots, just 20 minutes away, and Turtle Island accessible right from the hotel’s beach.

THE BEST SUITEThe Honeymoon Suite has beautiful views of the shimmering sea and all the space you need for your wedding night and beyond. With a private balcony, marble bathroom complete with a rain shower and Hermès products, private plunge pool and your very own dedicated butler, it’s pure indulgence for the happy couple.

PICTURE PERFECTNestled in 8 hectares of lush gardens with exquisite views of the Indian Ocean, there’s a whole host of options for perfect wedding pictures. We recommend being right on the beachfront, under a beautifully adorned flower box or taking advantage of the Jewel Box with its floor-to-ceiling windows, both ways great memories are guaranteed. sofitel-bali-nusadua.com

SOFITEL BALI NUSA DUA BEACH RESORTEnchanting and seductive, Bali offers a unique charm for weddings and this hotel, in the upmarket locale of Nusa Dua, blends local Balinesian culture with a romantic French art de vivre. Its beachfront located Jewel Box is the most elegant wedding venue on the island, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering stunning views of the ocean and lush tropical gardens. Ideally climate-controlled, the Jewel Box boasts a stunning marble entrance and traditional Balinese water feature and is the perfect place for your dream wedding in paradise.

ITDC Complex lot N5, Bali 80363 | +62 361 849 2888 | H9078@sofitel.com | www.sofitel.com

A taste

of tropical

luxury on the

magical island

of Bali

Boasting magnificent views of the shimmering sea, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort’s spacious rooms and suites offer sophisticated style and exquisite comfort. Revel in a world of rejuvenation with a savant mix of world-class facilities, French cosmetology and tranquil surrounds. Discover all our magnifique addresses in over 40 countries on www.sofitel.com

12Weddings ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI

WHy yOUR gUEsTs WILL LOvE ITLocated in the iconic Burj Khalifa, this hotel is a tourist destination in its own right – and gives your guests enviable bragging rights of attending a wedding in the world’s tallest tower. The Dubai Mall is on the hotel’s doorstep, so any last-minute wedding outfit accessories are easy to pick up. Guests can also enjoy the mesmerising shows of the Dubai Fountain from the comfort of the hotel, and tuck into award-winning cuisine at Armani’s great selection of restaurants.

THE BEsT sUITEHaving played host to so many famous names, The Dubai Suite is the perfect place to spend your wedding night. Designed by Mr. Armani himself, the elegant Suite is on level 39 so you’re guaranteed gorgeous views of the city, but you’d be forgiven for spending more time drinking in the stylish elegance of your suite with its circular entrance, private dining room and separate powder room.

PIcTURE PERfEcTThe beautifully landscaped pavilion is the ideal place to capture the magic of your day. Swathed in stunning flowers, stylishly paired to your taste, the views of Dubai’s glittering skyline in the background and the mesmerising fountain below guarantee a shot worth framing. armanihotels.com

ARMANI HOTEl DUBAIYour wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, a day when it’s perfectly acceptable to ramp up the glamour and go all out. Armani Hotel is the ideal place to do exactly that, thanks to its locale in the world’s tallest tower. Choose to celebrate in the grandeur of the Armani Ballroom or take things outside on the elegantly landscaped pavilion where you’ll be greeted with amazing views of the Dubai Fountain. An in-house floral design team and a whole host of spa treatments tailored specifically to prenuptial relaxation makes Armani Hotel Dubai the perfect place to begin your journey together.

13WeddingsJA MANAfARU

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITFor water-babies there is a house reef, water sports school and three swimming pools. Underwater photographers are also available to document all your unbelievabubble ocean-based adventures. If your guests prefer a different kind of liquid, three of the on-resort restaurants were bestowed a Spectacular Award of Excellence in 2014 for their grape selection.

THE bEST SUITEThe lavish two-storey Royal Island Suite can accommodate up to six adults and two children, and this residence on the beach is royal indeed; it’s equipped with its own sauna, steam room and spa treatment space. A generously-sized and elegant dining room space is complemented by an airy living area, while an open sundeck borders the private pool for those sun-soaked outdoors hours. Bedrooms overlook ornamental ponds, and guests have their own dedicated villa host to cater to every whim.

PIcTURE PERfEcTFirstly, part of the Captivating Castaway wedding ceremony package ensures the bride and groom look picture perfect themselves, enjoying a relaxing 60-minute massage followed by an Aroma Flower Bath prior to the big day. As for camera-worthy moments, a private sunset cruise on a traditional dhoni ensures wedding pictures worth framing. jaresortshotels.com

JA MANAfARUCovering 35 acres (where verdant vegetation flourishes), think ‘intimate wedding occasion’ rather than ‘take over the island’. This Haa Alif atoll gem is for those looking to celebrate with a cluster of loved ones, and a charmingly cosy aura envelops this quintessentially Maldivian resort experience: wooden walkways lead to bungalows, beachfront suites and multi-bedroom family suites that are surrounded by the sparkling Indian Ocean. The wedding ceremony itself takes place under a beautifully-decorated alter overlooking the beach, and among the accompaniments is a great Maldivian Bodu Beru band.

14Weddings VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND

Why youR guESTS WILL LoVE ITEverything about Velaa will have your guests thanking their lucky stars that they made it onto your guest list – the crystal clear waters; the stunning villas and spa; the outstanding restaurants and vintage Champagne bar; and ample amenities including an incredible golf facility ( just make sure you don’t lose your groom here on the morning of your wedding).

ThE bEST SuITESo much more than a suite and way beyond the accepted definition of luxury, the Romantic Pool Residence is the ultimate romantic escape. On its own in the ocean accessible by boat only, this stunning dwelling is wrapped by a terrace replete with a jacuzzi, pool, sundeck, and sunken bath.

PIcTuRE PERfEcTOn Velaa’s stretch of pristine sand hangs a swinging chair that’s perfect for two. Climb on in and pose while the water laps gently at the shore just feet from where you swing in the sunshine. velaaprivateisland.com

VELAA PRIVATE ISLANDOne of the most beautiful locations on earth demands a wedding just as memorable. The only limits here are those imposed by your own imagination – Velaa, in The Maldives, can deliver all that your heart (and budget) desires. Be it a full island buy-out so that you and your guests have the whole island to yourselves for your big day, or something more intimate just for two – everything here can be done, bespoke to an impeccable standard you’ll remember forever.

15WeddingsFAIRMONT AJMAN

Why yOuR guesTs WIll lOve IT200 metres of soft white sand and lapping turquoise waters make for the perfect place for your guests to relax. There are also eight restaurants and lounges to indulge in, a huge infinity pool, private cabanas and a whole host of water activities to ensure your guests will be royally entertained.

The besT suITePerfect for the happy couple, the Junior Suite offers exceptional contemporary design and plenty of space for your stay in Ajman, with separate living and bedroom areas and a private balcony. What’s more, it commands gorgeous panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.

PIcTuRe PeRFecTEndless sunshine, a palm-fringed beach and the glittering blue of the ocean in the background, you can rest assured your wedding photographs will be on point when shot at the resort’s Sunset Lounge. It’s the choice pick from a setting full of wonderful locations. fairmont.com/ajman

FAIRMONT AJMANJust a 30-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, the Fairmont Ajman is nestled on the cusp of the Arabian Gulf, on one of the most spectacular beaches in the country. The vibe is distinctly more relaxed than the hustle and bustle of big city Dubai, ideal for a tranquil wedding getaway. The hotel has a state-of-the-art ballroom; a professional team of wedding experts; and a spa which offers a whole host of treatments including an authentic Turkish hammam experience – ideal preparation for the big day.

16Weddings LE ROyAL MONcEAU - RAffLES PARIS

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITLe Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris is home to Spa My Blend by Clarins, voted the Best Spa in the World by Virtuoso. Pre or post-wedding your guests will love coming here to indugle in all manner of award-winning treatments, while those with kids will be charmed by the hotel’s outstanding Le Petit Royal programme – guaranteed to keep tykes happy throughout the big day.

THE bEST SUITEBook the palatial Signature One Bedroom Suite featuring plush sofas, custom-designed furniture by Philippe Starck, and a walk-in closet where you can stow away your wedding dress for the rest of the trip. Coffee table art books and an acoustic guitar will help spark creativity when writing your speeches.

PIcTURE PERfEcTJust yards from the hotel is the beautiful Parc Monceau, where you can head pre-wedding for some wonderful shots. You’re also close enough to add landmarks like Arc de Triomphe to your shot list. leroyalmonceau.com

LE ROyAL MONcEAU - RAffLES PARIS With its sophistication and elegance, it’s no surprise the City of Love is a prime destination for weddings. This beautiful hotel, replete with Philippe Starck touches throughout, boasts three versatile function rooms that can accommodate up to 100 guests. Feast on gourmet menu offerings created by Michelin-star chefs and decadent desserts by Pierre Hermé – dubbed the ‘Picasso of pastry’. Couples also have the choice of using a 99-seat cinema theatre for speeches and photo slideshows.

17WeddingsbAb AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT AND SPA

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITTraditional Arabian stonework, tropical gardens, shimmering pools and waterways transport guests back to Bedouin days. This award-winning resort makes for a great stay for those who want to relax once the big day has passed, offering ample leisure activities, excursions, camel trekking, and archery. It’s also home to a great little spa.

THE bEST SUITEThe Deluxe One Bedroom suite is the most lavish dwelling at this resort, comprising uninterrupted desert views or those of landscaped gardens and Palm Grove. The walk-in dressing room is every woman’s dream, while the Majlis style lounge is ideal for readying oneself on the morning of the main event.

PIcTURE PERfEcTThe enchanting desert scenery – perhaps with a camel in the background – is as Arabian as it gets. It makes for a stunning backdrop and pictures you’ll want to look at again and again. Staff here can help set up any scene for you, so be sure ask them. yomeydanhotels.com/babalshams

bAb AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT AND SPACapture the essence of Arabia with a wedding set amidst majestic sand dunes. Whether you choose to go down the traditional route, or prefer a modern take on an Arabian setting, this award-winning desert resort has much to offer for loved-up couples. A star-filled sky sets the scene for an al fresco setting, while the low-rise architecture and natural landscape adds a dash of culture and heritage. The resort’s expert wedding planners are also on hand for all your needs.

18Weddings OUTRIggER LAgUNA PHUKET bEAcH RESORT

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITThis private beach resort is located in a premier address – Bang Tao Beach – which is becoming known for its dining options and trendy new venues. On-resort, guests can take advantage of access to the Banyan Tree and Angsana Day spas, the championship 18-hole golf course, and also signing privileges at over thirty restaurants and bars that form part of the Laguna Destination Resort portfolio.

THE bEST SUITEThe 2-bedroom villa stands at 1636sq.ft. and accommodates a maximum of 6 people. It embodies the resort’s renenergised design theme when a complete renovation took modern interiors and subtly blended them with contemporary Thai touches. The villa boasts two large bedrooms, open-plan living areas, wide balconies and The Club access for an indulgent holiday escape like no other.

PIcTURE PERfEcTPad across the white sands of Bang Tao Bay to find the perfect vantage: with the property being located between a tropical lagoon and the calm, sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea, it makes for the perfect paradise backdrop without any need for photo-retouching. outriggerthailand.com/laguna-phuket-beach-resort

OUTRIggER LAgUNA PHUKET bEAcH RESORTIt’s got the looks, the charm and a batch of signature experiences to ensure your stay is smoother than silk. Outrigger Laguna strikes a chord of class, and when it comes to planning a memorable wedding the event manager can see to every detail of your personalised (Thai or western-styled) ceremony, from the gourmet fare to the musical repertoire. The hotel can make the celebration as lavish or informal as the bride and groom desires, with bespoke items being a wedding cake, photographer service, and fine bottle of bubbles.

19WeddingsPARK HyATT DUbAI

WHy yOUR gUESTS WILL LOvE ITJust ten minutes from Dubai International Airport, this is the perfect check-in spot for those flying in for the occasion. Uniquely located in the centre of Dubai’s heritage district, guests can immerse themselves in culture and enjoy a visit to the nearby Dubai Gold Souk or pop across to the Bastakiya Arts District. And with an idyllic 18-hole course on the doorstep, golfers will be happy. Dining is memorable, too, with award-winning French cuisine at Traiteur or delicious local delicacies at Café Arabesque.

THE bEST SUITEBoasting beautiful views of the glittering marina and Dubai Creek, the top-floor 220-square-metre Royal Suite offers elegant interiors that make it the perfect base for your big day. Beautifully decorated with an elegant minimalism, the cream and blue tones reflect the nautical views on the hotel’s doorstep. The suite also comes with its very own butler, a daily delivery of fresh fruit and exclusive spa benefits to ensure your stay is frazzle-free.

PIcTURE PERfEcTAs natural beauty abounds, there’s an array of options for first-class wedding photographs. Our tip? The Amara Walkway. dubai.park.hyatt.com

PARK HyATT DUbAIStep into a world of luxury at the Park Hyatt’s Mediterranean-vibed retreat at Dubai Creek and Yacht Club. Perfectly crafted private gardens provide endless options for al fresco celebrations while the hotel’s expert wedding planner will ensure every last detail for your special day is curated with care. Additionally, the couple’s journey at the award-winning Amara Spa is a sublime three-hour ritual designed specifically to ensure couples are refreshed and rejuvenated before the big day begins. And with everything else taken care of to your complete satisfaction, you can spend your visit enjoying the beauty of the hotel and its wide-ranging amenities.

20Honeymoons THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI20Honeymoons

THE MUST-HAvE RoMANTIc MoMENT

Of all the romantic moments you’ll enjoy here,

one stands tall above all others: set sail on the

romantic sunset champagne cruise. As you and your loved one clink glasses and toast to a beautiful

life ahead, the cooling sea breeze wafts gently

across you as you drink in your impossibly beautiful

surrounds. Memorable. thesunsiyam.com

The one For…SPA LovERS

THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI

Immerse in nature as you and your partner de-stress post wedding with a dip in

the ocean or fresh water pool, and meander through

this enchanting island, which is encircled by a white sandy beach and

marine life. Barefoot dining, the nature trail (highlighting

flora on the island), lazing around in hammocks, and

a plethora of activities and excursions – including

visits to the local island – await visitors at this resort nestled in the Noonu Atoll. Honeymooners are treated to a bottle of red or white, a complimentary half-day

excursion, and USD50 credit for two at the spa,

which we recommend putting toward a couple’s

massage. Absolute bliss, all but guaranteed.

DUSIT THANI MALDIvES DUSIT THANI

THE MUST-HAvE RoMANTIc MoMENTIn-room you can request a cold chocolate fondue: delicious. But for something more lasting, write your loved one a letter and arrange for a message in a bottle to be sent as a surprise. It can appear in the swimming pool, the ocean surface, or any other way you prefer, making it a perfect honeymoon memento. dusit.com/dusitthani/Maldives

The one For…oLD RoMANTIcS

DUSIT THANI MALDIvESThai hospitality is at its charming best at this island retreat, brought to life with a turquoise lagoon, 360-degree living house reef, and one of the largest infinity pools in the Maldives. It’s the island’s natural beauty, however, that makes it the perfect haven for honeymooners ready to kick back for days of bliss. Diving, snorkelling, treetop-spa treatment pods and the dine-around experience – in a lagoon, on the shore, or in a pavilion – all are guaranteed to lure you, while Thai-inspired villas and residences offer a restful stay in a lavish setting. This is truly a destination fit for both the laidback and adventurous, with ample opportunities to indulge in both.

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22Honeymoons ENCHANTED ISLAND RESORT

THE muST-HAvE ROmANTIC mOmENT

A private barbecue in your villa’s terraced gazebo

allows newlyweds to cherish an intimate moment,

with the very best of fine dining in a relaxed setting.

jaresortshotels.com/Properties/EnchantedIsland

The One For…pRIvACy SEEkERS

ENCHANTED ISLAND RESORT

Seychelles proves to be the ultimate honeymoon

destination with this boutique island getaway,

home to ten secluded and lavish villas. Nestled in

the middle of a National Marine Park, the Pool Villa

offers couples turquoise waters, a pool, and a private

sundeck complete with outdoor rain showers that

give a wilderness vibe. Sip cocktails, indulge in

candlelit dinners made up of local produce – inspired

by traditional Seychellois customs – and enjoy

sunsets on the beach while you take in the scent

of exotic flowers. Serene Spa, set on the hilltop of the island, combines the tranquil landscape with rejuvenating treatments

including couples’ favourite Adam & Eve that leaves

you in a lull. You can also meditate and stretch at

sunrise yoga sessions before the day springs

into motion.

22Honeymoons

23HoneymoonsHASSLER ROMA

tHE MuSt-HAvE ROMAntic MOMEntThe Honeymoon Package; three nights in a Double Grand Deluxe, a bottle of scrumptious bubbles and fresh fruits on-arrival, and a special keepsake from the hotel’s souvenir collection. hotelhasslerroma.com

the One For…HiStORY BuFFS

HASSLER ROMAThe Baroque masterpiece Trevi Fountain, a mere eight-minute walk from this hotel, was created in 1762. The 135 Spanish Steps – at the top of which this hotel resides – were expertly designed in 1725. Hassler’s neighbour, the enchanting building of Il Palazzetto, dates back to the 1500s. Yes, you may have spent intensive months planning your dream wedding, but the stunning backdrop for your honeymoon in Italy’s Eternal City was being set centuries ago. The incomparably elegantly-designed Hassler Roma is considered the epitome of five-star hospitality here: it should be your home when in Rome. The restaurant portfolio represents the height of dining refinement, containing Salone Eva, Palm Court Garden and Imàgo (the hotel’s Michelin-star restaurant) which is perfect for a romantic candleit dinner for two with panoramic views.

23Honeymoons

24Honeymoons SHANGRI-LA’S LE TOUESSROK

RESORT & SPA, MAURITIUS

THE MUST-HAvE ROMANTIc MOMENT

For the perfect day, sail across the water to a private

hideaway on the secluded Ilot Mangenie where an on-call island butler will

take care of all your needs. Afterwards, experience

Dine by Design – a private culinary experience that

will see you and your loved one indulge in a candlelit dinner under the stars on

the pristine white sand. shangri-la.com/mauritius

SHANGRI-LA’S LE TOUESSROK RESORT & SPA

Quite possibly the hippest resort in the volcanic island

nation of Mauritius, the Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok is the place to go when you

want to truly spoil each other. A favourite with

celebrities, this east-coast hideaway has undergone

a gorgeous renovation, transforming into a cool

island-chic hideaway. Soulful music plays from

speakers lodged in the sand, colourful menus are decorated by the resident

artist, abstract coral screens adorn the bedrooms

and the whole resort is unflappably cool. It’s also

somewhat of a gastronomic delight with five dining

concepts, including Safran – an incredible Indian fusion

restaurant headed up by gifted Chef Ramesh Bund.

24Honeymoons

The One For…TRENDSETTERS

25HoneymoonsSHANGRI-LA’S HAMBANTOTA

RESORT & SPA, SRI LANKA

THE MuST-HAvE ROMANTIc MOMENTOne of the hotel’s taglines is ‘when time stands still, the enchantment lives on’, and this charm is woven throughout. A true highlight is the health club and CHI, The Spa, where you can have a soothing start to married life with plenty of pampering. Choose from Chinese and ayurvedic treatments using all-natural ingredients. shangri-la.com/hambantota

The One For…NATuRE LOvERS

SHANGRI-LA’S HAMBANTOTA RESORT & SPANewly opened in summer 2016, this five-star addition to Sri Lanka’s hotel landscape benefits from the brand’s studious knowledge of what makes a luxury resort memorable. It’s got the location (along the ancient Spice Route with some of Asia’s most fascinating nature sanctuaries like Yala and Bundala National Parks right on the doorstep), and the facilities put recreation firmly on the agenda. This is your own piece of paradise, best relished in the Premier Ocean Suite with its private hideaways, magnificent sea views, deep soak bath-tub and ultra-comfortable living area. Make sure you’re among the first cluster of guests to experience it. You’ll love it.

25Honeymoons

26Honeymoons SoNEvA FUSHI

THE MUST-HAvE RoMANTIc MoMENT

The so-called ‘epic experience’ begins with a private tour of the Baa

Atoll by seaplane. Then it’s onto a private sandbank - a stretch of white sand adrift in the Indian Ocean - which

is yours for the night. You’ll be served dinner by lantern light and awoken

next morning in your luxury tent by a boat bringing

a sumptuous breakfast. soneva.com/soneva-fushi

The one For…WANNABE cASTAWAYS

SoNEvA FUSHI

Dreams are made of places such as this, the

quintessential desert island in the Maldives

where beauty abounds. As newlyweds, your menu of experiences to cherish

forever lists as long as your arm here. They include a castaway experience,

during which you’re granted use of your own island for

a Dom Perignon picnic lunch and spa treatments

administered by your private therapists. Later that

evening, a private dolphin-spotting safari and in-villa dinner personally created

by the resort’s executive chef complete your day

of bliss. There’s also the celestial experience, during which you’ll be taken to the

island’s own observatory for a guided look at the heavens

and to name your own star.

26Honeymoons

27HoneymoonsSHANGRI-LA’S VILLINGILI

RESORT & SPA, MALDIVES

THE-MuST HAVE ROMANTIc MOMENTJump aboard the Horizon yacht for an experience to remember. Spot spinner dolphins in the ocean as you savour lunch on the equator. Back on dry land, treat yourselves to the All About Us therapies at the spa, inclusive of a glass of bubbles, massage, facial and scrub. shangri-la.com/male/villingiliresort

The One For…EPIcuREANS

SHANGRI-LA’S VILLINGILI RESORT & SPA Picture perfect villas are perched atop verdant greens flanked by the shimmering ocean. This resort truly is a haven for couples, with bespoke experiences catering to their every desire, be it a dinner in the jungle or a romantic cruise on the ocean. Honeymooners can go fishing at night, putt at the Maldives’ only nine-hole golf course, learn about turtle conservation, set sail on an ocean adventure, or rejuvenate after their big day at the incredible spa. A bottle of bubbly, spa treatments and 50% off on the villa rate are some enticements for couples to book the Romantic Maldives package. Need further reason? Thought not.

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28Honeymoons vIvANTA BY TAJ coRAL REEF

THE MUST HAvE RoMANTIc MoMENT

Escape it all with a speedboat trip to a crystal-

clear blue lagoon on a private sandbank. Spend the afternoon swimming

and snorkelling in complete privacy, then pop open

some bubbles and tuck into a specially prepared four-course meal, by the

flickering light of candles. vivanta.tajhotels.com

The one For…WATER BABIES

vIvANTA BY TAJ coRAL REEF

If you crave stunning sunsets and captivating

ocean views but are also keen to embrace style and elegance, then Vivanta by

Taj Coral Reef is the one for you. A perfect honeymoon

destination, the resort shies away from typical beach-

chic design and instead embraces sophistication.

With a choice of both over-water and on-land villas surrounded by swaying coconut palm trees and

azure blue waters, you can spend your days soaking in the views and indulging in a variety of private dining

experiences including sunset cruises and private

picnics. This is also the perfect spot for scuba

divers, as the resort not only has its own colourful reef teeming with fish but also boasts a fascinating

shipwreck that divers can explore to the full.

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