If you prefer quiet yet romantic places for a honeymoon, consider visiting one of these three alternative exotic honeymoon destinations.
While honeymooning in popular destinations such as the Seychelles, the Maldives, and Bali is attractive and a proven transporting-to-a-different-world experience, why not embark on a path less traveled? Enjoy the experience of being newlywed without the fuss all the other tourists create. It will still be magical, as there are plenty of exotic honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia that are yet to be discovered and popularized. Here are our top 3 alternative exotic honeymoon destinations for you.
Alternative Exotic Honeymoon Destinations 1: Cebu, Philippines
If you get married in Florida, for example, and want to continue the vibe, Cebu Island in the Philippines is the place to go. Although tourists often overlook it, the island offers a variety of experiences to satisfy different tastes. From local food to beach relaxation to hiking, there are a lot of things to do there, and the island is conveniently located, so you can also visit the surrounding islands.
If the Philippines is calling, a Philippines island hopping package is one of the most romantic ways to experience its turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and vibrant marine life together.
There are plenty of resorts and beaches on the island, but for that perfect idyllic Bali vibe, you want to visit the nearby Olango Island Group. If you prefer chilling on the beach, you might want to book a resort there.Â
Cebu City is the place for true history lovers. Fort San Pedro, Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu, Cebu Taoist Temple, and many museums are only a fraction of the attractions to see. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene and delicious local food. You might want to hit the markets and experience the local lifestyle for a more immersive experience.
Going up the mountains near Cebu is a must-do if hiking is your thing. The views are breathtaking, and while Mt. Kan-Irag is the most trafficked, Mt. Kapayas and Osmena Peak are worth considering. For beginners and those looking for a shorter hike, Mt. Naupa is recommended. Also, there are many waterfalls scattered around the island, and they are worth the trip.
Kawasan Falls, Badian, Cebu, Philippines. Photo by Andrew Haimerl (ANDREWNEF) on Unsplash
Alternative Exotic Honeymoon Destinations 2: Langkawi, Malaysia
From serene beaches to breathtaking views to a famous sky bridge, Langkawi in Malaysia is one of the most overlooked honeymoon destinations in SE Asia. Beautiful beaches surround the island, Pantai Cenang and Datai Bay, to name a few. One of the most popular beaches is Tanjung Rhu, and sunset watching is a perfect honeymoon activity. For the ultimate beach experience, walk across the low tides to the miniature islands of Pulau Pasir and Pulau Gasing.
Langkawi SkyBridge, seen from the SkyCab. Photo via iStock by Getty Images
Nature is majestic in this corner of the world, and you can observe it above and under the water. Nature preserve Gunung Raya can be reached by car or hike, but there’s also the Kilim Geoforest Park and the Langkawi Wildlife Park. On the opposite side of the island, you’ll find the Telaga Tujuh Waterfall; for the best under-the-sea view, visit the Underwater World.
Another attraction you mustn’t miss is the Skybridge Cable Car ride. It takes you past the Telaga Tujuh Waterfall and above the rainforest for a picture-perfect moment to appreciate all its beauty. On a clear day, you can even see Thailand’s coastline.
Cable car in the mountains on Langkawi Island, Malaysia. Photo via iStock by Getty Images
If you fall in love with the place, you may want to come back, as there are plenty of things to do in Malaysia and places to visit. You might even decide to start a business here and relocate to take advantage of the local opportunities.Â
Alternative Exotic Honeymoon Destinations 3: Bentota, Sri Lanka
Bentota is one of the many places along Sri Lanka’s coastline that offer a perfect combination of relaxation and activities. You would, of course, want to visit beaches such as Bentota or Ventura Beach, but a more secluded, less-trafficked option is Moragalla Beach. The beach is surrounded by mangrove trees, offering a picturesque view, and plenty of water sports and activities are available.
Beach, palms, and turquoise water of the Indian Ocean from Bentota in Sri Lanka. Photo by slava296 via iStock by Getty Images
For those who love the history of places, you should visit Galapa Vihara, a twelfth-century temple with an underground maze connecting other temples in the city. Also, travel to a nearby town of Ambalgoda to see the devil’s dance. It is a particular attraction in the area, and it would be a shame to miss it.
When visiting Bentota Beach, it is imperative to see turtle hatching. Visiting the serene Brief Garden is a must, as well as the Madu Ganga river safari. You can enjoy seeing more than 100 bird species and the picturesque scenery.
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Exploring Alternative Exotic Honeymoon Destinations
There isn’t a shortage of exotic honeymoon destinations across Southeast Asia; they just aren’t as popular in Western countries. If you prefer quiet and less-trafficked places yet romantic enough for a honeymoon, you should consider visiting any of the places listed here. Now is the perfect time to go there, as they are both affordable and offer an immersive, otherworldly experience without the crowds typical of Bali or the Maldives. Be sure to check out Wander for more great places to visit in Asia, or even more ideas for romantic destinations.Â
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I completely agree with you – Langkawi is totally overlooked, and undeservedly so. The nature and the beaches are wonderful there. Plus, it’s way less crowded than more popular honeymoon destinations.