Thinking of how to make your once in a lifetime honeymoon trip an amazingly romantic and unique experience? Well, we're here to help you out! Pretty much everyone dreams of that perfect honeymoon and instead of heading to some of the more common locations, visit any one of these seven exotic countries and be prepared for an unforgettable trip!
1. Eastern Cape, South Africa
Wildlife, safari drives, gorgeous sunsets and landscapes… If you and your other half are up for an unforgettable adventure, South Africa is the perfect place for your honeymoon! Although you’ll be staying in the African wilderness, don’t pack your sleeping bag just yet. In fact, prepare to be spoiled if you decide to stay at a luxury safari lodge.
Where To Stay
Kariega Game Reserve
This reserve offers five different luxury safari lodges to suit your needs but if you ask us, we have our eyes set on the Settlers Drift – a 5-star tented safari with complete privacy. Each tented suite comes with a private viewing deck, giving you stunning views overlooking the Bushman’s River. Of course, your stay at the game reserve wouldn’t be complete without safari drives and guided bush walks! Imagine close-up stunning views of the Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard) as well as other South African wildlife. Don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to remember this moment.
P.S. Being situated in the Eastern Cape in South Africa, you can be assured that Kariega is a malaria-free game reserve.
Halal dining options: Yes
Click here to book Kariega Game Reserve
2. Abu Dhabi
Want an unconventional honeymoon? How about a desert retreat with romantic star-filled night skies? You'll also be able to explore the mystical desert dunes by camel or experience the adrenaline rush with dune bashing!
Where To Stay
Anantara Qasr Al Sarab
This luxurious accommodation is situated at The Empty Quarter – the world’s largest stretch of uninterrupted desert covering covering 250,000 square miles, making it a popular spot for dune bashing and other sand sports!
Credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara on Facebook
If sand sports are not your thing, relax by your comfy day beds and enjoy breathtaking views of the desert!
Credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara on Facebook
P.S. If you’re looking for an accommodation with your own private pool, the One Bedroom Anantara Pool Villa would be perfect!
Halal dining options: Yes
Click here to book Anantara Qasr Al Sarab
3. Crete, Greece
Credit: simplethrill on flickr
Many think of Santorini or Athens when we say Greece, but if you’re looking for somewhere in Greece that’s less mainstream but still rich in culture and has amazing views, we say head to Crete instead!
Credit: Carlo Bombardier on flickr
Whether you’re interested in the amazing beaches (there are a total of 350 beaches in Crete!) or exploring the quaint city of Chania (with a touch of Florence and Venice to it), Crete has something for everyone ?
Where to stay
Credit: Airbnb
You can choose to stay in a studio with gorgeous sea views or a private villa complete with your very own pool. It’s pretty much dependent on your interests and budget.
Credit: Airbnb
Studios are definitely cheaper and nearer to the local town, so it’s more accessible if you’re planning to explore but are not planning to travel by car. If you’re planning to drive (or rent a car), you can opt for private villas as they’re usually located a short drive away from the local town.
Food
Credit: feministjulie on flickr
Unfortunately, it’s pretty tough to find halal food in Crete but not to worry. When travelling, eat local right? Crete is known for their vegetarian food, as they’re huge on locally grown, organic and extremely fresh fruits and vegetables! If you’re a fan of olive oil, you’re in luck because they make (reportedly) the world’s best olive oil in Crete and most dishes you find will contain olive oil!
#HHWT Tip: Seafood is actually not as popular in Crete as vegetarian food. Do also note that alcohol is commonly served in the restaurants, so do check and consume at your own discretion.
4. Seychelles
Credit: Jean-Marie Hullot on flickr
A secluded island in the middle of the Indian Ocean just northeast of Madagascar. Oh Seychelles, it can’t get anymore exotic than this. Seychelles should definitely be your top pick if you’re looking for a country that’s not swarming with tourists and yet has amazing views.
Credit: Didier Baertschiger on flickr
If you’re planning to explore the island, it's best to learn how to speak simple phrases in French- it will earn you some brownie points with the locals!
Where To Stay
Maia Luxury Resort and Spa
Credit: Imagine Communications on flickr
At Maia Luxury Resort & Spa, you can experience the idyllic island life fully, and savour sweeping views of the ocean from the comfort and privacy of your villa.
Credit: Imagine Communications on flickr
Be prepared for a romantic, private getaway in this lush resort, and enjoy the meticulous service provided by your very own butler ?
Halal dining options: Yes
Villa and pool privacy: Yes, private infinity pool
Prayer facilities/mosque on the island: Yes
Alcohol-free villas: Yes
Spa: Female spa therapists
Others: Female butler service
Click here to book Maia Luxury Resort and Spa
5. Granada, Spain
Credit: Living-Learning Programs on flickr
Granada probably won’t be the first city to come to mind when we mention Spain. But if you’re thinking of travelling to Europe for your honeymoon, how about skipping the usual cities and head over to Granada instead? This city houses the largest Muslim community in Spain and is rich in Islamic history. Explore the streets of Granada and learn about its rich history. One thing is for sure, it’ll be an unforgettable experience.
Credit: Spain Holiday
Where to stay
Find a hotel/apartment in the Albaicin (or Albayzin) district which is the old Arab quarter and you’ll find a strong community of local Muslims living in the area. The two mosques in Granada are also located within the district – Al Taqwa Masjid and the Grand Masjid of Granada.
Credit: Mezquita Mayor de Granada on Facebook
#HHWT Tip: The famous palace, Alhambra is around a 30mins walk away from the Masjid and you can get an amazing view of it from the San Nicholas Viewpoint.
Book your hotel in Granada here
Food
Credit: thetudungtraveller
If you’re staying around Albaicin, there are a number of restaurants serving halal food such as Arrayenes, but of course, if there’s no sign in the window, do check with the owners.
6. Mauritius
An island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is the perfect island getaway if you’re looking for a private, romantic trip but still want to explore the vibrant local culture.
Where To Stay
Angsana Balaclava
Credit: Angsana Balaclava, Mauritius on Facebook
The villa is designed to reflect the traditional Mauritian style Creole village with thatched roofs and wooden terraces. You’ll also get to enjoy free non-motorized water activities such as snorkelling, glass bottom boat trips, water skiing, windsurfing and more! If that’s not enough, experience the local culture as the resort is located a short 20min drive away from Port Louis.
Halal dining options: Yes
Villa and pool privacy: Yes
Prayer facilities/mosque on the island: Yes
Alcohol-free villas: Yes
Spa: Female spa therapists
Click here to book Angsana Balaclava
7. Maldives
A honeymoon in Maldives may not be the most exotic of our list but it’s definitely one of the best locations for Muslim-friendly villas! Imagine private pools, halal dining options and best of all, the endless clear blue water. Definitely the best beach getaway you’ll ever have!
Where To Stay
Shangri-La Villingili
Credit: shangrilamaldives on Instagram
There are so many Muslim-friendly accommodations to choose from in Maldives but Shangri-La Villingili is high up on our bucket list!
Credit: Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa on Facebook
With villas leading you straight to the ocean, butler services and incredible views of the Indian Ocean, you’re all set for your dream honeymoon!
Halal dining options: Yes
Villa and pool privacy: Yes, private infinity pool
Prayer facilities/mosque on the island: Yes
Alcohol-free villas: Yes
Spa: Private, female-only spa services
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