When you’re about to get hitched, nearly every couple wants to have a glamorous and romantic honeymoon. After all the stress and planning of the wedding, once it’s done we want to relax without worrying about money or our lives back home. Luckily there are some pretty amazing destinations you can visit that will provide romance, culture, food, wine, and relaxation you desire without breaking the bank. The five following destinations will have you falling in love again and again.
Spain
Considering flight costs and distance, staying closer to home is always cheaper. That’s why for British travellers Spain is an ideal destination for couples on a budget. Barcelona is a fantastic option, you can relax in the sun and enjoy some amazing tapas and generously flowing drinks. Cordoba is another great option for gastro-tourists, the food here is amazing. Both Barcelona and Cordoba are beautiful, offering stunningly old architecture and some gorgeous sun. Dive into Spanish culture by napping after lunch, eating dinner late, and relaxing in between.
Thailand
The experts at cheap holiday deals site Money Pug confirm that there are few cheaper places more packed with culture, natural beauty, spirituality, great food, and ravaging nightlife than Thailand. In this gorgeous Southeast Asian country, you can find amazing beaches, resorts, and islands in the South, traditional culture and green mountains in the North, and some of the craziest nightlife out there in Bangkok. Not only are you guaranteed a great time in Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai, it can all be done in luxurious style on a budget.
Greece
Right now, Greece is an extremely cheap option for a destination. Not only is it an affordable destination for a glamorous honeymoon, but it is also beyond beautiful. There are the usual options like Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos, but the list doesn’t stop there. Greece is full of beautiful places and friendly people.
Furthermore, you can even try a less popular island like Koufonisia or Sifnos and enjoy solitude and low prices. Take advantage of the country’s economic situation while putting money into the local economy. Kick back on the beach, eat some delicious Mediterranean food, and drink more than your fair share or raki without worrying about the cost.
Portugal
Another nearby destination that is both affordable and lovely is Portugal. You can visit the Duoro Valley, which compared to Italy’s Tuscany is a much cheaper option without sacrificing beauty or authenticity. Disconnect here if you are looking to get away from it all and spend precious days drinking some of the best wines around with your partner.
The Duoro Valley isn’t all Portugal has to offer. Algarve is a very popular destination for British tourists. Not only is it very easy for Brits to enjoy a vacation here—English is ubiquitous—it is a wonderful place to make your own world in one of the region’s highly lauded resorts. You can have the dream holiday and honeymoon you’ve always longed for without the hefty price tag.
Croatia
Similar to Greece, Croatia is the perfect spot for a warm honeymoon on the beach that won’t set you back. Not only does this coast-straddling country have some of the most renowned and secluded beaches and islands, but it is also quite inexpensive. This means that you can enjoy Croatian wine, delicious local cuisine, and luxurious resorts. There are many places to choose from in Croatia, it all depends on how far from the madness you are looking to get.
In addition to the coast, Croatia has the Plitvice National Park, where you can be soothed by the many crashing waterfalls. There is also the capital city of Zagreb, where you can take pleasure in your new marriage at the Museum of Broken Relationships. It will make you feel even more thankful to have found each other.
Taking a honeymoon doesn’t have to break the bank. You can have a relaxing, luxurious, and stress-free vacation while saving money for your future together. If you put in a little research you can have it all.
What are you waiting for? Get planning for your dream vacation with the love of your life and solidify memories you will look back upon fondly as you grow old together. Whatever your style, there is an affordable honeymoon destination for you.
Ryan Beitler is a journalist, writer, and travel blogger. He has been published in Paste Magazine, OC Weekly, New Noise Magazine, The Slovenia Times, and more.