Take a break from organising complicated seating plans and choosing appropriate hor d’oeuvres – it’s time to plan your post-wedding reward: the honeymoon.
Months of wedding planning pale into insignificance as you take your very first holiday as a married couple. If you’re umming and ahhing about the best destination, wowed by honeymoon adverts the world over, we’re going to let you into a little secret; honeymooning in Indochina could just be the best decision you’ve ever made (apart from marrying each other, congratulations!)
Why settle for miles of sandy beaches when you could have miles of sandy beaches and adventure and delicious food and luxury accommodation and UNESCO World Heritage Sites left, right and centre?
Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos are neighbours that are just a short hop, skip and jump over borders, but each have a unique charm. Curious but not convinced? Maybe this will change your mind…
1. Vietnam: Travel to Halong Bay by seaplane
Seeing Halong Bay will always be amazing (we’re pretty amazed just looking at this picture), but for an extra special honeymoon memory, take a seaplane into the bay. The limestone karsts, dotted across the water as far as the eye can see, are even more spectacular from above.
Honeymoon in Vietnam: Your adventures
2. Laos: Swim at the Kuang Si Falls
Don’t miss spending time in the UNESCO town of Luang Prabang (ticking off gilded temples along the way) on holiday in Laos, but spare a day for the Kuang Si Falls.
These cascading falls tumble through a forest (just past a bear sanctuary) only 32km away from Luang Prabang. Hike up to the top of the falls for the best views, and take a break from the heat with a dip in the turquoise waters. If seeing rescued bears wasn’t enough, wildlife lovers should visit the Kuang Si Butterfly Park.
3. Vietnam: Beaches on The Cham Islands
Those beaches we were talking about? Look no further than the Cham Islands in Vietnam. The riverside town of Hoi An (a firm favourite of InsideVietnam-ers) is known for its unique architecture, top tailors and monthly lantern festival. But just a short speedboat ride away awaits a stretch of unspoilt palm-fringed beach – great for a day trip.
4. Laos: Sunset cruise on the Mekong
After your days in Luang Prabang (and that refreshing dip you took at the Kuang Si Falls), make the most of the winding Mekong River just beyond the town. Glide through the water as the sun sets, and tuck into a delicious Lao feast complete with entertainment by a group of traditional dancers.
5. Cambodia: Take a private helicopter over Angkor
This huge site – the biggest religious monument in the world – complete with 12-century bas-reliefs and temples swallowed by mammoth tree roots is like nowhere else in the world. Unsurprisingly it’s top of the travel wish list for many people, so rise above the crowds for your very own private viewing. A helicopter ride above the complex will give you space and time to take it all in, as well as views over the dense jungle beyond.
Excited? Us too. Have the most wonderful day and the most special honeymoon, wherever you choose. For a spot of help with your planning, get in touch with our team.
