18 romantic destinations for 2018
THE MALDIVES
We say ‘Maldives’, you say ‘honeymoon’. Known for its glamorous overwater bungalows, crystal-clear waters and blindingly-white beaches, this Indian Ocean destination is made for romance. With nearly 1,200 islands to choose from, picking where to go first is the only challenge you’ll encounter. Each island is unique, with many of them turned into private island resorts. Keen divers? The Maldives’ southern islands boast an array of deep, otherworldly lagoons. For snorkelling, visit the northern islands to discover giant sprawling underwater reef rings and fascinating marine life. If you’re just looking to chill out, practically every island in the Maldives provides the ideal setting for cocktails, seafood dinners and beachside massages.
SAMOA
If you want a destination that’s every bit the tropical island idyll but not so tourist-y, pack your bags for this heavenly spot of extraordinary natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Samoa’s islands have a genuine sense of community and strong preservation of tradition that keeps this destination one of the most authentic of all Pacific societies. While Samoa is still an emerging travel destination, there are a number of really lovely resorts to be found, with welcomed features like lagoon-side restaurants, swim-up bars and direct beach access. For a fabulous getaway, base yourselves somewhere delightful and explore all that the island has to offer. An absolute must-see is the To Sua Ocean Trench in Eastern Upolu. A large, moss-covered sinkhole filled with clear, jade-green waters, this astonishing swimming hole is where you’ll want to spend the rest of your days. Mother Nature also puts on a show in Savai’i, with quiet beaches, palm-covered volcanos, waterfalls and the impressive Alofaaga Blowholes spread across the southeastern island.
