From exotic beaches to historic habitats, brides and grooms are sure to find the perfect fit: Design purists and party queens can dance into disco glam at Hillside Su on the Turkish Riviera, whereas Ana Yela in Morocco will seduce romantic souls with its mystical Arabian Nights setting. Sun worshippers seeking the ultimate tropical honeymoon hideaway can do no better than The Chedi Phuket where thatched cottages sit amid coconut palms and white sand beaches meet the azure sea.
AnaYela
The AnaYela in Marrakech is the setting of a historic love story. The name AnaYela translates as “I am Yela”, which are the opening words of a story by Yela, a young woman who once lived in this house. The handwritten story was found in a niche of the Riad when renovations began and the Arabic text was then incorporated into the design. Each room has a chapter of the love story inscribed on its walls – so honeymooners are literally living within the tale.
AnaYela’s honeymoon special comprises a romantic bath for two with incense, bath oils, a personal music compilation, champagne and home-made patisserie. Those in need of even more romance can surprise their beloved one with their own written love story presented by a traditional Moroccan story teller or with a henna artist who paints the traditional wedding designs on the bride’s feet or hands.
The spectacular site for a romantic candle-light dinner is AnaYela’s “flying carpet” – a large roof terrace with a tower offering panoramic views of the historic city.
The Chedi Phuket
With its ideal location on Phuket’s finest shore on the Andaman Sea, The Chedi Phuket is the gateway to a tropical island paradise and a perfect hideaway for honeymooners.
The 108 thatched cottages sit under a canopy of coconut palms on landscaped slopes that descend to the beach. Wedding stressed couples will be relentlessly indulged at The Spa Cottage with its four well-appointed indoor and outdoor treatment rooms and a plunge pool with sweeping ocean views.
After all this relaxation, honeymooners can expect a literally hot experience during their candle-light dinner on the beach. Prepared with a mix of Asian flavours, the fresh spices are sure to heat things up. Couples can choose between three-course menus, with dishes like Crispy Sea Bass, Green Papaya or Spicy Grilled Beef Salad. To round off a perfect day – and start into a romantic night – a plate with exotic fruits awaits guests back at the room and rose petals are strewn over their bed.
Hillside Su
Located on the shores of Antalya, Hillside Su is a haven for couples who want to relax, recharge, enjoy their honeymoon in style. The all-white architecture and furnishings act as blank canvases for injections of red, yellow, green or blue from multi-coloured light shows that set the tone for the whole Hillside honeymoon experience – lounging laziness and a taste for culinary indulgence.
Upon arrival, honeymooners are welcomed by a VIP airport transfer with strawberries and Prosecco on the way. Once at the hotel, they are greeted with an unusual surprise – a personal goldfish which they need to take care of! Ample space is provided in the 9½ Weeks Suite, situated at level 9½ and taking over an entire floor. With two outdoor teak terraces offering spectacular views of the sea and the outdoor pool area, 9½ Weeks is the ultimate honeymoon retreat. Couples can sink into the private Whirlpool Jacuzzi or enjoy the large plasma screen, flanked by two aquariums, which run along one side of the suite. A red and white billiards table, a bar and dining section take over the middle of the suite. To complete the XXL-experience, 9½ Weeks features a maxi bar with over 100 products from which to choose.
