4 Honeymoon Destinations off the Beaten Track
Giraffe Manor, Nairobi
A Giraffe manor full of character with creeping foliage climbing its brickwork set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forests. It is home to a tower of Rothschild giraffes who like to visit in the morning and evening by poking their heads through the windows hoping for a treat! As well as feeding giraffes from your window you can also walk across your lawn to the AFEW Giraffe Centre where you can learn about the endangered breed of giraffes and take a guided walk around the sanctuary. From the manor sightseeing vehicles can take you to visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust where you can feed, meet and adopt baby elephants. Other points of interest in the area include The Karen Blixen Museum, Kazuri Beads for beautiful locally made jewellery. Other places worth a visit are the Matbronze Art Gallery and Foundry and the innovative crafts complex, Marula Studios.
Sextantio Grotte Civita, Italy
Sextantio le Grotte Della Civita’s spectacular cave dwellings are an amazing place for a honeymoon. The former Sassi (stone settlement) has been renovated into a boutique hotel. The hotel has made an effort to stay true to its roots by keeping the tufta rock exposed. Each of the rooms are beautiful yet simply furnished and candlelit. Suite 13 is ideal for honeymooners as it is set in a honey coloured cave with its own balcony and a fireplace beside the freestanding bathtub. All rooms contain natural locally made bath products, candles and antique linen. Visit the cave church of Saint Lucy of the Malve for some quiet contemplation. Take a tour around Matera for little cafes, pretty squares and make sure you pick up some rainbow hued sugar almonds for a sweet crunch. For thrill seeking couples head up the hills for the “flight of angels” the world’s fastest zipwire whilst there head to the Alta Murgia National Park for a picnic and spot of birdwatching.
Costa Verde Plane Hotel, Costa Rica
If you want to step off the plane and then board another why not stay in one of the most exclusive hotel suites in Costa Rica. Stay in a refurbished 1965 Boeing 727 the plane has been fully outfitted into a beautiful two bedroom suite. The plane has been placed on a 50 foot pedestal positioned to jet out from the jungle canopy and provide stunning views of the jungle and ocean. For a better view step out onto the hard wood deck built atop of the planes former right wing. The plane is decorated with teak panelling and hand-carved teak furniture. Both bedroom contain queen sized beds are air conditioned and have their own private bath. Other features include flat screen TV, kitchenette, dining area, ocean view terrace, spiral staircase and beautiful views of the surrounding gardens. In the evenings sit out on the terrace and watch the sloths, toucans and monkeys navigate the forest. Visit the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park for its beautiful beaches and hiking trails, home to 109 species of mammal and 184 species of bird this is the perfect park for wildlife loving couples.
The Boot B+B, New Zealand
If you want to know how the old woman in the shoe felt enjoy a fairytale honeymoon at the boot B+B. The boot is a fully equipped stand alone cottage complete with a downstairs lounge containing an open fire for cosy evenings in. The boot also has a kitchenette, mini bar and bathroom with a shower built for 2 if you feel like saving on water! The bedroom contains a regal queen sized bed and Juliette balcony for views of the pretty courtyard. The courtyard itself is surrounded by a fragrant garden, the perfect place for relaxing in the sun and al fresco dining in front of the outdoor fire. Fresh flowers and chocolates are provided and there is no TV in the cottage to contribute to the romantic atmosphere. Attractions nearby include wineries, golf courses, cafes, galleries, Abel Tasman National Park and the city of Nelson as well as quaint villages and towns.