Newlyweds prefer tropical islands and warm sunny days when starting their journey to happily ever after.
According to data from groomsday.com, when it comes to choosing romantic getaways for their honeymoons, couples prefer tropical destinations.
The online shop for groomsmen gifts analysed popular locations, ranking them based on their romantic appeal, to reveal the world's top 10 most romantic honeymoon destinations.
It developed a “romantic appeal score” out of 10, based on three weighted factors including average hotel cost per night (35%), duration of peak season (20%), and destination rating (45%).
The score also took into account affordability, ideal travel timing and traveller satisfaction.
Here are the top 10 honeymoon destinations on the bucket list for newlyweds:
Bali, Indonesia
Bali's got it all - beaches, temples, and swanky resorts. The best part? It's super affordable. The destination topped the list with a score of 9.39 out of 10 for romantic vibes.
It has an average night’s stay of R194 and the best time to visit is from May to September.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is all about all-inclusive resorts, beautiful beaches, and fun outdoor activities. It scored 8.92 for romantic vibes with an average night’s stay of R528. The best time to visit is from December to April.
Viti Levu, Fiji
Fiji's biggest island is all about crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and that famous Fijian hospitality. Viti Levu scored 8.91 for romantic vibes whilst an average night’s stay costs R2 780. The best time to visit the island is from May to October.
Jamaica
Jamaica's not just beaches - it's got a killer local culture, awesome music, and food that'll make your taste buds dance. The Caribbean island scored 8.43 when it comes to romantic vibes whilst an average night’s stay is R880. The best time to visit is from June to July.
Gramado, Brazil
This Brazilian town is like a little slice of Europe in South America. Think cooler weather and charming architecture. The town scored 8.33 for romantic vibes and the best time to visit is from June to August. An average night’s stay in the town costs R1 707.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia's got those jaw-dropping Piton mountains, fancy resorts, and beaches that'll make your Instagram followers jealous. The island scored 8.10 for romantic vibes with an average night’s stay costing R2 868. The best time to visit is from December to April.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An mixes history, culture, and nearby beaches. The old town lit up at night is pure magic. It scored 8.04 for romantic vibes and the best time to visit is from June to August. An average night’s stay in the town costs R897.
Khao Lak, Thailand
Khao Lak is like Thailand's chill cousin - long beaches, nearby national parks, and way fewer crowds. It scored 7.94 for romantic vibes and an average night’s stay costs R1 689. The best time to visit is December to February.
Maldives
The Maldives are ‘honeymoon goals’ - overwater bungalows, insanely clear water, and resorts that'll make you feel like royalty. On the romantic vibes side, the islands scored 7.85. An average night’s stay R1 355 whilst the best time to visit is from September to November.
Barbados
Barbados gives you beaches, a bit of British flair, and true Caribbean vibes. Plus, there's tons to do beyond just sunbathing. On the romantic vibes scale, the island scored 7.85. The average night’s stay on the island is R1 513 whilst the best time to visit is from December to February.
Commenting on this, Chris Bajda, Wedding Expert, Founder and CEO of GroomsDay, said that their research shows that tropical getaways are still the big winners for honeymooners.
“What's cool is how diverse the list is - there's something for every couple, whether you're on a budget or ready to splurge.
“Whether it's the serene beaches of Bali or the historic streets of Prague, the best honeymoon is one that creates lasting memories for your relationship,” said Badja.