Can you believe the new year is almost here? For many couples, this time of year is the most popular time for proposals (if that’s you, congratulations!) but what many couples don’t realize is that the first thing they should do after they book the venue is plan the Honeymoon!

Let’s be honest, the Honeymoon is truly about you and your new spouse - it’s the best part! Before you solicit the advice from your family and friends, I’ve put together 20 of the best Honeymoon options for 2020. I don’t take this task lightly! This list combines the newest hotel openings, off the beaten path gems, and Instagram-worthy scenery you’ll never forget.‍

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Singapore + Langkawi, Malaysia 
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Any Crazy Rich Asians fans know that Singapore is a great city to start an epic trip. Singapore Airlines leads the pack as the best airline in the world and the new airport is an experience in itself. Spend a few days eating, shopping, taking photos of the mix of architectural styles before heading to the island of Langkawai in Malaysia for complete relaxation. This island paradise has species of wildlife not found anywhere else in addition to rainforest tours and sparkling beaches. 
Stay: Raffles Singapore, Fullerton Hotel, Four Seasons Langkawi‍

‍The Philippines ‍

While the Philippines has been known as a backpacking destination for the past few years, there is one exceptional hotel that is putting it on the map. In 2019, the Amanpulo resort won the best diving in the world - and that’s including resorts in Tahiti and The Maldives! This pristine paradise on your own private island is the ultimate luxe getaway and the private beach   bungalows are, in my opinion, even better than the less private overwater alternatives. 

Stay: Amanpulo ‍

Los Cabos, Mexico ‍

Los Cabos has something for every type of traveler and it makes a great getaway for shorter Honeymoons. The fantastic sunsets, the desert heat, the waves crashing on the beach, and the incredible flavorful food can’t be beat. For adventurers, you can head into the mountains on ATVs or snorkel with the whales and manta rays just off the coast of La Paz.  

Stay: Montage Los Cabos, Las Ventanas, One & Only Palmilla , Zadun a Ritz Carlton Reserve

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‍Want more Cabo inspiration? Head to this post.

Nicaragua‍

While there has been some political trouble in Nicaragua the past year, I predict that by the end of 2020 and into 2021, things will be back completely as they were. For those couples looking for best value for money but still want to experience luxury, this is the place. Start in the charming colonial town of Granada to experience the food then head to the lakes for horseback riding and sunset kayaking. Back in the heart of the country, you can experience an active volcano as a stop on your way to your own private treehouse on the beach. 

Stay: Tribal Hotel, Jicaro Island Lodge, Morgan's Rock‍

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Kenya‍

While South Africa will always be popular for safari Honeymoons, I’d like to suggest Kenya. Your money will go further and it is equally exciting to see the Big 5 on the plains of the Mara. Even better, you can hop in a hot air balloon for hopes of spotting them from above. Or if you’re the mega organized type, lock down a reservation at the Instagram famous Giraffe Manor to get really up close and personal!

Stay: Giraffe Manor, Solio Lodge, Sala's Camp, andBeyond Bateleur Camp‍

Sri Lanka‍

To this day, Sri Lanka is one of my favorite places on earth and I’m delighted the travel industry has caught on. The beauty of this country is widespread and diverse. Lush jungles with towering Buddha sculptures, ancient palaces and temples, elephants crossing the roads and streams, misty mountains with sprawling tea plants - the list goes on and on. Spend time in the north getting to know the cultural heart of the country then head south to the wildlife park in hopes of spotting an elephant or two and then finally, end at the picturesque beaches.

Stay:  Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Cape Weligama, Amanwella‍

Turkey‍

Turkey is another country that has captured my heart - I’ve been there twice! The entire country is full of diverse landscapes and cultures and there is something for everyone. Istanbul is the buzzing, beating heart of the country and wandering among the ancient ruins and bazaars, you’ll wonder what life could have been like if you had been born somewhere else, in another time. The food, the sights, the architecture, the calls to prayer, and the phenomenal sunsets will capture your heart. After Istanbul, head to the ancient city of Cappadocia for a hot air balloon ride and then travel to the Mediterranean for what’s known as “The Turquoise Coast.” For the ultra luxe, rent a private gulet or yacht to travel down the coast in style. 

Stay: Soho House Istanbul, Museum Hotel, Amanruya‍

Australia‍

You might wonder if Australia is enough of an exotic destination for a Honeymoon but that’s exactly the point, it’s just far enough away and just different enough to make for a great, relaxing escape without the culture shock. Add in the fact that Australia has the world’s best coffee and some of the greatest food and wine and you’ll be happy you made the trek! Don’t make a rookie mistake - the country is huge and while the luxury lodges and hotels are truly impressive, you’ll need to focus on only a few areas in order to make the most of your time. Most complete the bucket list route of Sydney, Uluru, and the Whitsundays for the Great Barrier Reef. 

Stay: Park Hyatt Sydney, Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley, qualia, Longitude 131‍

St. Barths‍

The devastating hurricane knocked St. Barths down but it’s back better than ever. Most of the hotels took the time to do a complete refresh and the cult favorite, Eden Roc, opened with even more beach space. Talk about an upgrade! This island is perfect for Honeymooners since it combines that relaxed, French luxury with the upscale culinary experiences not found in many other islands. It’s the perfect, classic beach escape that will have you calling for “champagne, please!”

Stay: Le Sereno, Eden Roc, Cheval Blanc St. Barth‍

Bhutan‍

For the truly adventurous couple, Bhutan is a once in a lifetime opportunity. As of 2017, Bhutan was named the world’s only carbon negative country, which means the scenery is technicolor and the mountain peaks are remote and untouched. In additional to the wildlife, the stunning natural beauty, and the unique culture, the luxury hotel scene has taken off in the past few years and the offerings are better than before. This destination is truly for the curious who are seeking something completely transformative and peaceful. The time disconnected from tech and away from the endless busy moments of day to day life will allow you to trul connect with your partner. 

Stay: COMO Uma Bhutan, Six Senses Bhutan, Amankora‍

Oman‍

Oman is truly for the well-traveled couple. It’s not on everyone’s list and that’s what makes it special. It’s a photographer’s dream with turquoise domed mosques and weathered desert landscapes. Palm trees fan out in every direction and the smell of frankincense permeates the air. A journey to Oman is to step back in time. Start your journey in Muscat, the capital, to get a feel of the culture before heading to the “Grand Canyon of the Middle East” and back down to the coast where you can zip-line into the stunning Zighy Bay.

Stay: The Chedi Muscat, Alila Jabal Akhdar, Six Senses Zighy Bay‍

Portugal ‍

There’s a saying in Portugal that Portugal discovered the world and now the world is discovering Portugal. Affordable, relaxed, easy to get around, and full of rich culture and culinary history. The wild seascapes are just as photogenic as the neat, tiled row houses of Lisbon. With a flux of luxury hotels, it’s perfect for those who want to experience luxury at a reduced cost but full of authentic charm. 

Stay: Valverde Hotel Lisbon, São Lourenço do Barrocal, Six Senses Douro Valley, Vila Monte Farm House‍

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Bali + Surrounding Islands
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Bali will always be a popular destination for Honeymoons but the small island is really seeing the strain of over tourism in the past few years. It doesn’t have to mean you skip Bali entirely though! Ubud is still worth a visit and with the opening of the brand new Capella Ubud, there are better ways to get away from the crowds and into the heart of Bali. After a few nights in the jungle, I send my clients further afield to the remote islands of the archipelago. The remote islands have white sand beaches without the crowds. For those who are divers or just love remote islands and coral reefs, book a cabin on a luxury yacht to spend time in the UNESCO protected Raja Ampat. 

Stay: Nihi Sumba, Rascal Voyages, ‍

Sweden

‍Most Honeymooners picture beach and sun for their escape but I think there is something equally romantic about grey winter sky and cozy cabins in the woods. Sweden is the perfect destination for those wishing for a wintry escape. The charming interiors of the city pair effortlessly with the northern lights and reindeer in the snowy, deep woods.

Stay: Ett Hem Stockholm, Treehotel‍

St. Lucia

‍St. Lucia is one of the most unique islands in the Caribbean. Since it’s located further south, there is less hurricane risk making this a great year round destination. There are several stunning hotels to choose from with white sand beaches and mountain views. For active couples, plan for a zip line tour or a hike or ATV up the Pitons. 

Stay: Ladera, Sugar Beach‍

Colombia‍

Colombia is full of warm people, stunning natural beauty, food, music, and wildlife. It’s a fantastic destination for those who want to do more than just lie on a beach. It’s a culinary destination with the nightlife to match. It’s easy to stick to the cities but further afield, there are rain forests and palm tree filled valleys to discover. 

Stay: Four Seasons Bogota, Casa San Agustin Cartagena, Las Islas
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Fiji
For those who dream of an island paradise unplugged escape, Fiji is the place to be. Unlike the islands of Tahiti, most of the hotels have an entire island to themselves, which makes for the ultimate privacy and indulgence. When you tire of the beach (as if!), there is an entire underwater sanctuary to discover. 

Stay: Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji, Kokomo Private Island Fiji, Laucala Island
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British Virgin Islands

‍Not every Honeymoon has to be to a far flung destination - the US and British Virgin Islands are just a few hours from the East Coast and boast some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Just like St. Barths, the islands have bounced back better than ever after the hurricane. Plan for renting a catamaran for the day to drop anchor in private bays and islands and definitely add a visit to Trunk Bay on St. John for a snorkeling trail. 

Stay: Rosewood Little Dix Bay‍

Switzerland

Switzerland is a year round destination but I can’t help picturing how cozy and romantic it would be for a wintry escape. It’s quite easy to circle the country in a week but the highlights are the night and tidy cities, the charming mountain towns with Alpine views, and fairy tale castles on the shores of the lakes. Indulge in the chocolate and cheese guilt free!
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Stay: Chedi Andermatt, Burgenstock Hotel and Alpine Spa, The Dolder Grand

Namibia‍

Namibia is not for the faint of heart. The empty, open deserts in tones of bright orange and browns and the dark skies full of stars are a photographer’s dream. Climb mountainous sand dunes and hear them singing in the wind or head to the Shipwreck Coast to explore the ruins. Other highlights include tracking elephants and rhinos or just relaxing by the pool. 
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Stay: Zannier Hotels Omaanda,Zannier Hotels Sonop, andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

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