Romance is in the air, and honeymooners are now looking for high-end travel destinations that don't break the bank. But how do you reconcile far-flung adventures and exclusive experiences with a limited budget?
It's a delicate balance, but one that Ker & Downey has mastered after recognizing this trend is here to stay.
Ker & Downey specializes in private luxury travel, so we are experts in creating those memorable moments that surprise and delight our travelers. Coordinating proposals on private cruises, organizing dinners for two in hidden coves and vineyards, securing dreamy sleepouts under the African sky, procuring celebratory bottles of Champagne and sweets for the lovebirds ... we have done it all.
At the same time, our extensive network of worldwide partners offers us access to the best promotions as soon as they are available. We know who gives the most generous stay/pay deals and who extends special discounts for newly married guests.
Another favorite cost-cutting trick that always helps is traveling in the enchanting shoulder and green seasons. We help our clients identify the leading destinations to visit at these times of year to receive the best value and overall experience.
Here are some favorite romantic escapes for those looking for exceptional value.*
10 Nights in South Africa and Mozambique
Pair three nights in Cape Town with three nights in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park. Cap it all off with four nights of beachside bliss in Mozambique.
In Cape Town, opt for a boutique hotel in a leafy suburb in the shadow of the iconic Table Mountain. All the best exclusive touring options have been reserved, including a private full-day tour of the city and Robben Island, as well as a private full-day tour of Cape Point and the peninsula — one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
While on safari, explore Big Five Country on game drives and walking safaris with expert guides and trackers, all while experiencing true pampering in the wilderness at an exclusive safari lodge, where indoor and outdoor spaces blend seamlessly together.
Finally, escape to the white sand beaches of Mozambique, accessible via direct charter flight from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. Our suggested Mediterranean-inspired standalone villa suite features a private courtyard, heated pool, and views of the Indian Ocean. It's the perfect place to spend a few leisurely days participating in water activities such as snorkeling around the islands of Magaruque and Pansy. The region is one of the largest marine conservation areas in the Indian Ocean and is home to many dolphins, whale sharks, turtles, and spotted eagle rays.
6 Nights in Tanzania and Zanzibar
This safari-meets-sand itinerary offers both simplicity and sublime luxury. It's ideal for those who don't have much time to get away, but still want something uniquely special.
The first three nights are spent on safari in the famed Serengeti. Staying at a remote camp near the Mara River, you have front-row seats to excellent game viewing, and even the Great Migration, away from other tourists.
After safari, it's time for a taste of island life on Zanzibar. The beachside resorts here overlook the Indian Ocean and provide plenty of culture, adventure, and leisure options. Explore the underwater marine life at the dive center, take a Swahili cooking class, enjoy water sports, or simply luxuriate on the white sand beaches or in the spa.
7 Nights in Greece
Greece is the ultimate honeymoon destination, and this classic Athens-Mykonos-Santorini circuit never disappoints.
After an overnight stay in Athens, travel to iconic Mykonos, where an elegant villa with a private infinity pool overlooking the Aegean awaits. Three days here provide plenty of time to experience the best of the island, including a private cruise to its top hidden beaches, and a cooking class at a local farm.
Conclude the honeymoon in Santorini, known as one of the most sought-after romantic destinations in the world, and for good reason. There is simply nothing like staying at a cliffside luxury hotel with enchanting views of the Aegean. Spend a day aboard a private catamaran, where you can explore the island and witness the famous sunset of Oia, away from the crowds. Additional highlights include a private tour of the local villages and an exploration of the Akrotiri excavation site with a historian, as well as a “foodie” day dedicated to visiting the wineries and restaurants of Santorini to learn about its culinary identity.
11 Nights in Slovenia and Croatia
The Balkans are quickly becoming a honeymoon hotspot among luxury travelers. Between its medieval cities, extensive network of islands, captivating culture, delicious cuisine, and more affordable European prices, it's no surprise why.
Slovenia is a natural complement to Croatia. In just three nights, there is ample opportunity to explore the creative capital city of Ljubljana and enjoy day trips to nearby Lake Bled and Predjama Castle.
Next, cross over into the Croatian side of Istria, where olive gardens and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Istria is also Croatia’s truffle capital, so it's worth spending an entire day hunting truffles and learning to cook with them.
En route to Split, stop at the mesmerizing Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a private tour. The Roman ruins and fashionable cafes of Split are captivating, and even more special when witnessed from the vantage point of a sea kayak — a fun alternative form of transport. Also, spend a sun-kissed day exploring some of the most magical islands nearby, including Hvar and the Pakleni archipelago.
It all concludes with a food-focused stay in Croatia's capital of Dubrovnik. Stop on the way in Mali Ston for a special gourmet oyster-tasting experience, then sample food and drink in Dubrovnik's best gastronomic hotspots on a private culinary tour. The highlight? A final private panoramic cruise through the Elaphiti Islands, cherished by locals for their idyllic caves, beaches, gardens, and restaurants.
7 Nights in Indonesia
Bali beckons couples from across the globe. Its untouched waters, rich culture, and exotic atmosphere provide all the ingredients necessary for an exceptional honeymoon.
The crown jewel of this itinerary is undoubtedly Amankila, an elegant beachside sanctuary suspended on the cliffs of Bali's eastern coastline. Meaning “peaceful hill,” it promises a reprieve from tourists and welcome leisure time. But if the desire for an adventure arises, don't miss a snorkeling outing aboard the Amankila’s wooden Outrigger.
After four nights of rest and relaxation, dive into the rich culture of Bali at Capella Ubud, a private sanctuary nested in the rainforest. Adventures abound here, from white-water rafting to visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. An entire day has also been set aside to explore the beautiful temples and villages nearby, where you can meet the locals and participate in their daily activities.
These are just a few travel trends we have seen recently, yet the list of desired destinations continues to grow. It's simply further proof that luxurious trips for two are never out of reach with a trusted travel designer in your corner who can make your honeymoon dreams a reality.
*Proposed itineraries valued between $6,000 and $10,000 per person. Estimated costs exclude international flights, airport taxes, visa fees, travel insurance, and gratuities.
Header Image courtesy of Santorini Mozambique
Elizabeth Frels
A veritable RV kid, Elizabeth's love for travel began early on coast-to-coast road trips with her family from her home state of Kansas. Since then, she has lived in London, studied ancient civilization along the Mediterranean, cruised through the Galapagos, hiked through Peru and Patagonia, sipped wine in New Zealand, joined mission trips to Nigeria and Uganda, and shopped the souks in Dubai. When she isn't planning her next adventure, she can be found gardening, baking, biking, and hiking with her husband and children in Colorado.
Inquire Now
Quest Magazine
Dedicated to the experiential style of Ker & Downey travel, QUEST Magazine features eye-opening content that focuses on unforgettable experience, unheard-of destinations, and the very best our world has to offer. Each issue is packed with insider information, what's new in the world of travel, and editorial pieces that focus on our global culture, philanthropy, and transformative travel.
Read The Off Season IssueSee What We Are Up To
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter for Travel Tips and Insider Guides for Planning your Next Journey!