Honeymoons in Paradise: Where to go in December

Image via Jade Mountain

December is such a romantic month for a wedding. However, if you want to travel light, you may need to put some thoughts into where to go on a honeymoon. Thankfully, from the Caribbean to the South Pacific, there are still a handful of paradises available for our December newlyweds.

1. St Lucia, Carribean

December is one of the best months of the year to visit the Caribbean – the hurricane season has blown over to be replaced by long sunny days, low humidity and cooling breezes. St Lucia is arguably the most beautiful of the larger Caribbean islands. Hidden among forested hills and colonial plantations are some of the most exquisite beachfront hotels.

Where to Stay

Jade Mountain is a spider-web of zigzagging stone walkways and cascading koi ponds. Every one of its vast suites has one wall completely open to the breathtaking panoramic ocean views, and most boast private infinity pools to admire it from. This hilltop hotel is the ultimate honeymooner’s hideaway.

Image via Jade Mountain

What to Do

Explore the Castries Waterworks Reserve where there is something for everyone. Spend an afternoon gliding up and down a mountainside over the rainforest canopy in an eight-seater gondola. Accompanied by an informative guide, spot the dazzling heliconias and hummingbirds. For the thrill-seekers, go zip-lining down the mountainside.

2. Dubai. UAE

Dubai is a great honeymoon option, especially if you are en-route to Europe. The region promises 26 degrees Celcius and eight hours of sunshine in December.

Where to Stay

The spectacular One&Only The Palm resort, stretched out over the Persian Gulf on Dubai’s tree-shaped Palm Island, has all the indulgent service and impeccable dining you’d expect from a luxury UAE hotspot.

Image via One&Only The Palm

What to Do

Dubai is the ultimate playground for the rich and famous, with every indulgence imaginable available…for the right price if you ask the right person. From the towering Burj Khalifa and the singing Dubai Fountain, there are so many sights to see it’s almost a sensory overload. To experience a more traditional perspective of Dubai, take a water taxi along the Dubai Creek and take a stroll in the Bastakiya Quarter, a quiet former fishing village before all of Dubai’s development came to fruition.

3. Sal, Cape Verde Islands

For an exotic honeymoon, the Cape Verde Islands are perfect in December where you can expect eight hours of sun and 27 degrees Celcius. With white sand beaches, dramatic landscapes and a mix of African, Brazilian and Portuguese influences, the Atlantic islands offer tremendous value.

Where to Stay

Melia Llana Beach Resort is a five star, adults-only, all-inclusive resort on the windy Cape Verde island of Sal. There’s a stylish beach vibe, with a huge pool featuring a swim-up bar and myriad of lounging options. A total of 303 rooms and suites offer varying perks, from pool/sea views and terraces to direct private pool access, whirlpools and more.

Image by Melia Llana

What to do

The best way to experience Cape Verde is to go on an island-hopping trip: explore a still-active volcano, followed by walking through some jaw-dropping mountain scenery. If you are feeling adventurous, you might head to the islands’ cultural cities before going back to the beach for a few relaxing days on golden sands. The rugged and green landscapes on Santo Antao and the musical scene on Sao Vincente will complete your trip of a lifetime.

Image via Cape Verde Experience

4. New South Wales, Australia

On the home front, December is early summer with long days and golden sunshine, perfect for a long drive down to wineries or exploring the magnificent coastline.

Where to Stay

The Spicers Vineyards Estate in Hunter Valley is a modern manor house set amid a patchwork of grapevines and kitchen gardens. Just two hours away from Sydney, it’s ideal for a quickie weekend. You and your sweetheart could spend your entire summer with some vino-therapy in Spicers’ Spa Anise or sample the fruits of the estate.

Image via Spicers Vineyard Estate

What to Do

When you are done sampling the wine and feasting on farm-fresh fare, enjoy a coastal drive along New South Wales’ spectacular coastline which includes whale-watching, national parks, beaches, kangaroos and koalas.

Image via Wexas

5. Cook Islands, South Pacific

Beyond Australia lies the Cook Islands where you can enjoy year-round sunshine and laid-back island life.

Where to Stay

The Little Polynesian Resort on Rarotonga in the Cook Islands is one of the finest accommodations the island has to offer. Just 10 bungalows plotted right on the white sands of the beach, it’s the definition of seclusion. Built with traditional Cook Islands architecture in mind, each bungalow boasts high ceilings, mahogany floors and hand carved details throughout.

Image via The Little Polynesian Resort

What to Do

While the seductive sun, surf and sand combo of Rarotonga’s beautiful beaches claim many honeymooners, the rugged cliffs and dense jungle in the interior of the island yields many ancient sites, local legends and scenic views. Take a cross-island walk that traverses the jungle-like scenery and explore the ancient temples and hidden waterfalls.