Wedding Guide Asia

Don’t you just hate it when the only thing between you and that dream honeymoon destination is last month’s credit card bill? But hey, who says you can only have a good time in Belize or Bora-bora? According to United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Malaysia was ranked 9^th in the world in international tourist arrivals last year, a whopping 23.6 million! Wondering where to go? Consider these tourist hotspots if you’re:

A Beach Bum

Imagine yourself basking in the sun with a Daiquiri in one hand and a book in another. Then, take a romantic stroll along the silky soft beach with your loved one and with your toes dipped in sand, enjoy a breathtaking view of the sunset. Tun Sakaran Marine Park (top) is a host to world-class dive sites and glorious coral reefs. Located 20 kilometers off the Semporna mainland, The Tun Sakaran Marine Park is the largest marine park in Sabah. A permit is needed for entry into the Park, and for all activities. It’s a touch arduous, but definitely well worth the effort.

For a livelier atmosphere, head to Sipadan (bottom right) and be entranced by its collection of bigger fish and abundance of turtles, sharks, and other marine life. Spend a few pampered nights in Sipadan Water Village, a luxury resort overlooking the Celebes Sea on the island of Mabu. If you’d like to rough it out, Perhentian Island, Terengganu (bottom left) is the way to go. The best time to visit the place would be from June to August, when the sea is calm and weather is good. Do call the chalets or hotels in advance as these three months are their busiest. (more…)

Ah the honeymoon. A reason in itself to walk down the aisle (joking lah)!

But seriously, one cannot discount the importance of planning an amazing honeymoon. You’ve had your wedding, your parents (and in-laws) are finally happy and the only way to usher in the matrimonial bliss would be… to embark on a romantic holiday with your spouse! In present times, it’s not longer a must to skip off right after the wedding – nowadays, couples can wait months (some years..!) before going on a honeymoon.

So if you’re thinking where to begin, firstly start with the BUDGET.

Budget
Besides time, the only other constraint really holding you back are the dollar signs. Some couples I  know spent soooo much on their wedding they had to forgo their honeymoon! This is a no no in my books. If you’re going to be starting a life together (that lasts forever), shouldn’t it be a dream to travel to some equally dream-like location? My advice is to put some money aside for the budget, or at least make a plan that will help you afford your honeymoon in say ‘X’ number of months. Another suggestion, is to forgo wedding registries and tell friends and family to instead give “honeymoon ang pow”. Also, spend some time researching for deals! Websites like agoda.com offer great deals on hotels and budget airlines seem to reach all parts of the world nowadays.

Where to go
There are 196 countries in the world (avoid the 4 not listed with the United Nations), so you really are spoilt for choice! If you’re wondering what type of honeymoon to go on, perhaps do a little personality quiz on yourself. I’ve used myself below as an example, haha.

Quiz: Steph’s ultimate honeymoon (with Daniel Henney? Hehe)

1. Do you like traveling?
Of course. What a silly question.

2. Then you won’t mind going far. What’s most important to you – adventure, romance or discovery?
Romance, discovery and adventure can take a backseat thanks.

3. Do you enjoy outdoor activities such as camping or skiing?
Not for my honeymoon! I was always last to be picked for sports teams… so nothing but massages please. (more…)

What’s more romantic than taking a long walk on the beach while sipping on a cool cocktail, arm in arm with your newly pronounced partner for life, in the presence of the setting sun? Well I can’t think of anything and if I’ve painted you an appealing picture, then a honeymoon in the Seychelles Islands may be just the thing for you!

Many have chosen to honeymoon at the Seychelles because of its unique romantic ambiance, the archipelago is known as the ‘Islands of love’ for a reason. The very name Seychelles is famous the world over for its legendary beauty, from verdant peaks, primeval forests to the glittering white sands and sparkling turquoise water, where life is reduced to the simple elements of sun, sea and sand. Doesn’t that sound dreamy?

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting there has become really easy due to simple fact that international flights from around the world connect the Seychelles to Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North America and Australia. The national carrier is Air Seychelles.

An extensive, inexpensive bus network  and the abundance of taxis makes it easy to get around on Mahé and Praslin (the main islands). About a dozen car hire companies operate on Mahé and Praslin, with fleets that include everything from Mini-Mokes to chauffeured Mercedes-Benzes. Rather more in tune with the pace of life on the islands, bicycles are readily available for hire on La Digue and Praslin, where they are a popular mode of transport.

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One of the best things about Asia, is that not only is it a continent of exotic destinations, but traveling around is pretty affordable (compared to say a trip to London!). So if you’re a bride who wants a great honeymoon but on an equally great budget – then we’ve narrowed down a list of top South East Asian spots for you:

Vietnam

Phu Quoc island is a small teardrop shaped fishing island, where the locals seem a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. Rugged in beauty, and surrounded by clear flat azure blue waters, and miles of empty beaches, you’d be forgiven for believing that you have stepped into paradise.

Nestled on the north west of the island lies one of Vietnam’s best kept secrets; a hidden boutique lodge called Mango Bay. While away your time with your loved one by snorkelling right in front of your bungalow, sipping a chilled Chablis on the remote beach, or renting a motorbike and exploring the naked coastline.

Mango Bay is eco-friendly, and there are no televisions or air conditioning. Just you and your loved one. Enjoy!

Daily Flights to Saigon on Air Asia.

Daily flights to Phu Quoc departing from Ho Chi Minh City on Vietnam Airlines.

Thailand

With a population of around 60 million people, Thailand is one country that offers a bit of everything and anything. You’ll find most budget airlines fly into Thailand and getting around is relatively cheap be it taxi, cab or local airline. If you’re heading there for the first time, I suggest stopping in Bangkok for a few days of shopping, massages & (interesting) nightlife. Whether you want to have a bit of a laugh at one of the infamous tiger shows (head to Patpong) or stop by backpackers hub Khao san road, you’ll find that you can have an amazing time having not spent much at all. Don’t miss heading to Wat Pho (renowned temple with the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace to get in touch with the Thai culture. Also make time for perhaps the BEST market in Asia, Chatuchak, which sells everything under the sun such as funky clothes, vintage wear, furniture, art and even pets! For cute boutiques, go to Siam Square and remember to bargain if it’s not an established brand name. Though you may be on a budget, put aside something for a drink at glamourous Sirrocco bar which sits on the top floor of the Lebua Tower. This is a must as it is perhaps the most romantic spot in town with a hard-to-beat view of the city. (more…)

Written by: Barron Randall

Monte-Carlo, Monaco, is beautifully placed on the French Riviera coastline and is one of the world’s most romantic hot spots to honeymoon.

Arriving into Nice, Monaco is situated at only 30 kilometers from the airport. For those who want to experience the lovely view by air, one can take a luxurious trip by helicopter to Monaco, which is only 15 minutes away from the center of town!

Whether by air or by land, the journey into Monaco is just fabulous. Driving down the windy hilly roads with the Mediterranean Sea gazing into the background, the drive will certainly remind you of the James Bond movie ‘Golden Eye’!

Home to the rich and famous, Monte-Carlo offers a large range of top quality attractions for one to chose from. (more…)

Fear not brides! Yes, organizing a wedding may be stressful and a tad bit of a headache, but as we all know, there is (usually) a honeymoon holiday just round the corner. Given it’s a brand new year, we looked around for the latest honeymoon trends. And according to The Knot, these are the top trips to embark on:

Adventure Trips

Living in Asia, there’s no shortage of nature or the promise of adventure around us. If you’re a couple who loves activities and exploring the outdoors then this could be a great option for you. Be it learning to surf in Bali, a bout of elephant polo in Sri Lanka or white water river rafting here in Malaysia… there are endless options available to get your romantic adrenaline going.

Tip: For tour operators who are all about adventures try voyagetrek.com

Private Villas

Nothing says solitude and time alone better than your own private villa. Choose from either a villa in the tropical heat of Bali or opt for cooler (cuddly) weather in Cameron Highlands. Though a little bit pricier than a hotel room, your villa gives you your own space and that feeling of a home away from home.

Tip: Search the best villas of Europe and the Caribbean to find one that best suits you with wimco.com. In Asia my personal favorite (for best deals) online is agoda.com

Go green

Unless you’re living in a cave (as the ultimate greenie), you’d realize that mother earth is facing tough times with the advent of global warming. Nowadays, there are eco-resorts as well as hotels that practice environmentally friendly policies. In Fiji, the Turtle Island allows only 14 couples to stay at a time in order to minimize waste. Nearby in Thailand, the Six senses group run the Evason and Soneva resorts which are well-known for their beauty and being eco savvy.

Tip: If you’d like to do your bit of goodwill, then consider helping others on your honeymoon. Plan a volunteer honeymoon using sites such as charityguide.org or i-to-i.com (more…)

Belinda & hubby Joe on their honeymoon

8tv Quickie host Belinda Chee tied the knot recently and unless you were living in a shoebox… you would of heard of the beautiful wedding that was held at the Shangri La here in K.L. I’ve known Belinda since from Kuching days as we had many mutual friends in common. Just like me, she’s another gal in a long relationship who got around to walking down the aisle. I’m so happy for Bel because she really is as nice as she seems when on television :) I asked her about her recent honeymoon in the Maldives and this is what the new Mrs. had to say:

How long have you been married for and how is life so far?

Officially, we’ve been married (on paper) for a year now! But our wedding ceremony and reception was held only in October 2009. So far, everything’s going well. I don’t feel any different being married to Joe compared to when I was just dating him, so I guess that’s good! :) He’s still my best friend, it’s just that now, we have a piece of legal paper to show our love for and commitment to each other!

Which destinations were on your shortlist?

We both wanted an island holiday for our honeymoon because we both love the sun and the sea! Initially, I’d really wanted to go to Bora Bora or Hawaii. But due to time and monetary constraints, we decided on Maldives instead, which was also shortlisted as one of the places to go.

Chaaya Lagoon Hakura Huraa in the Maldives

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Paris - the city of romance

I have to admit, I didn’t have a ‘proper’ honeymoon. You know, the one where it’s just you and your hubby, being all romantic and secluded in a spectacular beach villa. Nope, definitely not.

But what we did do was celebrate our SECOND wedding reception in France for my husband’s family and friends. So I guess that counted as our little unofficial honeymoon. We spent 3 lovely weeks in London, Paris, Champagne and Britanny with near-perfect weather and lots of wonderful family time – my sister joined us from Australia, my aunt from London and my parents from Malaysia, so overall a very international and family oriented trip :)  Though some may find traveling with family can be a pain, both of us being close to our families meant that it was natural to want to spend time with them on the trip.

I think many couples get a bit worried spending on a honeymoon especially after splurging on a wedding-of-a-lifetime and moving into your new home. It amounts to a lot of money, and at the end of the day, the whole idea about getting married is that it’s not about the day or package but about the marriage and the rest of your life. And not starting your married life in debt – that’s an important one!

As Malaysians, we’re very lucky to have many low-cost airlines operating from Kuala Lumpur, making it the perfect base to go travelling. While people in Europe have to fly halfway across the world to enjoy our tropical treasures and that of our neighbours, everything is right at our fingertips. Be it one of the paradise islands of Thailand, Philippines, or romantic Bali or even our very own Langkawi, we really are spoilt for choice.

For brides who want to have a destination wedding or honeymoon, I would suggest combining the two, which is kind of what I did. Europe is beautiful for the perfect fairytale wedding with France and Italy being the top picks for many couples. Plus, the fact that it’s far away means you can whittle down your guest list for that perfect intimate getaway!

Chateau de Courcelles - in Champagne, France

So there we were, 9 months after our 3-day Malaysian wedding, with a quick culture stop in London and a beautiful sunny romantic week (alone) in Paris. Has anyone ever had a wedding celebration that dragged on so long? Hey, I’m not complaining. The fairytale backdrop picked out by my mother-in-law was the elegant Chateau de Courcelles located just outside the city of Reims, capital of the Champagne region – yes, the heavenly place where bubbly is created!

A Relais & Chateaux establishment, this beautiful chateau has its share of historic weddings with Napoleon Bonaparte marrying his second wife Marie Louise of Austria and has even hosted many of Christian Dior’s salons in the 50s. The property boasts its own river, parklands and 15-acre forest.

Hello Moet!

After the cozy cocktails and wonderful feast, we spent the next day visiting champagne cellars – with the notable being the Moet & Chadon cellars, home of Moet & Chandon and Dom Perignon. What a wonderful treat it was to learn the time-honoured procedures in making champagne, from vine to bottle! You really gain an appreciation for lovely bubbly by the end of the tour and a vintage tasting session…YUM!

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As you Google possible honeymoon destinations, keep in mind what it is you want – a quaint vacation in a secluded place; a shopping escapade; a vibrant and colourful destination filled with people?

Then there is the type of setting and climate you prefer. Would you rather spend time with your loved one adventurously trekking the cool terrain of a mountain? Or in your heels enjoying the sights of a trendy neighbourhood? Or would you rather feel the sand between your toes as you take a walk along a secluded tropical beach at sunset?

After all, every couple has their own personality. If you and your husband prefer a quiet honeymoon in a luxurious resort in the midst of a tropical island, The Andaman in Langkawi might just be right for you.

These days, most of us can’t get enough time from work to go anywhere far and enjoy the place to its full extent – so why not stay within Malaysia’s borders? Discover places within the familiar to find something extraordinarily exciting and new.

So what does The Andaman have to offer? To sum it up in one word – luxury, luxury, luxury. And who doesn’t want that?

For those who have the means to splurge on a fantastic island vacation minus the headache of visa applications, passports and long flights – The Andaman promises newly-weds a chic, modern and secluded environment for a truly memorable and pampering honeymoon.

The ambience of The Andaman invokes ease and relaxation with its uncluttered décor and lavish surroundings. That’s just inside, wait until you step out into the azure waters of the resort’s private manicured beach!

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Eki + Nick

A friend of mine from Singapore recently married the ‘love of his life’. Nick Claridge is quite the relationship guy and after a couple of long-term girlfriends… he met the beautiful Eki, and simply knew straight away that she was ‘the one’. “Because whenever I was with her all my worries were gone.” Eight months later, the two lovebirds wed and embarked on their honeymoon. After much research they finally settled on ‘The Samaya’ in Seminyak, Bali. Here’s what Nick had to say:

The main pool

Why ‘The Samaya’?

We actually relied a lot on the advice from tripadvisor.com, which rated the resort no.1 for romance in Bali.  Eki gave me full authority to select our honeymoon destination, which was very nice of her – my wife trusts me!  We also wanted to experience Bali during the ‘Day of Silence’; a public holiday when Balinese must stay at home, remain silent and not use any lights at night.  It was a very unique festival and provided us with some real peace and quiet – although we were not allowed to venture outside of the resort. Also the Manager of Samaya provided us with a competitive rate. (more…)