Ask the experts: Honeymoon hotspots
Our panel give advice on the most exotic honeymoon hotspots
QMy fiance and I got engaged last summer and rather than the traditional church wedding we want an intimate ceremony (bride and groom only) in an exotic location. The ideal wedding experience for us would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that could also double as a destination for a unique honeymoon tour. Beth, via email
Tom Marchant, co-founder, Black Tomato: Indonesia works well for intrepid couples. We can arrange a wedding blessing with a local priest in the ancient Dalem Segara Temple near Ubud, Bali. At the temple, a butler will serve the couple a dinner prepared by a Balinese chef. This is followed by a purification ritual at the sacred spring, where a priest chants prayers as the couple say their vows.
Indonesia's exotic islands are perfect for a honeymoon. The happy couple can embark on a challenging trek up Mount Rinjani, one of the highest volcanoes in the Eastern Hemisphere. With a guide to lead the way, they're free to take in the sunset at the summit and enjoy views of the azure Crater Lake and across the Wallace Line to Bali and Sumbawa.
The Karimunjawa Archipelago, between Java and Borneo, offers a stripped-back desert island experience. From the island of Krakal, take a boat to a sandy outcrop and spend a few nights totally alone. For those keen to push their boundaries, we can arrange a trip to the remote Baliem Valley for nature treks, tribal village visits and the chance to learn survival skills.
Black Tomato offers 11 nights from £3,679pp, including flights, accommodation and experiences. blacktomato.com
Nadia Pendleton, co-founder, AdventureTemples: Travel to the southernmost tip of the world to experience all the elements together — from glacier and desert to a remote volcanic island — in Chile. Marry with the most stunning backdrop imaginable, standing on the shores of the turquoise Lake Pehoé in the Torres del Paine National Park.
Take a private, guided hike through the winter wonderland, with ice sparkling like glitter in the air, or set off on horseback to explore the glaciers, lakes and mountains. Then, travel in style to the hottest desert of the Atacama region, where you can dive into the natural hot springs and rest under a blanket of stars.
Finally, fly to the remote Rapa Nui (Easter Island), to cycle, hike, swim, fish and snorkel, and to uncover the mysteries of this
unique land, its fascinating heritage and its geography.
Adventure Temples offers 14 nights from £14,000 for the couple, including flights and five-star accommodation at Explora hotels as well as all excursions and activities. adventuretemples.com
Get in touch: If you're in need of travel advice, email our team – inbox@natgeotraveller.co.uk
Published in the December 2015 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
